modern india 2023 essay

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Modern India: A Very Short Introduction

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India has become one of the world’s emerging powers, rivalling China in terms of global influence. Yet people still know relatively little about the economic, social, political, and cultural changes unfolding in India today. To what extent are people benefiting from the economic boom? Does caste still exist in India? How is India’s culture industry responding to technological change? Modern India: A Very Short Introduction looks at the exciting world of change in contemporary India. It provides a recent history of the nation, investigating the contradictions that are plaguing modern India and the manner in which people, especially young people, are actively remaking the country in the 21st century.

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Explainer: India G20 presidency 2023: what does it mean and what can we expect

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What does g20 presidency entail, what is g20's upcoming agenda, what does the g20 mean for india and modi.

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Devjyot reports on Southeast Asia, with a focus on business stories and those involving the nexus of money and power. Previously, he was a politics and general news correspondent based in New Delhi, where he was part of Reuters teams that won India’s Ramnath Goenka Excellence in Journalism Award and the South Asian Journalists Association Award. He is a graduate of Columbia University, King's College London and Loyola College in India.

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• IAS Preparation
• NCERT Notes for UPSC
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NCERT Notes: Modern Indian History Notes For UPSC

The Union Public Service Commission conducts the prestigious Civil Services Exam every year. These NCERT notes on the History of Modern India from the middle of the 18th century to India’s independence in 1947 are recommended for both, UPSC Prelims 2024 and the UPSC Mains 2024.

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While these notes are as per the UPSC Prelims syllabus and the UPSC Mains syllabus, IAS aspirants should remember that style of revision has to adapt depending on the objective (Prelims) or the subjective (Mains) nature of questions.

To help ease the path of your IAS preparation, check out the Free NCERT Fundamentals Course– a comprehensive study program to help you cover the NCERTs effectively. Watch the video below to learn more:

NCERT Notes on History of Modern India – UPSC 2024

The following topics are considered after analyzing the previous years’ questions that have been asked from the IAS Syllabus of the history subject.

How to make the best use of BYJU’S NCERT notes on Modern History of India?

• Check UPSC Syllabus
• Refer UPSC previous year question papers
• NCERT notes on other topics in history, geography, art and culture should also be studied along with the notes above
• Download UPSC Prelims Modern History Questions PDF from the linked article. This comprises 2013-2020 questions asked in prelims from the Modern History segment. It will help candidates in the revision.
• Revise! Revise! Revise!

Important Queries Regarding UPSC Preparation

• Which NCERT books to read for IAS ?
• NCERT books are a must read for UPSC preparation  They are important in both UPSC Prelims and Mains. NCERT books on History, Geography, Economics are particularly important.

Refer this list Of NCERT books for IAS Preparation for subject and class wise information.

• Which is the best book for geography for IAS ?
• NCERT books – 6th to 12th standard
• Any decent Atlas
• Geography of India – Majid Hussain
• Is the UPSC exam tough?
• Yes and No. Every year, lakhs of IAS aspirants attempt the prestigious UPSC Civil Services exam making it extremely competitive. However, with the right preparation strategy, candidates can clear it in their first attempt itself.
• What is the success rate of optional subjects in UPSC?
• From the available data (2015, 2016), the success rate for a few Literature papers in the IAS mains exam appears to be the highest. However, considering the low number of total candidates who opted for those optionals in UPSC mains, these success rates should be taken with a pinch of salt.

To know the success rate of optional subjects in UPSC mains exam in detail, please click here .

• Is 1 year sufficient for IAS preparation?
• Yes, one year dedicated and efficient preparation is enough. However, it depends on the individual. Here are a few tips on how to start IAS preparation at home.
• How many subjects do we have to choose for IAS exam?
• Since the change in the pattern by the UPSC, IAS aspirants only have to choose one optional subject for UPSC Mains. The other subjects in the Civil Services Exam (Prelims and Mains) are mandatorily same for all candidates.

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Hlw , I want the study materials for prelims exam IAS . plz help me

Hi You may refer to BYJU’S Free IAS Prep initiative.

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Modern Indian History: From about the middle of the eighteenth century until the present – significant events, personalities, and issues

Last updated on January 6, 2024 by Alex Andrews George

Modern Indian history refers to the period of Indian history beginning in the middle of the 18th century, following the collapse of the mighty Mughal Empire , and continuing through to the present day.

This period is characterized by the rise of nationalist movements, the struggle for independence from British colonial rule, and the formation of the modern nation-state of India.

Key figures in modern Indian history include Mahatma Gandhi, Jawaharlal Nehru, and Sardar Patel.

The period has also seen significant economic and social changes and the rise of India as a major player in the global economy.

Also read: Delegated Legislation

Table of Contents

Modern Indian History: From the Mughal Empire to Independence and Beyond

Modern Indian history covers a wide range of events and developments, from the decline of the Mughal Empire and the rise of British colonial rule to the Indian independence movement and the challenges faced by the newly independent nation.

The decline of the Mughal Empire

The middle of the 18th century marked the beginning of the decline of the Mughal Empire (Early Mughals) in India, which had been a dominant political and cultural force for centuries.

This period saw the rise of regional powers, such as the Marathas who began to challenge the Mughal rule. The British East India Company too tried to gain control of large parts of India through a series of military conquests and economic manipulation.

Wish to know more? Read: India in 1750 – Decline of the Mughal Empire, Rule of Later Mughals, and Emergence of Successor States

The emergence of the British as the central controlling authority

During the 19th century, the British established a firm hold on India. The British started implementing their policies in India. The British used India as a colonial market which resulted in a significant ‘Drain of Wealth’ from India to the United Kingdom. The British policy of ‘Divide and Rule’ created tension among communities in India and affected its unity and integration. However, some of the British measures like the creation of a centralized bureaucracy, the introduction of Western-style education, and the expansion of infrastructure, such as railways and telegraph lines gave India a modern outlook.

Wish to know more? Read: The British Expansion in India – East India Company, Presidencies, Governor-generals, and Battles

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Dissatisfaction against the Foreign rule

Unlike the Mughals, the British never integrated completely with the Indians. Many Indians were not happy under foreign rule and white supremacy. The Indian nationalist movement began to take shape in the late 19th century. Leaders such as Bal Gangadhar Tilak and Bipin Chandra Pal called for greater Indian self-rule.

Wish to know more? Read:

• The Changes introduced by the British in India
• Popular Uprisings and Revolts against the British
• Socio-Religious Movements in India

Nationalist Movements and Independence

However, it was Mahatma Gandhi who truly galvanized the Indian people and led the country on the path of non-violent resistance against British colonial rule. With the support of millions of Indians, Gandhi’s campaigns of civil disobedience and non-cooperation forced the British government to negotiate with Indian leaders and eventually grant independence in 1947.

Wish to know more? Read: India’s struggle for independence: The Indian Freedom Movement

Building of a new nation under Nehru

The period following independence saw the country under the leadership of Jawaharlal Nehru, India’s first Prime Minister. Nehru implemented policies of planned economic development and industrialization, which led to rapid economic growth and social change in India. However, Nehru’s focus on socialism and state control also led to inefficiencies and slow growth in certain sectors.

Wars with Pakistan and China

India’s relations with Pakistan, which was formed as a separate country for Muslims, have been marked by conflict and tension, including multiple wars and ongoing disputes over the region of Kashmir. India has also faced political instability, with frequent changes in government and a rise in regional, religious, and caste-based politics.

Economic Liberlisation and Globalisation

In the 1990s, under Prime Minister P.V Narasimha Rao and his finance minister Dr. Manmohan Singh, India adopted economic liberalization policies, leading to a significant increase in economic growth and foreign investment. This also led to a rapid expansion of the middle class and significant improvements in living standards for many Indians.

Significant progress in spite of challenges

India has continued to grow economically and politically in the 21st century, with a rising global profile and increasing influence in international affairs. The country has also made significant progress in areas such as technology, space exploration, and renewable energy. However, India still faces many challenges, including poverty, inequality, and communal tensions.

Significant events in the Modern Indian History

There have been many significant events in modern Indian history from 1750 to 1947. One of the most important events during this period was the British colonization of India, which began in the 18th century and lasted until the middle of the 20th century.

The Indian Rebellion of 1857, also known as the Indian Mutiny, was a major event that marked the beginning of the end of British East India Company rule in India and led to the British Crown taking direct control of the country.

The Non-Cooperation Movement led by Mahatma Gandhi in the 1920s, the Salt Satyagraha in 1930 and the Quit India Movement in 1942 were some of the key events in the Indian independence movement. These events led to a growing sense of nationalism among Indians and ultimately led to the country gaining independence from British rule in 1947. This was a significant event not only for India but also for the entire subcontinent, as it led to the creation of Pakistan as well.

Another important event in Indian history was the assassination of Mahatma Gandhi in 1948. Gandhi was a key leader in the independence movement and his death had a profound impact on the country.

The Indo-Pakistani War of 1965 and 1971, the economic liberalization of 1991, the Pokhran nuclear test of 1998, the Kargil War of 1999 and the 26/11 Mumbai terrorist attack of 2008 are some of the other notable events in modern Indian history.

Indian Rebellion of 1857

Also known as the Indian Mutiny or the First War of Independence, this was a major rebellion against British colonial rule in India.

Birth of the Indian National Congress (INC) in 1885

The Indian National Congress, a political party which became the primary voice of the Indian independence movement, was founded in 1885.

The partition of Bengal in 1905

The partition of Bengal in 1905 by the British government was an attempt to weaken the growing nationalist movement through the ‘Divide and Rule’ policy. Many Indians opposed this.

The Jallianwala Bagh Massacre of 1919

The Jallianwala Bagh Massacre of 1919, where British troops killed hundreds of unarmed Indian civilians, was a turning point in Indian history and increased the resentment towards British rule.

Non-Cooperation Movement in 1920

Led by Mahatma Gandhi, this movement was a major campaign of civil disobedience and non-violent resistance against British colonial rule.

The Civil Disobedience Movement in 1930

The Salt Satyagraha in 1930 led by Mahatma Gandhi, was a peaceful protest against the British salt monopoly and became a symbol of resistance to British rule.

The Government of India Act 1935

The Government of India Act 1935 was passed, which aimed to give Indians more representation in government but was widely criticized for falling short of true self-government.

World War II

The forced involvement of India in World War II put a heavy burden on the economy and increased resentment towards British rule.

The Quit India Movement in 1942

The Quit India Movement in 1942, was a mass civil disobedience movement called by Mahatma Gandhi for immediate independence of India, it was one of the most aggressive movements against British colonial rule.

The Indian Independence Act of 1947

This act passed by the British parliament granted independence to India and Pakistan on 15th August 1947.

Partition of India in 1947

In 1947, British India was partitioned into the independent nations of India and Pakistan, with a large-scale population exchange of Hindus and Muslims.

India-China War 1962

The war fought between India and China in 1962 over the disputed border region resulted in a Chinese victory.

The Green Revolution of the 1960s and 1970s

The period of increase in agricultural production in India in the 1960s and 1970s was due to the introduction of high-yielding varieties of seeds, fertilizers, and irrigation facilities.

Indian Nuclear Program in 1974

In 1974 India successfully detonated a nuclear device, becoming the 6th nuclear weapons state in the world.

The Emergency in 1975

In 1975, Prime Minister Indira Gandhi declared a state of emergency in India, suspending civil liberties and democratic institutions.

The assassination of Indira Gandhi in 1884

Indira Gandhi, the Prime Minister of India was assassinated by her own bodyguards in 1984.

Economic Liberalization in 1991

In 1991, under Prime Minister P.V Narasimha Rao and his finance minister Dr. Manmohan Singh, India adopted economic liberalization policies.

The Mumbai Bombings in 1993

A series of bombings in Mumbai in 1993, orchestrated by organized crime groups, resulted in the deaths of over 250 people.

Rise of Right-wing Politics from the late 1990s

From the late 1990s, India saw the rise of right-wing, Hindu nationalist politics, led by the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).

The Kargil War of 1999

A conflict between India and Pakistan in 1999, fought in the Kargil district of Kashmir, resulted in an Indian victory.

The Gujarat Riots of 2002

In 2002, Hindu-Muslim riots broke out in the state of Gujarat, resulting in the deaths of over 1000 people, mostly Muslims.

The 26/11 Mumbai Terror Attacks in 2008

A series of terrorist attacks in Mumbai in 2008, carried out by a Pakistan-based militant group, resulted in the deaths of over 160 people.

The Anna Hazare Movement in 2011

The movement led by Anna Hazare in 2011, demanded the implementation of the Jan Lokpal Bill, a proposed anti-corruption law.

The 2014 General Election

The BJP led by Narendra Modi emerged as the single largest party in the general elections, leading to Modi becoming the Prime Minister.

Demonetization in 2016

In 2016, the Indian government demonetized the 500 and 1000 rupee notes, effectively rendering 86% of the cash in circulation invalid.

The abrogation of Article 370 in 2019

In 2019, the Indian government revoked the special status of the state of Jammu and Kashmir, sparking widespread protests and criticism from various political parties and human rights organizations

The COVID-19 Pandemic

India was hit hard by the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, with a lot of cases and deaths.

Significant Personalities in Modern Indian History

There have been many significant personalities in modern Indian history who have played a crucial role in shaping the country.

Mahatma Gandhi

Considered the “Father of the Nation,” Mahatma Gandhi led the Indian independence movement through non-violent civil disobedience and is considered one of the most influential figures in Indian history.

Jawaharlal Nehru

India’s first Prime Minister, Jawaharlal Nehru played a key role in shaping the country’s foreign and domestic policies following independence.

Sardar Patel

Known as the “Iron Man of India,” Sardar Patel played a key role in the integration of the princely states into the Indian Union following independence.

B. R. Ambedkar

An Indian jurist, economist, politician and social reformer, Ambedkar was the main architect of the Indian Constitution and champion for the rights of Dalits (formerly known as “untouchables”) and other marginalized communities.

Subhas Chandra Bose

A prominent Indian nationalist leader, Subhas Chandra Bose was a key figure in the Indian independence movement and advocated for a more aggressive approach to achieving freedom from British rule.

Rajendra Prasad

India’s first President, Rajendra Prasad played a key role in the drafting of the Indian Constitution and in the early years of the Indian Republic.

Maulana Abul Kalam Azad

A prominent Muslim leader, Maulana Abul Kalam Azad was a key figure in the Indian independence movement and served as India’s first Education Minister following independence.

C. Rajagopalachari

A freedom fighter and one of the first leaders of the Indian National Congress, Rajagopalachari served as the last Governor-General of India and later as the Chief Minister of Madras state.

Bhagat Singh

Bhagat Singh was an Indian revolutionary socialist who was influential in the Indian independence movement, he is considered to be one of the most influential revolutionaries of the Indian independence movement, and is often referred to as Shaheed Bhagat Singh, the word “Shaheed” meaning “martyr” in Arabic.

Indira Gandhi

India’s first female Prime Minister, Indira Gandhi was a powerful political figure who implemented policies of economic development and industrialization, but also faced criticism for authoritarianism and human rights abuses.

Rajiv Gandhi

The son of Indira Gandhi, Rajiv Gandhi served as Prime Minister of India and was responsible for introducing several economic and technological advancements in the country.

V. P. Singh

The 7th Prime Minister of India, Singh was a leader of the Janata Dal party and is remembered for his efforts to address issues of caste discrimination and corruption.

Atal Bihari Vajpayee

A former Prime Minister of India, Vajpayee was a leader of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and played a key role in shaping India’s foreign policy.

Manmohan Singh

India’s first Sikh Prime Minister, Dr. Manmohan Singh served two terms as Prime Minister and is credited with implementing economic liberalization policies that led to significant growth in the Indian economy.

Narendra Modi

The current Prime Minister of India, Modi is a leader of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and has implemented a range of economic and social policies during his time in office.

Major Issues in the Modern Indian History

Modern India witnessed many problems and issues. The major issues in the history of modern India include poverty, inequality, caste discrimination, communal tensions etc. Most of these issues are still prevalent in India.

(1) Colonialism and the Drain of Wealth

The impact of British colonialism on India , including the exploitation of resources and the suppression of Indian culture and identity, was a major issue in modern Indian history.

(2) Communal Tensions and Religious Violence

India has a diverse population made up of many different religious and ethnic groups. Communal tensions and religious violence, particularly between Hindus and Muslims, have been recurring issues in modern Indian history.

(3) Caste Discrimination

India’s caste system , which has traditionally determined a person’s social status and occupation based on birth, has been a major issue in modern Indian history. Discrimination and violence against lower castes, particularly Dalits (formerly known as “untouchables”), have been widespread.

(4) Poverty

Despite significant economic growth in recent decades, poverty  remains a major issue in India. Millions of Indians still live in extreme poverty.

(5) Inequality

There is a wide gap between the rich and the poor.

(6) Political Instability and Corruption

India has seen frequent changes in government and political instability, with a rise in regional and caste-based politics. Corruption has also been a major issue, with many politicians and bureaucrats being accused of corrupt practices.

(7) Separatist movements

India is a diverse country. Many regions have their own distinct cultural and linguistic identities. Separatist movements in many states/regions in India have been a major issue in modern Indian history.

(8) Human rights violations

The suppression of civil liberties and democratic institutions, violence against marginalized communities, and extrajudicial killings are reported in India.

(9) Environmental degradation

India’s rapid economic growth has led to a significant increase in pollution and environmental degradation, with issues such as deforestation, water pollution, and air pollution becoming increasingly severe.

(10) Political Instability

The 1990s and 2000s saw a rise in regional and caste-based politics. This resulted in coalition politics and political instability. Even though not without criticism, the popularity of right-wing politics resulted in a stable majority government in India after 2014.

(11) India-Pakistan Conflicts

The relationship between India and Pakistan , which have a long-standing dispute over the region of Kashmir, has been a major issue in modern Indian history. The two countries have fought several wars, and tensions between them remain high.

(12) India-China Conflicts

India and China engaged in war in 1962 over territorial disputes and conflicts, which resulted in a Chinese victory. There are ongoing border disputes in the Himalayan region.

(13) Internal Security Issues

Internal security issues in India include a range of challenges that affect the country’s stability and safety. Some of the major internal security issues in India include Insurgency , Terrorism , Naxalism, Cybercrimes etc.

In conclusion, modern Indian history is a multifaceted story of political struggles, economic development, and social change.

From the decline of the Mughal Empire to the rise of the nationalist movement, from the struggle for independence to the challenges of building a modern nation-state , the history of India is a story of a people’s determination to shape their own destiny.

Also read:  Modern Indian History Books and Authors

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Alex Andrews George is a mentor, author, and social entrepreneur. Alex is the founder of ClearIAS and one of the expert Civil Service Exam Trainers in India.

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A trusted mentor and pioneer in online training , Alex's guidance, strategies, study-materials, and mock-exams have helped many aspirants to become IAS, IPS, and IFS officers.

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What to Watch in 2023: India’s Pivotal Year on the Global Stage

As its economy and international stature grows, India could see its multi-alignment approach to geopolitics validated in 2023.

Wednesday, February 8, 2023 / By: Sameer P. Lalwani, Ph.D. ;   Daniel Markey, Ph.D. ;   Tamanna Salikuddin ;   Vikram J. Singh

Publication Type: Analysis

One month into 2023, and India is well underway with preparations for a pivotal year. In the coming 11 months, India is expected to surpass China as the world’s most populous nation (and by some estimates already has), and to continue on a trajectory of rapid economic growth. In assuming the presidencies of both the G-20 and the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO), India is set to host leaders from across the globe as the country prepares for its own general elections in 2024. With all eyes on India, New Delhi may be increasingly sensitive to global perceptions of how it handles possible shocks — external or internal — ranging from escalation on its borders to incidents of communal violence.

USIP’s Sameer Lalwani, Daniel Markey, Vikram Singh and Tamanna Salikuddin discuss to watch in the year ahead for India.

1. India on the World Stage: Showcasing a Multi-alignment Foreign Policy

Lalwani: In 2023, India seeks to raise its leadership profile as a bridging power between various poles of the international system, both East and West as well as North and South.

As India deepens cooperation with the West through “minilaterals” like the upcoming Quad Leaders’ summit in Australia this May, it will also chair the SCO and play host to Eurasian leaders, likely including Russia’s Vladimir Putin and China’s Xi Jinping. And even as India is likely to once again be invited as a guest attendee to the elite G-7 Summit in Japan, it plans to champion the voice of the Global South throughout the year while leading the G-20 presidency and hosting the body’s summit in September.

At present, India is in a strong position to work across global cleavages. As the one of the world’s fastest-growing economies, India is courted by — and can potentially be a bridge to — all sides. India is poised to be one of the fastest-growing economies with the IMF forecasting it to grow at 6.1 percent in 2023 and 6.8 percent in 2024. It has been the darling of the Davos crowd , sought after by investors because of its growing market, digital economy and digitization of payments, favorable demographics and a government determined to bring in foreign direct investment and move up the value chain manufacturing iPhones and semiconductors.

Most of India’s multilateral institutional pursuits have more of a steady-state flavor. At the SCO, India will prioritize Eurasian connectivity, counterterrorism and the stabilization of Afghanistan. In the Quad, India prefers to foreground global public goods initiatives on vaccines, infrastructure and supply chains, while quietly proceeding with the incremental operationalization of existing security agreements. For instance, India and its Quad partners hope to fully implement the Indo-Pacific Partnership for Maritime Domain Awareness throughout the Indo-Pacific region to fuse multiple intelligence sources to detect illicit activity at sea.

At the helm of the G-20, however, India seeks to establish its global leadership bonafides. Traveling through an Indian airport or major metropolitan area, one cannot avoid encounters with splashy India-G-20 posters and billboards. This India coming-out party on the global stage feels faintly reminiscent of the Beijing Olympics in 2008.

Playing host to world leaders at the G-20 summit in September will validate India’s rising importance; brokering substantive consensus on pressing global concerns will certainly demonstrate its international influence. India is determined to steer the forum clear of divisive geopolitical issues like the Russia-Ukraine war or values clashes between democracies and autocracies, and instead concentrate in a more inclusive manner on the collective concerns of climate change.

Instead, India plans to champion a climate and development agenda that signals its own climate credentials and bridges the priorities of industrialized nations with the climate finance priorities of the Global South. New Delhi wants to fulfill the promise of $100 billion a year for clean energy and adapting to climate change for poorer nations. India aims to champion the G-20 to unlock money from multinational development banks and international financial institutions and support new climate finance instruments like blended finance to mitigate risk. A successful outcome to its G-20 leadership can validate India’s “multi-alignment” approach to geopolitics even as major powers enter a more competitive environment.

2. A “Year of Cognitive Dissonance”: India’s relations with Russia and China

Markey: When it comes to India’s relations with China and Russia, 2023 may very well be described as the “year of cognitive dissonance.” New Delhi appears to hold mutually contradictory beliefs about its ties with both Moscow and Beijing, leaving others — including U.S. policymakers and sometimes even the Indian public — unclear about where India really stands. And although it is possible that India will resolve some of these contradictions in the coming year, there are better reasons to expect persistent ambiguity.

With Russia, the puzzle is whether New Delhi sees its ties with Moscow as a wasting asset and Cold War legacy, or as a crucial partnership necessary for achieving its aims of strategic autonomy in a world order increasingly characterized by multipolarity. Despite its disastrous war in Ukraine, Russia is both for India and will likely remain so throughout 2023. New Delhi will no doubt appreciate, on the one hand, that military and strategic logics should lead it to engineer an expedited shift away from an unreliable Russian defense supplier and to worry about the consequences of closer Russia-China ties. On the other hand, India will welcome Russian participation when New Delhi plays the host of the SCO summit, will buy as much cheap Russian oil as it can, and will expect new Russian-built air defenses and other sophisticated weapon systems to serve as vital tools of national security.

With China, India seemingly perceives Beijing as both an urgent threat and a necessary partner. The 2020 India-China border dispute remains unresolved at either a tactical or strategic level, and as recently as December 2022, Chinese forces struck an Indian camp at a scale too large to be accidental. India’s strategic elite and broader public increasingly view China as enemy number one. Yet, simultaneously, bilateral trade is up, and Prime Minister Narendra Modi anticipates that Chinese leader Xi Jinping will join other world leaders in visiting New Delhi for the first time since 2019, thus reinforcing India’s (and Modi’s) self-image as a “ vishwaguru ,” or world leader.

3. An Eye to General Elections: Looking Ahead to 2024

Singh: As in the United States, elections in India are a constant, and the year ahead of a general election drives the focus on any administration. Prime Minister Modi’s government will use 2023 to lay the groundwork for a successful 2024 campaign. This effort will rest on two macro trends: India’s emergence from COVID-19 and expected return to world-topping economic growth and India’s growing prominence on the global stage, marked by its G-20 and SCO chairmanships. 

The 2024 budget announced this week shows proactive investment in several key areas: a 33 percent increase capital expenditure on infrastructure, especially urban infrastructure; lower tax burdens and a simplified tax regime; and investment in green energy (called “green growth” in the budget). Many analysts were surprised by reductions in welfare and poverty alleviation programs in this budget, which might have been seen as populist initiatives ahead of the election. But the most important schemes like free grain for 800 million people and government-funded water connections remain. The government is banking on jobs creation by new investments and post-COVID economic growth to pay political as well as economic dividends.

Indian leaders always focus mainly on domestic policies and politics, but Modi will lean into to India’s growing international stature in 2023. Indian leaders are positioning the country as a bridge between traditional U.S.-centered Western alliances and the developing world and a model for inclusive economic growth that offers partnership rather than dependency or exploitation. While foreign policy plays a very small role in Indian electoral politics, building an Indian vision for the world contributes to Modi’s image as a strong and competent leader.

One big contrast for Indian leaders to make is with China, which is viewed as a predatory lender and constant threat along the disputed border, the Line of Actual Control. India seeks to manage its tensions with China without escalation, but China is deeply unpopular in India, with only about a quarter of the population viewing Beijing favorably. Demonstrating that India stands up to China without being belligerent; charts its own course even as it draws close to the United States, Europe and Australia; and attracts attention from global leaders and investors, Indian leaders expect to boost national pride and popular support. For the United States, the Indian imperative to stand up to China continues to present an opportunity for deepening cooperation.

4. Crisis Possibilities and Shocks to Watch

Salikuddin: As India is raising its international profile, its leadership sees itself firmly in charge of managing the country’s rise to global prominence. Given the many shocks of the last few years, India has proven resilient, managing the pandemic, internal protests, climate-induced disasters and economic shocks. Given its role on the world stage hosting the G-20 and SCO, India will seek to control its image and not be mired in any crisis. There is some risk of communal violence given the right-wing nationalist politics in India heading into elections in 2024, but Modi’s BJP-led government has been able to manage its international status while avoiding major domestic unrest. However, both its borders with Pakistan and China have the potential to spark crisis that New Delhi may not be able to prevent.

The last major crisis between India and Pakistan was in 2019 with the Pulwama attacks. Since February 2021, the border with Pakistan has been remarkably quiet with a cease-fire in place that has led to a notable reduction in cross-border firings and cease-fire violations. However, the cease-fire has not led to normalization or a thaw in other areas of the India-Pakistan relationship (i.e., things like resumptions of cross-border trade, etc.). India remains worried about the threat of escalation, especially in light a of a potential terrorist attack that can be traced back to Afghanistan or Pakistan. India and Pakistan are both headed into election years — with general elections anticipated in Pakistan this year and India’s in 2024. This may add pressures to leadership to show resolve if there is another crisis. Notably, the 2019 crisis came ahead of India’s last general election, and India’s response was seen as favorable for the Modi-government's electoral prospects. There may be precedent set for responding to any terror attack in India that is seen to be linked to Pakistan.

The December 2022 clashes along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) between India and China resulted in dozens of injuries though no officially reported deaths, but these did highlight the extent that the border tension remains unresolved. As India and China work to solidify positions along the LAC and build up infrastructure, there are likely to be more tension points for escalation between patrolling troops — particularly in un-demarcated areas of high mountain terrain. While India and China view the potential for escalation of clashes on the border to be low — this does increase Indian concerns of facing risks on both its borders (with Pakistan and China).

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As Fragile Kashmir Cease-Fire Turns Three, Here’s How to Keep it Alive

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Guest Essay

India Is Devouring Its Best and Brightest

By Vidya Krishnan

Ms. Krishnan is a journalist based in Goa, India.

It’s just a word. But when you are using it to describe your own possible future, it leaves the lips with a heaviness and a bitter taste, like bile.

Until a few years ago, ending up in an Indian prison because of my work or things I said seemed as unimaginable as my death — a grim but distant prospect. When I met with fellow journalists, we discussed stories we were working on or the latest political gossip.

But today the possibility of arrest and prosecution on fantastical charges lurks deep in my heart and in those of many Indian journalists, historians, writers, academics, intellectuals and others who openly criticize Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his government. Now when we meet, we talk about lawyers, potential charges and sentences, legal funds and making sure that our personal and financial affairs are in order.

Since Mr. Modi came to power in 2014, the Hindu nationalist mob has targeted one supposed enemy after another — Muslims, students, activists, opposition politicians, lower-caste Dalits, gay men and lesbians — tearing our incredibly diverse country apart in a myopic attempt to remake it into a bastion of Hindu supremacy.

Another line was crossed two weeks ago when the government announced charges against the writer Arundhati Roy . Ms. Roy, whose works include the novel “The God of Small Things” and the essay collection “My Seditious Heart,” is one of the greatest writers of our time. She has been a voice for truth, tolerance and sanity in India for decades. Her books and essays record the utter apathy of the post-independence ruling class as India descended into the chaos of Mr. Modi’s right-wing politics. Jailing Ms. Roy would be not unlike America imprisoning a writer of the moral stature of Toni Morrison or James Baldwin.

The charges against her represent a pivotal moment for India; if Ms. Roy is incarcerated, she will become the country’s highest-profile prisoner of conscience .

She would join a growing body of writers, activists and intellectuals.

Shortly after Ms. Roy was charged, 12 leading international human rights groups issued a joint statement accusing Indian authorities of abusing a counterterrorism law, financial regulations and other laws to “silence journalists, human rights defenders, activists and critics of the government.”

This has been going on for years. According to the People’s Union for Civil Liberties , in the five years before Mr. Modi took power, the central government filed just 69 cases under the draconian Unlawful Activities Prevention Act, an overly broad state security law that allows detention for extended periods without due process . Under Mr. Modi, the number of cases filed has jumped to 288 as of September 2022.

The charges against Ms. Roy are typically absurd. She is accused of provocative speech and promoting enmity between different groups merely for comments made in 2010 that questioned the Indian government’s claims to the disputed, restive region of Kashmir. But the real reason she is being targeted now — 13 years later — is surely her courageous criticism of the intolerance and violence unleashed under Mr. Modi. People like her are among India’s greatest assets because they stand for truth and decency, but they are being cast as enemies of the state. India is devouring its best and brightest.

It is worth noting that in September, before the charges were filed, Ms. Roy accepted the prestigious European Essay Prize for, as the prize jury put it, her use of “the essay as a form of combat, analyzing fascism and the way it is being structured.” It is not the first time that the word “fascism” has been used in the context of the Modi regime and its methods.

Among many others, the kinds of people facing unjust accusations in India include the Kashmiri human rights defender Khurram Parvez , who documented atrocities by Indian forces and militants in the region and now faces multiple terrorism-related charges; and the student activist Umar Khalid, accused of inciting violence after he led peaceful protests against a discriminatory citizenship law introduced by Mr. Modi’s government. Then there were the 16 people , including activists, journalists, poets, a professor and an older priest, accused of crimes such as fomenting an uprising against Mr. Modi after some of them spoke out against his government’s repressive methods. The priest , who suffered from Parkinson’s disease, contracted Covid while in custody and died in 2021.

Even before Mr. Modi, political violence was common in India, lower castes were doomed to live on society’s margins, and women faced routine sexual violence . But while previous governments had the guile to at least pay lip service to the rule of law, officials in Mr. Modi’s party have openly encouraged mob violence. Last year, 11 men imprisoned in a high-profile gang-rape case were freed and welcomed with garlands by party officials.

It’s a modern version of the same old struggle between the powerful and those who dissent. But in the digital age, the powerful in India are aided by government-aligned media outlets, online smear campaigns and troll armies , whose lies are eroding truth and morality and fueling more violence. The dissenters, meanwhile, are armed with little more than the strength of their moral clarity.

By jailing or silencing journalists, writers and other critics, India not only chips away at its democratic credentials; it loses the kinds of minds that gave the culture its stunning art, rich literature and philosophy, ancient temples, chess and the Kama Sutra.

India is being dumbed down, and children are growing up in a climate of lies, propaganda and misinformation . Science has become suspect , with the government reportedly removing basic concepts such as evolution and the periodic table from some school curriculums this year (although some officials have denied this). In a telling comment in 2018, Mr. Modi’s minister in charge of higher education said evolution was “scientifically wrong” because nobody “ever saw an ape turning into a human being.”

Writers like Ms. Roy bear witness to the times they live in. Even if the government imprisons her and every last person with an independent mind, it will not change the story of the Modi years. It just means that much of that story will be told through the eyes of prisoners of conscience.

History will remember those people as heroes. Their jailers will be condemned as tyrants.

Vidya Krishnan (@ VidyaKrishnan ) is an Indian journalist based in Goa who specializes in health issues. She is the author of “The Phantom Plague: How Tuberculosis Shaped History.”

The Times is committed to publishing a diversity of letters to the editor. We’d like to hear what you think about this or any of our articles. Here are some tips . And here’s our email: [email protected] .

Follow The New York Times Opinion section on Facebook , Twitter (@NYTopinion) and Instagram .

The Making of Modern India, One Essay at a Time

I recently attended the launch of India Since 1947: Looking Back at a Modern Nation , and picked up a copy.

It has very nearly been 66 years since we, as one nation, took the reins of our destiny in our own hands. And while that still places us as a relatively young democracy (the US, for example, signed the declaration of independence in 1776), that the first generation born after that fateful midnight has now started retiring is a noteworthy milestone. As a people who use the same word for tomorrow as for yesterday, keeping track of the passage of time and the changes it brings along is not something we are very adept at.

The vastness and the diversity of this nation make this task no easier. With a colourful and noisy population, India is perhaps the most perfect example of what anthropologist Edward Hall described as a “high-context” society. Such societies are marked by an environment of familiarity and universally-shared polite fiction, where a lot goes unsaid, or is said in a rather few words. As a result, much is left to be implicitly understood from context. This inevitably makes the modern historian’s job even tougher, especially given the vagueness and the flowery sense of political correctness of any recorded letter or conveyed opinion. The challenge of taking stock of these two-thirds of a century has been accepted by “Indian Since 1947: Looking Back at a Modern Nation” head on!

India Since 1947 is a collection of essays on modern India carefully curated by its young editor, Atul Kumar Thakur. And just like India is best represented by a thali of scrumptious dishes in different bowls, the same holds true for the authors and the foci of their respective pieces. Each tasting different, not mixing with the next, but belonging together on the same plate, complementing each other, making for a satisfactory meal.

The authors encompass public intellectuals and veteran thought leaders including but not limited to Ramachandra Guha, Prem Shankar Jha, K Natwar Singh, Shashi Tharoor, Jagmohan, B.G.Verghese, Bimal Jalan, Jean Drèze, Amartya Sen, Bibek Debroy, and Pran Nevile, as well as younger and more niche domain-experts and literary talent. The intricate diversity of voices and vantage points represented can most likely be put down as the raison d’être of the anthology, in a manner of speaking.

The opening essay by Guha, “The Rise and Fall of the Bilingual Intellectual,” takes the shape of a meta-analysis of Indian scholarship and the changing contours of the linguistic territories that it is comprised of. The struggle between the foreign English, and the–to use a much maligned term–vernacular tongues fighting it out in the motherland, is by far the most visible (or perhaps, audible) symbol of India’s transition to a new era. By commenting on the shifting nature of intellectual discourse itself, from the departure of colonialism to the usher of globalisation, Guha’s essay underlines the focal theme of the book, and sets the tone for the pieces that follow.

Some of the essays that follow are beautiful in the way they neatly thread India’s journey from independence to about as recent as it gets, giving a crystal clear timeline of the transition. These include solution-oriented and policy-driven pieces such as ‘Where Indian Democracy has Gone Wrong’ by Prem Shankar Jha, which goes from the Nehruvian model of governance to the institutionalisation of kickbacks and finally to team Anna, and suggests structural reforms regarding regulation and transparency of corporate influence in politics. Bimal Jalan’s essay similarly takes an objective look at the poor state of decision-making and governance, and suggests concrete measures to curb the rot. The former RBI governor stresses on administrative reform as a more urgent need compared to economic reform, which is also needed.

India’s complete lack of strategy and initiative in the foreign policy and security realms is reflected upon by K. Natwar Singh and Bibek Debroy respectively. The Kashmir issue and the general state of non-cooperation in the sub-continent are tackled in-depth by Jagmohan, while the editor himself takes on the Naxal problem.

Shashi Tharoor has written a particularly engaging piece on the Indian middle class and its disavowal of the polluted pit that is Indian Politics. The diplomat-turned-politician describes this relationship in a semi-autobiographical tone as a mixture of ennui and evasion, and issues a call to young middle-class Indians, those not otherwise favoured by the feudal system, to at least consider getting involved in politics. He wishes to see many such young, ambitious, middle class “professionals” fulfil that dream by 2020, and doing a better job than he has managed so far. ‘Hope’ is indeed the thing with feathers.

Drèze and Sen discuss India’s shameful record on inclusive development and make a persuasive case against fetishizing “high growth.” Bibek Debroy similarly looks at the ease of doing business in India and chalks out a recipe for the sweet taste of Demographic Dividend. Sunita Narain and Anupam Mishra explore the state of environmentalism in India and the political muck surrounding it. Other essays also explore gender, from a policy-driven point of view as well from a social and human angle.

One of the essays that stood out was Sumana Roy’s “In the Chicken’s neck,” a poignant description of life in the narrow stretch connecting the north-eastern states with the rest of the nation. This land has been a back page where history has played tic-tac-toe over centuries, criss-crossed by numerous wars, partitions, liberations, insurgencies, and ultimately, borders. A place where distinct ethnicities, communities, languages, religions, and nationalities, meet, or perhaps separate. Hidden between quaint references to White Rabbits and fish bones, is a calm, childlike narrative of the Indian identity despite the fleeting sense of belongingness expected of a 20 or 40 km wide strip with China (Tibet?), Bhutan, Bangladesh and Nepal lying on either sides of its cardinal axes.

Essays dealing with the journey of literature, music, art, cinema, sports, cities, and even comics (and growing up with them), paint a picture of recreation, lifestyle, and identity in modern India. These are the essays that represent the different facets of what it means to be an Indian. As much as an outsider’s opinion is invaluable and unique, the focus on an Indian outlook is what makes this collection uniquely introspective.

Surely, the work is not flawless by any means. While several important topics were touched upon, a lack of deeper investigation and learning from some issues was felt. The emergency, the state of education, the social enterprise sector, energy, science & technology etc. were some of the fields that could perhaps have seen more intense enquiry. To be fair, that may not have been possible without the book reaching a rather painful breadth, and it may then have been unfeasible to maintain an easy-on-the-pocket paperback edition. I also felt a lack of forward-looking essays, but perhaps that could be the focus of a sequel to this work.

I must note that each and every word in the book seems to have been meticulously researched and verified. Most importantly, the unbiased view from this window into modern India had hitherto been unexplored by journalists rushing for “breaking news” segments, or by pundits giving jargon-laden short-cut answers. And the wide spectrum of topics and issues covered is a treat for the discerning reader.

The transition the book covers is not over, but is still going. There is much happening in modern India, and much remains to be seen. It makes one wonder how such a work compiled in 2047 would look like, what it would say. As B.G.Verghese says in his foreword to the book, “Transitions are always difficult. But we shall overcome.”

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Home — Essay Samples — Geography & Travel — India — The Modern India

The Modern India

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Published: Dec 18, 2018

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• Recently, the External Affairs Minister stated that India has initiated activities through its cultural centres abroad to emphasise the message that India is the mother of democracy.

About a democracy

• In a democratic country, people themselves select and elect a representative as their leader. 
• As Abraham Lincoln famously expressed, democracy is a “government of the people, by the people, for the people”. 
• It is a political system where people are supreme and freedom of choice is its core.
• The term ‘democracy’ originated from the Greek term ‘d?mokratía’ which means “rule of the people”. 
• Direct democracy is the one in which the eligible citizens directly and actively participate in the political decision-making. 
• Indirect democracy is the one in which the sovereign power remains with the eligible citizens and the elected representatives exercise the political power; this type of democracy is also known as democratic republic or the representative democracy .

What makes India ‘the mother of democracy’?

• One of the ancient civilizations was in India. The existence of Sabhas and Samitis throughout the Vedic Period is where India’s history of democracy begins.
• The word Gana also means numbers and Ganarajya will therefore mean the rule of numbers or the rule of many.
• The Buddhist texts (Jatakas) also refers to the existence of many autonomous clan with a non-monarchical form of government in sixth century B.C. Notable among them were Shakyas of Kapilavastu, Lichchhavis of Vaishali, the Videhas of Mithila, etc. 
• “There is a small but famous village in Tamil Nadu, called Uthiramerur . An inscription on a rock here, some 1,100 or 1,200 years old, amazes the world. This rock inscription is like a mini-Constitution. It explains in detail how the gram sabha should be conducted and what should be the process of selection of its members,”.
• The 12th-century Anubhav Mandapam of Bhagwan Basaveshwara . Here, free debate and discussion was encouraged.
• The democratic India believes in the principles of equality, liberty, justice and fraternity . 
• India has a pluralistic and consultative tradition that very few societies, if anybody at all, can match. 
• The people from any caste, creed, sex, religion, and region have an equal right to vote and choose their representatives. 
• Since its inception, India has taken a progressive stance. 
• Indians have granted women the right to vote, protected every citizen’s fundamental rights, and incorporated the principle of the separation of powers. 
• Indians have also incorporated principles like secularism, which are still not widely practiced in other democracies, into the Indian Constitution from the beginning. 

Features of Indian democracy

• India has a parliamentary form of government based on a universal adult franchise.  
• The executive authority is responsible to the elected representatives of the people. Parliament for all its decisions and actions. Sovereignty rests ultimately with the people.
• The legislature, which is made up of the elected government, is collectively accountable to the elected government. 
• In an Indian democracy, the Council of Ministers, both in the states and the centre, is collectively responsible for their respective ministers. 
• The judiciary is independent of the executive. It is the guardian and interpreter of the Constitution. 
• At the apex of the entire judicial system exists the Supreme Court of India. Each State has its own High Court. 
• A code of civil and criminal laws applies to the whole country.
• In India, neither the parliament nor the judiciary have any precedence over the Constitution. 
• In contrast to many other nations, India has a written constitution which clearly defines the roles, powers, and obligations of the several departments of government and sets down the limitations within which they must operate.
• The Fundamental Rights of every Indian citizen include the freedom of speech, expression, belief, assembly and association, migration, and choice of occupation or trade. 
• These rights also protect every Indian from discrimination on grounds of race, religion, creed or sex, and are enforceable in courts of law.

Challenges faced by Indian Democracy

• The major challenge faced by democracy is the heterogeneous composition of the country as Indian society is divided on the basis of caste, religion, etc. 
• People in India still vote in favour of caste, community or religion. 
• Criminalisation of politics and political violence also create hindrance in the smooth functioning of democracy.
• Manipulation of people’s verdicts by the political parties is still practised.
• Factors such as corruption, women’s issues, caste issues, political strategies etc. affect politics at the national and the state level in the country. 
• Illiteracy is a major factor which can affect the smooth functioning of democracy in the country.
• Poverty too affects the successful running of democracy. 
• Political and communal violence has gained serious proportions in the country. 
• The role of the citizens of India is most important for its democracy. 
• For a successful working of democracy, it is the right as well as the duty of every Indian to choose and elect the appropriate representative for the country.
• Civil society has to go beyond the nation-state to renew the idea of the Earth as an imagination. 
• India needs a new rethink around peace. It has to go beyond the official text of security and borders.

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India’s demographic dividend, mental health and informal sector, india’s growing interest in arctic , daily current affairs 19-04-2024.

Hello, New Lines readers,

We hope you’re enjoying a much-needed holiday break. We have a lot in store for 2023, particularly the launch of our print edition. In the meantime, as has become tradition, we wanted to share with you a list of our staff’s favorite essays from the past year. We hope you’ll find something of interest in this eclectic collection of stories.

Wishing you a Happy New Year from the New Lines team!

The Day My Wartime Cat Went Missing, by Rasha Elass

Riada asimovic akyol, strategic initiatives editor.

Many of my close friends tell me that, despite my irrational fear of cats, I’d be a perfect “cat person,” once I dared to confront those fears. I’ve acknowledged the joy and glow in their eyes, when my friends speak of their pets. I’ve observed such bonds curiously and in a more mindful way in the last few years, especially after becoming a mother, responsible for someone else’s life. 

The essay “The Day My Wartime Cat Went Missing” was published early in 2022, and was an instant classic. Our Editorial Director, Rasha Elass, writes masterfully about her adventures with adopted cats Pumpkin and Gremlin, whom she first met in Abu Dhabi. She beautifully depicts how they survived a tough war, and the different challenges they’ve been through in the Middle East and the United States. She shares her genuine love and nurturing care, as well as her dread at the possibility of losing them, whether in peacetime or war. 

The essay is a gorgeous reminder of the bonds that matter. Check it out for yourself.

How I Survived a Syrian Gulag, by Jaber Baker

Rasha al aqeedi, middle east deputy editor.

The terms “dictatorship,” “fascism,” “authoritarianism” and “totalitarianism” are thrown around today to describe various ruling systems in the world to such an extent that they have lost their actual meaning. Inconveniences such as losing access to a social media platform are compared to the conditions that led to the Holocaust, while wearing a pandemic-imposed mask is akin to living in a gulag. 

The Syrian author Jaber Baker takes us on a dark journey through his time in an actual gulag run by Bashar al-Assad’s Baath Party. For me personally, the essay is a masterclass in storytelling and struck more chords and triggered more memories of my childhood and adolescence in Saddam Hussein’s Iraq than I wish it had. The true experiences and traumas of dictatorship face the threat of being drowned out by the noises of victimhood culture. While no one has a monopoly on trauma, Syrians have the right to tell the stories of their torture and suffering. It is a reminder that not all injustices are created equal. 

The Last of the Bougainvillea Years, by Zeina Hashem Beck

Erin clare brown, north africa editor.

When faced with an impending move to Paris from Dubai in search of more stability for her family, poet Zeina Hashem Beck is suddenly filled with the pangs of loss — not for the Emirates, where she’d lived since 2006, but for her home in Lebanon. She explores this abstract sense of displacement and longing in her gorgeously crafted essay, written in a pitch-perfect prose that carries the music of poetry through her attempts to sort her belongings, prepare her children, and reassure herself that the displacement is the right call. Through it all Hashem Beck mourns the impending loss of her bougainvillea vines, whose clouds of pink blossoms and wicked thorns come to symbolize in turns her beloved hometown, her Mediterranean identity and in ways, the author herself. 

It’s a beautiful meditation on loss and longing, displacement and belonging that reminds us that when we are the right amount of thirsty, we blossom.

What Ukraine Means for Lithuanians Haunted by Soviet Past, by Inga Rudzinskaite-Colman

Amie ferris-rotman, global news editor.

When reading this essay, one feels that an entire generation of Eastern Europeans is speaking, in a single, defiant voice, suddenly with renewed urgency. The globe is so focused on Russia’s horrific assault on Ukraine, and the grim atrocities the Russian military commits practically every day, that we often forget, or perhaps do not realize, the impact the war has on Moscow’s previous victims. In this essay, the analyst Inga Rudzinskaite-Colman, who was born and raised in Vilnius, dives into complicated issues like collective trauma and self-identity. She tells us, in poignant detail, how she and her fellow countrymen and women strived for decades to disassociate themselves from Russia and their Soviet past. But belonging to the Western “club” has also meant uncomfortable compromises, like being “Russiasplained” to. Read this beautifully written essay to peer into the new realities facing the Baltics, Poland and other countries once in Russia’s orbit, who are now finding themselves united by survival. 

Rushdie Is India’s Forgotten Child of Midnight, by Pratik Kanjilal

Surbhi gupta, south asia editor.

Earlier this year, when Salman Rushdie was attacked before his talk in western New York, his supposed safe haven, much of the discussion in the media and reports in the news cycle focused on the politics of that infamous fatwa by the Ayatollah Khomeini calling for the writer’s death and its repercussions on the Muslim world. Yet, despite the fact Rushdie has roots in India and the subcontinent has been a constant source of inspiration for his writing, I could find no essay that delved into this relationship and work with South Asia — before this one.

While many were focused on the backlash against Rushdie’s novel, “The Satanic Verses,” the South Asian connection in the story was being overlooked. The first protests against the book happened not in Iran but in Pakistan, and this prompted the Indian government to ban its import from the U.K. It was, indeed, in a review in an Indian magazine that the Ayatollah is said to have first learned of the book. That’s why I loved this essay by Pratik Kanjilal, a veteran journalist and books editor in India, who has followed Rushdie’s journey closely through the years and was the best person to write it. He packs a lot into this essay: He writes about Rushdie, critiques his work, discusses what his Booker Prize wins meant for English writing in India, his relationship with India and Pakistan, and the irony of the attack, coinciding as it did with the 75th Independence Day celebrations in India. 

Faith and Vengeance: the Islamic State’s War in Afghanistan, by Fazelminallah Qazizai and Chris Sands

Tam hussein, associate editor.

This piece tells the story of the rise of the Islamic State of Khorasan Province (ISKP), and its fall and rebirth, told through the character of Abu Omar Khorasani, “the most feared and despised prisoner in Directorate 40.” It takes you on a journey from the Afghan Jihad in the 1980s all the way to the present. I love deep dives and investigations. This particular piece is very original and will no doubt populate the citations of many books on the topic for years to come. To produce an essay of such quality requires a supportive editorial team and journalists willing to follow the story all the way. For me, that is embodied in this investigation. When I read it, I can almost see the legwork and local knowledge put in by Fazelminallah Qazizai. I see the crisp writing style of Qazizai’s co-author Chris Sands, the beautiful artwork of Joanna Andreasson and the background work that the editorial team puts in months before publication. And so it’s not just an enjoyable and interesting read, it’s what our managing editor Ola Salem says the best essays are — a work of art.

When Uganda Expelled Its Asian Population in 1972, Britain Tried to Exclude Them, by Saima Nasar

Kwangu liwewe, africa editor.

When I read this essay, it reminded me of the writer Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie’s The Danger of a Single Story. For five decades, the narrative about the expulsion of Uganda’s Asians has been that they went to Britain, were welcomed there and lived as refugees, then successfully assimilated into society and have contributed to all spheres of British life.

This essay puts the spotlight on how the narrative changed from unwanted Asian immigrants to one of a humanitarian response, when the plight of Asians became international news and Britain feared a backlash. The writer Saima Nasar lifts the lid on this narrative and tells the story of how, in actual fact, the Asians were British passport holders and were initially not welcome in Britain.

Nasar writes, “While Ugandan Asians have no doubt shaped Britain’s economic, political and socio-cultural landscapes, it is important to avoid celebratory narratives that overlook histories of struggle and discrimination.” 

It is an important essay that challenges society to re-examine historical narratives.

A Film Critic Reflects on the Artistic Journeys and Vision of the Late French Director Jean-Luc Godard, by Jonathan Rosenbaum

Danny postel, politics editor.

When I saw the news on Sept. 13 that the legendary filmmaker Jean-Luc Godard had died, I immediately called Jonathan Rosenbaum, the longtime film critic for my local alt-weekly newspaper, the Chicago Reader, and the author of multiple books on world cinema. Rosenbaum had written extensively about Godard’s films over the years and had interviewed the grand poobah of French cinema’s New Wave movement on more than one occasion. I was thrilled that Rosenbaum agreed to write for us, despite being unfamiliar with New Lines (he later informed me that Sight and Sound, the magazine of the British Film Institute, also asked him to write something on Godard but we got to him first). 

In the essay, he discusses several of Godard’s films — “Breathless” (1960), “Alphaville” (1965), “Tout Va Bien” (1972), “Every Man for Himself” (1980), “Passion” (1982), “Nouvelle Vague” (1990) and “Histoire(s) du Cinéma,” an eight-part experimental video series made between 1988 and 1998 — but it’s far from a survey of the late director’s filmography. Instead, it’s a deeply personal meditation on his poetic vision and colossal global influence, and on the relationship between art and commercial success and failure. “Marketplace value has little or nothing to do with the love of art,” Rosenbaum writes, and “there’s no way of gauging the latter via the former, especially insofar as the intensity of the love and the qualities of the audience experiencing and expressing it aren’t even remotely quantifiable.” Godard once said to Rosenbaum: “I like to think of myself as an airplane, not an airport.” Reflecting on that quip, Rosenbaum writes that “vehicles that take us places, and the destinations of those who make them don’t have to be the same as the destinations of those who climb into those vehicles.”

Between Two Rivers, Between Two Myths, by Sophus Helle

Lydia wilson, culture editor.

I wanted to choose a history essay for two reasons: It’s one of the genres that we do particularly well and, second, this type of long-form history is not given much space in other outlets. Our history essays are always deep-dive explorations of stories from the past from experts on the subject, showing us something new about the world, whether a new perspective on a familiar topic or a previously hidden gem. 

“Between Two Rivers,” by the Mesopotamian scholar Sophus Helle, exemplifies what we’re trying to do. It is based on deep expertise, exploring the identities of societies going back millennia in the territory now called Iraq. Helle looks at the labels these cultures gave themselves and were given by later invaders or historians. But it does not only tell the story of the historical material. Crucially, it explains why these facts, controversies and debates about old identities are relevant today, and the obfuscation of the past realities on the ground in Iraq does not serve its present inhabitants. History matters, and this essay brings that home. 

An Exile Returns to Find Syria Changed Forever, by Nizar Kinaan

Faisal al yafai, international editor.

It’s been a year of war — as too many of the past few years have been — this time dominated in Europe by Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. At the magazine, we’ve certainly published a lot about the Ukraine war, but we’ve also kept a close eye on other conflicts.

This essay by Nizar Kinaan, a pseudonym for obvious reasons, is one of those, revisiting the still-simmering Syrian conflict. The author returned to the coastal city of Latakia after years away and found a city, and country, drastically changed by the war. We called the essay “No Country for Young Men” because of the profound changes in gender roles wrought by the war.

“‘Where are the young men?’ I asked my friends in the cafe bar we were drinking in. ‘They are dead, in the army or they left like I should have done.’”

“The taboos against women working in certain specific jobs have definitely been broken,” wrote Kinaan, quoting a Syrian woman who said, “I am not saying all taboos have been completely shattered … but things have definitely shifted. Now women can work in most jobs, stay out late, and be a little bit more independent.”

Many will applaud that change, but the reasons that brought it about have destabilized the entire society. This is what makes Kinaan’s encounter with Latakia so interesting; he doesn’t judge what has happened by any moral standard except that of Syria itself. He doesn’t applaud changes in isolation without understanding what it took to make them change.

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Indian Cuisine and Its Modernization Essay

Introduction, modern indian cuisine.

It is possible to say that food is a reflection of a country’s identity. National recipes evolve alongside their respective cultures, transforming and adapting to new realities and changing tastes. India is known for its variety of exotic dishes filled with flavor and spices that many people outside of the country have not ever tasted. However, they are subject to change just as other aspects of this culture. I would like to invite you to explore the world of modern Indian cuisine.

Indian chefs are known for being creative not only in their ingredients but also in the way they prepare their dishes. Young crowds prefer to enjoy “rebooted” versions of old dishes prepared with new, sometimes borrowed techniques (Goh, 2019). Due to this mix of cultures, one may find many different takes on a single traditional dish, although it might be met with contempt from the local population.

Indian cuisine did not avoid the effects of globalization and its changes. Instead of a single national cookbook, Indian chefs recognize that there are more regional variants of each dish rather than a widely accepted one (Banerjee-Dube, 2018). However, the concept of regional authenticity is eroded, leading to more unified dish recipes (Banerjee-Dube, 2018). Food may look similar in different locations, especially ones that are popular among tourists.

There is an idea that this “modernization” might be detrimental to the country’s identity. Many locals call restaurants that put a modern take on traditional dishes pretentious and accuse them of stripping them of flavor in favor of less inventive combinations (Overdorf, 2019). It may be challenging for Indians to find a fine dining location that will suit their tastes in tourist-filled cities, yet small-town eateries remain primarily untouched.

In conclusion, modern Indian dishes may become more simplified in their variety, yet they still possess exotic flavors that give them a unique identity and authenticity. There are many varieties of each dish still, although they are being eroded in favor of more widely accepted recipes. Tourism and globalization have an impact on this process, making Indians dissatisfied with the menus of some restaurants.

Banerjee-Dube, I. (2018). Modern mixes: The hybrid and the authentic in Indian cuisine. In L. Choukroune & P. Bhandari (Eds.), Exploring Indian modernities: Ideas and practices (pp. 169-188). Springer.

Goh, K. (2019). The rise of modern Indian cuisine . MICHELIN Guide.

Overdorf, J. (2019). Charting the revival of modern Indian cuisine . DestinAsian.

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IvyPanda. (2023, April 4). Indian Cuisine and Its Modernization. https://ivypanda.com/essays/indian-cuisine-and-its-modernization/

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Bibliography

IvyPanda . "Indian Cuisine and Its Modernization." April 4, 2023. https://ivypanda.com/essays/indian-cuisine-and-its-modernization/.

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UPSC 2023 topper Aditya Srivastava's mock essay copy goes viral, internet reacts

Upsc topper 2023 aditya srivastava's essay mock test copy has gone viral, sparking various reactions from the internet..

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• UPSC topper Aditya Srivastava's essay mock test goes viral
• Netizens debate essay's relevance in UPSC
• Lucknow's Aditya Srivastava became UPSC 2023 topper

The UPSC 2023 results were recently announced, with Lucknow's Aditya Srivastava emerging as the IAS topper. As aspirants gear up for UPSC prelims 2024, many are eager to learn from the strategies of Aditya and other toppers. Aditya's essay mock test copy has gone viral, sparking various reactions from netizens. Some are questioning the relevance of the essay in UPSC CSE.

The essay, which begins with a reference to Oppenheimer's idea of the Manhattan Project, discusses the balance between logic and emotion--"A mind all logic is like a knife all blade, it makes the hand bleed that uses it."

IAS Topper Aditya Srivastava CSE AIR-1 Essay Mock Test Copy 👇 A Thread ðŸçµ pic.twitter.com/Y2SjL2Igff — UPSC NOTES (@UPSC_Notes) April 17, 2024

The Internet is giving the viral essay a mixed response. Some like the reference, while some are unhappy with the curation:

"Not at all impressed," a user commented.

"Salute to perfection," another user posted on X.

"Kids, the only thing matters is a good handwriting," another comment reads.

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1 . Question

Consider the following about the Financing for Sustainable Development Report 2024.

• It is released by United Nations Department of Economic and Social Affairs (UNDESA).
• It shows that developing countries face a significant financing gap for achieving Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) due to systemic risks like the COVID-19 pandemic and frequent disasters straining national financing frameworks.
• It argues that enhance tax capacity to boost tax revenue for SDGs will not work for developing countries as external borrowing and structural reforms will be more effective.

Which of the above is/are correct?

• a) 1 and 2 only
• b) 2 and 3 only
• d) 1, 2 and 3

Solution: a)

Justification: The report is released by United Nations Department of Economic and Social Affairs (UNDESA).

Key findings: Developing countries face a significant financing gap for achieving Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), estimated between $2.5 trillion and $4 trillion annually. Systemic risks like the COVID-19 pandemic and more frequent disasters strain national financing frameworks

Recommendations: Enhance tax capacity to boost tax revenue for SDGs.

UN DESA (HQ: New York City; est.1948), supports countries in making informed decisions by offering information via publications, databases, and international discussions at forums like the UN General Assembly and ECOSOC. It releases report the World Social Report (since 1997).

Q Source: https://www.insightsonindia.com/2024/04/13/mission-2024-insights-daily-current-affairs-pib-summary-13-april-2024/

2 . Question

One can find Bhil tribal groups in which of the following states of India?

• Andhra Pradesh

How many of the above is/are correct?

• a) Only one
• b) Only two
• c) All three
• d) None of the above

Solution: b)

Justification: The context and explanation is mentioned below:

3 . Question

Climate change can impinge on which of the following human rights?

• Right to shelter
• Right to security
• Right to health

Solution: c)

Justification:

Q Source: https://www.insightsonindia.com/2024/04/09/mission-2024-insights-daily-current-affairs-pib-summary-9-april-2024/

4 . Question

Consider the following statements.

• The polar vortex is a large, persistent circulation of frigid air located in the stratosphere and typically centred near the Earth’s poles.
• Disruptions in the polar vortex can occur, leading to phenomena such as sudden stratospheric warming events, which can result in shifts in weather patterns and colder temperatures in regions outside of the polar areas.
• c) Both 1 and 2

Justification: The polar vortex is a large, persistent circulation of frigid air located in the stratosphere and typically centred near the Earth’s poles.

It is characterized by a strong wind current that circulates from west to east, trapping cold air within the polar regions during the winter months.

The polar vortex plays a crucial role in maintaining the polar climate and can influence weather patterns in mid-latitude regions.

Occasionally, disruptions in the polar vortex can occur, leading to phenomena such as sudden stratospheric warming events, which can result in shifts in weather patterns and colder temperatures in regions outside of the polar areas.

5 . Question

The Southern Ocean plays a critical role in regulating global climate and ocean circulation patterns. It is bounded by the continents of

• South America
• c) Only three
• d) All four

Solution: d)

Justification: The Southern Ocean is the body of water that surrounds Antarctica and is bounded by the continents of Antarctica, South America, Africa, and Australia.

It is the southernmost ocean on Earth and is characterized by its vast expanse of open water, strong currents, and harsh climate conditions.

The Southern Ocean plays a critical role in regulating global climate and ocean circulation patterns.

6 . Question

Which of the following statements about organ donation eligibility in India is correct?

• (a) Only individuals under 65 years can receive organs.
• (b) Family consent is not required for deceased organ donation.
• (c) Individuals above 18 years can be living donors.
• (d) State domicile is necessary for patient registration on transplant lists.

Solution: C

In India, the eligibility for organ donation is governed by the Transplantation of Human Organs and Tissues Act (THOTA), 1994. This act sets forth the legal and ethical framework for organ donation and transplantation, ensuring that both processes are carried out safely and responsibly.

• Legal Age for Donation: The law specifies that individuals who are 18 years old or above can legally give their consent to become living donors. This age criterion is important as it ensures that the donor is legally an adult and capable of making an informed decision regarding such a significant medical procedure.
• Physical Condition Over Age for Receiving Organs: The eligibility to receive an organ is not strictly limited by age. Individuals above 65 years of age can receive organs if they are deemed suitable candidates based on their overall health and specific medical conditions. This makes organ transplantation inclusive and accessible to older patients who are in need of organ transplants and are otherwise healthy.
• Consent for Deceased Donation: Contrary to statement B), family consent is indeed required for deceased organ donation in India. In cases where the deceased has not left any explicit instruction regarding organ donation, the family’s consent becomes necessary. This requirement ensures ethical practices in organ donation, respecting the wishes of the family and the deceased.
• State Domicile Requirements: Statement D) “State domicile is necessary for patient registration on transplant lists” is incorrect. Recent guidelines have removed the requirement of state domicile for patient registration on transplant lists. This change aims to broaden the eligibility for organ transplants across the country, allowing for a more equitable system where patients can receive organ transplants regardless of their state of residence.

Overall, the framework established by THOTA is designed to maximize the ethical donation and transplantation of organs, ensuring that donors are competent and willing, and that recipients get the organs they need regardless of age or state domicile, within the bounds of medical suitability.

7 . Question

Regarding AIDS, consider the following statements:

• AIDS is a condition that occurs immediately after an individual is infected with HIV.
• With the advancement of HIV infection and a decrease in CD4 cells, an individual develops AIDS, which is the last stage of HIV infection.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

• (c) Both 1 and 2
• (d) Neither 1 nor 2

Solution: B

AIDS (Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome) is not a condition that occurs immediately after an individual is infected with HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus). When a person is first infected with HIV, they can feel and appear perfectly healthy for a long time . There is an initial phase of acute infection which may present as a flu-like illness, but then the virus typically enters a longer asymptomatic phase. The progression from HIV to AIDS without treatment can take several years, commonly around 8 to 10 years. During this time, HIV is damaging the immune system, specifically CD4 cells, but not enough to have reached the critical level defined as AIDS.

Hence, statement 1 is incorrect.

AIDS is the last stage of HIV infection. It is characterized by a critically low number of CD4 cells (T cells) in the body. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) defines AIDS as having a CD4 cell count of fewer than 200 cells per cubic millimeter of blood (200 cells/mm³), compared to counts of 500 to 1,600 for healthy individuals . At this stage, the immune system is severely compromised, making the individual susceptible to opportunistic infections and cancers that a healthy immune system would typically fend off. This transition to AIDS can be delayed significantly with the use of antiretroviral therapy (ART), which controls the replication of the virus, thereby preserving the immune system’s function and preventing the onset of AIDS-related conditions.

Hence, statement 2 is correct.

https://www.insightsonindia.com/2024/04/01/editorial-analysis-the-art-of-indias-hiv-aids-response/

8 . Question

Which of the following statements accurately describes the source of black carbon emissions in India? 1. The primary source of black carbon emissions in India is the industrial combustion of fossil fuels. 2. Most black carbon emissions in India come from burning biomass, such as cow dung or straw, in traditional cookstoves.

While the industrial combustion of fossil fuels is a source of black carbon emissions globally, it is not identified as the primary source in India. Black carbon is a component of fine particulate matter (PM2.5) produced from incomplete combustion. Industrial processes do contribute to black carbon emissions, but in India’s context, this is not the predominant source as compared to biomass burning.

Hence, statement 1 is incorrect,

In India, the majority of black carbon emissions come from the burning of biomass, such as cow dung or straw, particularly in traditional cookstoves. These cookstoves are widely used in rural and some urban areas for daily cooking and heating needs. The combustion process in these stoves is often incomplete due to insufficient airflow and the nature of the fuel, leading to the release of a significant amount of black carbon into the atmosphere. This form of emission is particularly relevant in India due to the prevalence of biomass as a fuel for domestic energy needs.

https://www.insightsonindia.com/2024/03/27/editorial-analysis-the-need-to-curb-black-carbon-emissions/

9 . Question

What primary objective do the ’90-70-90′ targets serve in the context of global health?

• (a) To reduce the incidence of communicable diseases globally
• (b) To increase the availability of primary healthcare services
• (c) To eliminate cervical cancer as a public health problem
• (d) To improve the nutritional status of children under five

The ’90-70-90′ targets are part of the WHO’s global strategy to eliminate cervical cancer as a public health issue. The aim is for countries to meet these targets by 2030, which will put them on the path to potentially eradicate cervical cancer within the next cen tury. These targets are:

• Vaccination: 90% of girls fully vaccinated with the HPV vaccine by the age of 15 years.
• Screening: 70% of women are screened with a high-performance test by the age of 35 and again by the age of 45.
• Treatment: 90% of women identified with cervical disease receive treatment. This includes 90% of women with precancer treated and 90% of women with invasive cancer managed.

Meeting these targets is crucial, as the WHO’s mathematical models project that achieving them by 2030 in low- and lower-middle-income countries would result in a median cervical cancer incidence rate fall by 42% by 2045. By 2120, this could lead to a 97% reduction, averting more than 74 million new cases of cervical cancer. Furthermore, a significant number of cervical cancer deaths could be prevented, with estimates reaching 300,000 by 2030 and over 62 million by 2120.

https://www.insightsonindia.com/2024/03/08/editorial-analysis-a-bold-step-towards-a-cervical-cancer-free-future/

10 . Question

Consider the following statements regarding thermoplastics and thermosetting plastics:

• Thermoplastics can be melted and reshaped multiple times after curing.
• Thermosetting plastics can withstand high temperatures and maintain structural integrity because they form permanent chemical bonds that cannot be altered by reheating.

Both statements given are correct.

Thermoplastics are characterized by their ability to be melted and reformed repeatedly without undergoing any significant chemical change. This property is due to the thermoplastics not forming permanent chemical bonds during the initial setting process . As a result, they can be reheated, remolded, and cooled multiple times, which makes them highly versatile and recyclable. This attribute is particularly useful in various manufacturing processes, including injection molding and extrusion, where the plastic needs to be shaped into complex forms

Thermosetting plastics, unlike thermoplastics, undergo a chemical transformation during their initial heating and molding process that creates strong cross-linked bonds between the polymer chains. These bonds are permanent and do not melt under heat. This makes thermosetting plastics highly resistant to heat and capable of maintaining their structural integrity under high temperature conditions. Once set, they cannot be remelted or reshaped, which limits their recyclability but makes them ideal for high-heat applications such as electronic components and automotive parts​

https://www.insightsonindia.com/2024/03/04/editorial-analysis-mountains-of-plastic-are-choking-the-himalayan-states/

https://www.twi-global.com/technical-knowledge/faqs/thermoset-vs-thermoplastic

11 . Question

With reference to Hepatitis A, consider the following statements:

• Unlike the other Hepatitis variants, it is not transmitted by the faecal-oral route.
• The Hepatitis A does not cause chronic liver disease unlike the Hepatitis B.
• The vaccine ‘Havisure’ is the first indigenously developed Hepatitis A vaccine.

How many of the statements given above is/are correct?

• (a) Only one
• (b) Only two
• (c) All three

Explanation:

Hepatitis A is an inflammation of the liver caused by the hepatitis A virus. The virus is primarily spread when an uninfected person ingests food or water that is contaminated with the faeces of an infected person.

Statement 1 is not correct: The hepatitis A virus is transmitted primarily by the faecal-oral route; that is when an uninfected person ingests food or water that has been contaminated with the faeces of an infected person

Statement 2 is correct: Unlike hepatitis B and C, hepatitis A does not cause chronic liver disease but it can cause debilitating symptoms and rarely fulminant hepatitis (acute liver failure), which is often fatal.

Statement 3 is correct: Indian Immunologicals recently launched the country’s first indigenously developed Hepatitis A vaccine.

The vaccine ‘Havisure’ represents a significant step forward in India’s fight against Hepatitis A and is poised to make a substantial contribution to public health.

12 . Question

With reference to the Gangetic River Dolphins, consider the following statements:

• They once lived in the Ganges-Brahmaputra-Meghna River system but are extinct from most of its early distribution ranges.
• They have a peculiar way of swimming towards one side so that their flipper trails the muddy bottom.
• They can live in freshwater as well as the saline water creeks of Sundarbans and are essentially blind.

How many of the statements given above are not correct?

Statement 1 is correct: Ganges river dolphins once lived in the Ganges-Brahmaputra-Meghna and Karnaphuli-Sangu river systems of Nepal, India, and Bangladesh. But the species is extinct from most of its early distribution ranges.

Statement 2 is correct: The dolphin has the peculiarity of swimming on one side so that its flipper trails the muddy bottom. It is understood that this behaviour aids them in finding food.

Statement 3 is not correct: The Ganges river dolphin can only live in freshwater and is essentially blind. They hunt by emitting ultrasonic sounds, which bounces off of fish and other prey, enabling them to “see” an image in their mind.

Being a mammal, the Ganges river dolphin cannot breathe in water and must surface every 30-120 seconds. Because of the sound it produces when breathing, the animal is popularly referred to as ‘Susu’.

13 . Question

Which one of the following statements is correct about the SATAT Initiative?

• (a) It aims to bring transparency in the free supply chain of foodgrains in India under the Public Distribution System.
• (b) It aims to boost the production of Compressed Biogas as an affordable clean fuel for transportation sector.
• (c) It was launched to support women-owned enterprises with skill Development and Market Development Assistance.
• (d) It is a digital learning platform to ensure capacity building of health professionals from primary health centres located in rural areas.

Option (b) is correct: The SATAT Scheme (Sustainable Alternative Towards Affordable Transportation) is an initiative by the government with the objective of setting up Compressed Biogas production plants, and make it available for market use for automotives by inviting expression of interest through potential investors.

In order to reduce import dependency of the country in fossil fuels, Government has taken multiple steps launched various policy initiatives to increase the domestic production of crude oil & natural gas and adopted strategies for promotion of biofuels, gas based economy, energy efficiency & energy conservation, improvement in refinery process and increasing renewable energy generation capacity.

14 . Question

Consider the following statements:

• Sludge is rich in organic chemicals as it is a residue filtered out of the sewage treatment plants.
• One of the measures under the ‘Arth Ganga’ project is to monetise and reuse the treated sludge.
• As per the Indian standards, class A of the treated sludge is safe to be useful as an organic fertilizer.

How many of the statements given above are correct?

Statement 1 is correct: Sludge is the thick residue filtered out of sewage treatment plants that while rich in organic chemicals is also a repository of heavy metals, industrial effluents and bacterial contaminants.

Statement 2 is correct: One of the measures, under this ‘Arth Ganga’ (economic value from Ganga), is to “monetise” and reuse treated wastewater and sludge.

Treated sludge can be classified as class A or class B — as per the standards of the United States Environment Protection Agency — with class A being safe to be disposed of in the open and useful as organic fertilizer.

Statement 3 is not correct: Class B means that the sludge can be used in “restricted” agricultural applications, the edible parts of the crop not be exposed to the sludge-mixed soil, and animals and people not come into extensive contact. India doesn’t yet have standards classifying sludge as class A or B.

15 . Question

Consider the following statements regarding the Suez Canal:

• It is an artificial waterway between Southern and Northern Africa that connects the Red Sea to the Mediterranean Sea.
• It reduces the distance between East Asia and Europe with a direct route between the Indian Ocean and the North Atlantic Ocean.

Statement 1 is correct: The Suez Canal is an artificial waterway between southern Asia and northern Africa that connects the Red Sea to the Mediterranean Sea via the Isthmus of Suez.

Statement 2 is correct: The canal substantially reduces the sailing distance between East Asia and Europe and offers a more direct route between the Indian Ocean and the North Atlantic Ocean through the Red Sea and the Mediterranean Sea.

16 . Question

Which of the following accurately describes the ‘Sharing Economy’?

• (a) The Sharing Economy is a system where services are provided in exchange for a share of company stock.
• (b) It refers exclusively to the sharing of physical goods like tools and books, excluding any form of service.
• (c) In the Sharing Economy, individuals share access to goods and services through peer-to-peer platforms.
• (d) Only corporate entities can participate in the Sharing Economy, providing shared services to other businesses.

The Sharing Economy involves individuals sharing their own resources, such as cars, homes, and personal time , to provide services or access to goods through peer-to-peer platforms. This can include renting out a spare room on platforms like Airbnb or providing a ride service through Uber. This economy leverages technology to create an efficient model of distributed sharing.

17 . Question

Which statement best describes the ‘Gig Economy’?

• (a) The Gig Economy solely includes long-term contractual jobs with traditional benefits.
• (b) Only professional services like consulting and legal advice are considered part of the Gig Economy.
• (c) The Gig Economy consists of temporary jobs and freelance gigs where individuals earn income per task or project through digital platforms.
• (d) Participation in the Gig Economy is restricted to those with advanced degrees and specialized skills.

The Gig Economy is characterized by flexible, temporary, or freelance jobs, often involving connecting with clients or customers through an online platform. This economy enables people to work on individual gigs or tasks such as driving for a ride-sharing service, delivering food, or performing freelance work, and they typically do not receive traditional benefits from these jobs.

18 . Question

Consider the following statements regarding Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs) in India: 1. REITs are entities that own and often operate income-producing real estate or related assets. 2. REITs in India are primarily regulated under the SEBI (Venture Capital Funds) Regulations, 1996. 3. Like Mutual Funds, REITs are required to distribute a significant portion of their income to their investors.

How many of the above statements are correct?

Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs) in India are entities that own, and often operate, income-producing real estate or related assets . REITs are designed to provide investors with a way to invest in large-scale, income-generating real estate without having to buy the properties directly. This allows for liquidity and diversification in real estate investments.

Hence, statement 1 is correct.

REITs in India are not regulated under the SEBI (Venture Capital Funds) Regulations, 1996. Instead, they are governed by the SEBI (Real Estate Investment Trusts) Regulations, 2014. These regulations provide the framework for the registration and regulation of REITs in India, detailing their operation, management, and the specific requirements they must fulfill.

Hence, statement 2 is incorrect .

Similar to mutual funds, REITs are required to distribute a significant portion of their income to their investors. Specifically, REITs must distribute at least 90% of their net distributable cash flows to their investors annually. This distribution requirement is one of the key attractions of REITs, as it provides a regular income stream for investors.

Hence, statement 3 is correct.

19 . Question

Consider the following statements regarding Sovereign Gold Bonds (SGBs) in India: 1. SGBs are government securities denominated in grams of gold and are substitutes for holding physical gold. 2. Investors have to pay the issue price in cash, and the bonds will be redeemed in cash on maturity. 3. The interest on SGBs is taxed according to the individual’s income tax slab rates. How many of the above statements are correct?

Sovereign Gold Bonds (SGBs) are government securities denominated in grams of gold. They are intended to provide an alternative to holding physical gold. Investors pay for these bonds, which reflect the price of gold, and on redemption, they receive the equivalent value based on current gold prices. This allows investors to benefit from the price movements of gold without physically owning it.

When purchasing SGBs, investors pay the issue price in cash, and the bonds are redeemed in cash upon maturity. This means that while the bonds are linked to the price of gold, the transaction both at the outset and at maturity is handled in cash, not in physical gold.

The interest on SGBs is indeed paid semi-annually to the bondholder, but it is not taxed according to the individual’s income tax slab rates. The interest on SGBs is taxable as per the Income Tax Act, 1961 ; however, the capital gains tax arising on redemption of SGB to an individual has been exempted. This makes SGBs a tax-advantaged option for gold investors.

Hence, statement 3 is incorrect.

20 . Question

In which of the following states is Dibru-Saikhowa National Park located?

• (b) Manipur
• (c) Arunachal Pradesh
• (d) Nagaland

Solution: A

Dibru-Saikhowa National Park is located in the state of Assam, India. It is situated in the northeastern part of the country, at the edge of the Eastern Himalayan biodiversity hotspots . The park spans the Dibrugarh and Tinsukia districts of Assam and is bordered by the Brahmaputra and Lohit Rivers on the north and Dibru River on the south.

21 . Question

With reference to ‘Protection of Children from Sexual Offences’ (POCSO) Act, consider the following statements:

• The POCSO Act applies only to female children.
• The Act primarily focuses on punishing the child victims for any involvement in the incident.
• The POCSO Act does not cover sexual offenses committed by children against other children.
• The Act defines different forms of sexual offenses against children and provides for their protection and rehabilitation.

Solution: A:

• Context: The Union Cabinet has approved the continuation of the Fast Track Special Courts (FTSC) dedicated to expediting justice in cases of sexual offences for an additional three years, extending up to March 31, 2026.

The POCSO Act applies to both male and female children. It recognizes that sexual offenses can be committed against children of any gender.

The POCSO Act is designed to protect children and does not focus on punishing the child victims. Instead, it emphasizes the legal consequences for the perpetrators of sexual offenses against children.

Hence, statement 2 is incorrect.

The POCSO Act applies to all cases of sexual offenses against children, regardless of whether the perpetrator is a child or an adult. It recognizes that children can be both victims and perpetrators and provides for different procedures in such cases.

○ If a kid commits an offence, the POCSO Act will still apply, but the procedure will be governed by the Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection of Children) Act, 2015

Hence, statement 3 is incorrect .

The POCSO Act, enacted in India, defines various forms of sexual offenses against children and lays down legal provisions for the reporting, trial, and punishment of such offenses . Additionally, the Act emphasizes the need for the protection and rehabilitation of child victims, recognizing the sensitive nature of these cases and the long-term impact on the well-being of the child.

Hence, statement 4 is correct.

https://www.insightsonindia.com/2023/12/01/fast-track-courts/

22 . Question

The Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) mechanism of mediation is mentioned in

• (a) Code of Civil Procedure, 1908
• (b) The Commercial Courts Act, 2015
• (c) The Consumer Protection Act, 2019
• (d) All of the above

Solution: D

• Context: The Supreme Court of India has ruled that an arbitration agreement can be binding on non-signatory firms under the ‘group of companies’ doctrine.
• In India, though mediation finds legitimacy in some specific laws such as the Code of Civil Procedure, 1908, the Arbitration and Conciliation Act, 1996, the Companies Act, 2013, the Commercial Courts Act, 2015, and the Consumer Protection Act, 2019, there is no standalone legislation as yet.

23 . Question

Which industry generates ‘Pressmud’ as a byproduct?

• (a) Textile manufacturing
• (b) Petroleum refining
• (c) Sugarcane processing
• (d) Electronics production

The industry that generates ‘Pressmud’ as a byproduct is the sugarcane processing industry. Pressmud, also known as filter cake or press cake, is a residual byproduct produced during the sugar production process. It is derived from the filtration of sugarcane juice and has various applications, including use as a feedstock for biogas production and as an organic fertilizer due to its nutrient content​

https://www.downtoearth.org.in/news/renewable-energy/sugarcane-byproduct-pressmud-can-be-a-sweet-spot-for-india-s-compressed-biogas-sector-93022

24 . Question

Tax Inspectors Without Borders (TIWB) is a joint initiative of the

• (a) IMF and OECD
• (b) UNDP and OECD
• (c) IMF and WTO
• (d) WTO and UNDP

Tax Inspectors Without Borders (TIWB) is a collaborative initiative between the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP). This partnership was established to enhance the ability of developing countries to effectively tax multinational enterprises and improve domestic resource mobilization. The initiative leverages the expertise of the OECD in tax matters along with UNDP’s extensive network and policy experience in public financial management to provide targeted audit assistance to countries in need​.

https://www.tiwb.org/

25 . Question

Which one of the following is the best description of ‘INS Imphal’, that was in the news recently?

• (a) Stealth-guided missile destroyers
• (b) Nuclear-powered submarine
• (c) Torpedo launch and recovery vessel
• (d) Nuclear-powered aircraft carrier

INS Imphal is a stealth-guided missile destroyer that has recently been commissioned into the Indian Navy. It is part of the Visakhapatnam-class destroyers, which are known for their advanced stealth features and powerful armament, including the capability to launch BrahMos supersonic cruise missiles. This class of destroyers represents a significant step forward in the Indian Navy’s blue-water capabilities, enhancing its ability to conduct a wide range of maritime operations.

https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/ins-imphal-guided-missile-destroyer/article67690931.ece

26 . Question

Find the next term

29 , 32 , 61 , 93 , 154 , ?

Option C) 247 The series is (29 + 32 = 61) ,

(32 + 61 = 93) ,

(61 + 93 = 154) ,

(93 + 154 = 247)

Hence answer is C 247

27 . Question

Find out the wrong term in the given series:

16, 9, 11, 19.5, 45, 112.5

Option B) 45 the series is, (16*.5+1)= 9

(9*1+2)= 11

(11* 1.5+3)= 19.5

( 19.5 * 2 + 4) = 43 so wrong term is 45

28 . Question

It has been argued that a group approach to farming, especially in the form of bottom up agricultural production collectivises, offers substantial scope for poverty alleviation and empowering the poor as well as enhancing agricultural productivity. To realize this potential, however, the groups would need to be voluntary in nature, small in size, participative in decision making and equitable in work sharing and benefit distribution. And although the gender impact of the family cooperatives in the transition economies are uncertain, the Indian examples of women-only groups farming offer considerable potential for benefiting women.

What does the author imply by ‘‘gender impact’’?

• (a) Women are doubtful participants in cooperatives.
• (b) Family cooperatives may not include women.
• (c) Women benefiting from group farming.
• (d) Women’s role in transition economies is highly restrictive.

Correct Answer: D

By “gender impact” the author implies that women do not enjoy much power in the transition economies. This is the most appropriate meaning the others come close but are not as accurate.

29 . Question

We find that today the unity and integrity of the nation is threatened by the divisive forces of regionalism, linguism and communal loyalties which are gaining ascendancy in national life and seeking to tear apart and destroy national integrity. We tend to forget that India is one nation and we are all Indians first and Indians last. It is time we remind ourselves what the great visionary and builder of modern India Jawaharlal Nehru said, “Who dies if India lives, and who lives if India dies?” We must realize, and this is unfortunately what many in public life tend to overlook, sometimes out of ignorance of the forces of history and sometimes deliberately with a view to promoting their self-interest, that national interest must inevitably and forever prevail over any other considerations proceeding from regional, linguistic or communal attachments.

The author has quoted Jawaharlal Nehru to emphasize the point that

• (a) National interest must enjoy supreme importance.
• (b) India is going to survive even if the world is under the spell of destruction.
• (c) The world will be destroyed if India is on the threshold of destruction.
• (d) The survival of the world depends only upon the well being of India.

Correct Answer: A

National interest should be the first priority.

No literal meaning of the quotes should be considered and we should derive the context to get the real meaning of quotes.

30 . Question

Chemical pesticides lose their role in sustainable agriculture if the pests evolve resistance. The evolution of pesticide resistance is simply natural selection in action. It is almost certain to occur when vast numbers of a genetically variable population are killed. One or a few individuals may be unusually resistant (perhaps because they possess an enzyme that can detoxify the pesticide). If the pesticide is applied repeatedly, each successive generation of the pest will contain a larger proportion of resistant individuals. Pests typically have a high intrinsic rate of reproduction, and so a few individuals in one generation may give rise to hundreds or thousands in the next, and resistance spreads very rapidly in a population.

“The evolution of pesticide resistance is natural selection in action.” What does it actually imply?

• (a) It is very natural for all organisms to have pesticide resistance.
• (b) Pesticide resistance among organisms is a universal phenomenon and occurs in every species.
• (c) Some individuals in any given population show resistance after the application of pesticides.
• (d) None of the statements (a), (b) and (c) given above are correct.

Pesticide resistance may or may not occur in every species.

So, we cannot call it as universal phenomenon.

Avoid extreme sentences while getting an implication of the statement.

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