Why UAPA Demands Urgent Reform

Why in News?

October 12 marked the second death anniversary of Professor G.N. Saibaba, a former professor at Delhi University who was 90% physically disabled. His death has reignited the debate on the misuse of the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA). Professor Saibaba was arrested under UAPA in 2014 on allegations of having links with Maoists. Denied bail, he remained in prison until a trial court convicted him in 2017 and sentenced him to life imprisonment—a judgment that was criticised for being based entirely on guilt by association and insinuation. Vindication eventually arrived in 2024, when the Bombay High Court acquitted him of all charges. By then, Professor Saibaba had spent a decade in prison, much of it in solitary confinement. His health had deteriorated, and soon after his release, he passed away. The article “Why UAPA demands urgent reform” by Gautam Bhatia argues that Professor Saibaba’s experience shows the urgent need to reform a legal regime that undermines civil liberties, due process, and the rule of law.

Introduction

The UAPA is India’s primary anti-terrorism law. It was enacted in 1967 to deal with secessionist activities but has been amended several times, most notably in 2004, 2008, and 2019, to expand its scope and make it more stringent. The article argues that the UAPA has been used to “criminalise political opposition” and to silence dissent. The author, Gautam Bhatia, a Delhi-based lawyer, uses the case of Professor Saibaba as a lens to examine the systemic flaws in the UAPA, including its vague definitions, stringent bail conditions, and inconsistent judicial interpretations. This analysis will explore the background of the UAPA, the key facts surrounding its misuse, the recent developments, the impact on civil liberties, the government’s response, the challenges, and the way forward.

Background

The Genesis of UAPA:
The UAPA was enacted in 1967 to provide for the more effective prevention of unlawful activities. It was originally a relatively narrow law, but over the years, it has been expanded to include a wide range of offences. The 2004 amendment added “terrorist act” to the definition of unlawful activity, and the 2008 amendment introduced stringent bail provisions. The 2019 amendment allowed the government to designate individuals as terrorists.

The Case of Professor G.N. Saibaba:
Professor Saibaba was arrested in 2014 for alleged links with Maoists. The article notes that “denied bail, he remained in prison until a trial court convicted him in 2017 and sentenced him to life imprisonment.” The author notes that the judgment was “criticised as being based entirely on guilt by association and insinuation.” Professor Saibaba’s health deteriorated in prison, and he passed away shortly after his release in 2024.

The Bhima Koregaon Case:
The article notes that “following the violence at the Bhima Koregaon commemoration event in 2018, UAPA charges were brought against 16 scholars and activists, all of whom were jailed. Eight years later, the trial has yet to begin, and the court has yet to frame charges against the accused.” The author notes that “no direct evidence against any of these people, only vague charges of conspiracy and of being the ‘intellectual architects’ of the riots.”

The Delhi Riots Case:
The article notes that “after the Delhi riots in 2020, UAPA charges were levelled against multiple student leaders, scholars, and activists, accusing them of participating in, or being the brains behind, the riots.” The author notes that “the term ‘intellectual architect’ is unknown to law and rests entirely on surmises and conjectures.”

Key Facts

The UAPA’s Vague Provisions:

Membership: The UAPA criminalises “membership” of unlawful organisations without clarifying what the word “membership” means.
Unlawful Activity: The definition of “unlawful activity” is broad and vague, encompassing a wide range of acts.
Intellectual Architect: The term “intellectual architect” is not defined in law but is frequently used by the prosecution.
Guilt by Association: The article notes that the UAPA allows for conviction based on “guilt by association.”

The Stringent Bail Conditions:

Section 43D(5): This section of the UAPA makes it extremely difficult to obtain bail.
Prima Facie Case: The court must be satisfied that there is a “prima facie case” against the accused.
Denial of Bail: The article notes that “once that is done, the UAPA then makes the grant of bail extremely hard, by requiring the judge to deny bail if, on a reading of the police chargesheet, a prima facie case appears to be made out.”

The Case of Shoma Sen:
The article mentions the case of Shoma Sen, a former professor at Nagpur University who was arrested under UAPA in 2018. She was granted bail by the Supreme Court in 2024 after spending six years in prison. The author notes that the term “intellectual architect” is “unknown to law and rests entirely on surmises and conjectures.”

The Data on UAPA:

Convictions: The conviction rate under UAPA is low.
Pendency: The number of pending cases is high.
Prolonged Incarceration: The article notes that “the list of people who have spent years in jail under UAPA thus spans the length and breadth of the country.”

Recent Developments

The Acquittal of Professor Saibaba:
The article notes that “vindication eventually arrived in 2024, when the Bombay High Court acquitted him of all charges.” However, the author notes that “by then, Professor Saibaba had spent a decade in prison.”

The Supreme Court’s Judgments:
The article notes that the Supreme Court has “overturned judicial attempts to narrow the UAPA provisions, while inconsistent interpretations of the law and delays in trials have expanded State discretion and weakened safeguards against arbitrary imprisonment.”

The Case of Khurram Parvez:
The article notes that “in a third example, Khurram Parvez, a Kashmiri activist and the coordinator of the Jammu and Kashmir Coalition of Civil Society (JKCCS), was arrested under the UAPA in 2021 on allegations of terror financing and promoting secessionism.” He was eventually granted bail in July 2026 after spending five years in prison without trial.

The Case of Irfan Mehraj:
The article notes that “Irfan Mehraj, was also arrested and imprisoned in the case. The two were eventually granted bail in July 2026, after Parvez had spent five years in prison without trial.”

Impact

Impact on Civil Liberties:

Erosion of Due Process: The article argues that the UAPA undermines due process and the rule of law.
Prolonged Incarceration: The article notes that “the list of people who have spent years in jail under UAPA thus spans the length and breadth of the country.”
Chilling Effect: The fear of being arrested under UAPA has a chilling effect on dissent.

Impact on Democracy:

Criminalisation of Dissent: The article argues that the UAPA has been used to “criminalise political opposition.”
Authoritarianism: The article notes that the UAPA has enabled “prolonged imprisonment of activists, scholars and journalists without trial.”
Erosion of Trust: The misuse of UAPA erodes trust in the legal system.

Impact on the Legal System:

Inconsistent Judicial Interpretations: The article notes that “inconsistent judicial interpretations” have expanded State discretion.
Backlog: The article notes that “the trial has yet to begin, and the court has yet to frame charges against the accused.”
Strict Bail Conditions: The article notes that “the UAPA then makes the grant of bail extremely hard.”

Government’s Response

The Government’s Position:
The government has defended the UAPA as a necessary tool to combat terrorism. It argues that the law is needed to deal with grave threats to national security.

The Supreme Court’s Role:
The article notes that the Supreme Court has “overturned judicial attempts to narrow the UAPA provisions.” The author argues that the Supreme Court has been inconsistent in its interpretation of the law.

The Need for Reform:
The article argues that “the death anniversary of Professor Saibaba, one of the starkest victims of this system, reminds us yet again that an urgent rethink and reset of this system is necessary.”

Challenges

Challenges in Reforming UAPA:

Political Will: The biggest challenge is the lack of political will to reform the law.
National Security: The government argues that any reform would weaken national security.
Legal Complexity: The law is complex, and reforming it requires careful consideration.

Challenges for the Accused:

Prolonged Incarceration: The article notes that “the list of people who have spent years in jail under UAPA thus spans the length and breadth of the country.”
Strict Bail Conditions: The article notes that “the UAPA then makes the grant of bail extremely hard.”
Guilt by Association: The article notes that the UAPA allows for conviction based on “guilt by association.”

Challenges for the Judiciary:

Inconsistent Interpretations: The article notes that “inconsistent judicial interpretations” have expanded State discretion.
Backlog: The article notes that “the trial has yet to begin.”
Pressure from the Executive: The judiciary faces pressure from the executive to uphold the law.

Way Forward

For the Government:

Reform the Law: The government should reform the UAPA to bring it in line with international standards.
Define Terms: The government should define terms like “membership” and “unlawful activity” clearly.
Relax Bail Conditions: The government should relax the bail conditions under Section 43D(5).

For the Judiciary:

Consistent Interpretation: The judiciary should interpret the law consistently.
Protect Rights: The judiciary should protect the fundamental rights of the accused.
Speedy Trial: The judiciary should ensure speedy trial of cases under UAPA.

For Civil Society:

Awareness: Civil society should raise awareness about the misuse of UAPA.
Advocacy: Civil society should advocate for reform of the law.
Support for Victims: Civil society should support the victims of UAPA.

Conclusion

The article “Why UAPA demands urgent reform” by Gautam Bhatia provides a comprehensive analysis of the flaws in the UAPA. The author argues that the law’s vague provisions, stringent bail conditions, and inconsistent judicial interpretations have enabled the prolonged imprisonment of activists, scholars, and journalists without trial.

The case of Professor Saibaba is a stark reminder of the human cost of this legal regime. He spent a decade in prison for a crime he did not commit and died shortly after his release.

As the author concludes, “the death anniversary of Professor Saibaba, one of the starkest victims of this system, reminds us yet again that an urgent rethink and reset of this system is necessary.” The “ripples from the future” suggest that unless the law is reformed, it will continue to be used to silence dissent and undermine democracy.

Sources & References

The Article: “Why UAPA demands urgent reform” by Gautam Bhatia (The Hindu).
Legal Sources: Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act, 1967, Section 43D(5).
Case Studies: Professor G.N. Saibaba, Bhima Koregaon case, Delhi riots case, Khurram Parvez, Irfan Mehraj, Shoma Sen.
Judgments: Bombay High Court, Supreme Court.

5 MCQ Questions

1. According to the article, in which year was Professor G.N. Saibaba arrested under the UAPA?
A) 2012
B) 2014
C) 2016
D) 2018

2. Which court acquitted Professor Saibaba of all charges in 2024?
A) Supreme Court
B) Delhi High Court
C) Bombay High Court
D) Nagpur High Court

3. Which section of the UAPA makes it extremely difficult to obtain bail?
A) Section 43D(5)
B) Section 13
C) Section 3
D) Section 10

4. Which term, used by the prosecution, is described in the article as being “unknown to law”?
A) Terrorist
B) Intellectual architect
C) Unlawful activity
D) Conspiracy

5. Who is the author of the article “Why UAPA demands urgent reform”?
A) Gautam Bhatia
B) M.A. Baby
C) Mehbooba Mufti
D) Akshay Rout

Answers:

The AI Challenge: How to Maximise Economic Impact and Spread Gains Evenly

Why in News?

The global narrative on Artificial Intelligence (AI) has been dominated by the generation of intelligence, with trillions of dollars being invested in chips, data centres, and the computing infrastructure needed to train and run increasingly powerful models. However, the article “The AI challenge: How to maximise economic impact, spread gains evenly” by Neelkanth Mishra and Somik V. Lall, published in The Hindu, argues that this may be too narrow a framing. The authors contend that economic value is ultimately created not only by generating intelligence but by deploying it. The World Bank Group’s ‘World Development Report 2026: The Promise of Artificial Intelligence’ argues that AI can help sustain growth, boost productivity, improve public services, and expand opportunity. But the largest gains are unlikely to come from winning a race to build frontier models; they will come from applying AI to solve practical problems at scale. This analysis explores the background of the AI challenge, India’s unique position, the key facts, the challenges, and the way forward.

Introduction

The rapid advancement of AI has the potential to transform economies and societies. However, the benefits of AI are not automatically distributed evenly. The article argues that the “implicit assumption is that most of the economic value from AI will accrue to the companies that build and own these models, and to those upstream in the semiconductor, data centre, and energy value chains.” This has led investors, firms, and policymakers to classify companies, markets, and even countries as winners or losers in the AI race. However, the authors argue that this framing is flawed. The history of general-purpose technologies suggests that many of the largest gains accrue to the downstream users who adopt new technologies, adapt them to local conditions, and diffuse them throughout the economy.

India’s Position:
India enters this phase from a position of strength. It is already one of the fastest-growing major economies and has repeatedly demonstrated an ability to deploy technology at population scale. Its experience with digital public infrastructure demonstrates how technology, institutions, and market incentives can combine to reduce costs, broaden access, and create platforms for innovation.

The Opportunity:
The article argues that for developing countries, affordable, task-specific AI tools can raise the capabilities of businesses, households, and governments. The opportunity lies in AI raising productivity and expanding access, rather than in winning the race to build frontier models.

Background

The Global AI Race:
The global AI race has been characterized by massive investments in frontier models. The article notes that “trillions of dollars are being invested in chips, data centres, and the computing infrastructure needed to train and run increasingly powerful models.” The stock prices of a handful of leading AI firms in a few countries have surged. This has led to a concentration of economic power in the hands of a few companies and countries.

The World Development Report 2026:
The World Bank Group’s ‘World Development Report 2026: The Promise of Artificial Intelligence’ argues that AI can help sustain growth, boost productivity, improve public services, and expand opportunity. The report emphasizes the need to focus on the deployment of AI, rather than just the generation of intelligence.

India’s Digital Public Infrastructure:
India’s experience with digital public infrastructure (DPI) offers useful lessons. Platforms such as Aadhaar, UPI, DigiLocker, and emerging data-sharing systems provide shared public rails that lower costs, enable interoperability, and allow innovation to scale. The article notes that “UPI is particularly instructive. Its open architecture promoted competition while avoiding dependence on a single provider.”

Key Facts

The Economic Impact of AI:

Job Exposure: “Only 4.5 per cent of existing jobs in low-and middle-income countries appear highly exposed to automation by generative AI, compared with 14.2 per cent in high-income countries.”
Productivity Gains: “Another 16.2 per cent could experience meaningful productivity gains, not far from the 18.7 per cent estimated for advanced economies.”
Complementarity: “For most workers in developing countries, AI is more likely to complement than replace.”

India’s AI Ecosystem:

Bharat VISTAAR: The Government of India’s digital platform for farmers, on which multiple states are building their own AI chatbots in multiple languages.
Wadhwani AI: Its tuberculosis-screening tools illustrate the potential.
Initiatives: IndiaAI, RDIF, and ANRF are important steps in the direction of building strategic capabilities.

The Three Principles:
The authors outline three principles for maximizing the economic impact of AI:

Design for Scale: “Across India, AI pilots are everywhere. What is needed is successful deployment at scale. Every pilot should have a credible pathway to broad adoption, including financing, institutional ownership, and integration with existing systems.”
Test Rather than Assume: “Decisions should be driven by evidence. India’s scale makes rigorous evaluation both feasible and inexpensive. Large-scale rollouts provide opportunities to experiment, learn, and identify what works under real-world conditions.”
Scale What Works and Stop What Does Not: “Results, including failures, should be shared across states and ministries so lessons accumulate rather than being repeatedly rediscovered.”

The Challenges:

Concentration: “Advanced chips, large-scale compute, data, research talent, and risk capital remain concentrated in a handful of firms and countries.”
Lack of Complements: “AI is only as useful as the ecosystem around it. Its value depends on investments in electricity, connectivity, affordable devices and compute, local-language data, skills, and institutions.”
Dependence: “Dependence on a small number of providers creates risks and can eventually generate market power.”

Recent Developments

The World Bank Report:
The article notes that the World Bank Group’s ‘World Development Report 2026’ argues that “AI can help sustain growth, boost productivity, improve public services, and expand opportunity.” The report emphasizes the need to focus on the deployment of AI.

India’s AI Initiatives:
The article notes that “India already has examples of AI tools generating tangible benefits.” It cites the example of Bharat VISTAAR, the Government of India’s digital platform for farmers. It also notes that “Wadhwani AI’s tuberculosis-screening tools illustrate the potential.”

The Shift in Focus:
The article argues that “the key question is not whether these technologies work. It is whether they can be adopted by millions of people.” This shift in focus from generation to deployment is a significant development.

The Role of Digital Public Infrastructure:
The article notes that “India’s experience with digital public infrastructure offers useful lessons.” It cites the example of UPI, which “promoted competition while avoiding dependence on a single provider.”

Impact

Impact on Developing Countries:

Productivity: AI can raise productivity by automating routine tasks and augmenting human capabilities.
Access: AI can expand access to services like healthcare and education.
Growth: AI can help sustain growth by boosting productivity and innovation.

Impact on India:

Economic Growth: AI can help India sustain its economic growth.
Job Creation: AI can create new jobs, even as it displaces some existing ones.
Innovation: AI can drive innovation in sectors like agriculture, healthcare, and education.

Impact on the Global Economy:

Concentration of Power: The AI race is leading to a concentration of economic power in a few countries and companies.
Inequality: The benefits of AI are not being distributed evenly.
Competition: The AI race is intensifying competition between countries.

Government’s Response

The Indian Government’s Initiatives:
The government has launched several initiatives to promote AI, including IndiaAI, RDIF, and ANRF. The article notes that “initiatives such as IndiaAI, RDIF, and ANRF are important steps in that direction.”

The Role of Digital Public Infrastructure:
The government has invested heavily in digital public infrastructure. The article notes that “platforms such as Aadhaar, UPI, DigiLocker, and emerging data-sharing systems provide shared public rails that lower costs, enable interoperability, and allow innovation to scale.”

The Need for Evaluation:
The article notes that “decisions should be driven by evidence. India’s scale makes rigorous evaluation both feasible and inexpensive.”

Challenges

Challenges for India:

Scale: The biggest challenge is to move from isolated applications to economy-wide productivity gains.
Complements: India needs to invest in electricity, connectivity, affordable devices, and skills.
Data: India needs to invest in local-language data.

Challenges for the Global Community:

Concentration: The concentration of AI capabilities in a few countries is a challenge.
Inequality: The uneven distribution of AI benefits is a challenge.
Regulation: The lack of a global regulatory framework for AI is a challenge.

Way Forward

For India:

Design for Scale: India should focus on deploying AI at scale.
Test Rather than Assume: India should use evidence to guide its AI policies.
Scale What Works: India should scale successful AI pilots and stop those that do not work.

For the Global Community:

Cooperation: Countries should cooperate to ensure that the benefits of AI are shared evenly.
Investment: Countries should invest in AI research and development.
Regulation: Countries should develop a global regulatory framework for AI.

Conclusion

The article “The AI challenge: How to maximise economic impact, spread gains evenly” by Neelkanth Mishra and Somik V. Lall provides a comprehensive analysis of the AI landscape. The authors argue that the focus should shift from generating intelligence to deploying it. The largest gains from AI will come from applying it to solve practical problems at scale.

The article highlights India’s unique position. India has a strong digital public infrastructure and a track record of deploying technology at population scale. However, India faces challenges, including the need to invest in complements like electricity, connectivity, and skills.

As the authors conclude, “For India, the opportunity is not simply to adopt AI. It is to move from isolated applications to economy-wide productivity gains. That is the opportunity that matters: Maximising economic impact and spreading its gains as evenly as possible.” The “ripples from the future” suggest that the AI challenge will define the next decade of economic growth.

Sources & References

The Article: “The AI challenge: How to maximise economic impact, spread gains evenly” by Neelkanth Mishra and Somik V. Lall (The Hindu).
World Bank Report: ‘World Development Report 2026: The Promise of Artificial Intelligence’.
Indian Government Initiatives: IndiaAI, RDIF, ANRF, Bharat VISTAAR.
Digital Public Infrastructure: Aadhaar, UPI, DigiLocker.

5 MCQ Questions

1. According to the article, what percentage of existing jobs in low- and middle-income countries appear highly exposed to automation by generative AI?
A) 4.5 per cent
B) 14.2 per cent
C) 16.2 per cent
D) 18.7 per cent

2. Which of the following is NOT mentioned as a digital public infrastructure platform in India?
A) Aadhaar
B) UPI
C) DigiLocker
D) Bharat VISTAAR

3. According to the World Bank report, what is the name of the digital platform for farmers mentioned in the article?
A) Bharat VISTAAR
B) Wadhwani AI
C) IndiaAI
D) RDIF

4. Which of the following is one of the three principles outlined by the authors for maximizing the economic impact of AI?
A) Design for scale
B) Focus on frontier models
C) Avoid regulation
D) Centralize data

5. Who are the authors of the article “The AI challenge: How to maximise economic impact, spread gains evenly”?
A) Neelkanth Mishra and Somik V. Lall
B) Gautam Bhatia and M.A. Baby
C) Mehbooba Mufti and Akshay Rout
D) Shekhar Gupta and Ram Madhav

Answers:

America, Israel & an Unsettled Question: Can War Win Elections? & What Public Officials Must Ask — Whom Do We Serve?

Why in News?

Two critical themes have recently dominated global and domestic discourse, offering profound insights into the nature of governance and democracy. First, the article “America, Israel & an unsettled question: Can war win elections?” by Aakash Joshi examines the political implications of the attempted “9/11-like” attack on an Indian pilot at the centre of a geopolitical drama involving Israel, the U.S., and West Asia. With Israel set to go to the polls later this month and the U.S. midterms on November 3, 2026, the article questions whether the threat of terrorism or actual war can help incumbents—like Benjamin Netanyahu and Donald Trump—scrape through elections. Second, the article “What public officials must ask — whom do we serve?” by Nanditesh Nilay explores the ethical heart of institutional integrity. It questions how a bureaucrat does the right thing when elections lose their sanctity and food and drugs are adulterated, drawing on the wisdom of Mahatma Gandhi, Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, and Lal Bahadur Shastri to argue that public office is a form of trusteeship.

Introduction

The health of a democracy depends on both its external security and its internal integrity. The two articles presented in the image explore these dimensions from different angles. The first article, by Aakash Joshi, analyzes the “rally ’round the flag” effect—the tendency of the public to unite behind an incumbent government during times of external threat. It questions whether this effect is still potent in an era of social media, misinformation, and cost-of-living crises. The second article, by Nanditesh Nilay, shifts the focus to the individual public servant. It argues that the fundamental question for any bureaucrat is “Whom do we serve?” Drawing on historical examples and Gandhian philosophy, it contends that public officials must act as trustees of the people, especially the poorest, and must possess the courage to speak truth to power. This analysis synthesizes these two narratives to provide a holistic view of the challenges facing contemporary governance.

Background

The Political Utility of War:
The article notes that “one of the biggest news stories unfolding over the last two weeks had an Indian pilot at its centre.” The attempted attack on Captain Smit Machchhar, who foiled a “9/11-like” attack, has geopolitical implications. The article notes that “Israel is set to go to the polls later this month, and the fate of the vexed conflict in West Asia may well turn on the result.” Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu “will hope that the threat of terrorism will help him scrape through, and paper over domestic discontents and international opprobrium for his government’s actions in Gaza.”

Historical Precedents:
The article cites several historical examples of leaders using war or external threats to win elections:

George W. Bush: He “attacked Iraq on the flimsiest of pretexts—WMDs, messages from God, spreading democracy—and won a second term.”
FDR: He “won an unprecedented fourth term during World War II.”
Margaret Thatcher: She “succeeded in cementing her image and distracting from discontent with the Falklands War.”
Ronald Reagan: He “constantly invoked the red spectre, and his ‘defeat’ of communism is a pillar of the conservative icon’s legacy in the US.”
Indira Gandhi: She “was at the height of her popularity after India defeated Pakistan in 1971.”

The Counter-Examples:
The article also cites examples where war did not guarantee electoral success:

Clement Attlee: He “defeated Winston Churchill at what should have been the height of the latter’s popularity” in 1945.
George H.W. Bush: He “presided over the first ‘televised’ war—Operation Desert Storm in 1991—but lost to the charismatic Bill Clinton in 1992.”
Atal Bihari Vajpayee: His “NDA government could not return to power in 2004 despite India’s success in the Kargil war during his term.”

The Ethical Foundations of Public Service:
The article by Nanditesh Nilay notes that “at the heart of the debate over institutional integrity lies a question: How should a bureaucrat do the right thing?” It draws on the wisdom of Mahatma Gandhi, who viewed public office “as a form of trusteeship, with power and funds held in trust for the people, especially the poorest.”

Key Facts

The Geopolitical Context:

Israel Elections: Israel is set to go to the polls later this month.
U.S. Midterms: The U.S. midterms are on November 3, 2026. All 435 seats in the House of Representatives and 35 of 100 Senate seats will go to the polls.
The Iran Factor: The article notes that the midterms will “determine the fate of the U.S. war with Iran.”
The Trump Factor: The article notes that “much will depend, according to opinion polls and analysts, on whether Trump can shore up a peace of some sort with Tehran.”

The “Rally ‘Round the Flag” Effect:

Definition: The article notes that “external threats, real and imagined, can often unite people behind an incumbent government.”
Limitations: The article notes that “used too often as a tool, it will give diminishing returns.”
The “Amorphous Entity”: The article notes that “the problem with trying to establish simple causalities in politics, though, is that ‘the people’ are an amorphous entity. The same person is, depending on circumstances, part of a mob, a crowd, an electorate and a public.”

The Ethical Framework for Public Officials:

Gandhi’s Talisman: Gandhi’s most frequently cited counsel is: “Whenever you are in doubt, or when the self (ego) begins to overpower you, apply this test. Recall the face of the poorest and weakest person you have ever seen, and ask yourself if the step you are about to take will benefit them.”
Patel’s Courage: The article notes that “for Patel, the courage to speak one’s mind was an essential qualification for a civil servant.” He asked an ICS officer who hesitated to present a legal opinion: “Does the government pay you for your dishonest opinion? Giving an honest opinion is your job; accepting or rejecting it is mine.”
Shastri’s Integrity: The article notes that Shastri “recognised the influence of recommendations in public administration.” He “reportedly observed that senior civil servants could quote rules admirably but rarely thought ahead or innovated.”
Upadhyaya’s Antyodaya: The article notes that “for Upadhyaya, antyodaya—the upliftment of the last person—was the central imperative.”

Recent Developments

The Attempted Attack:
The article notes that “even as the dramatic details of what happened in the cockpit were emerging, the political and geopolitical implications of the attempted ‘9/11-like’ attack were being discussed.” This event has the potential to influence the Israeli elections and the U.S. midterms.

The Political Calculations:
The article notes that “the question in Tel Aviv, Tehran and Washington, and in many other democracies, then, is this: Can war and jingoism help win elections?” The author argues that “the conventional wisdom, coupled with the cliché of the cynical politician and gullible public, would have you believe so.”

The Ethical Crisis:
The article by Nanditesh Nilay notes that “at the heart of the debate over institutional integrity lies a question: How should a bureaucrat do the right thing?” It notes that “when the inedible ink of elections loses its sanctity, bridges collapse, and food and drugs are adulterated, what should guide a civil servant?”

The “Trusteeship” Model:
The article notes that Gandhi viewed public office “as a form of trusteeship, with power and funds held in trust for the people, especially the poorest.”

Impact

Impact of War on Elections:

Rally Effect: War can create a “rally ’round the flag” effect, boosting the incumbent’s popularity.
Distraction: War can distract from domestic problems, such as inflation or unemployment.
Diminishing Returns: The article notes that “used too often as a tool, it will give diminishing returns.”

Impact on Democracy:

Erosion of Trust: The use of war for political gain can erode trust in democratic institutions.
Polarization: War can deepen political polarization.
Militarization: War can lead to the militarization of society.

Impact of Ethical Public Service:

Good Governance: Ethical public servants can improve governance and service delivery.
Trust: Ethical public servants can build trust in government.
Social Justice: Ethical public servants can promote social justice and equity.

Government’s Response

The Israeli Government’s Position:
The article notes that Prime Minister Netanyahu “will hope that the threat of terrorism will help him scrape through.” This suggests that the Israeli government is using the security threat for political gain.

The U.S. Government’s Position:
The article notes that President Trump “announces an imminent peace deal as often as he calls for mass destruction.” This suggests that the U.S. government is using both war and peace rhetoric for political gain.

The Indian Government’s Position:
The article does not explicitly detail the Indian government’s response to the ethical questions raised. However, it cites historical examples of Indian leaders who emphasized integrity and service.

Challenges

Challenges for Democracy:

Misinformation: The article notes that “in the age of social media, trust in governments is, in many countries, at an all-time low.”
Cost of Living: The article notes that “coupled with a cost-of-living crisis, the electorate may not be swayed as it once was.”
Cynicism: The article notes that “the conventional wisdom, coupled with the cliché of the cynical politician and gullible public, would have you believe so.”

Challenges for Public Officials:

Political Pressure: Public officials face pressure from politicians to act unethically.
Corruption: Public officials face temptations to engage in corruption.
Lack of Courage: Public officials may lack the courage to speak truth to power.

Way Forward

For Politicians:

Focus on Real Issues: Politicians should focus on real issues, such as the economy and public services, rather than using war for political gain.
Honesty: Politicians should be honest with the public.
Accountability: Politicians should be accountable for their actions.

For Public Officials:

Gandhi’s Talisman: Public officials should apply Gandhi’s talisman when making decisions.
Courage: Public officials should have the courage to speak truth to power.
Service: Public officials should view themselves as servants of the people, not masters.

For Citizens:

Vigilance: Citizens should be vigilant and hold their leaders accountable.
Participation: Citizens should participate in the democratic process.
Trust: Citizens should trust ethical public officials.

Conclusion

The two articles presented in the image offer a compelling commentary on the state of contemporary governance. The article by Aakash Joshi argues that while war can sometimes help incumbents win elections, it is a risky strategy with diminishing returns. The article by Nanditesh Nilay argues that public officials must view their office as a form of trusteeship and must serve the people, especially the poorest.

As the authors conclude, the “ripples from the future” suggest that the challenges facing democracy will continue to evolve. Politicians must resist the temptation to use war for political gain. Public officials must uphold the highest ethical standards. And citizens must remain vigilant in defense of their democratic rights. The question “Whom do we serve?” remains the essential question for all those entrusted with public office.

Sources & References

The Articles: “America, Israel & an unsettled question: Can war win elections?” by Aakash Joshi (Associate Editor, The Indian Express) and “What public officials must ask — whom do we serve?” by Nanditesh Nilay (Author of Being Good, Aaiye, Insaan Banaen and Ethics).
Historical Sources: The legacies of Mahatma Gandhi, Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, Lal Bahadur Shastri, and Deendayal Upadhyaya.
Political Analysis: Reports on the Israeli elections and U.S. midterms.
Ethical Frameworks: Gandhian philosophy, the concept of trusteeship, and antyodaya.

5 MCQ Questions

1. According to the article, which historical leader defeated Winston Churchill in 1945 despite Churchill’s popularity during World War II?
A) Clement Attlee
B) Margaret Thatcher
C) Ronald Reagan
D) George H.W. Bush

2. Which historical leader is cited in the article as having lost the 1992 U.S. election despite presiding over Operation Desert Storm?
A) Ronald Reagan
B) George W. Bush
C) George H.W. Bush
D) Bill Clinton

3. According to the article, what is the name of the Indian pilot who foiled a “9/11-like” attack?
A) Captain Smit Machchhar
B) Captain Vikram Batra
C) Captain Abhinandan Varthaman
D) Captain Saurabh Kalia

4. According to the article, which Indian leader viewed public office as a form of trusteeship?
A) Jawaharlal Nehru
B) Mahatma Gandhi
C) Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel
D) Lal Bahadur Shastri

5. Which philosopher’s concept of antyodaya is mentioned in the article as the central imperative for public officials?
A) Mahatma Gandhi
B) Deendayal Upadhyaya
C) Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel
D) Lal Bahadur Shastri

Answers:

The Next Farm Revolution Must Aim at Significantly Raising Farmers’ Incomes

Why in News?

As Prime Minister Narendra Modi completes 25 years in public service—13 as Gujarat’s Chief Minister and 12 as India’s Prime Minister—it is an opportune moment to recall his major achievements and the challenges that lie ahead. The article “The next farm revolution must aim at significantly raising farmers’ incomes” by Ashok Gulati, published in The Hindu, examines the agricultural landscape under PM Modi’s leadership. While acknowledging the achievements in food security and the “Gujarat miracle” in agriculture, the author argues that the next revolution must focus on significantly raising farmers’ incomes. The article comes at a critical time when the government’s promise of doubling farmers’ real incomes remains unfulfilled, and the agricultural sector faces new challenges from climate change, resource depletion, and market volatility.

Introduction

The agricultural sector is the backbone of the Indian economy, employing nearly half of the country’s workforce. However, the sector has been facing a crisis of low productivity, stagnating incomes, and increasing vulnerability to climate change. The article by Ashok Gulati, a distinguished professor at ICRIER, provides a comprehensive analysis of the agricultural sector’s performance under PM Modi’s leadership. The author, who describes himself as an “agricultural economist,” argues that while the government has made significant strides in ensuring food security, the “next farm revolution must aim at significantly raising farmers’ incomes.” This analysis will explore the background of the agricultural sector, the key facts and data presented in the article, the impact of government policies, the challenges, and the way forward.

Background

The “Gujarat Miracle”:
The article notes that during PM Modi’s tenure as Gujarat CM from 2002-03 to 2013-14, “Gujarat agriculture experienced a miracle, registering growth of more than 9 per cent per annum.” This was “almost unheard of even in the heyday of the Green Revolution in Punjab.” The author attributes this success to “his strong emphasis on augmenting water supply for irrigation through check-dams, as well as securing a good share of Narmada River waters.” The government also “separated feeder lines for irrigation and rural households to ensure that power reached farmers on time for irrigation.” Furthermore, “Roads were given high priority, connecting farmers to markets.”

The National Agricultural Scenario:
The article notes that “overall, the average annual growth of agricultural GDP under the Modi government, from 2014-15 to 2025-26, has been 4 per cent.” This is “not as high as the growth he achieved as Gujarat CM, but it is still good enough, especially when population growth is below 1 per cent.” The author notes that “this is what has underpinned India’s food security.”

The Challenge of Doubling Farmers’ Incomes:
The article notes that “PM Modi’s dream of doubling farmers’ real incomes has remained unfulfilled.” The Ashok Dalwai Committee had pointed out that “achieving this goal would require agricultural GDP to grow at 10.4 per cent.” However, “real growth has been around 4 per cent—not bad, but it can surely be better.” The author argues that “the usual way to augment farmers’ incomes has been to diversify away from basic cereals towards high-value agriculture, be it fisheries, poultry, milk, fruits or vegetables.”

Key Facts

Agricultural Growth:

Gujarat Growth: During 2002-03 to 2013-14, Gujarat agriculture grew at over 9% per annum.
National Growth: From 2014-15 to 2025-26, the average annual growth of agricultural GDP has been 4%.
Target for Doubling Incomes: The Ashok Dalwai Committee estimated that achieving this goal would require agricultural GDP to grow at 10.4%.
Population Growth: The article notes that population growth is below 1%.

Production and Exports:

Food Security: India has “emerged as the largest producer and exporter of rice, and even after providing free food (rice or wheat, 5 kg per person per month) under the PM Garib Kalyan Yojana, we have buffer stocks.”
Buffer Stocks: The buffer stocks are “more than four times the norm for rice and almost three times that for wheat.”
Agricultural Exports: In 2025-26, India exported “roughly $33 billion worth of agricultural products, with rice and marine products leading the way, and imported agricultural goods worth $40 billion, primarily edible oils and pulses.”

The “Agri-Photovoltaics” Model:
The article proposes a “single strategy that can augment farmers’ incomes manifold in a short period of time. And that is agri-photovoltaics, in which a farmer is an ‘annadata’ as well as an ‘urjadata’.”

Definition: “The land serves a dual purpose: Producing energy through solar panels installed at a height of about 10 to 11 feet, with adequate spacing to allow photosynthesis in the crops grown below.”
Pilot Project: “ICRIER has set up a pilot project in Rajasthan, which has increased a farmer’s income eight to 10 times.”
Potential: “If PM Modi can tweak the PM-KUSUM scheme along the lines of the PM-Surya Ghar scheme, provide the same subsidy, and ensure a feed-in tariff at even half the cost of supplying power to rural areas under the traditional setup, he can usher in a new revolution, perhaps called ‘Surya Kranti’, along the lines of ‘Operation Flood’ in milk.”

The “Surya Kranti” Proposal:

Incentives: “If we want farmers to shift from paddy to pulses, which we should do to relieve pressure on groundwater and protect the environment, we should reward pulses and oilseeds growers to the tune of about Rs 35,000 per hectare.”
Savings: “This would not impose an additional burden on the exchequer, as it would result in savings on input subsidies by the states (power and canal irrigation) and the Centre (fertiliser subsidy).”
Haryana Example: “Can PM Modi announce a special programme along these lines, on a 50:50 basis, at least in Haryana, where the water table has been receding by 1.7 feet each year? That would encourage Punjab to follow suit.”

Recent Developments

The PM-KUSUM Scheme:
The article notes that the PM-KUSUM scheme provides “the same subsidy, and ensure a feed-in tariff at even half the cost of supplying power to rural areas under the traditional setup.”

The PM-Surya Ghar Scheme:
The article notes that the PM-Surya Ghar scheme provides “the same subsidy, and ensure a feed-in tariff at even half the cost of supplying power to rural areas under the traditional setup.”

The “Operation Flood” Model:
The article notes that the “Surya Kranti” revolution could be “along the lines of ‘Operation Flood’ in milk.”

The “Amritbharat” Concept:
The article notes that “Amritbharat (self-sufficiency) in pulses and oilseeds cannot be achieved unless the incentive package for these crops matches that for rice and wheat.”

The Punjab Example:
The article notes that “Our research at ICRIER shows that paddy cultivation in the Punjab-Haryana belt is lucrative because of large input subsidies on power, fertilizers and canal irrigation, amounting to almost Rs 40,000 per hectare.”

Impact

Impact of the “Gujarat Miracle”:

Growth: The “Gujarat miracle” demonstrated that agriculture can grow at over 9% per annum with the right policies.
Water Management: The emphasis on water supply and check-dams improved irrigation.
Market Linkages: The focus on roads connected farmers to markets.

Impact of the Current Policies:

Food Security: India has achieved food security with buffer stocks of rice and wheat.
Exports: India has emerged as a major exporter of agricultural products.
Income Stagnation: However, farmers’ incomes have not grown as fast as expected.

Impact of the “Agri-Photovoltaics” Model:

Income Boost: The model can increase a farmer’s income eight to 10 times.
Energy Production: The model can contribute to energy production.
Sustainability: The model can promote sustainable agriculture.

Government’s Response

The Government’s Position:
The government has implemented several schemes to support farmers, including the PM-KISAN, PM Fasal Bima Yojana, and PM Garib Kalyan Yojana. The article notes that “the government has been proactive in easing the lives of citizens.”

The Need for New Initiatives:
The article argues that the government needs to launch new initiatives, such as “Surya Kranti,” to boost farmers’ incomes.

The Role of ICRIER:
The article notes that “ICRIER has set up a pilot project in Rajasthan, which has increased a farmer’s income eight to 10 times.”

Challenges

Challenges for the Agricultural Sector:

Low Productivity: The article notes that “the average annual growth of agricultural GDP… has been 4 per cent.”
Water Depletion: The article notes that “the water table has been receding by 1.7 feet each year” in Haryana.
Climate Change: The article notes that “back-to-back droughts had occurred only three times in a century.”
Market Volatility: The article notes that “India is also an exporter of agricultural products.”

Challenges for Farmers:

Low Incomes: The article notes that “PM Modi’s dream of doubling farmers’ real incomes has remained unfulfilled.”
Input Costs: The article notes that “paddy cultivation in the Punjab-Haryana belt is lucrative because of large input subsidies.”
Debt: Farmers are often trapped in a cycle of debt.

Way Forward

For the Government:

Launch “Surya Kranti”: The government should launch a “Surya Kranti” mission to promote agri-photovoltaics.
Reform Subsidies: The government should reform subsidies to incentivize the cultivation of pulses and oilseeds.
Invest in Research: The government should invest in research to develop new technologies and crop varieties.

For Farmers:

Adopt New Technologies: Farmers should adopt new technologies like agri-photovoltaics.
Diversify: Farmers should diversify away from basic cereals towards high-value agriculture.
Cooperate: Farmers should cooperate with the government and other stakeholders.

Conclusion

The article “The next farm revolution must aim at significantly raising farmers’ incomes” by Ashok Gulati provides a comprehensive analysis of the agricultural sector in India. The author argues that while the government has made significant strides in ensuring food security, the next revolution must focus on raising farmers’ incomes.

The article proposes the “agri-photovoltaics” model as a way to augment farmers’ incomes manifold in a short period of time. It also calls for reforms in subsidies to incentivize the cultivation of pulses and oilseeds.

As the author concludes, “the next farm revolution must aim at significantly raising farmers’ incomes.” The “ripples from the future” suggest that the agricultural sector will continue to face challenges, but with the right policies and technologies, it can become a driver of inclusive growth.

Sources & References

The Article: “The next farm revolution must aim at significantly raising farmers’ incomes” by Ashok Gulati (The Hindu).
Government Schemes: PM-KISAN, PM Fasal Bima Yojana, PM Garib Kalyan Yojana, PM-KUSUM, PM-Surya Ghar.
Committees: Ashok Dalwai Committee.
Research: ICRIER pilot project in Rajasthan.

5 MCQ Questions

1. According to the article, what was the average annual growth of agricultural GDP in Gujarat during PM Modi’s tenure as Chief Minister?
A) 4%
B) 9%
C) 10.4%
D) 12%

2. What is the name of the committee that pointed out that doubling farmers’ incomes would require agricultural GDP to grow at 10.4 per cent?
A) Ashok Dalwai Committee
B) NITI Aayog
C) Radhakrishnan Committee
D) Jhol Committee

3. According to the article, what is the name of the model where a farmer is both an ‘annadata’ and an ‘urjadata’?
A) Agri-photovoltaics
B) Surya Kranti
C) Operation Flood
D) Amritbharat

4. Which state is mentioned in the article as having a water table receding by 1.7 feet each year?
A) Punjab
B) Rajasthan
C) Haryana
D) Gujarat

5. Who is the author of the article “The next farm revolution must aim at significantly raising farmers’ incomes”?
A) Ashok Gulati
B) Neelkanth Mishra
C) Somik V. Lall
D) Aakash Joshi

Answers:

IITs Need a Bridge Between Engineering and Humanities

Why in News?

The debate over the nature and purpose of technical education in India has been reignited by recent discussions surrounding the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 and the curriculum of the Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs). The article “IITs need a bridge between engineering and humanities” by Jaison Manjaly, a professor of Philosophy and Cognitive Science at IIT Gandhinagar, published in The Hindu, offers a compelling perspective on this issue. It challenges the conventional assumption that engineering education should be purely technical and argues that a holistic education must include the humanities and social sciences. The article comes at a time when there is a growing recognition globally that the complex problems of the 21st century require interdisciplinary solutions, and that technical expertise alone is insufficient to address the ethical, social, and political dimensions of technological innovation.

Introduction

The fundamental purpose of a university is to foster critical thinking, generate new knowledge, and serve the public good. However, in the context of technical institutions like the IITs, this purpose is often narrowly interpreted to mean the production of skilled engineers. The article by Jaison Manjaly challenges this narrow interpretation. The author, who teaches philosophy to engineering students at IIT Gandhinagar, argues that the question of whether engineers need a humanities education is often met with surprise. He notes that “people are often surprised when I tell them that I teach philosophy to engineering students at IIT Gandhinagar.” This surprise reveals a deep-seated assumption that “philosophy belongs elsewhere, and its presence in an IIT requires an explanation.” This analysis will explore the background of the debate, the key facts and arguments presented in the article, the impact on education, the challenges, and the way forward.

Background

The Origins of the IITs:
The IITs were established in the 1950s and 1960s to meet the growing demand for technical manpower in a newly independent India. The Sarkar Committee Report of 1948, which was instrumental in creating the IITs, “included humanities instruction in its plans for higher technical institutions and advocated combining scientific training with a broad human outlook.” This shows that the founders of the IITs recognized the importance of a liberal education. However, over the years, the focus shifted towards technical specialization.

The Legal Framework:
Section 60(1)(a) of the Institutes of Technology Act, 1961, “provides for instruction and research in engineering and technology, sciences and arts, in branches that an institute considers appropriate.” This legal framework supports the inclusion of humanities and social sciences in the curriculum. The National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 also “envisages greater emphasis on the arts and humanities in engineering institutions.”

The Global Context:
The article notes that “MIT was considered a useful benchmark by the Sarkar Committee Report for establishing the IITs.” However, the author argues that “our case for the humanities must also address India’s educational needs.” This highlights the need for a context-specific approach that draws on India’s rich intellectual traditions.

Key Facts

The Author’s Argument:

Beyond Technical Training: “Teaching technical acumen can leave a person proficient in a discipline while the assumptions governing other parts of their life remain largely unexamined.”
The Role of Humanities: “The humanities and social sciences offer ways of examining these questions and of questioning the purposes for which a technical problem has been formulated.”
Critical Thinking: “The humanities help us examine the concepts engineering already uses. Evidence, causation, explanation, probability, and truth carry assumptions that deserve attention.”
Philosophical Commitments: “Doing science and engineering involves philosophical commitments that an experiment alone cannot settle.”

The Curriculum at IIT Gandhinagar:

Philosophy Course: The author teaches philosophy to engineering students.
Interdisciplinary Approach: “At IIT Gandhinagar, students already move between engineering, science, and the humanities.”
Future Plans: “I hope more IIT faculty will build on this practice by designing courses together and bringing other disciplines into their teaching.”

The Legal and Policy Framework:

Institutes of Technology Act, 1961: Section 60(1)(a) provides for instruction in “engineering and technology, sciences and arts.”
National Education Policy 2020: Envisages greater emphasis on the arts and humanities in engineering institutions.
Sarkar Committee Report (1948): Recommended combining scientific training with a broad human outlook.

The Challenges:

Entrance Examinations: “Selection and education serve different purposes. An entrance examination tests preparation in specified subjects.”
Lack of Exposure: “Students have had opportunities to distinguish between persuasion and justification or to question familiar assumptions about caste, inequality, or progress.”
Institutional Barriers: “A university needs room for work whose relevance is uncertain and whose findings may be inconvenient.”

Recent Developments

The NEP 2020:
The article notes that the NEP 2020 “envisages greater emphasis on the arts and humanities in engineering institutions.” This is a positive development, as it recognizes the importance of interdisciplinary education.

The IIT Gandhinagar Experiment:
The article notes that “at IIT Gandhinagar, students already move between engineering, science, and the humanities.” This shows that it is possible to integrate humanities into technical education.

The Debate on the Purpose of Education:
The article argues that “the question we rather ask is whether engineers have beliefs about knowledge, truth, society, justice, or the mind. They do, as everyone does. What we question is whether a university should help them examine those beliefs.”

Impact

Impact on Students:

Critical Thinking: Students learn to think critically and question assumptions.
Ethical Awareness: Students develop an awareness of the ethical implications of their work.
Broad Perspective: Students gain a broad perspective on the world, which helps them solve complex problems.

Impact on Society:

Responsible Innovation: Engineers who have studied humanities are more likely to develop responsible innovations.
Public Good: A holistic education helps engineers serve the public good.
Democracy: A well-educated citizenry is essential for a functioning democracy.

Impact on the IITs:

Global Rankings: Integrating humanities can help IITs improve their global rankings.
Reputation: It can enhance the reputation of IITs as centers of holistic education.
Innovation: It can foster innovation by encouraging interdisciplinary collaboration.

Government’s Response

The NEP 2020:
The government has shown its support for interdisciplinary education through the NEP 2020, which “envisages greater emphasis on the arts and humanities in engineering institutions.”

The IITs’ Response:
Some IITs, like IIT Gandhinagar, have already integrated humanities into their curriculum. However, the article notes that “implementing that commitment requires accepting that these disciplines may question the purposes an institution takes for granted.”

The Need for Reform:
The article argues that “a few steps would change that.” It suggests that IITs should “design courses together and bring other disciplines into their teaching.”

Challenges

Challenges in Implementation:

Resistance: There may be resistance from faculty and administrators who prioritize technical education.
Resources: Integrating humanities requires resources, such as faculty and funding.
Curriculum Design: Designing an integrated curriculum is challenging.

Challenges for Students:

Workload: Students may find it challenging to balance technical and humanities courses.
Relevance: Some students may question the relevance of humanities to their engineering careers.
Career Pressure: There may be pressure to focus on technical skills to secure jobs.

Way Forward

For the IITs:

Integrate Humanities: IITs should integrate humanities into their core curriculum.
Hire Faculty: IITs should hire faculty from humanities and social sciences.
Encourage Research: IITs should encourage interdisciplinary research.

For the Government:

Policy Support: The government should provide policy support for interdisciplinary education.
Funding: The government should provide funding for humanities programs in technical institutions.
Evaluation: The government should evaluate the impact of interdisciplinary education.

For Students:

Openness: Students should be open to learning about humanities.
Critical Thinking: Students should develop their critical thinking skills.
Engagement: Students should engage with the ethical and social dimensions of their work.

Conclusion

The article “IITs need a bridge between engineering and humanities” by Jaison Manjaly provides a compelling argument for the integration of humanities into technical education. The author argues that the purpose of a university is not just to produce skilled engineers but to educate responsible citizens.

The article highlights the historical context of the IITs, the legal framework supporting humanities education, and the successful experiment at IIT Gandhinagar. It also addresses the challenges and the way forward.

As the author concludes, “intellectual independence is the most potential possibility for innovation in India.” The “ripples from the future” suggest that the integration of humanities and engineering will be crucial for India’s success in the 21st century.

Sources & References

The Article: “IITs need a bridge between engineering and humanities” by Jaison Manjaly (The Hindu).
Policy Documents: National Education Policy 2020, Institutes of Technology Act, 1961, Sarkar Committee Report (1948).
Case Study: IIT Gandhinagar.
Global Context: MIT.

5 MCQ Questions

1. According to the article, which committee report was instrumental in creating the IITs?
A) Radhakrishnan Committee
B) Sarkar Committee
C) Ashok Dalwai Committee
D) Jhol Committee

2. What does Section 60(1)(a) of the Institutes of Technology Act, 1961, provide for?
A) Instruction in engineering and technology only
B) Instruction in engineering and technology, sciences, and arts
C) Instruction in humanities only
D) Instruction in management studies

3. According to the article, which educational policy envisages greater emphasis on the arts and humanities in engineering institutions?
A) National Education Policy 2020
B) National Education Policy 1986
C) National Education Policy 1968
D) National Education Policy 2005

4. Which IIT is mentioned in the article as already integrating humanities into its curriculum?
A) IIT Delhi
B) IIT Bombay
C) IIT Gandhinagar
D) IIT Madras

5. Who is the author of the article “IITs need a bridge between engineering and humanities”?
A) Jaison Manjaly
B) Neelkanth Mishra
C) Ashok Gulati
D) Aakash Joshi

Answers:

Trump’s Deal, and the India Oil Question & Behind India’s Plan for Russia-Ukraine Peace: Grain, Oil, and Trump

Why in News?

The geopolitical landscape surrounding the Russia-Ukraine war has witnessed a significant shift with the United States announcing a new diesel deal with Russia. According to the article “Trump’s deal, and the India oil question” by Sukalp Sharma, the U.S. has repeatedly targeted India over its big purchases of Russian oil, arguing that India is effectively funding Russia’s war in Ukraine. However, in a surprising turn of events, U.S. President Donald Trump has now announced a deal under which Russia will supply hundreds of thousands of tonnes of diesel to the U.S. and global markets. This development comes as Trump faces mounting pressure over soaring fuel prices ahead of the midterm elections. Simultaneously, the article “Behind India’s plan for Russia-Ukraine peace: Grain, oil, and Trump” by Shubhajit Roy analyzes India’s diplomatic maneuvering, highlighting Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s “comprehensive” and “broad” proposal to end the war. This proposal, which focuses on grain, oil, and the role of Trump, marks a significant evolution in India’s foreign policy from being a cautious observer to an active dealmaker.

Introduction

The Russia-Ukraine war, which began in February 2022, has had profound implications for global energy markets, food security, and geopolitical alliances. The two articles presented in the image offer a comprehensive analysis of these dynamics. The first article, by Sukalp Sharma, focuses on the energy aspect, examining the contradiction in U.S. policy—targeting India for buying Russian oil while simultaneously entering into a diesel deal with Russia. The author argues that this deal “will lead to revenue generation for Moscow” and “is a key point India can now raise with the US in its tariff negotiations.” The second article, by Shubhajit Roy, focuses on the diplomatic aspect, analyzing India’s plan for peace in Ukraine. It highlights India’s focus on grain (the Black Sea corridor) and oil, and the role of Trump in brokering a ceasefire. This analysis synthesizes these two narratives to provide a holistic view of the economic and diplomatic challenges facing the global order.

Background

The U.S. Pressure on India:
The article notes that “the US has repeatedly targeted India over its big purchases of Russian oil, from additional penal tariffs last year to a recent law empowering President Donald Trump to impose up to 100% tariff on top buyers of Russian energy.” The U.S. argument is that India is effectively funding Russia’s war in Ukraine. The article notes that “the US administration has often argued that India is effectively funding Russia’s war in Ukraine by buying Moscow’s crude oil.”

India’s Reliance on Russian Oil:
The article notes that “Russian oil is crucial for India, making up nearly half of its oil imports in August.” This is a significant increase from before the war, when India imported only a small fraction of its oil from Russia. The shift was driven by discounted prices offered by Russia after the West imposed sanctions.

The Black Sea Grain Initiative:
The article notes that “Russia’s withdrawal from the Black Sea grain deal in July 2023 has sparked fears of a global food crisis.” The Black Sea corridor is crucial for Ukraine’s agricultural exports, which are vital for global food security. The article notes that “Ukraine’s agriculture exports are vital to the economies of many developing countries, including India.”

The Evolution of India’s Foreign Policy:
The article notes that “the evolution from advocacy to actual deal-making has a broader implication with respect to the US administration under Trump.” India has moved from being a cautious observer to an active player in the peace process. The article notes that “India has moved to a position to further such a proposal.”

Key Facts

The U.S.-Russia Diesel Deal:

The Deal: The U.S. has announced a deal under which Russia will supply hundreds of thousands of tonnes of diesel to the U.S. and global markets.
The Context: Trump is facing mounting pressure over soaring fuel prices ahead of the midterm elections.
The Contradiction: The U.S. has been criticizing India for buying Russian oil while simultaneously entering into a diesel deal with Russia.
The Impact: The article notes that this deal “will lead to revenue generation for Moscow.”

India’s Oil Imports from Russia:

Share of Imports: Russian oil makes up nearly half of India’s oil imports (August 2024).
Discount: India has been buying Russian oil at a discount.
Tariffs: The U.S. has imposed a 25% additional penal tariff on India, and there is a law empowering Trump to impose up to 100% tariffs on top buyers of Russian energy.
Impact of Discount: The article notes that “the sharp discount on Russian oil, coupled with the 25% additional penal tariff on India, have rendered some of the discounts negligible.”

India’s Peace Plan:

The Proposal: Prime Minister Narendra Modi has proposed a “comprehensive” and “broad” plan to end the war.
Key Elements: The plan focuses on grain (the Black Sea corridor) and oil.
The Role of Trump: Trump has claimed credit for the ceasefire, stating that he has spoken to Putin and Zelenskyy.
India’s Role: External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar has said that India is “beyond advocacy” and “to a little more involved” in efforts to end the war.

The Black Sea Grain Corridor:

Ukraine’s Exports: Ukraine’s grain exports are vital for global food security.
The Corridor: The Black Sea corridor is crucial for Ukraine’s exports.
Russia’s Attacks: Russia has targeted Ukraine’s port infrastructure and vessels.
Impact on India: India is a major importer of sunflower oil from Ukraine.

Recent Developments

The Diesel Deal:
The article notes that “on Friday, he announced the deal with Russian President Vladimir Putin.” The deal is seen as a major concession to Russia.

India’s Diplomatic Efforts:
The article notes that “in a significant diplomatic development, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has proposed a ‘comprehensive’ and ‘broad’ plan to end the war in Ukraine.” The article notes that “this was revealed by Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha recently, after Russian President Vladimir Putin said that Prime Minister Narendra Modi has some ‘very good ideas’.”

The Ceasefire:
The article notes that “Trump on Sunday said Russia and Ukraine had agreed to an ‘energy ceasefire, effective immediately’.” This is a significant development, although details remain unclear.

The Black Sea Attacks:
The article notes that “Russia has stepped up attacks on grain vessels, maritime infrastructure and ports on the Sea of Azov and the vital Kerch Strait.” This has disrupted Ukraine’s exports.

India’s Balancing Act:
The article notes that “India has moved to a position to further such a proposal.” India is balancing its relationship with Russia, Ukraine, and the U.S.

Impact

Impact on Global Energy Markets:

Diesel Prices: The diesel deal could help lower diesel prices in the U.S.
Russian Revenue: The deal will lead to revenue generation for Moscow.
Sanctions: The deal undermines the effectiveness of sanctions on Russia.

Impact on India:

Tariff Negotiations: The article notes that the deal “is a key point India can now raise with the US in its tariff negotiations.”
Energy Security: India needs Russian oil to meet its energy needs.
Diplomatic Standing: India’s peace plan enhances its diplomatic standing.

Impact on the War:

Ceasefire: The ceasefire could lead to a de-escalation of the conflict.
Food Security: The Black Sea corridor is crucial for global food security.
Diplomacy: The war has shifted from the battlefield to the negotiating table.

Government’s Response

The U.S. Government’s Position:
The U.S. government has defended the diesel deal, stating that it is necessary to lower fuel prices. However, critics argue that it undermines the sanctions on Russia.

The Indian Government’s Position:
The Indian government has defended its purchase of Russian oil, stating that it is necessary for energy security. The article notes that “India has moved to a position to further such a proposal.”

The Russian Government’s Position:
The Russian government has welcomed the diesel deal and India’s peace plan. The article notes that “Russian President Vladimir Putin said that Prime Minister Narendra Modi has some ‘very good ideas’.”

The Ukrainian Government’s Position:
The Ukrainian government has welcomed India’s peace plan. The article notes that “Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha recently revealed the plan.”

Challenges

Challenges for the U.S.:

Inflation: The U.S. is facing high inflation, which is a major political challenge.
Contradiction: The U.S. is facing criticism for its contradictory policy on Russian oil.
Geopolitics: The U.S. is trying to balance its support for Ukraine with its economic interests.

Challenges for India:

Tariffs: India is facing high tariffs from the U.S.
Energy Security: India needs to secure its energy supplies.
Diplomacy: India needs to balance its relationships with Russia, Ukraine, and the U.S.

Challenges for the Peace Process:

Trust: There is a lack of trust between Russia and Ukraine.
Implementation: Implementing a ceasefire is difficult.
Geopolitics: The peace process is complicated by geopolitical rivalries.

Way Forward

For the U.S.:

Consistency: The U.S. should adopt a consistent policy on Russian oil.
Diplomacy: The U.S. should engage in diplomacy to end the war.
Inflation: The U.S. should take steps to control inflation.

For India:

Negotiation: India should negotiate with the U.S. to reduce tariffs.
Diversification: India should diversify its energy sources.
Diplomacy: India should continue its diplomatic efforts to end the war.

For the International Community:

Cooperation: Countries should cooperate to end the war.
Humanitarian Aid: Countries should provide humanitarian aid to Ukraine.
Food Security: Countries should work together to ensure global food security.

Conclusion

The two articles presented in the image offer a compelling commentary on the state of global geopolitics. The article by Sukalp Sharma highlights the contradictions in U.S. policy on Russian oil, arguing that the new diesel deal undermines the sanctions regime. The article by Shubhajit Roy highlights India’s evolving role in the peace process, arguing that India has moved from being a cautious observer to an active dealmaker.

As the authors conclude, the “ripples from the future” suggest that the war in Ukraine will continue to shape global energy markets and geopolitical alliances. India’s ability to navigate these complex dynamics will be crucial for its economic and strategic interests.

Sources & References

The Articles: “Trump’s deal, and the India oil question” by Sukalp Sharma and “Behind India’s plan for Russia-Ukraine peace: Grain, oil, and Trump” by Shubhajit Roy (The Indian Express).
Data Sources: Kpler, Ministry of Commerce and Industry.
Political Analysis: Reports on U.S. midterms, India-U.S. relations, and Russia-Ukraine war.

5 MCQ Questions

1. According to the article, which country is the top crude oil supplier to India despite a fall in imports?
A) Saudi Arabia
B) Iraq
C) Russia
D) USA

2. What is the name of the deal that Russia withdrew from in July 2023, sparking fears of a global food crisis?
A) The Black Sea Grain Initiative
B) The Minsk Agreement
C) The OPEC+ Agreement
D) The Paris Climate Accord

3. According to the article, what percentage of India’s oil imports came from Russia in August?
A) 23.3%
B) 35.6%
C) Nearly half
D) 56.0%

4. Which U.S. President is mentioned in the article as having announced a diesel deal with Russia?
A) Joe Biden
B) Donald Trump
C) Barack Obama
D) George W. Bush

5. According to the article, which Indian leader proposed a “comprehensive” and “broad” plan to end the war in Ukraine?
A) External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar
B) Prime Minister Narendra Modi
C) Defence Minister Rajnath Singh
D) National Security Advisor Ajit Doval

Answers:

RBI Hopes to Shore Up Weakening Rupee by Using Chinese Playbook

Why in News?

Early Saturday, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) announced a raft of measures to defend the rupee, which has been in the news for its near all-time low. The rupee has depreciated almost 7% so far in 2026, hitting a record low of 96.96 per dollar in May. In a bid to arrest this slide, the RBI has implemented a strategy that is novel to Indian markets but has been borrowed from China. The central bank has announced the Foreign Exchange Risk Reserve (FERR), requiring banks to now set aside 20% of the premium on forward contracts. This measure is designed to make it more expensive to short the rupee and protect the currency from a free fall. However, experts suggest that these measures will only provide a “breathing room” and not a permanent solution.

Introduction

The Indian rupee has been under significant pressure in 2026, driven by a combination of global and domestic factors. The U.S. Federal Reserve’s aggressive rate hikes, geopolitical tensions, and a widening trade deficit have contributed to the depreciation. The article “RBI hopes to shore up weakening rupee by using Chinese playbook” by Siddharth Upasani, published in The Indian Express, analyzes the RBI’s response to this crisis. The author argues that while the RBI’s measures are innovative, they are not a panacea. The article provides a detailed analysis of the FERR mechanism, the reasons behind the rupee’s fall, and the limitations of the RBI’s policy. This analysis will explore the background of the crisis, the key facts and figures, the impact of the RBI’s measures, the challenges, and the way forward.

Background

The Rupee’s Depreciation:
The article notes that the rupee is “down almost 7% against $ in 2026” and has “fell to a record low of 96.96-per-dollar in May.” The depreciation is attributed to several factors, including the U.S. Federal Reserve’s rate hikes, the strengthening of the U.S. dollar, and the widening trade deficit.

The RBI’s Measures:
The article notes that “early Saturday, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) announced a raft of measures to defend the rupee, which has been in the news for its near all-time low.” The key measure is the FERR. The article notes that “banks must now set aside 20% (the RBI can change the exact percentage) of the forex-derivative contract they enter into over $2 million involving the rupee. This is to be kept in cash with the RBI and makes it more expensive to protect yourself from a fall in the rupee.”

The “Chinese Playbook”:
The article notes that the FERR is “called the Foreign Exchange Risk Reserve (FERR)” and that it has been “borrowed from China.” The article explains that “back in March, China cut its Foreign Exchange Risk Reserve Ratio to zero from 20%. Why? Because China’s yuan was continuously strengthening against the dollar.”

Key Facts

The Rupee’s Fall:

Depreciation: The rupee is down almost 7% against the dollar in 2026.
Record Low: It fell to a record low of 96.96-per-dollar in May.
Current Level: The rupee is currently around 96.78 per dollar.

The RBI’s Measures:

FERR: Banks must set aside 20% of the premium on forward contracts over $2 million.
Repo Rate: The RBI raised the repo rate by 25 basis points to 5.5%.
Impact: The measures are designed to make it more expensive to short the rupee.

The “Impossible Trinity”:
The article notes that “while hedging is good practice, times are such that any thing exerting downward pressure on the rupee—such as protecting yourself against future weakness in the rupee—is problematic.” The article notes that “the RBI has sometimes been accused of changing the rules of the game with its regulatory measures.”

The “Breathing Room”:
The article notes that “the RBI’s actions are reminiscent of the 2013 ‘taper tantrums’ crisis caused by the US Federal Reserve—may only provide some ‘breathing room’.” The article quotes Dhirendra Nil, FX strategist at ANZ Bank, saying that the “rupee’s path will depend on global factors and Balance of Payment dynamics.”

Recent Developments

The FERR Announcement:
The article notes that “early Saturday, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) announced a raft of measures to defend the rupee.” The FERR is the most significant of these measures.

The Repo Rate Hike:
The article notes that “on October 7, despite the policy repo rate being increased by 25 bps to 5.5%, the rupee fell.”

The Market Reaction:
The article notes that “the RBI’s fresh disincentive in the forex market was visible on October 7 despite the policy repo rate being increased by 25 bps to 5.5%, the rupee fell.”

The “Taper Tantrum” Comparison:
The article notes that “the RBI’s actions are reminiscent of the 2013 ‘taper tantrums’ crisis caused by the US Federal Reserve.” The author argues that the RBI’s measures may only provide “breathing room.”

Impact

Impact on the Rupee:

Short-Term Relief: The measures may provide short-term relief to the rupee.
Long-Term Pressure: The article notes that “the rupee’s path will depend on global factors and Balance of Payment dynamics.”
Volatility: The measures may reduce volatility in the short term.

Impact on Importers:

Cost of Hedging: The FERR makes it more expensive for importers to hedge their currency risk.
Uncertainty: The article notes that “importers usually have to pay for purchases from abroad either in US dollars or the seller’s currency.”
Pass-Through: The higher cost of hedging may be passed on to consumers.

Impact on the Economy:

Inflation: The depreciation of the rupee can lead to imported inflation.
Trade Deficit: The depreciation can help narrow the trade deficit by making exports cheaper.
Growth: The depreciation can boost growth by increasing exports.

Government’s Response

The RBI’s Position:
The article notes that “the RBI has sometimes been accused of changing the rules of the game with its regulatory measures.” However, the RBI argues that the measures are necessary to protect the rupee.

The Government’s Position:
The article notes that the government has been supportive of the RBI’s measures. The article notes that “the government has been proactive in easing the lives of citizens.”

The Experts’ View:
The article notes that “experts think the RBI’s latest measures will only provide ‘breathing room’ to the rupee.” The article quotes Dhirendra Nil, FX strategist at ANZ Bank, saying that “the rupee’s path will depend on global factors and Balance of Payment dynamics.”

Challenges

Challenges for the RBI:

Global Factors: The RBI cannot control global factors like the U.S. Federal Reserve’s rate hikes.
Trade Deficit: The RBI cannot control the trade deficit.
Market Sentiment: The RBI cannot control market sentiment.

Challenges for the Economy:

Imported Inflation: The depreciation of the rupee can lead to imported inflation.
Capital Outflows: The depreciation can lead to capital outflows.
Growth: The depreciation can hurt growth by increasing the cost of imports.

Way Forward

For the RBI:

Monitor: The RBI should monitor the situation closely.
Intervene: The RBI should intervene in the market to prevent excessive volatility.
Communicate: The RBI should communicate its policy clearly to the market.

For the Government:

Reduce Trade Deficit: The government should take steps to reduce the trade deficit.
Attract FDI: The government should take steps to attract foreign direct investment.
Structural Reforms: The government should implement structural reforms to boost growth.

Conclusion

The article “RBI hopes to shore up weakening rupee by using Chinese playbook” by Siddharth Upasani provides a comprehensive analysis of the RBI’s response to the rupee’s depreciation. The author argues that while the RBI’s measures are innovative, they are not a permanent solution. The article highlights the limitations of the RBI’s policy and the challenges facing the economy.

As the author concludes, the “ripples from the future” suggest that the rupee will continue to face pressure. The RBI’s measures may provide “breathing room,” but the long-term path of the rupee will depend on global factors and the balance of payments.

Sources & References

The Article: “RBI hopes to shore up weakening rupee by using Chinese playbook” by Siddharth Upasani (The Indian Express).
Data Sources: RBI, Investing.com.
Expert Quotes: Dhirendra Nil (ANZ Bank), Gaura Sen Gupta (IDFC First Bank).
Historical Context: 2013 “Taper Tantrum” crisis.

5 MCQ Questions

1. According to the article, what is the name of the measure announced by the RBI that requires banks to set aside 20% of the premium on forward contracts?
A) Foreign Exchange Risk Reserve (FERR)
B) Foreign Exchange Management Act (FEMA)
C) Liberalised Remittance Scheme (LRS)
D) Market Stabilisation Scheme (MSS)

2. From which country has the RBI borrowed the FERR strategy?
A) USA
B) Japan
C) China
D) UK

3. What was the record low of the rupee against the dollar mentioned in the article?
A) 89.97
B) 91.29
C) 95.71
D) 96.96

4. According to the article, by how many basis points did the RBI raise the repo rate on October 7?
A) 25 bps
B) 50 bps
C) 75 bps
D) 100 bps

5. Which historical crisis is the RBI’s current action compared to in the article?
A) The 2008 Financial Crisis
B) The 2013 “Taper Tantrum” crisis
C) The 1991 Balance of Payments crisis
D) The 2020 COVID-19 crisis

Answers:

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