Professional Documents
Culture Documents
Pmfias Ca 2024 03 28
Pmfias Ca 2024 03 28
Table of Contents
❖ Context (TH): Kerala Kalamandalam, a renowned institution for arts and culture, has taken a historic
step by allowing boys to learn Mohiniyattam, a classical dance form traditionally associated with
females.
• Mohiniyattam is a traditional Indian dance form from Kerala. It is named after Mohini, the female
avatar of Lord Vishnu.
• Like most other classical Indian dances, Mohiniyattam’s roots can be traced back to Bharata Muni’s
Natya Shastra.
• It was initially performed by Devadasis (temple dancers) in Kerala during the reign of the Chera
kings (9th to 12th centuries CE).
• Further development of Mohiniyattam occurred during the 18th and 19th centuries with patronage
from princely states.
• Swathi Thirunal Rama Varma, the Maharaja of the Kingdom of Travancore, significantly
contributed to its development and systematization in the early 19th century.
• Mohiniyattam is primarily a solo dance performed by female artists, characterized by graceful,
gentle, and feminine movements known as Lasya.
• It combines dancing and singing, often featuring Manipravala songs blending Sanskrit and
Malayalam.
• Music for Mohiniyattam is typically Carnatic, with dancers or vocalists performing the recitation.
• The dance is known for its smooth and fluid body movements, avoiding abrupt jerks or leaps.
• It emphasizes hand gestures and subtle facial expressions (Mukhabhinaya) over footwork, with
24 hand gestures derived from the 'Hastha Lakshana Deepika'.
• Mohiniyattam costumes usually consist of plain white or ivory cream saris adorned with bright
gold-laced brocade.
• Musical accompaniments include instruments like the Mridangam, Madhalam, Idakka, flute,
Veena, and Kuzhitalam (cymbals).
❖ Context (NDTV): The Center has given an affidavit in the Supreme Court clarifying its stand on the
Rohingya asylum issue in response to a petition urging the release of Rohingya refugees detained
for alleged violations of the Foreigners Act.
• Implementation of the Citizenship Amendment Act has also sparked the issue once again.
Center's stand
• Priority to citizens: India, being a developing nation with the highest population globally, should
prioritise its own citizens.
• National security concerns: Illegal entry and stay, obtaining fake/fabricated Indian identity
documents, human trafficking, and subversive activities challenge national security.
• No fundamental right to reside with foreigners: While a Foreigner enjoys the right to life and
liberty under Article 21, right to reside and settle in the country is exclusively for Indian citizens.
• Altered demography: Border states like Assam & West Bengal are facing demographic changes.
• No ratification of refugee protocols: India has not ratified the 1951 Refugee Convention or its
1967 Protocol. Therefore, it is solely a matter of policy.
• The Indian government has been actively pursuing their repatriation. Since late 2018, India has
reportedly deported numerous refugees back to Myanmar.
Escalation Of Violence
• August 2017: Arakan Rohingya Salvation Army (ARSA), a Rohingya insurgent group, launched
attacks on Myanmar police and army posts in Rakhine State.
• Brutal crackdown by Myanmar's military: Characterised by widespread violence, mass killings, and
torching of Rohingya villages leading to the crossing of Rohingyas into neighbouring Bangladesh.
Refugee Crisis
• Kutupalong camp in Cox's Bazaar: Widely regarded as the world's largest refugee camp in
Bangladesh, it is filled with Rohingyas who escaped to avoid atrocities.
• Refugees are also seeking asylum in neighbouring countries such as India, Malaysia and Thailand or
entering illegally.
International response
• Condemned Myanmar's actions, with many labelling it as ethnic cleansing and even genocide.
• United Nations, human rights organisations, and individual countries have called for accountability
and justice for the Rohingya.
• Legal actions have been pursued at international courts, including cases at the International Court
of Justice (ICJ) and the International Criminal Court (ICC).
• Operation Insaniyat: Launched By India to help Bangladesh overcome the humanitarian crisis due
to the large influx of Myanmar refugees.
• Sanctions have been imposed on Myanmar's military leaders by various nations and organisations.
❖ Context (TH): China has pledged to provide "assistance to develop" Colombo International
Airport and Hambantota port.
• China is the island's biggest bilateral creditor. It would "assist" Sri Lanka's restructuring of
external debt, a key condition in a $2.9 billion IMF bailout.
• However, China was reluctant to take a haircut on its loans but could extend the tenure and adjust
interest rates.
• Earlier in 2022, the IMF and the Sri Lankan authorities agreed on a 48-month arrangement under
the Extended Fund Facility (EFF) of about US$2.9 billion.
India's Concerns
• Chinese maritime imprints: The Indian Ocean is facing increased dominance of the Chinese project
through its "sting of pearls" policy.
• Decline in exports: Almost halved exports with a major impact on automobile sectors shrank the
Indian export market.
• Refugee crisis: With the historical connection between Sri Lanka and Tamil Nadu, India stands as a
favoured destination for Sri Lankan refugees.
Paris Club
• An informal group of official creditors, primarily Western nations.
• Aim: Find sustainable solutions to the payment difficulties experienced by debtor countries.
• As debtor countries undertake reforms to stabilise and restore their macroeconomic and
financial situation, Paris Club creditors provide an appropriate debt treatment.
• Currently, the Paris Club consists of 20 members.
• India and China are not members of the Paris Club.
• In May 2023, 17 countries that have extended loans to Sri Lanka formed an official creditor
committee to discuss Sri Lanka’s request for debt treatment.
• India, Japan, and France co-chaired the official creditor committee in July 2023.
{GS2 – Polity – IC – State Legislature} ED Arrests Delhi CM
❖ Context (IE I TH I HT): A Delhi court sent CM Arvind Kejriwal to the Enforcement Directorate’s (ED’s)
custody in connection with the excise policy case.
• CM Kejriwal became the first serving CM in the country to be arrested.
• Two cases, one by CBI and one on alleged money laundering being investigated by ED, have been
registered in relation to the excise policy.
• Even if it's technically possible for a CM to run the government from jail, there may be concerns
about the legitimacy and effectiveness of their leadership under such circumstances.
• The HC raised the question of whether an individual should receive a salary from the public purse
while occupying a public office without performing any associated duties.
President’s Rule
• The Lieutenant Governor can report to the President to suspend the operation of Article 239AA,
which governs Delhi, if the LG is satisfied that:
1. “A situation has arisen in which the administration of the National Capital cannot be carried on
in accordance with Article 239AA” or
2. “It is necessary and expedient to do so for the proper administration of National Capital
Territory.”
• He can cite the 'failure of constitutional machinery in the state,' a strong reason for the
President's rule in Delhi under Article 239AB of the IC.
• The President's rule will bring that national capital under the Union government's direct control.
Enforcement Directorate
• The ED is a multi-disciplinary organisation mandated to investigate offences of money
laundering and violations of foreign exchange laws.
• The Enforcement Directorate was established in the year 1956 as an ‘Enforcement Unit’ under the
Department of Economic Affairs.
• Later, in 1957, this Unit was renamed as ‘Enforcement Directorate’.
• It functions under the Department of Revenue of the Ministry of Finance.
Structure
Headquarters
• ED, which has its headquarters in New Delhi and is headed by the Director of Enforcement.
• Five regional offices are located in Mumbai, Chennai, Chandigarh, Kolkata, and Delhi.
Recruitment
• Recruitment of the officers is done directly and by drawing officers from other investigation
agencies.
• It comprises IRS (Indian Revenue Services), IPS (Indian Police Services), and IAS (Indian Administrative
Services) officers, such as income tax officers, excise officers, customs officers, and police.
Tenure
• Two years, but directors’ tenure can be extended from two to five years by giving three annual
extensions.
• The Delhi Special Police Establishment (DSPE) Act, 1946 (for ED) and the Central Vigilance
Commission (CVC) Act, 2003 (for CV Commissioners) have been amended to keep the two chiefs
for one year after they have completed their two-year terms.
Functions
Conservation of Foreign Exchange and Prevention of Smuggling Activities Act, 1974 (COFEPOSA)
• It has been entrusted to conduct investigation to trace proceeds of crime, provisionally attach the
property, ensure prosecution of the offenders, and confiscation of the property by the Special court.
Fugitive Economic Offenders Act, 2018 (FEOA)
• The ED is mandated to attach the properties of the fugitive economic offenders who have escaped
from India warranting arrest and provide for the confiscation of their properties.
❖ Context (TH): Researchers have studied the flavour profile of Mushk Budiji using gas
chromatography-mass spectroscopy (GC-MS) and an ‘electronic nose’.
• 35 volatile organic compounds (VOCs) were identified in Mushk Budiji rice samples.
• The aromatic compound Acetyl-1-pyrroline (2-AP) was found only in samples collected from
higher altitudes.
Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS) is an analytical technique that separates
complex mixtures of compounds into individual components based on their volatility and chemical
properties.
An electronic nose (e-nose) is an instrument designed to mimic the human sense of smell.
• Mushk Budji rice is a short, bold, aromatic rice variety.
• It is grown in the higher reaches of the Kashmir valley.
• The cooked rice possesses a harmonious blend of taste and rich aroma.
• It stands out for its unique flavour and sensory qualities.
• It has received the Geographical Indication (GI) Tag.
❖ Context (BS): Meme coins, a unique category of cryptocurrencies, have gained significant
popularity in the digital currency space.
• Also known as ‘memetic tokens’ or ‘community coins’, meme coins are digital currencies created
as a form of satire or humorous tribute to the internet culture.
• These coins trace their origin to the growth of meme culture on the internet.
• They often feature quirky names, logos, and branding that reference popular memes, jokes, or
internet phenomena.
• Unlike traditional cryptocurrencies such as Bitcoin or Ethereum, meme coins are characterised by
their lighthearted and often comedic nature, designed to go viral and be shared widely.
• Popular meme coins: Dogecoin, Shiba Inu, Bonk, Pepe, Floki etc.
❖ Context (TH): The Navy Chief said the new Maritime Antipiracy Act, 2022, has been a “great
enabler” and is one reason for the Indian Navy’s success during Operation Sankalp.
• The Anti-Maritime Piracy Act provides an effective legal instrument to combat Maritime Piracy.
• Recently, Operation Sankalp completed 100 days in the Gulf of Aden, the North Arabian Sea and the
East Coast of Somalia.
Definition of ship
• Defines ship as (i) vessel or watercraft, and (ii) seaplanes and other aircraft capable of being used
as means of transportation in water.
Penalties
• An act of piracy will be punishable with:
1. Imprisonment for life; or
2. Death, if the act of piracy causes or attempts to cause death.
• An attempt to commit, aid, support, or counsel an act of piracy will be punishable with up to 14
years of imprisonment and a fine.
• Participating in, organising, or directing others to participate in an act of piracy is also punishable
by up to 14 years of imprisonment and a fine.
• Offences will be considered extraditable. This means that the accused can be transferred to any
country for prosecution, with India having signed an extradition treaty.
• In the absence of such treaties, offences will be extraditable on the basis of reciprocity between
the countries.
• Under the Bill, if a person, while committing an act of piracy, causes or seeks to cause death, he will
be punished with death. This implies a mandatory death penalty for such offences.
Specific actions may fall under different offences and have differing penalties
• Certain circumstances may overlap; it is unclear how the punishment would be determined in such
cases.
➢ It provides for imprisonment of up to 14 years, along with a fine, if a person aids, assists,
participates, organises, or directs another person to participate in an act of piracy.
➢ Committing an act of piracy (which includes voluntarily participating in the operation of a pirate
ship or aircraft) is punishable by life imprisonment.
▪ ‘Committing an act of piracy’ and ‘Participating in an act of piracy’ could have the same
interpretation.
▪ Assisting and aiding piracy may be similar to intentionally facilitating piracy or voluntarily
participating in the operation of a pirate ship.
Operation Sankalp
• The Indian Navy launched ‘Operation Sankalp’ in the Persian Gulf and the Gulf of Oman to ensure
the safety and security of the Indian vessels transiting through the Strait of Hormuz.
• The Indian Navy commenced Maritime Security Operations after the attacks on merchant ships in
the Gulf of Oman in June 2019.
• Indian Navy Ships INS Chennai and INS Sunayna were deployed to undertake maritime security
operations in the Gulf of Oman and the Gulf of Persia.
• Aerial surveillance of Indian Naval aircraft is also being carried out in the region.
• The Information Fusion Center-Indian Ocean Region also closely monitors ship motion in the Gulf
region.
Persian Gulf
• Also called the Arabian Gulf, it is a shallow marginal sea of the Indian Ocean that lies between
the Arabian Peninsula and Southwestern Iran.
• Its length is around 990 km and its width varies from around 340 km to a minimum of 55 km in
the Strait of Hormuz.
• It is bordered:
1. On the north, northeast, and east by Iran;
2. On the southeast and south by part of Oman and the United Arab Emirates;
3. On the southwest and west by Qatar, Bahrain, and Saudi Arabia; and
4. On the northwest by Kuwait and Iraq.
• The area has approximately two-thirds of the world’s estimated proven oil reserves and one-
third of the world’s estimated proven natural gas reserves.
Gulf of Oman
• The Gulf of Oman, a northwest arm of the Arabian Sea, lies between the eastern portion of the
Arabian Peninsula (Oman) and Iran.
• It is 560 km long and connects with the Persian Gulf through the Strait of Hormuz.
• It is a shipping route for the oil-producing area around the Persian Gulf.
• It offers the only entrance from the Arabian Sea and the Indian Ocean into the Persian Gulf.
Strait of Hormuz
• The strait is located at the mouth of the Persian Gulf and is crucial to global energy supplies.
• It separates Iran and Oman and links the Persian Gulf to the Gulf of Oman and the Arabian
Sea.
• The Strait is 33 km wide at its narrowest point, but the shipping lane is just three km wide in either
direction.
• About a fifth of all oil traded at sea passes through it.
• It is also the route used for nearly all the Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) produced by the world’s
biggest LNG exporter, Qatar.
• Under Op Sankalp, the Indian Navy also conducts maritime security operations in three areas, viz the
Gulf of Aden and adjoining areas, the Arabian Sea, and off the East Coast of Somalia.
Gulf of Aden
• The Gulf of Aden is in the Indian Ocean, between Yemen on the south coast of the Arabian
Peninsula and Somalia in Africa.
• The Gulf—roughly 900 kilometres long and 500 kilometres wide—is an important waterway for
transporting Persian Gulf oil.
• Together with the Red Sea, which connects within the northwest through the Bab el Mandeb, it
forms an essential oil transport route between Europe and the Far East.
• The Gulf of Aden, which runs in a west-east direction, and the Red Sea have been used for
thousands of years for fishing, trading, and transportation.
• When the British military withdrew from the area in the late 1960s, the use of the gulf was
diminished due to the closing of the Suez Canal. Egypt renovated and reopened the canal in
1975.
• In recent years, the Gulf has received a lot of attention due to piracy, terrorism, and refugee
smuggling.
• According to the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), 142 people died
in 2023 while crossing the Gulf of Aden from the Horn of Africa to the coast of Yemen in search of
refugee status.
Baseline
• It is the low-water line along the coast, which is officially recognised by the coastal state.
Internal Waters
• Internal waters are waters on the landward side of the baseline from which the breadth of the
territorial sea is measured.
• Each coastal state has full sovereignty over its internal waters, as does its land territory.
➢ Examples of internal waters include bays, ports, inlets, rivers, and even lakes connected to the
sea.
• There is no right to innocent passage through internal waters.
➢ The innocent passage refers to passage through waters that are not prejudicial to peace and
security. However, nations have the right to suspend it.
Archipelagic waters
• If the country is an archipelago or has an archipelago under it, a baseline is drawn between the
outermost points of the islands, provided that these islands are close to each other.
• All water inside this is called Archipelagic Water.
• The state has full sovereignty over these waters, and foreign vessels are allowed to pass innocently
through archipelagic waters.
Territorial Sea
• The territorial sea extends seaward up to 12 nautical miles (nm) from its baselines.
➢ A nautical mile is based on the circumference of the earth and is equal to one minute of
latitude.
➢ It is slightly more than a land-measured mile (1 nautical mile = 1.1508 land miles or 1.85 km).
• The coastal states have sovereignty and jurisdiction over the territorial sea.
➢ These rights extend to the surface, seabed, subsoil, and even airspace.
• But the coastal states’ rights are limited by the innocent passage through the territorial sea.
Contiguous Zone
• Each coastal State may claim an EEZ beyond and adjacent to its territorial sea that extends seaward
up to 200 nm from its baselines.
• Within its EEZ, a coastal state has:
1. Sovereign rights to explore, exploit, conserve, and manage natural resources, whether living
or non-living, of the seabed and subsoil.
2. Rights to carry out activities like the production of energy from the water, currents and wind.
• Unlike the territorial sea and the contiguous zone, the EEZ only allows for the resource mentioned
earlier rights.
• It does not give a coastal state the right to prohibit or limit freedom of navigation or overflight,
subject to minimal exceptions.
High Seas
• The ocean surface and the water column beyond the EEZ are referred to as the high seas.
• It is considered as “the common heritage of all mankind” and is beyond any national jurisdiction.
• States can conduct activities in these areas for peaceful purposes, such as transit, marine science,
and undersea exploration.
❖ Context (IE): The latest Hurun Research Institute report, the Hurun Global Rich List for 2024, was
released recently.
Highlights
• In 2023, India gained 94 new billionaires, second only to the US.
• Now, India has a total of 271 billionaires. (An individual with $1 billion in wealth is a billionaire.)
• Indian billionaires collectively own $1 trillion, which is 7% of total wealth.
• The dominant industries among Indian billionaires are pharmaceuticals (39), automobile & auto
components (27), and chemicals (24).
• Mumbai saw the highest growth in billionaires globally, adding 26 in a year to a total of 92
billionaires. This positions Mumbai as the third-largest billionaire hub worldwide and Asia's top
billionaire city.
• New York leads globally with 119 billionaires, followed by London with 97.
• Beijing fell from first to fourth place with 91 billionaires, just three fewer than India's total. China is
still the world capital for billionaires, with as many as 814.
• Context (TH | HT): The Border Roads Organisation (BRO) recently completed the strategic
Nimmu-Padam-Darcha road in Ladakh.
• The Nimmu–Padum–Darcha road (NPDR) (298km), also known as the Zanskar Highway, will
connect Manali to Leh through Darcha and Nimmu on Kargil – Leh Highway.
• It connects Nimmu in the Indus Valley to Padum in Zanskar and Darcha village in Lahul and Spiti.
• The road is now the third axis apart from Manali-Leh and Srinagar-Leh which connects Ladakh to
the hinterland.
• It serves as an alternative to the Leh–Manali Highway, enhancing connectivity between Ladakh
and the rest of India.
• It aims to provide all-weather connectivity and shorten the Manali to Kargil distance by 522 km.
• The Nimmu-Padam-Darcha Road derives its strategic importance from the fact that it is not only
shorter vis-a-vis the other two axes, but crosses only one pass; Shinkun La.
Border Roads Organisation
• It was established in 1960 as a part of the Indian Armed Forces.
• It works under the administrative control of the Ministry of Defence.
• Its primary purpose is to develop and maintain road networks in India’s border areas and
friendly neighboring countries.
• Officers from the Border Roads Engineering Service (BRES) and personnel from the General
Reserve Engineer Force (GREF) form the parent cadre of the BRO.
• It is headed by an officer of the rank of Lieutenant General from the Corps of Engineers of the
Army.
• Known for projects like Project Himank in Ladakh, Project Dantak in Bhutan, and others in
Myanmar, Afghanistan, and Tajikistan.