Month: September 2023

Testing & Improving Soil Health of Bharat: An initiative for an empowered farmer with more yield & less cost in Amrit Kaal.

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India holds significant agricultural importance on the global stage, owing to its vast arable land, diverse agro-climatic zones, and rich biodiversity. It is the world’s second-largest producer of agricultural products, contributing significantly to global food security. India’s production of key crops like rice, wheat, and sugarcane ranks among the highest globally.

23 crore solid health cards are distributed by testing the soil on 12 scientific parameters at around 10000+ soil testing centres set-up by the central government of India. 2,53,49,546 soil samples were taken in 10,74,12,648 SHC were allotted in the cycle 1 between 2015-17. In the year 2023, an allotment of 6995767 has been done on which 461212 samples have been collected and 15884 SHCs have been generated as per the last data.

The foundation for farmers’ long-term sustainability in profitability is healthy, fertile soil. The first step in sustainable farming is using the right amounts of fertilizers and crop rotation as advised by science. A science-based, tried-and-true method for determining the health of the soil, its fertility state, and the need for nutrient amendments is soil testing. In order to use fertilizers wisely, soil testing relies on the principle of profitability, which states that if all other production factors are operating at maximum efficiency and there are no constraints, applying nutrients based on soil testing will almost certainly result in a more profitable outcome than applying nutrients ad hoc.

As opposed to the optimal ratio of 4:2:1, India’s current NPK consumption is 7.7:3.1:1, which which was 8.2:3.2:1 in the year 2012-13. Every year, India spends close to Rs. 70,000 crore on fertilizer subsidies. Estimates place the subsidy at around Rs. 5000 per ha of net cropped land and roughly Rs. 5100 per farmer, which leads to an overuse of fertilizers, particularly NPK at the expense of micronutrients and manure. As a result, the government of India introduced the Soil Health Card Scheme throughout India, which calls for the balanced use of fertilizers (GoI, 2017).

The ministry of agriculture launched the soil health card (SHC) program on December 5th, 2015. The SHC system may be put into effect for the remainder of the 12th plan period. To all farmers, SHC will be made available.In the nation every two years to let farmers to apply the necessary amounts of nutrients based on the results of soil tests in order to achieve enhanced and long-lasting soil health and fertility, lower expenses, and higher profitability.

In an analysis report published in the year 2017 (Impact Study of Soil Health Card Scheme, National Institute of Agricultural Extension Management (MANAGE), Hyderabad) the main findings about the SHC is mentioned as below:-

  • Given the short duration of the scheme, awareness levels are good. At the same time participation of farmers in meetings, exposure visits are not high. Awareness campaigns need to be organized on content of SHCs, use of recommended practices, reduction in fertilizer use and costs and increase in profitability

  • There is no apparent or significant bias against socio-economically vulnerable sections. In contrast, small and marginal farmers benefit more in some cases.

  • There is some reduction in fertilizer use, especially nitrogen and increase in bio-fertilizers and other micro-nutrients use. This is a good sign as N: P: K ratio was highly skewed towards nitrogen. Costs were reduced due to low fertilizer use. Crop yields have also increased for majority of the crops, although only moderately.

In the same analysis report, the level of impact of SHC is mentioned as below:-

  • The SHC scheme is inclusive in nature, small and marginal farmers are pro-active in adoption of recommendations based on SHC.

  • There was a reduction in use of urea and DAP by 20 to 30% in paddy and cotton in some states resulted in decreased cost of cultivation. The reduction in cost of cultivation ranged between Rs.1000 and Rs.4000 per acre.

  • The use of micro-nutrients (especially gypsum) was slightly increased after SHC distribution.

  • There was a significant increase in yield for farmers who practiced recommended practices as per the SHC.

  • With the decrease in cost of cultivation and increase in yields, netincomes of the farmers increased between 30 and 40% after the SHC scheme.

A study conducted by the National Productivity Council (NPC) says the application of Soil Health Card recommendations has led to a decline of 8-10% in use of chemical fertilizers and also raised productivity by 5-6%.

The Agriculture Ministry adopted the revised design of the Soil Health Card. Ministry considered various policy and scheme design recommendations (like tenure for testing, scale of operation) while revising the Soil Health Card scheme. Additional results:

  • An impact evaluation showed that the redesigned Soil Health Card (SHC) improved farmers’ comprehension of fertiliser recommendations 65 times, from 0.5% to 33%.

  • For every 1,000 spent on printing cards, 1 farmer is able to understand the recommendations on the old card, while 71 farmers are able to understand the recommendations on the new card

In August 2023, Union Minister for Agriculture and Animal Husbandry replied in Rajyasabha in his written asnwer about the soil health card scheme stating that:

  • Now, Government of India has made some technological interventions in New Soil Health Card Scheme. The Soil Health Card portal has been revamped and integrated with a Geographic Information System (GIS) system so that all the test results are captured and seen on a map.

  • The new system has already been rolled out from April, 2023 and Samples are collected through mobile application. Soil Health Cards are generated on revamped portal. 56 Training sessions to States have been arranged for the new system.

  • Detail Soil Mapping at 1:10000 scale is undertaken using high resolution satellite data and field survey/ ground data in the priority areas of the country by Soil & Land Use Survey of India, DA&FW. This Soil Resource Information is a geo-spatial data in digital format and generated separately from SHC.

  • Soil Health Card scheme has been merged in Rashtriya Krishi Vikas Yojana (RKVY) cafeteria scheme as its one component under name ‘Soil Health & Fertility’ from the year 2022-23

The soil health card scheme, now the Rashtriya Krishi Vikas Yojna has resulted on the principles adopted by the committee formed by the Government of India to double the farmers’ income. It has proved out to be a vital step in making viksit Bharat in 2047 by strengthening and empowering the farmers and increasing the crop-yield more economically.

1.7 RKM/Day to 18 RKM/Day. How Bharat electrified railway network equivalent to railways in Australia, Germany & Argentina.

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Railways play a pivotal role in global transportation by facilitating efficient, cost-effective, and sustainable movement of goods and people. They connect remote regions, reduce road congestion, and curb emissions. Railways foster economic growth, trade, and connectivity, making them indispensable for a greener and interconnected world.

Following Hon’ble Prime Minister’s net zero emission mission, the railways in Bharat have braced up to realise this vision though its 100% broad gauge electrification mission. Bharat has over 65350 kms broad gauge railway tracks out of which only just 21413 kms of tracks were electrified but over the past 9 years the railway electrification work has paced up tremendously resulting in electrifying around 40000 kilometres of railway electrification during this period which takes the total to over 59000 kms. The work of electrifying 6000+ kilometres of broad gauge network is going at a rapid pace with an aim to achieve 100% electrification before the end of the year 2023.

Aiming to achieve the title of world’s largest green railways and zero carbon emission by 2030, the Indian railways’ broad gauge network has witnessed 100% electrification in 14 states/UTs in June 2023. The Indian Railways also aims to save around 2 lakh litres of fuel daily by electrifying all 411 maintenance pits by December 2023 out of which work for 302 has already been concluded. 100% Railway electrification will save around 13510 crore per annum. The 100% electrification will not only save fuel but also be economical with the maintenance perspective. While maintenance of diesel locomotives costs 32.84 thousand GTKM, the electric locomotive costs only 16.45 per thousand GTKM.

The country imports 85% of its crude requirements of which Indian railways is the highest consumer. The electrification has reduced the dependency on fuel supply from foreign countries as in 2014-15 the total 18,536 Cr was spent for diesel by the Indian railways The Railways has reduced its diesel consumption by more than 50 per cent in 2020-21 in comparison to its previous financial year, Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw said.

In his reply to a question in Lok Sabha, Vaishnaw said “in 2018-2019, the Railways’ diesel consumption was 26,41,142 kilo litres, which reduced by 10.44 per cent in 2019-2020, which further reduced by 50.29 per cent to 11,75,901 kilo litres in 2020-21”. The fuel bill shrank a significant 38 per cent, too, from Rs 18,587 crore to Rs 11,439 crore in the same period.

The railway electrification in the past 9 years describes the scale and pace of development of the nation signifying its Amrit Kaal. Electrifying nearly 40000 kms of broad gauge railway network in just 9 years is equal to electrifying the total railway network of countries like Germany (40,625 Kms), Argentina (36,966 Kms), Australia (33,168 Kms), Brazil (39,817 Kms), France (29,273 Kms), Japan (27,273 Kms) and many other countries on the world map.

Witnessing nearly 176% increase in railway electrification in the past 9 years makes a significant jump from just 32.7% of electrified broad gauge railway network in 2014 to 90% in the year 2023 which will achieve the 100% mark by December 2023. It will make Bharat the largest electrified broad gauge railway network in the world and second country to achieve the 100% electrification mark after Switzerland (6200 Kms) which is less than 10% as compared to Indian railway broad gauge network.

While Bharat aims to achieve the 100% railway electrification milestone by December 2023, the so called developed countries of the world like USA has only 1%, Australia 10%, U.K. 38%, Russia 51%, EU 56%, China 72% and Japan 75% stands way below in electrifying its railway network.

It is very significant to verify the scale and pace of railway electrification during the 21st century. The average RKM/day electrification during 2004-09 was 12 RKM/day with only 2150 RKM electrified. During 2009-2014 only 3038 RKM were electrified with only 1.7 RKM/day whereas post 2014 it tremendously took of 13687 RKM electrified with 7.5 RKM/Day further during 2019-22, 16759 RKM electrified with 15.3 RKM/day and 6565 RKM during the year 2022-23 with 18 RKM/day signifying the Amrit Kaal of Bharat satisfying the aspirations 1.4 billion Bharatiya citizens.

Amrit Kaal of Bharat is not about incremental growth but it is about taking strides and jumps across all sectors. The Railways being the lifeline of Bharat has also proved itself as the high speed engine of the growth that the nation has witnessed during the past decade. After decades of ignorance and negligence towards the key issues and sectors of development, now Bharat is the key to global development in its Amrit Kaal. One can imagine how 100% electrification will directly benefit in reduction of carbon emission, to per km operation cost, and maintenance cost as well as have indirect benefits in generating employment as well as beginning down the commodity costs at a large benefiting a large strata of population in Bharat.

How Bharat has increased its strength on the LOC and the LAC during the previous decade for a ‘ShaktiShali’ Amrit Kaal

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India, a country that is widely known as a third world nation to the west, a perpetrator of religious violence to its enemies and the homeland to various religious and cultural identities has made a noteworthy growth in the past decade. India has established itself as one of the fastest growing economies in the world carrying the weight of world’s largest population. The commendable growth of the country has earned Indians a respectable position on the world map. Since 2014, under the BJP Government and under the power of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, India has witnessed holistic development with growing job opportunities, schemes and policies to nourish the agriculture industry of the country and has enhanced defense system with remarkable capabilities to tackle the hostile environment around the borders. Among the various developmental highlights of the Modi government, let’s discuss a comprehensive picture of the increased Air power of India since 2014.

India shares borders with seven countries and among them China and Pakistan have been hostile and bitter to India for decades now. Prime Minister Modi’s efforts towards a self-sufficient, strong and striding defense system has boosted India’s position in Asia aiming to threaten the enemy nations from disturbing India’s peace. India’s air power has seen significant growth over the decade with a crucial role in the nation’s defense and security strategy. Since 2014, India has undertaken ambitious initiatives to bring in modern technology in its air force, bolster its defense powers and strengthening its position in Asia. Since its inception the Indian Air Force (IAF), today the IAF has come a long way. In its early years, IAF heavily relied on European nations like the UK and The Soviet for aircrafts. India’s aviation power had a struggling journey during the Indo-Pak and several other conflicts with the neighboring nations. The challenges in the Indian defense system in the past required a modern approach. Limited resources, outdated equipment, and technological gaps contributed as major impediments to efficacy. Additionally, the geopolitical strategy and regional tensions demanded a sturdy air force capable of protecting India’s borders and projecting power when necessary. The dispute with Pakistan and the obligation to maintain a credible deterrent against potential adversaries further made modernization the need of the hour.

In today’s date and time, the IAF ranks as the fourth largest air force across the globe stocked with a diverse fleet of aircrafts with extreme potential. Standing strong with a range of fighter jets, aircrafts and helicopters with advanced technology, the Indian Air Force include some state-of-the-art fighters such as the Sukhoi Su 30MKI and Dassault Rafale. Some of the evidences of India’s boosted air power is the Modi government’s emphasis on Indigenous air craft production. To further work on this endeavor, Aeronautical Development Agency developed the Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Tejas. Since 2014, India has successfully inducted several Tejas fighter aircraft into its air force. With the LCA Tejas Mark 1A, an upgraded variant with improved avionics and capabilities, f India’s self-reliance in the aerospace sector becomes commendable. Besides acquiring new aircrafts, India has initiated steps to modernize the already existing fleet. For instance, the Mirage-2000, MiG-29, and Jaguar fleets have undergone upgrades, extending their operational lifespan and effectiveness.

Since 2014, India has built multifaceted bilateral relations with powerful nations like Israel, Russia, France, Japan, United States and gulf countries that have further led to active support from these nations in the IT and defense sector. In the year 2016, India signed a deal with France to purchase 36 Rafale fighter jets, which enhance the Indian Air Force’s combat capabilities significantly. The induction of Rafale jets has expanded India’s advanced avionics and weapons systems. After the Modi government, the IAF also secured the AH-64E Apache Attack helicopters from the United States. These helicopters acquire proficiency in air-to-ground and anti-tank advancements. In 2018, Russia and India signed a deal to acquire the S-400 Triumph air defense system which would prepare India against aerial dangers with long-range air defense capabilities. With the establishment of Defense Space Agency (2019), the Modi government ensured to protect the space assets of India and help military operations in the process. According to a recent news article from Indian Express, Defense minister Rajnath Singh has inaugurated Nechipu Tunnel in Arunachal Pradesh under the Border Roads Organization project (BRO). With the motive to bolster national security by improving connectivity and accessibility in remote but significant areas along the LAC, BRO projects were initiated by the defense ministry in the north-eastern region and eastern Ladakh. India’s efforts to safeguard the country’s territorial integrity strategically in record time has strengthened India’s position in the daunting terrains of the border areas.

India has been aware of the threat that the border nations pose and has ensured optimal use of air power by focusing on the training of the IAF personnel. The IAF has also concentrated on the modernization of training infrastructure by bring in new simulators and training facilities. As a result, the pilot skills and the readiness of the IAF personnel have improved notably. The IAF placed equal emphasis on development and deployment with the induction of Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAV) including surveillance drones. Giving timely insights about the armed forces, indigenously developed surveillance drones like Rustom and Heron TP have been proved instrumental. The access to advanced technologies assured domestic security as well as peace and stability in the South Asia region. India has taken big steps like joint military exercises, modernizing defense infrastructure and investing in defense diplomacy to assert itself as a potential superpower.

Bringing Bharat to a powerful position where Bharat’s capable of making itself heard and seen has been a daunting task. Modi government’s strategies have ensured to nurture the balance of power delicately and to keep up with the continuously advancing technologies. The Indian government’s strong ministerial decisions resulted in a decade long bright future for Bhar. India’at during the Amrit Kaal evolving air power will ensure protection of national interests, weeding out political threats and will play a vital role in establishing regional stability.

Global Biofuel Alliance (GBA): Fuelling a Sustainable Future Alongside the International Solar Alliance

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Introduction:

The Birth of GBA in New Delhi:

The Global Biofuel Alliance (GBA) was officially launched in New Delhi, Bharat, on September 9, 2023, on the sidelines of the G20 Summit. The event brought together leaders from various countries, including Singapore, Bangladesh, Italy, the USA, Brazil, Argentina, Mauritius, and the UAE, showcasing India’s leadership in promoting sustainable energy solutions on the global stage.

Bharat’s Leadership Role:

Bharat’s leadership in driving the GBA is a testament to its commitment to addressing climate change and fostering global cooperation. As the G20 Chair, Bharat played a pivotal role in conceptualizing and championing the GBA, emphasizing its dedication to sustainable energy initiatives. Bharat’s Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi, expressed his vision for a sustainable future, stating that “The launch of the Global Biofuels Alliance marks a significant milestone in our pursuit of sustainability and clean energy.”

In a world increasingly concerned about climate change and the need for sustainable energy solutions, the launch of the Global Biofuel Alliance (GBA) in September 2023 stands as a significant milestone. Spearheaded by India as the G20 Chair, the GBA aims to accelerate the global adoption of biofuels. This alliance seeks to not only reduce greenhouse gas emissions but also align with global sustainability goals, similar to the International Solar Alliance (ISA).

GBA’s Mission and Objectives:

The GBA’s mission is clear: expedite the worldwide transition to biofuels. This goal is achieved through several key objectives:

1. Technological Advancements : GBA promotes the advancement of biofuel technologies. Just as the ISA seeks to harness solar energy efficiently, the GBA encourages innovation in biofuel production and utilization.

2. Sustainable Biofuels : Like solar energy, biofuels are a renewable resource. GBA emphasizes the use of sustainable biofuels, ensuring they are produced in an eco-friendly and responsible manner.

3. Standards and Certification : To ensure the quality and reliability of biofuels, the GBA focuses on establishing robust standards and certification processes. This parallels the ISA’s efforts to standardize solar technology.

4. Global Collaboration: GBA serves as a catalyst for international cooperation, much like the ISA. It brings together a diverse range of stakeholders to collectively advance biofuels.

5. Knowledge Hub : The GBA acts as a central repository of knowledge, sharing information and expertise. Similarly, the ISA facilitates knowledge sharing among solar-rich countries.

GBA and the International Solar Alliance:

The launch and success of the International Solar Alliance (ISA) in 2015 paved the way for collaborative efforts in the renewable energy sector. While the ISA primarily focuses on solar energy, it shares common goals with the GBA:

1. Complementary Solutions : The ISA focuses on harnessing the power of the sun, while the GBA advocates for biofuels. Together, these renewable energy sources offer complementary solutions for reducing carbon emissions.

2. Global Cooperation : Both alliances promote international collaboration. The ISA has rallied solar-rich nations, while the GBA unites countries interested in biofuels. This collective approach strengthens the global commitment to sustainable energy.

3. Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) : The ISA and GBA align with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals. They contribute to clean energy (SDG 7) and combat climate change (SDG 13), among others.

4. Economic Opportunities : Just as the ISA has opened economic opportunities related to solar energy, the GBA is projected to generate opportunities worth USD 500 billion for G20 countries in the next three years. This can help nations achieve their Sustainable Development Goals while boosting their economies.

Success Stories:

The ISA has made significant strides in promoting solar energy adoption among member nations. India, as a founding member, has witnessed remarkable growth in its solar sector. Similarly, the GBA holds the potential to transform the biofuel landscape:

1. India’s Renewable Energy Growth : India, through its renewable energy initiatives, has experienced substantial growth in the solar and wind energy sectors. The GBA complements these efforts by expanding the portfolio of sustainable energy sources.

2. Reducing Fossil Fuel Dependence : Both alliances aim to reduce dependence on fossil fuels. The GBA’s efforts in advancing biofuels can contribute significantly to this objective.

3. Economic Benefits : The economic benefits of sustainable energy are evident in the success of the ISA. The GBA’s projected economic opportunities demonstrate the potential for job creation and economic growth.

Toward Net Zero Emissions:

The ultimate goal shared by the GBA and the ISA is the achievement of net-zero emissions. As the International Energy Agency (IEA) suggests, global sustainable biofuel production needs to triple by 2030 to align with reaching net zero emissions by 2050. Similarly, the ISA’s focus on harnessing solar energy contributes to reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

How GBA contributes in the life of every citizen?

GBA represents hope for a sustainable future. It signifies a collective effort to combat climate change, reduce our dependence on fossil fuels, and transition towards cleaner energy sources. For a student passionate about the environment, the GBA offers inspiration and a sense of purpose. It means that the world is taking tangible steps to address environmental challenges, making it possible for future generations to inherit a healthier planet.

Conclusion:

The launch and success of the Global Biofuel Alliance (GBA) and the International Solar Alliance (ISA) represent a united effort to combat climate change, reduce fossil fuel dependence, and promote sustainable energy solutions. These alliances, with their complementary approaches to renewable energy, are instrumental in advancing the world’s transition to a sustainable and clean energy future. By aligning with the goal of achieving net-zero emissions, they pave the way for a brighter and more sustainable tomorrow.

How Bharat has realised ‘Women Empowerment’ in the previous decade for the Amrit Kaal?

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In the heart of dreams, where courage takes flight,

A symphony of vision, in the darkest night.

With grace and ambition, they boldly stand,

Women, crafting dreams with their own hands.

Today’s Bharat talks about resilience meeting innovation, dreams transforming into reality. With sheer determination that not only propels them to shatter perceptional glass ceilings but blaze their own trails in the business world. Years back when someone thought about entrepreneurship or taking a journey which was not a usual one with family traditions or had to step out of the usual space of working was a huge deal but thinking about today’s era it’s more of a transformal Journey. Bharat’s Amritkaal has not only taken the meaning of Entrepreneurship to a new level but has made sure each and every jewel of true talent in India receives its desired result for his or her effort. There were times when stepping out from the kitchen and staging one’s opinion was a far fetched dream and comparing it out to today’s scenario in this dynamic transition for our nation there are these females who don’t even own a MBA degree for understanding the core concepts of business world are heading startups which earn more than a crore per annum.

India is rewriting its own narrative for breaking the barrier and shooting for the far distinctive star. Women are exploring their talents in such a way that they are not only shining themselves but are able to give opportunities to the worthy ones. As one embarks on the journey to explore the intricate landscape of empowerment and entrepreneurship is definitely casting its gaze upon the shifting contours of time. In the pages of history, it was discerned a stark disparity, a poignant division between urban dynamism and rural seclusion. This divide was marked by unequal access to opportunities and privileges, which had long been a subject of concern in both developed cities and underprivileged villages.

However in today’s Amrit Kaal the expedition has taken a riveting turn as a huge step in deriving the worthy skill to prove their worth. The Central Government as well as the state government schemes are not only helping a fresh mind in Bangalore to start their own venture but also giving an opportunity to get the best talent out and manage to utilise his or her skill effectively. As a step into the contemporary world, this does not limit itself just to first or second tier cities but also stretches itself to farest secluded village. This spirit of innovation blazes like a comet streaking across the night sky. These ambitious ventures are not mere dots on the entrepreneurial map; they are beacons of progress, illuminating the path to a brighter future.

It is rightly said with every one female getting educated she uplifts her whole family, one similar example is of Pabiben Rabari who has not only broken the barriers through her skill and hard work but her passion to do something which makes her community proud. Pabiben Rabari comes from the nomadic community of Rabaris’, a community who mostly deal in the business of cattle rearing.Through her sheer hard work and perseverance she was able to go from earning a daily wage to working with rural women artisans by training and supporting the traditional crafts. Her artform ‘Hari Jari’ has now earned a global clientele which actually describes New Bharat’s Amrit Kaal.

Another beautiful example of true entrepreneurial spirit is of Fem Care Pharma’s founder, Sunita Ramnathkar, set out on an entrepreneurial path that would forever change the Indian beauty sector. She and her IIT-graduate brother identified a glaring market gap for face bleach solutions designed specifically for Indian ladies. Their motivation stemmed from her search for a means to address a specific demand in the beauty industry following the birth of her kid. The sheer dedication to offering affordable, high-quality face bleach products resonated with customers throughout India, and the brand grew. Their extraordinary odyssey came to an end when the renowned Dabur Group acquired them as a result of their incredible achievement. Sunita Ramnathkar is still a shining example of entrepreneurship today, taking on new projects and leaving a lasting mark on Indian business. Her experience serves as an example of the value of seeking out unmet needs, creativity, and the transformative effects of entrepreneurship.

‘Each time a woman stands up for herself, without knowing it, possibly without claiming it, she stands for all the women’. These beautiful sentences by Maya Angelou tells one about depths of undiscovered and impossible dreams which one saw but couldn’t explore or pursue them. However, as times have evolved, these words have transformed into mere echoes in the New Bharat. This nation has steadily and resolutely ascended to the ranks of developed nations, and at its core, are the resilient ventures championed by women.Women entrepreneurs in Amrit Kaal looked beyond borders. They ventured into international markets, leveraging globalization to expand their businesses, build cross-cultural networks, and create a global impact.

While talking about the borders, years ago, discussions about gender equality in the defense sector often centered around the perception that it was exclusively a ‘man’s world’. However post 2014 the situation as well as the perception and the narrative has significantly evolved. Today, there have been transformative developments that emphasize inclusivity and equal opportunities for women. For instance, Sainik Schools, traditionally associated with preparing students for the National Defence Academy (NDA), have taken progressive steps by admitting girls in recent years. This pivotal move ensures that young women can aspire to pursue careers in the armed forces from an early age. Moreover, the Indian Army took a groundbreaking step in 2019 by opening its doors to women in the Military Police. And not just this Union government has also promised for permanent commission to all the women officers in the Indian Army. These decisions mark a significant expansion of roles available to women within the Army, granting them responsibilities in areas such as crime investigation, discipline enforcement, and prisoner of war management.

While thinking into broader perspectives these initiatives not only break down traditional barriers but also contribute significantly to increase participation of women in the defense sector, fostering a more diverse and inclusive environment. Along with this prior to 2014, the Indian armed services had also imposed significant gender restrictions, limiting the roles accessible to women within their ranks. However, since that key year, there has also been a steadfast resolve to increase their participation. The Union government has enacted a number of policies targeted at increasing gender equality in the defense sector.One of the most notable improvements has been the creation of new opportunities for women in the military. In a historic step in 2016, the Indian Air Force (IAF) welcomed its first cadre of female fighter pilots, breaking down a long-standing gender barrier.

While discussing the crucial topic of gender equality and its associated policies, it’s impossible to overlook the groundbreaking decision of the ‘Mahila Shakti Vandan Abhiyam.’ This historic decision transformed India’s image on the world stage. As a land of immense opportunities, India has consistently taken the high road in promoting, advocating for, and uplifting various segments of society. Yet, when it comes to women’s representation in politics, it often seemed as if there were no substantial initiatives in place. The ‘Mahila Shakti Vandan Abhiyam’ shattered that perception. This visionary step helps to reserve 33% of electoral seats for women which also talks about reservation of 33% of seats in the reserved seat category i.e SC’s and ST’s, with its comprehensive approach and a bright dream of empowering women in politics like never before.

It has not only opened doors, provided a platform, and actively encouraged women to take their rightful place in the political arena but has uplifted a sense of empowering the powerful power-less. This decision wasn’t merely a stepping stone; it was a quantum leap that transcended convention painted a new landscape, where India’s commitment to inclusivity and the empowerment of women glistened as stars in the night sky. The ‘Mahila Shakti Vandan Abhiyam’ redefined the very essence of progress, echoing the chorus of change across every facet of society, especially within the realm of politics. It was an artistic stroke on the canvas of history, revealing India’s masterpiece in its journey toward a more equitable and harmonious future.

Standup India and Mudra Yojana, two exceptional programs, have become the pillars of empowerment for young female professionals throughout India. These initiatives have sparked a wave of change in the entrepreneurial landscape by bridging the gap between goals and accomplishments. Governments in the direction to support such ventures have taken three steps at a time to provide a worthy platform as well as equal opportunities. These schemes have resulted in real-world success stories rather than just being on paper. Young female professionals have used the assistance provided by Standup India and Mudra Yojana to realize their dreams in a variety of industries, including agriculture, retail, technology, and services. As of 2021 over 81000 loans have been sanctioned to women entrepreneurs and around more than 29 crore women entrepreneurs have benefited from Mudra loans. They now serve as the catalyst for an increase in female-led companies, which has greatly aided the country’s economic development and social advancement.

With times changing the societal attitudes on women’s employment in business have changed. As long-held prejudices were challenged by women’s success as leaders and entrepreneurs, more women were inspired to follow their entrepreneurial aspirations. As one knows, the body of a female changes with every stage she enters whether it is an adolescent girl to an expecting woman. Supportive decisions of Maternity leave extending to 6 and half months along with medical benefits expanding throughout the whole period and compensatory wage benefit has helped a woman to manage and balance her life and professional journey in a better way. Women are no longer relegated to the periphery in India’s expansive business landscape; instead, they are telling their tales on the expansive canvas of innovation and enterprise. For prospective female entrepreneurs, the government’s dedication to gender equality, access to resources, and a supportive environment has opened doors to opportunity and allowed them to turn their aspirations into reality.

As India marches forward on its path to becoming an economic powerhouse, women entrepreneurs are poised to take center stage in this transformative journey. The presence of well-established government schemes, robust policies, and attractive incentives paves the way for an abundance of success stories, a proliferation of trailblazers, and a growing community of women who fearlessly envision, accomplish, and inspire. The invaluable contribution of women-led businesses to India’s GDP is substantial, comprising around 17% of the nation’s total economic output. These female entrepreneurs serve as employers to over 22 million individuals, presenting substantial employment opportunities that strengthen the fabric of the nation’s workforce.

नारी उद्यमिता, देश के विकास का मार्गप्रदर्शिका

ISRO: Making Bharat an emerging leader in the global space sector during the previous decade.

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Introduction:

The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) has been on a remarkable journey of space exploration, firmly establishing itself as one of the world’s leading space agencies. With a series of groundbreaking missions and technological achievements, ISRO has not only elevated Bharat’s reputation in the global space community but also fostered international collaborations. This blog delves into ISRO’s accomplishments, focusing on new India’s steller decade in the space sector during its Amrit Kaal.

Bharat has witnessed a 123 percent rise in the space budget with 5615 crore in 20-13-14 to 12543 crores in the year 2023-24. Before the previous decade only 35 foreign satellites were launched by Bharat whereas in the previous decade an impressive 389 foreign satellites were launched which earned 3300 crores to the nation. In 2014, Bharat launched 104 satellites at a time, making a world record out of which 101 were foreign satellites.

The space policy of Bharat has opened up the doors for the private sector to contribute in the space sector by utilising ISRO technologies and facilities. The first private launchpad and mission control centre in 2020 and since then 140 new start-ups have emerged while In-SPACe created an ecosystem of industry, academia and innovation that is rewriting a new chapter of space exploration in Amrit Kaal.

1. ISRO’s Journey: Reaching for the Stars:

Founded in 1969, ISRO embarked on a journey to explore the depths of space. Over the years, it has achieved numerous milestones, including the launch of its first satellite Aryabhata in 1975 and the successful Mars Orbiter Mission (Mangalyaan) in 2014, making India the first Asian nation to reach Mars. These achievements laid the foundation for ISRO’s reputation as a reliable and proficient space agency.

After the successful Mangalyan, the successful landing of Chandrayan 3 made ISRO shine on the Global Space map as an emerging leader. Bharat is now the first country to ever land on the south pole of the moon and 4th country ever to reach on the moon. This mission was not only accurately aspirational but also economically efficient. There’s a lot of fuel left as everything was very nominal on the way to the Moon and there were no contingencies requiring corrections (for which fuel would have been expended). We’re left with almost all the margin, that’s around 150+kg,” stated Isro chairman S Somanath to TOI.

The ‘Vikram’ lander had 3 major payloads namely RAMBHA LP – Langmuir Probe, ChaSTE – Chandr’s Surface Thermo-Physical Experiment and ILSA – Instrument of Lunar Seismic Activity whereas the ‘Pragyan’ rover had two major payloads namely APXS – Alpha Particle X-Ray Spectrometer and LIBS – Laser Induced Breakdown Spectrometer. The success of Chandrayaan-3 could contribute significantly to India’s space economy, projected to be worth USD 13 billion by 2025. This boost can catalyze employment generation, encourage private investments, and foster the growth of the country’s space-tech ecosystem.

The successfully launched Aditya L1 on 4th September 2023 is designed to provide remote observations of the Solar corona and conduct in-situ observations of the Solar wind at L1 (Sun-Earth Lagrangian point), which is about 1.5 million kilometres from the Earth.

2. PSLV-C56 Mission: A Landmark in ISRO’s Success:

The recent PSLV-C56 mission marked another landmark in ISRO’s space exploration journey. Launched on July 30, 2023, from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre at Sriharikota, the mission successfully deployed seven foreign satellites into their designated orbits. The main payload of the mission was the DS-SAR satellite, developed by Singapore. This sophisticated satellite is equipped with Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) technology, enabling it to generate high-resolution images for various applications, including agriculture, urban planning, disaster management, and environmental monitoring.

3. Co-Passenger Satellites: Expanding Global Collaborations:

In addition to the DS-SAR satellite, the PSLV-C56 mission also carried six co-passenger satellites from different countries, each serving unique purposes. These satellites included:

– 3 Diamonds: These three microsatellites developed by the Italian Space Agency (ASI) are dedicated to Earth observation and maritime surveillance applications.

– Blue Bird-1: Developed by Turkey’s Space Technologies Research Institute, Blue Bird-1 is a high-resolution Earth observation satellite aimed at providing valuable data for urban planning and disaster management.

– SIES 3: Developed by Spain’s UniversitatPolitecnica de Catalunya, SIES 3 is a technology demonstration satellite focusing on experimental payloads and educational purposes.

– I-AoT-2: The second satellite in Japan’s Internet of Things (IoT) Application Satellite series, I-AoT-2 aims to test advanced IoT communication technologies in space.

4. Benefits of Launching Foreign Satellites for India:

ISRO’s endeavors in launching foreign satellites bring multiple advantages to India’s space program and its standing on the global stage:

– Economic Gains: Collaborative space missions allow ISRO to earn foreign exchange revenue, benefiting India’s economy while making space access more cost-effective for partner countries.

– Technological Advancements: Partnerships facilitate the exchange of knowledge and technology, enabling both ISRO and collaborating nations to enhance their space capabilities.

– Diplomatic Cooperation: Launching foreign satellites fosters goodwill and strengthens diplomatic relations between India and partner countries, leading to potential joint ventures and collaborations in other sectors.

To Conclude, India’s space journey has been characterized by dedication, innovation, and international collaboration. The recent PSLV-C56 mission exemplifies Bharat’s commitment to space exploration and cooperation with other nations. As ISRO continues its pursuit of reaching for the stars, it not only strengthens its own capabilities but also contributes significantly to global scientific knowledge and cooperation. With each successful mission, India showcases its technological prowess, firmly establishing itself as a major player in the space race. As the nation continues to explore the cosmos, its aspirations to reach greater heights become an inspiration for the world to dream big and explore the unknown horizons of the universe.

Strengthening of Border Road Network in the previous decade: A strategic stride in Amrit Kaal

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India is a blessed country in the fact that it has a God-given natural border. Shielded by the mighty Himalayas in the North and covered by ocean from three sides, geography has acted as a bulwark for thousands of years. But the modern world’s geo-strategic realities defy and transcend geographical boundaries, and make it imperative for India to accelerate its border infrastructure development. The need for this transformation can be ascertained from the 1962 Sino-Indian War, the 1999 Kargil War, and the recent clashes in Doklam (2017) and Galwan (2020). But sadly, over the years, successive Governments have lacked the political will and strategic foresight to realise the long-term geo-strategic and economic relevance of strong borders. Luckily, this all changed when the Modi Government came to power in 2014.

Under the visionary leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, the Indian Government has been actively working on strengthening India’s border road network by leaps and bounds. The Modi Government understands the long-term strategic and economic importance of a strong, secure and accessible border, and has therefore strongly emphasised on improving connectivity in border regions. Over the past decade, there has been an unprecedented push to connect India’s approx 15,200 KM long land border with last-mile connectivity. The prioritisation of the border road network is in line with PM Modi’s motto of ‘Nation First’, which is the bedrock of all his policies.

Rise in Budget Allocations

The emphasis on border connectivity is best reflected in the huge budgetary allocations provided to the Border Roads Organisation (BRO) successively every year since 2014. Under the UPA in 2013-14, the BRO had a budget allocation of ₹3782 crores. In Amrit Kaal, the 2023-2024 budget has allocated ₹14,387 crore to the BRO. This is an almost 4 fold increase and signifies the importance being given to border infrastructure, vis-a-vis growing tensions with China. This increased budget has facilitated procurement of modern construction plants, equipment and machinery to enhance the pace of construction warranted by strategic imperatives. A large share of increased funding has been used for better upkeep of strategic roads in the border areas and it will also give a major boost to the construction of strategically important roads, tunnels and bridges along the northern and north-eastern borders.

Swift and Steady Implementation of Projects

Under the Modi Government, both the planning and on-ground implementation have been swift and steady. This has given India strategic depth and mobility in hitherto inaccessible border areas.

Roads: India had constructed 4,422 KM of border roads at an average rate of 632 KM per year between 2008 and 2015. In comparison to the UPA era, the construction speed has rapidly accelerated under the Modi Government, with 6,848 KM of roads built between 2015 and 2023, averaging 856 KM per year during this period. Since April 2019, the Border Roads Organization (BRO) has completed the construction of 3,700 KM of roads and 266 bridges, totaling 17,411 meters in length. In 2023, 16 passes were opened in record time. This not only saved us money by providing essential air support to isolated places but also brought us big economic and strategic benefits. As of September 2023, a total of 295 projects worth ₹11,000 crore have been completed on the LAC in just the past 3 years.

Tunnels: Since 2014, a total of 6 major tunnels have been completed, with an additional 10 tunnels currently in various stages of construction and seven more in the planning phase. The completed tunnels include the Sonapur Tunnel in Meghalaya, Theng Tunnel in Sikkim, Atal Tunnel in Himachal Pradesh, Chamba Tunnel in Uttarakhand, Nechiphu Tunnel, and Sela Tunnel in Arunachal Pradesh. The 10 tunnels under construction are in Arunachal Pradesh, Jammu and Kashmir, and Ladakh. Seven more tunnels are being planned in Ladakh, Himachal Pradesh and Sikkim – namely, Key La Tunnel, Hamboting La Tunnel, Saser La Tunnel, Tanglang La Tunnel, Lachung La Tunnel, Baralacha La Tunnel and Donkyala Tunnel.

Bridges: The Modi Government is constructing the world’s tallest railway bridge in Kashmir. The Chenab Bridge is 4,314 feet long and it is a part of a broader project to make the Kashmir Valley accessible by the Indian Railway network. The Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla Rail Link (USBRL) project involves what will become the country’s longest transportation tunnel and Indian Railways’ first cable bridge. A total of 64 bridges have been dedicated to the nation in 2023, so far. Constructing a bridge at 11,000 feet in Sikkim near Bhutan and establishing a river crossing in Galathea for connectivity to Laxmi Nagar, India’s southernmost panchayat on Great Nicobar Island, have been particularly significant projects.

Taming the Dragon

India shares a 3,488 KM border with China. Since its inception, Communist China has followed an expansionary policy across its neighbourhood, and its first glimpses were seen with the annexation of Tibet and the infiltration into Indian territory which led to the 1962 Sino-Indian War. The threat still looms, as China has consistently laid claim to Indian territory. The Doklam and Galwan standoff revealed the cruciality of a good border infrastructure and India was able to successfully push back these intrusions. This was possible because of the sheer scale and effort being put into border development by the Modi Government.

According to Lt Gen Rajeev Chaudhry, the DG of BRO, with the current pace of development happening on the Line of Actual Control (LAC), India will surpass China in the next 2-3 years in border infrastructure. The BRO is working under the mantra of “we will either find a way or make one”. In 2022-23, the BRO completed 103 infrastructure projects, the most by the organisation in a single year. These include the construction of the Shyok Bridge in Eastern Ladakh and the Steel Arch Siyom Bridge of Load Class 70 in Arunachal Pradesh on Along-Yinkiong Road. By September 2023 itself, a total of 90 projects, worth approximately Rs 2,940 crores, will be dedicated to the nation. In his upcoming visit to Jammu, Defence Minister Shri Rajnath Singh will inaugurate and dedicate 90 projects which include 22 roads, 63 bridges, one tunnel that is in Arunachal and two strategic airfields–Bagdogra and Barrackpore– and two Helipads, one in Rajasthan and one in Ladakh between Sasoma-Sasser La.

The Defence Minister will also inaugurate the world’s highest fighter airfield in the Nyoma region of Ladakh. The Nyoma is currently an Advanced Landing Ground (ALG), which means that the runway is built of mud, allowing only specialised cargo aircraft such as the C-130J and helicopters to land. Once the new runway is completed, bigger transport planes will be able to operate from Nyoma, increasing the Indian military’s strategic depth.

It is worth noting that before 2014, the Chinese troops used to come in vehicles to patrol the borders while the Indian troops had to use mules. The strong push given to border infrastructure by the Modi Government ensured that during the 2020 standoff, Indian troops were quickly deployed and thwarted the PLA’s attempted encroachment.

Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas, Sabka Vishwas

Apart from the security enhancement, the massive scaling up of border infrastructure has also led to national integration and socio-economic upliftment of Indian citizens living in the far-flung areas. The accessibility provided by good roads, bridges and airfields has led to the development of trade, tourism, connectivity of villages and the implementation of welfare schemes to the last person at the last mile.

Felicitating Karmayogis in Amrit Kaal

It takes a Karmayogi to recognise fellow Karmayogis. In a historic gesture, 50 distinguished members of the BRO along with their spouses were invited as special guests in the 76th Independence Day celebrations at the Red Fort. It’s a remarkable recognition of their tireless dedication to border area development, often under rough and tough conditions.

In October 2022, PM Modi made a stopover at Mana Village and spent a night with a BRO Detachment in a temporary structure with a tin roof during his Uttarakhand visit. The PM had khichdi for dinner with BRO workers. Mana is the last inhabited village on the Sino-Indian border at an altitude of 11,300 feet.

The story of India’s remarkable border connectivity journey in the past 9 years is a testimony to the fact that when a disciplined workforce meets with a dedicated political leadership, wonders can happen. In Amrit Kaal, India has the requisite security to thrive in prosperity, and a large credit for it goes to its robust border infrastructure.

Education in Regional Bharatiya Languages: Eradicating Macaulay Phenomenon in Amrit Kaal

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Known for redefining the education system in India for more than seven decades, to say the least. Through his endeavours, he painted the British in every part superior, advanced, aspirational and elite, and anything Indian as inferior, baseless and thus, worthless. He played a pivotal role in introducing English as a medium of instruction and learning in the education system. Having immense faith and pride in British greatness and achievements in literature, science and even arts, he wished for the government to impart British education – sans oriental education, through a ‘Downward Filtration policy’ meaning teaching the elite only for them to teach the masses. The larger goal was, “(to create) a class of persons, Indian in blood and colour, but English in taste, in opinions, in morals and in intellect.”

After all these years of Independence, India still felt and carried the hangover of this colonial practice, which detached us from our traditions, values, and history – basically, our roots.

Right to Education Act, 2009, Chapter V, Section 29(f) states, “the medium of instructions shall, as far as practicable, be in child’s mother tongue.” Education is in the concurrent list of the Constitution and a majority of the schools are under the domain of the States/UTs.

In 2020, India set to bring about ground-breaking changes in this very system that held back many children from reaching their full potential. National Education Policy marked a milestone that aimed to make it more inclusive, empowering and eradicating the previous Macaulayism system. Para 4.11 of National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 commits to education through local/regional language as a medium of instruction in public and private schools up to class 5; if accepted, till class 8 and beyond, and whenever and whenever possible. Sanskrit will be offered at all levels and taught with the use of Sanskrit Knowledge Systems, in particular, through phonetics and pronunciation. Sanskrit textbooks at the foundational and middle school level may be written in Simple Standard Sanskrit (SSS) to teach Sanskrit through Sanskrit (STS) and make its study truly enjoyable. Additionally, foreign languages like Korean, Japanese, Thai, French, etc will be taught at the secondary level. A three-language policy with at least two of the three languages will be native to India. In particular, students who wish to change one or more of the three languages they are studying may do so in Grade 6 or 7, as long as they demonstrate basic proficiency in three languages (including one language of India at the literature level) by the end of secondary school. Under the ‘Ek Bharat Shrestha Bharat’ initiative, sometime in Grades 6-8, students will participate in a fun project/activity on ‘The Languages of India’ to learn everything about a specific language, right from phonetics, history, culture, community, influence, stories, etc. However, the policy mentions that no language will be imposed on the student. High-quality textbooks in science, mathematics, etc will be made available in regional languages. If not, then teaching language will be the home language/mother-tongue wherever possible. This is suggested and reemphasised by the NIPUN Bharat Mission of the GOI and NISHTHA Foundational Literacy and Numeracy. As per Unified District Information System for Education Plus (UDISE+) 2020-21, there are 28 languages* in which teaching-learning is going on in grades (1-5).

Why is there a need for education through regional language? In a time of globalisation, shouldn’t English be the right choice?

  1. Better grasping, understanding and helping forge a better quality future for the youth of the country – Research says that children understand and grasp better when they are taught in their mother tongue. And children who are taught subjects in their mother tongue are most likely to stay in school, enjoy the subject better and perform even better. Top-quality learning and upliftment of the community will be the expected outcome of this policy.
  1. Bringing about social justice for the children of rural India – This policy aims to right the wrong – “The biggest injustice to any student is judging them based on their language instead of their capabilities. Education in the mother tongue is initiating a new form of justice for students in India. It is also a very significant step towards social justice. When the students are confident in a language, their skills and talent will emerge without any restrictions. National Educational Policy will give due respect and credit to every language in the country”, the Prime Minister at the All India Education Convention on 29 July.
  1. To uplift children from all communities and improve their standard of education – The World Bank states that lower learning levels because of language barriers are a major cause for higher dropout rates, repetition rates, higher Learning Poverty, and lower standard of living. Because of a lack of family recourses to counter this condition, they face adverse effects. According to a new World Bank report Loud and Clear: Effective Language of Instruction Policies for Learning, effective language of instruction (LoI) policies are central to reducing Learning Poverty and improving other learning outcomes, equity, and inclusion.
  1. Eliminating the bias against Indian Languages – The unfortunate perception of Indian languages as unprogressive is observed even in the United Nations. Shri Narendra Modi, Prime Minister of India, at the inaugural event of the All India Education Convention at Pragati Maidan in New Delhi on July 29 explains the bias. Their talent and skills often go unrecognised because they don’t speak fluent English. NEP 2020 empowers these languages and highlights the beauty of our regional languages.
  1. Promote and celebrate Indian culture – Unfortunately, English is seen as a superior language. But local languages connect people and bring them closer to one another. You can easily learn about the history, traditions, culture and heritage of people speaking a certain language. Children will be more connected to their roots.
  1. Multilingualism is the way forward – UNESCO states that globally 40% of the population does not have access to an education in a language they speak or understand. Countries like Finland start their education journey in their native language to enhance their understanding and cognitive development. South Africa recognizes 11 official languages, and education in these languages has helped bridge gaps between different communities, promoted social inclusion and preserved cultural heritage. Canada and Switzerland’s multilingual education system not only strengthens cultural identity but also enhances cognitive flexibility and cross-cultural understanding. A survey conducted by the Indian National Sample Survey Office revealed that students who receive education in their regional languages tend to perform better in subjects across the curriculum. 

All of this showcases the effectiveness of teaching in languages that students are most comfortable with – the regional language/mother tongue.

How Has India Erased the Footprints of Colonialism To Take Stride in Amritkaal?

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The fundamental thought process of the youngsters of India has always been attached to the ideals that represent the Indic values, knowledge system, and the Indian thought process. Thus, in order to fulfill the desires and aspirations of the ‘New Bharat’ which is led by the ‘New Bhartiyas’ i.e. the youngsters, the current government has made huge and impactful efforts. All the steps taken by the government have helped erase the footprints of the period when India was under the shackles of foreign domination which greatly deteriorated its civilizational history.

This article mentions Ten Decisions taken by the government under the able leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi which has helped India regain its glory:

1)Renaming of Race Course Road to Lok Kalyan Marg:

The British-era road named ‘Seven Race Course Road’ where the Prime Minister resides has now been changed to ‘Lok Kalyan Marg’ representing the motive of the government and its intention that the place where the head of the government resides is a place established for the welfare of the citizens of India. This historic move is not a single case, the government by showing its intent also changed the ‘Aurangzeb Road’ to ‘A.P.J. Abdul Kalam Road’ to show honor towards the missile man of India. Thus this represents the intention that by changing the names it is trying to bring about an awakening among the citizens about the historical injustices done to them.

2) Renaming of Andaman Islands:

The Twenty-one largest Islands of Andaman and Nicobar Islands were given the names of Twenty-one Param Veer Chakra awardees this year. Along with that in order to celebrate the remarkable contribution of ‘Subhash Chandra Bose’ to India’s freedom struggle movement the ‘Ross Islands’ were also renamed as ‘Netaji Subhash Chandra’ by the Prime Minister in the year 2018.

3) Renaming of Rajpath to Kartavya Path :

The Central government under the able leadership of Prime Minister Modi ahead of the inauguration of Central Vista Avenue changed the name of ‘Rajpath’ to ‘Kartavya Path’ signifying that the road towards the temple of Democracy is for putting our efforts to bring out an all-around development in the lives of people of India. The changing of foreign names and bringing about an end to the colonial shadows has been very significant in the last ten years. The term ‘Kartavya’ signifies the emphasis on duties which has to be performed by the political leaders rather than just focusing on the rights. It shows the intent of the government to serve the nation.

4) Subhash Chandra Bose Statue at Canopy:

Along with the renaming of Kartavya Path the government’s active efforts in celebrating the heroes of India’s freedom struggle movement have been very significant. The emphasis on naming the roads, institutions, and awards in the name of only a few people has been changed under the Modi government’s regime. The installation of Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose statue at the India Gate along with cross swords signifies and appreciates the efforts taken by the Indian National Army (INA). Every drop of blood given by the sons of this holy land has been respected by taking the decision to install Subhash Babu’s statue at the India Gate.

5) Changing of Beating the Retreat Song:

The Retreat ceremony’s concluding piece ‘Abide With Me’ which was introduced during the British rule had the influence of colonial legacy. It was not on Indian theme however the task taken by the Prime Minister to make everything Indian and restore the Indian glory led to the changing of the beating of the retreat song. Kavi Pradeep’s majestic work ‘Aye Mere Watan Ke Logon’ has been introduced. The lyrics of this song completely show the ideas thathave inspired us in the past and continue to do so even in the present day.

6) New Naval Ensign:

An ensign is a national flag that is displayed on the aircraft and ships of the aircraft of the armedforces of the country. India’s ensign earlier carried the sign of Saint George’s cross with the Tricolour in the canton. However having a sign of Saint George’s cross on the Indian Naval forces flag was very disheartening for a country like India which from the 17th century onwards started making efforts to develop the naval forces, Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj was the pioneer in this. The government by taking a very big step changed the flag of the Naval ensign and now it has the Tricolour with the Ashoka emblem on it.

7) Merger of Railway Budget with Annual Budget:

The 92-year-old tradition of presenting the Railway Budget with the Annual Budget which was started by the Britishers was changed by the government in the year 2017. A single appropriation bill, including the estimates and Demand for Grants, will be created by the railways. Thus, this provides a space for discussing the railway budget with the Annual budget bringing about a positive change in the infrastructure development of India.

8)Revival of Literary works banned during British Rule:

Many revolutionary kinds of literaturewere published during India’s freedom struggle movement mainly after the decision to partition Bengal (1905) till the Quit India Movement (1942) was not allowed to be published for the people on account of being ‘dangerous for the security of the nation’. As part of the celebration of 75 years of Independence, the government made active efforts to identify all these types of literature from the archives and make it available for the people to read.

9) Stress on teaching in Mother Tongue through National Education Policy:

The New Education Policy (2020) talks about designing syllabi in such a way that encourages critical thinking and learning the syllabus in our mother tongue at the primary level of education. Thus this provides an opportunity to understand the concepts in a much better way. Macaulay’s minutes published in 1835 changed the entire discourse of Education in India with the shifting of focus on learning only in English. The provisions of the NEP 2020 have been to emphasize learning in our mother tongue and this will bring about a positive change in the academic institutions of our country.

10) Reforming the Justice System in India:

The steps taken by the government to bring about a change in the nomenclatures of the Justice system have to be appreciated. It shows the intent of the government to bring change not only in terms of nomenclature but also in the thought process of the judicial system of India. The Indian Penal Code(IPC) 1860 has been changed to Bhartiya Nyay Sanhita 2023, the Criminal Procedure Code (CrPC)1898 to Bhartiya Nagrik Suraksha Sanhita Bill 2023, and the Evidence Act (1872) as Bhartiya Sakshya Bill 2023. Thus, this tries to bring about a holistic change in the overall judicial process of India.

The Indian civilizational history which traces back more than five thousand years is the oldest and the only surviving civilization in the world. Hence, it becomes really important to preserve the ideals and Indic values that have helped in the survival of this great nation. The current government has been making huge efforts to preserve these values of our country and this is reflected by all the decisions taken by them in last ten years.

G-20 Bharat: Redefining the Global Leadership during Amrit Kaal

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India wrapped up its G20 moment on 10th September and has scheduled a virtual stock-taking meeting for November to mark progress on the “Delhi Declaration”, which is the G20 leaders’ consensus document. This document is a watershed for it came when it was least expected- amidst East-West rivalry marked by the Ukraine war, and the North-South polarization (on important issue areas as climate change). The toil of 200 nonstop hours of negotiation, with over 300 bilateral meetings had finally fructified into the consensus document. The Indian diplomats craft-fully, abiding by the middle path approach decided to take the developmental agendas first, keeping the contentious point on deciding upon the language of the paragraph mentioning Ukraine war for later. But eventually, Bharat maneuvered well with its diplomatic acumen and received consensus even on 8 of the 83 paragraphs with geopolitical credentials.Bharat had a task at hand- to ensure that the DelhiDeclaration doesn’t fail at any point for lack of consensus, just how the Bali declaration did because of Russian and Chinese objection on two paragraphs. For this, here instead of out-rightly mentioning Russia as an aggressor in the paragraph concerned, the phrase that has been put instead is “all states must act in a manner consistent with purposes and principles of the UN charter…refrain from the threat or use of force..”. This statement has done the diplomatic marvel of achieving consensus while retaining the core substance of the intended paragraph. The only place where Russia has been mentioned is in Paragraph 11 on revival of the Black Sea Grain Initiative, as Russia and Ukraine together account for 21% of global grain trade, which makes this mention crucial for global food security.

The most notable feat however is the integration of India’s global south initiative with the G-20 agenda framework. In January, close to 125 developing countries in the ‘Voice of Global South summit’, something that a national daily called a ‘feeder summit’, was organized at India’s helm to ‘assess’ global south’s concerns and requirement. The pointers from this summit has been carried to the G-20 high table and effectively integrated in the declaration. In a first, the African Union chairperson took over AU’s seat at G20’s venue Bharat Mandapam. This single move has rescued G20 from slipping into irrelevancy on account of ignoring the voice of over 1.3 billion people of Africa. This is a moment of proven solidarity and achievement for the global south.

Bharat’s G-20 moment is a saga of action orientation and inclusivity. Be it the global south countries, the refugees/migrants, farmers, and women- the well-being of all have been fostered. Several outcomes contain comprehensive strategies catering to unique aspirations of the developing countries.

A recent report has mentioned that the earth is exceeding its “safe operating space for humanity” in six out of nine key parameters of its health. The anthropogenic climate crisis needs solution at a war footing. The declaration for the first time formally recognizes a big leap necessary in finance for just energy transitions. The figure of 4 trillion $ per year for clean energy technologies by 2030 for developing countries has been called for to reach Net Zero by 2050, all this with the principle of “Common but Differentiated Responsibility” as the guiding beam. Bharat’s presidency also saw the launch of “Global Biofuels Alliance” to take the blending of ethanol with petrol to 20% globally. Moreover, the developed countries have re-affirmed their 100 billion $ commitment for climate finance.

Two disasters recently struck the African continent- the Moroccan earthquake and the Libyan floods, causing immense destruction of life. Bharat’s presidency established a Work Stream on Disaster Risk Reduction, emphasizing upon global data capabilities for prompt prediction and response. The Sendai framework for disaster risk reduction has been taken note of.

As if the climate catastrophe wasn’t enough, the geopolitical conflicts all over has furthered the refugee and migrant crisis. The British channel has become the death house of all who aspire to live a peaceful life and hence cross over to Europe which has become a brew spot for anti-immigrant sentiments, impacting human rights, triggering racism and xenophobia. Countering terrorism, money laundering, and several forms of intolerance has thus been incorporated onto the agenda too.

Inclusivity was a key parameter to make G-20 truly a ‘People’s G-20’. For an over-view, consider the gender empowerment vertical whichhas listed the following areas for focused intervention-

The nations resolved to increase women’s participation in fighting the climate crisis, even as it recognized the disproportionate impact of the crisis on women. Commitment to the Brisbane goal to reduce the gap in labor force participation is yet another positive outcome.

Moreover, Food and Nutritional security has been on agenda too, in line with the Deccan High Level Principles on Food Security and Nutrition. Focus has been on providing thrust to initiatives that increase agro-productivity, reduce food waste, to building more climate resilient agriculture and food systems. Importance of open, fair, predictable, and rules based agriculture, food and fertilizer trade has been acknowledged. The agenda items are so pressing, that without due cognizance we would easily miss out on the SDG targets.

Further, quality education that is inclusive, equitable, with thrust to vocational education has been called for in the declaration. Importance of investment to create the same has been recognized.

To address the supply chain disruption, which is a common consequence of disturbance to peace anywhere, a G-20 Generic Framework for Mapping Global Value Chains has been adopted to identify risks and build resilience. Also, the declaration welcomed the High-Level Principles on Digitalization of Trade documents.

Further, the G-20 Principles on Harnessing Data for Development, thedecision to launch the Data for Development Capacity Building Initiative, India’s proposal for a Global Digital Public Infrastructure, and India’s call to maintain a ‘Global Digital Public Infrastructure Repository’ as a virtual depository of Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI) will help create a safe, secure, accountable and inclusive DPI. Bharat also proposed for a One Future Alliance to implement DPI in LMICs(Low or Middle Income Country). India’s very own India Stack is a benchmark from which most countries can benefit.

Promotion of responsible AI to attain the SDGs, the G20 toolkit on cyber education and cyber awareness of children and youth, and the call for leveraging technology for farmers, agro-tech startups, and also in the education sector are other important deliverables. The declaration advocates for safety-by-design approaches in digital tools and technologies to counter challenges that increased digitalization poses for women.

On lines of the LiFE movement mooted by Bharat, G-20 High-Level Principles on Lifestyles for Sustainable Development has been framed. The formation of the RECEIC (Resource Efficiency and Circular Economy Industry Coalition) is an important move for reducing waste generation by 2030.

All the above issue items can be addressed when there is ample finance to actualize these. Innovative financing mechanisms are the need of the hour. The multilateral development banks play a crucial role here. The G-20 leaders agree on the need for ‘better, bigger and more effective MDBs”. Bharat has aligned well the global south needs with MDB reform agenda. This is important for a ‘human-centric globalization’, that seeks not to leave behind the very many countries that have their developmental goals due. Thrust to reinvigorated multilateralism, and international cooperation are in general India’s demands at the UN high table to ensure a polycentric world order. This has found place in the declaration too.

The prospect of an India-Middle East-Europe corridor has garnered broad support for forging connectivity. These developments highlight how Bharat’s presidency is a great tying force in an otherwise fragmented and fractured world order.

The verticals covered under the declaration are all encompassing and comprehensive. The success of the Indian grit lies in bringing all the actors (with many divergences e.g. G-20 as a group having both the highest emitter and the lowest too) on the same platform. The broad areas covered thus have been climate change, cyber security, food security, MDBs reforms, gender empowerment, disaster risk reduction, waste management, education, and a sustainable development approach to manage these verticals.

This was truly Bharat’s moment, as it did what was least expected owing to the geopolitical turmoil plaguing the world order and most multilateral institutions. The shifting of focus upon real developmental concerns of the world today without getting scuttled in the stagnating forces of the conflict is a remarkable diplomatic feat for Bharat. Indeed, the declaration has covered holistically the most pressing themes of our times, via a “100% consensus on all developmental and geopolitical issues”.

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