UPSC Pointers: India's Diplomatic Agenda
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Questions and Answers

What is the context of the five-point agenda?

As US President Donald Trump prepares for his second term, India is gearing up for a critical diplomatic mission based on a 5-point agenda proposed by External Affairs Minister Jaishankar.

Where did India's External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar unveil this agenda?

Jaishankar unveiled the agenda during the BRICS outreach session in Kazan, Russia, on October 24, 2024.

What is the primary goal of the five-point agenda?

  • To promote a South-friendly, equitable, and multipolar world order by addressing the imbalances in global governance, economy, and infrastructure. (correct)
  • To create an equitable global economy, prioritizing the Global South and its needs.
  • To push for reforms in global institutions like the United Nations and multilateral development banks.
  • To expand India's influence and leadership in the world, particularly in South Asia.

Which of the following forums does the agenda advocate strengthening to provide developing nations with alternatives to systems dominated by influential powers?

<p>BRICS (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What are the key challenges to implementing the five-point agenda?

<p>All of the above. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

The five-point agenda primarily focuses on promoting South-South cooperation and addressing the needs of the Global South.

<p>True (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT a key feature of the five-point agenda?

<p>Enhancing Military Alliances (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the main purpose of the Konark Sun Temple?

<p>The temple is designed as a grand chariot of Surya, the Sun God, symbolizing time and celestial movement.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is Kalaripayattu?

<p>It is one of the oldest martial arts in the world, combining combat techniques, physical training, and healing practices.</p> Signup and view all the answers

Kalaripayattu has been included as a demonstration sport in the 38th National Games in Uttarakhand.

<p>True (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does the term "Kalari" mean in Malayalam?

<p>Combat arena</p> Signup and view all the answers

Kalaripayattu is recognized as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of India.

<p>True (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the main challenge that India faces with its urban population projected to reach 40 percent by 2030?

<p>India faces challenges like infrastructure strain and climate impact due to urbanization.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the key to tackling urbanization challenges, beyond policy and technology?

<p>Fostering behavioral change (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the significance of India's use of data-driven nudges in welfare schemes?

<p>Data-driven nudges help improve operational efficiency in service delivery.</p> Signup and view all the answers

The implementation of nudges in Bihar has led to an increase in institutional deliveries.

<p>True (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What are the major challenges to implementing behavioral change?

<p>All of the above. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the main purpose of the UGC's draft regulations for the selection and appointment of vice-chancellors?

<p>The aim is to standardize VC appointments and improve governance in universities across India.</p> Signup and view all the answers

The draft regulations propose including non-academics in search-cum-selection committees for vice-chancellors.

<p>True (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT a positive aspect of the proposed draft?

<p>Federal Authority (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the major concern with the mandated inclusion of a UGC nominee in the Search-cum-Selection Committee for universities?

<p>This mandates a UGC nominee in the search-cum-selection committee for state universities, undermining state autonomy.</p> Signup and view all the answers

The draft regulations are aligned with the objectives of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, emphasizing quality, transparency, and inclusivity.

<p>True (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the main criticism of the proposed draft in terms of federal structure?

<p>The proposed draft increases central involvement in the appointment of VCs, violating federal principles.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the key argument made in the case of Kalyani Mathivanan v. K.V. Jeyaraj, 2015, regarding the draft regulations?

<p>It supports the need for increased transparency in the VC appointment process. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the Diamond Triangle of Odisha?

<p>The Diamond Triangle of Odisha comprises Udaygiri, Lalitgiri, and Ratnagiri.</p> Signup and view all the answers

Ratnagiri flourished primarily during the 7th and 10th centuries.

<p>True (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Ratnagiri is credited as a rival to Nalanda in its significance as a Buddhist learning center.

<p>True (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

The US withdrawal from WHO is primarily attributed to its concerns regarding the mishandling of the COVID-19 pandemic.

<p>True (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What are the key aims of the World Health Organization (WHO)?

<p>The key aims of WHO are to ensure universal health coverage, promote health equity, strengthen disease prevention, and enhance global preparedness for health emergencies.</p> Signup and view all the answers

The US withdrawal from WHO is expected to have a significant financial impact on the organization.

<p>True (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What are the key reasons cited by the US for its withdrawal from the WHO?

<p>All of the above. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

The WHO Constitution explicitly outlines a withdrawal process for member countries.

<p>False (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the potential impact of the US withdrawal on India's health programs?

<p>It could lead to reduced WHO support for programs on tuberculosis, malaria, HIV, and maternal health, and challenges in implementing vaccine coverage guidelines.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary aim of the Ministry of Culture's tableau presented on Republic Day 2025?

<p>To showcase the cultural diversity and creativity of India, aligning with the Prime Minister's vision of 'Virasat Bhi, Vikas Bhi'. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the significance of the 'Yaadh on the Potter's Wheel' in the Ministry of Culture's tableau?

<p>It symbolizes the continuity and depth of India's musical and artistic traditions, reflecting the country's rooted heritage in performing arts.</p> Signup and view all the answers

The 'Kinetic Kalpavriksha' in the tableau symbolizes India's aspirations for economic progress and creativity.

<p>True (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary purpose of the digital screens in the Ministry of Culture's tableau?

<p>The digital screens showcase the diversity of India's creative fields, including performing arts, literature, architecture, design, and tourism.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does the 'Golden Bird Transformation' represent in the Ministry of Culture's tableau?

<p>It represents India's aspiration to reclaim its legacy as 'Sone Ki Chidiya' (Golden Bird) and its commitment to sustainable and inclusive development.</p> Signup and view all the answers

Flashcards

What is Jaishankar's 5-Point Agenda?

Five-point agenda proposed by India's External Affairs Minister, S. Jaishankar, to promote a South-friendly, equitable, and multipolar world order.

Expanding Independent Platforms

Strengthening forums like BRICS to provide developing nations with alternatives to systems dominated by powerful countries.

Reforming Global Institutions

Advocating for reforms in the UN and multilateral development banks, including expanding the UN Security Council, to address global challenges.

Democratizing the Global Economy

Promoting the creation of regional production hubs and resilient supply chains to reduce vulnerabilities exposed during the pandemic.

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Correcting Colonial-Era Infrastructure

Developing inclusive and diversified connectivity options, respecting territorial integrity and sovereignty, to address inequities left by outdated systems.

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Sharing Scalable Solutions

Sharing India's initiatives like Digital Public Infrastructure, Unified Payments Interface (UPI), and the International Solar Alliance to tackle common global challenges.

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Global Imbalances

Persistent inequalities in the distribution of globalization's benefits, particularly in health, food, and energy security.

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Marginalization of the Global South

Developing countries face inadequate representation in global decision-making institutions.

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Supply Chain Vulnerabilities

The COVID-19 pandemic exposed the fragility of global supply chains, emphasizing the need for regional hubs.

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Geopolitical Instabilities

Conflicts, such as those in West Asia, threaten global security and economic stability.

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Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)

The world struggles to meet the Sustainable Development Goals due to inadequate cooperation and outdated frameworks.

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Institutional Resistance

Reforming institutions like the UN Security Council faces opposition from existing permanent members.

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Geopolitical Rivalries

Competing national interests among major powers hinder global consensus on multipolarity.

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Economic Protectionism

The rise of trade wars and protectionist policies disrupts efforts to democratize the global economy.

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Technological Gaps

Limited access to advanced technologies in developing nations impedes their ability to contribute meaningfully.

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Global Conflicts

Ongoing regional conflicts and political instability divert resources and focus from collective action.

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Strengthening Alliances

Promoting South-South cooperation through platforms like BRICS, G20, and regional partnerships.

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Advocating for Reform

Building coalitions to press for reforms in global governance institutions and development banks.

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Fostering Resilience

Investing in regional production capabilities and sustainable infrastructure to reduce economic vulnerabilities.

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Scaling Digital Solutions

Sharing technological solutions like India's Digital Public Infrastructure with developing nations.

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Promoting Dialogue

Leveraging diplomatic platforms to mediate global conflicts and advocate for a rules-based order.

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What is Kalaripayattu?

An ancient martial art form originating in Kerala that combines combat techniques, physical training, and healing practices.

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What is a Kinetic Kalpavriksha?

A sacred wish-fulfilling tree that transforms into the 'Golden Bird.'

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What is a Yaadh?

The ancient Tamil musical instrument symbolizes the continuity and depth of India's musical and artistic traditions.

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Why did the US withdraw from WHO?

The US, under President Donald Trump, withdrew from the World Health Organization, citing reasons like mishandling of the COVID-19 pandemic and lack of reforms.

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What are the aims of the WHO?

Ensure universal health coverage, promote health equity, strengthen disease prevention and worldwide control, and enhance global preparedness and responses to health emergencies.

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List the functions of the WHO

Set global health standards, monitor emerging health issues, provide technical assistance to countries, and facilitate health research and policy development.

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What are the impacts of the US withdrawal from WHO?

The US withdrawal could lead to a loss of funding, expertise, and disruption in global frameworks for managing pandemics.

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What are the solutions to address the impacts of the US withdrawal from WHO?

Strengthening global partnerships, diversifying funding, ensuring transparency and reforms.

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What is the significance of the Ministry of Culture's tableau?

The Ministry of Culture's tableau on Republic Day 2025 reflected India's cultural richness and creativity, aligning with the Prime Minister's vision of 'Virasat Bhi, Vikas Bhi' (Heritage with Development).

Signup and view all the flashcards

What is the significance of the Yaadh in the tableau?

The ancient Tamil musical instrument, Yaadh, symbolizes the continuity and depth of India's musical and artistic traditions.

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What does the Kinetic Kalpavriksha symbolize?

The kinetic Kalpavriksha represents India's rich cultural heritage and aspirations for economic progress and creativity.

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What do the digital screens in the tableau represent?

The digital screens displayed the diversity of India's creative fields, showcasing how cultural diversity serves as a foundation for growth and innovation.

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What is the significance of the 'Golden Bird Transformation' in the tableau?

The tableau depicted India's legacy as 'Sone Ki Chidiya' (Golden Bird) and its path towards reclaiming this title through sustainable and inclusive development.

Signup and view all the flashcards

What is the purpose of UGC's draft regulations for Vice-Chancellor appointments?

The draft regulations for the selection and appointment of Vice Chancellors (VCs) aimed to standardize the process and improve governance in universities.

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How is the Search-cum-Selection Committee formed?

The Search-cum-Selection Committee was to be formed by the Chancellor/Visitor, including nominees from UGC, and the university's apex body.

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Who can now be eligible to become a Vice-Chancellor?

Professionals with over 10 years of experience from public policy, public administration, or industry were now eligible for VC roles.

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What are the positive aspects of the draft regulations?

The draft regulations introduced uniform criteria for selection across central, state, and private universities, promoting fairness and consistency.

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What are the issues with the draft regulations?

Mandating a UGC nominee in the Search-cum-Selection Committee for state universities undermined state legislation and raised concerns about federalism.

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How do the draft regulations align with NEP 2020?

The regulations aimed to align with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, emphasizing quality, transparency, and inclusivity.

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Where is Ratnagiri located?

Ratnagiri is located in Jajpur district, Odisha, near the Diamond Triangle of Odisha, along with Udaygiri and Lalitgiri.

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What were found during recent excavations at Ratnagiri?

The recent excavations uncovered a colossal Buddha head, a massive palm, an ancient wall, and inscribed relics dating back to the 8th and 9th centuries AD.

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What is the historical significance of Ratnagiri?

Ratnagiri flourished between the 5th and 13th centuries, serving as a center for Mahayana and Tantrayana Buddhism.

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Study Notes

UPSC Weekly Pointers (January 20th-23rd, 2025)

  • Five-point agenda proposed by External Affairs Minister Jaishankar for India's diplomatic mission, aiming for a South-friendly, equitable, and multipolar world order
  • Agenda includes:
    • Expanding independent platforms (like BRICS) to challenge dominant powers
    • Reforming global institutions (UN, multilateral banks) to address contemporary challenges
    • Democratizing the global economy (regional production hubs, resilient supply chains to combat COVID-19 era vulnerabilities)
    • Correcting colonial-era infrastructure (inclusive connectivity options respecting sovereignty)
    • Sharing scalable solutions (Digital Public Infrastructure, UPI, International Solar Alliance) to tackle common global challenges
    • Addressing global imbalances (inequalities in globalization benefits, particularly in health, food, and energy security)
    • Marginalization of the global South (inadequate representation in decision-making institutions)
    • Supply chain vulnerabilities exposed by the COVID-19 pandemic
    • Geopolitical instabilities (e.g., West Asia conflicts) threatening global security and economic stability

BRICS

  • BRICS (Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa) was formally established in 2009
  • Became BRICS in 2010 with South Africa's inclusion
  • Has no permanent headquarters, operates on a rotational presidency
  • Expanded in 2023 to include Iran, Egypt, Ethiopia, UAE
  • Indonesia also signed on to BRICS in 2025
  • Partner nations include Nigeria, Belarus, Bolivia, Cuba, Kazakhstan, Malaysia, Thailand, Uganda, and Uzbekistan

Kalaripayattu

  • Ancient Kerala martial art form
  • Combines combat techniques, physical training, and healing practices
  • Originated in Kerala, South India
  • Cited as the oldest martial art in the world
  • Features combat arena/Kalari, weapons (wooden and metallic), and bare-handed techniques
  • Added to India's Intangible Cultural Heritage list in 2009

Konark Sun Temple

  • Located in Konark, Odisha, near the Bay of Bengal
  • Constructed in 13th century (1238-1264 CE)
  • Commissioned by King Narasimha Deva I of the Ganga dynasty
  • Represents the strength and stability of the Ganga Empire
  • Features chariot design representing Surya, 7 horses pulling the chariot, and intricate carvings
  • Includes notable sections like dance hall (Natmandir) and audience hall (Jahamogana)
  • UNESCO World Heritage site

Urbanization and Behavioral Change

  • India's urban population projected to reach 40% by 2030
  • This poses infrastructure and climate change-related challenges
  • It advocates for behavioral change strategies for effective urban service delivery
  • Includes waste management, sustainability, public safety (policing), and institutional efficiency

Draft Regulations for Vice Chancellors Selection

  • University Grants Commission (UGC) released draft regulations
  • Aims to standardize Vice Chancellor appointments across universities
  • Includes non-academics in the selection process, leading to a broader range of expertise
  • Includes a standardized selection process emphasizing transparency and inclusivity
  • Aligned with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020

USA's Withdrawal from WHO

  • Withdrawal initiated under Presidnt Donald Trump in 2020.
  • Reasons for withdrawal were related to the handling of the COVID-19 pandemic and alleged lack of reforms within the organization.
  • This resulted in a loss of funding and expertise for the WHO.

Ministry of Culture's Tableau

  • Republic Day 2025 tableau showcased India's rich heritage and creativity
  • Features included the Yaadh on the Potter's Wheel, Kinetic Kalpavriksha, and Digital Screens, each highlighting India's cultural diversity and progress.

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Related Documents

UPSC Weekly Pointers (January 20th - 23rd) 2025 PDF

Description

Explore the key points from the UPSC weekly pointers focusing on India's diplomatic mission led by External Affairs Minister Jaishankar. The agenda promotes a multipolar world through reforms in global institutions and the democratization of the economy, addressing challenges faced by the global South. Gain insights into equitable solutions and the vision for a more inclusive global decision-making process.

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