Current Affairs

Model Answer

Introduction

India is currently facing a significant skill gap, with rising youth unemployment juxtaposed against a backdrop of inadequate vocational training. The employability rate has dropped to 42.6%, highlighting a critical need for reform in the skilling ecosystem.

Body

Several factors contribute to this persistent skill gap. Firstly, there is a mismatch between skills and industry demand. Many skilling programs focus on traditional trades, neglecting the growing demand for automation and green jobs. Furthermore, female participation in skilling programs remains low due to socio-cultural barriers, limiting opportunities for women in high-paying sectors. The weak apprenticeship culture also hampers the development of practical skills, as industries are often reluctant to invest in training due to fears of attrition.

Additionally, the fragmentation of skilling programs across various ministries leads to inefficiencies and duplication of efforts. This is compounded by the challenges faced in rural and informal sectors, where access to formal training is limited. Lastly, the lack of recognition for informal skills further restricts job mobility and economic advancement for many workers.

To address these issues, India must adopt a multi-faceted approach. A demand-driven curriculum should be developed, aligning training programs with current market needs. Strengthening the apprenticeship model can provide practical experience and enhance employability. Furthermore, promoting digital and remote learning can help reach underserved populations, especially in rural areas. Implementing gender-inclusive policies will ensure that women have equal access to skilling opportunities. Finally, increasing private sector participation through public-private partnerships can enhance the effectiveness and sustainability of skilling initiatives.

Way Forward

In conclusion, bridging the skill gap is crucial for harnessing India’s demographic dividend and ensuring sustainable economic growth. A unified, demand-driven skilling ecosystem, characterized by strong collaboration between government, industry, and educational institutions, is essential for transforming the potential of India’s youth into tangible economic benefits.

Model Answer

Introduction

Core technologies, such as semiconductors, artificial intelligence, and quantum computing, are crucial for driving innovation and economic growth in India. Despite its significant capabilities in developing these technologies, India faces challenges in effectively commercializing them. This gap not only hinders economic progress but also affects national security and competitiveness on a global scale.

Reasons for the Gap

One of the primary reasons for this gap is the inadequate investment in research and development (R&D), which stands at only 0.65% of GDP. This underfunding limits innovation, especially in critical fields like AI and robotics.

Additionally, there is a shortage of skilled workforce; only 51% of graduates are employable, which restricts industrial innovation. The dependence on imports for essential technologies, such as semiconductors, further hampers self-reliance and exposes the economy to global supply chain disruptions.

Furthermore, policy inconsistencies and bureaucratic delays discourage investments, leading to stalled projects in critical areas. Lastly, there is a weak collaboration between academia and industry, resulting in isolated research efforts that lack commercial viability.

Suggested Measures

To address these challenges, India must increase its R&D funding to at least 2% of GDP, aligning with global leaders. Establishing a National Core Technology Fund could facilitate advanced research in areas like AI and semiconductor technology.

Developing a national talent strategy focusing on skilling and reskilling is essential to meet the demands of emerging technologies. Additionally, boosting domestic manufacturing through targeted investments in high-tech sectors will help reduce import dependency.

Creating a unified innovation ecosystem by fostering collaborations among academia, startups, and industries will promote effective technology transfer and commercialization. Lastly, strengthening the intellectual property (IP) framework will encourage innovation and attract foreign investments.

Conclusion

In conclusion, addressing the critical gaps in the commercialization of core technologies is vital for India to realize its vision of becoming a technology-driven developed economy. By fostering collaboration between academia, industry, and government and significantly increasing investment in R&D, India can establish a thriving innovation ecosystem that drives economic growth, national security, and global competitiveness.

Model Answer

Introduction

India’s defense modernization journey reflects its strategic pivot towards self-reliance and enhanced national security. As the fourth-largest defense spender globally, India aims to reduce its dependence on foreign military imports while bolstering its domestic defense production capabilities.

Key Strides in Defense Modernization

Several significant strides have been made in India’s defense modernization:

1. Indigenous Manufacturing: The Defence Acquisition Procedure (DAP)-2020 prioritizes domestic procurement, leading to a record domestic defense production of ₹1.27 lakh crore in 2023-24, which is a 16.7% increase from the previous year.
2. Defense Exports: India is rapidly emerging as a defense exporter, with exports soaring to ₹21,083 crore in FY 2023-24, a 31-fold increase over the past decade. The government’s aim is to further boost exports to ₹35,000 crore by 2025.
3. Strategic Partnerships: Collaborations with global defense leaders, such as the partnership with Thyssenkrupp for Project P-75(I) submarines, have helped bridge critical technological gaps.
4. Missile Technology: The induction of the ‘Pralay’ tactical missile and successful tests of the Agni Prime missile underscore India’s advancements in missile technology and deterrence capabilities.
5. Defense Industrial Corridors: The establishment of corridors in Tamil Nadu and Uttar Pradesh aims to enhance regional manufacturing capacity and attract investments.
6. Cybersecurity & Space Defense: The creation of the Defense Space Agency highlights India’s focus on integrating cybersecurity and space defense into its strategies.

Challenges in Achieving Self-Reliance

Despite these advancements, India faces several challenges:

1. Dependence on Imports: India remains one of the largest arms importers globally, undermining its strategic autonomy.
2. Delays in Procurement: Bureaucratic inefficiencies in the defense procurement process lead to significant delays in acquiring advanced weaponry, exemplified by the Tejas Light Combat Aircraft.
3. Outdated Inventory: A considerable portion of India’s defense inventory is outdated, affecting operational efficiency and readiness.
4. Insufficient Indigenous Capacity: The defense manufacturing ecosystem, particularly for critical technologies like engines, remains underdeveloped.
5. Budget Constraints: A significant portion of the defense budget is allocated to salaries and pensions, leaving limited funds for modernization.
6. Cybersecurity Vulnerabilities: Increased reliance on digital systems exposes defense infrastructure to cyber threats.
7. Lack of Joint Command Structure: The absence of a unified command structure hampers effective joint operations among the armed forces.

Suggested Measures to Overcome Challenges

To enhance defense modernization, the following measures are recommended:

1. Streamlining Procurement: Simplifying the DAP to reduce delays and improve efficiency is crucial. Implementing AI-driven procurement systems can also enhance transparency.
2. Increasing Budget for Modernization: A higher percentage of the defense budget should be allocated to modernization to address capability gaps.
3. Enhancing Indigenous Manufacturing: Integrating Make in India and PLI schemes can incentivize domestic production of critical technologies.
4. Fostering Global Partnerships: Deepening collaborations with advanced nations for technology transfer is essential for co-developing defense platforms.
5. Strengthening Cyber and Space Defense: Establishing dedicated units for cybersecurity and space defense will address emerging threats effectively.
6. Implementing Joint Commands: Fast-tracking the establishment of joint theater commands will improve interoperability among the armed forces.
7. Boosting Skill Development: Investing in skill development programs will create a skilled workforce essential for modern defense manufacturing.

Conclusion

In conclusion, India’s defense modernization is vital for ensuring national security and self-reliance. While challenges persist, strategic measures focused on innovation, collaboration, and capacity building can pave the way for a robust and independent defense ecosystem.

Model Answer

Introduction

India’s space sector has witnessed significant advancements in recent years, underscoring its crucial role in national security, economic growth, and global collaboration. With milestones such as the successful launch of Chandrayaan-3 and the SpaDeX mission, India is positioning itself as a formidable player in the international space arena.

Recent Advancements

The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) has achieved notable successes, including the lunar landing of Chandrayaan-3, which has enhanced India’s capabilities in deep-space research. Additionally, the SpaDeX mission marked a breakthrough in space docking technology, crucial for future interplanetary missions. The Gaganyaan mission is set to further bolster India’s human spaceflight capabilities. International collaborations, such as with NASA on the NISAR mission, reflect India’s growing stature in global space exploration.

Strategic and Economic Enhancements

These advancements not only enhance India’s strategic defense capabilities, including anti-satellite (ASAT) technologies, but also contribute to economic growth through commercial satellite launches. ISRO’s commercial ventures can potentially increase revenue, making India a key player in the global satellite market.

Challenges Faced

Despite these successes, India faces significant challenges. The limited budget of approximately Rs 13,042.75 crore for 2024-25 constrains the scale of ambitious projects compared to NASA’s budget. Additionally, the rising issue of space debris poses risks to operational satellites, while delays in implementing regulatory frameworks hinder private sector participation. Cybersecurity threats further complicate the landscape, as India’s reliance on satellites for communication and defense increases.

Strategic Measures for Improvement

To address these challenges, India should increase public investment in space technology and promote public-private partnerships to enhance funding. Establishing a robust space traffic management system is crucial for mitigating debris-related risks. Additionally, prioritizing cybersecurity by creating a dedicated command will protect critical space assets. Strengthening international collaborations can also attract investments and foster innovation.

Way Forward

India’s space sector stands at a transformative juncture, with the potential to drive economic growth and enhance national security. By adopting strategic measures to overcome existing challenges, India can solidify its position as a leader in the global space economy, contributing significantly to technological advancements and international cooperation in space exploration.

Model Answer

Introduction

The fisheries dispute between India and Sri Lanka has persisted for decades, straining diplomatic relations and impacting the livelihoods of fishermen from both nations. This issue is particularly significant due to the geographical proximity of the two countries and the shared resources in the Palk Bay.

Key Issues in the Dispute

One of the primary challenges is the recurrent arrests of Indian fishermen who inadvertently stray into Sri Lankan waters, often due to engine failures or sudden weather changes. These arrests lead to the confiscation and destruction of fishing vessels, resulting in heightened tensions.

Additionally, Indian fishermen claim historical rights to fish beyond the International Maritime Boundary Line (IMBL), leading to disputes over fishing rights in the Palk Bay. The IMBL, established under the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), is meant to regulate maritime activities, but its interpretation remains contentious.

Overfishing on the Indian side has exacerbated the issue, forcing fishermen into Sri Lankan waters, which Sri Lanka considers illegal poaching. Furthermore, the practice of bottom-trawling by Indian fishermen poses serious ecological threats to marine habitats, drawing strong opposition from Sri Lanka.

Sri Lanka also expresses national security concerns, fearing that the intrusion of Indian trawlers could facilitate the re-emergence of Tamil militant groups. The ownership of Katchatheevu Island further complicates the situation; while recognized as part of Sri Lanka in a 1974 agreement, access rights for Indian fishermen remain unclear.

Impact of the Dispute

The socio-economic impact on fishing communities is profound, as arrests and conflicts disrupt livelihoods and create distress among families. The rising costs of enforcing the IMBL patrols place a significant strain on resources for both nations. Moreover, distinguishing between genuine fishers and smugglers complicates enforcement and increases the vulnerability of marine resources.

International Legal Framework

The UN Fish Stocks Agreement (UNFSA) and UNCLOS provide a legal basis for managing fisheries and resolving disputes. These treaties advocate for sustainable fishing practices and cooperation among states sharing marine resources.

Suggested Solutions

To address these issues, establishing a regional fisheries management authority is essential to regulate fishing activities and prevent over-exploitation. The India-Sri Lanka Joint Working Group (JWG) on Fisheries should be revitalized to seek a permanent resolution for fishermen’s issues.

Promoting deep-sea fishing and alternative livelihoods can help reduce pressure on coastal resources. The Indian government should expedite efforts to transition Tamil Nadu fishermen towards deep-sea fishing through initiatives like the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY).

Strict enforcement of sustainable fishing regulations, along with clear guidelines for joint fishing activities, is crucial. Both countries should enhance regional cooperation through technology sharing and scientific research. Finally, a humanitarian framework for the treatment of detained fishermen must be established to ensure timely repatriation and legal support.

Conclusion

Resolving the India-Sri Lanka fisheries dispute is not merely an economic or environmental necessity; it is a diplomatic imperative that can enhance regional stability. By leveraging shared interests and cooperating on sustainable fishing practices, both nations can strengthen their bilateral ties and contribute to peace and security in the Indo-Pacific region.