Weekly Current Affairs (15th to 21st August 2024) Part - 2 | Current Affairs & Hindu Analysis: Daily, Weekly & Monthly - UPSC PDF Download

GS2/Polity

Lateral Entry in Civil Services

Why in News?

• Recently, the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) has announced a recruitment drive for 45 joint secretaries, directors, and deputy secretaries as specialists through the lateral entry scheme. This decision has faced criticism from opposition parties, who claim it undermines the reservation rights of Other Backward Classes (OBCs), Scheduled Castes (SCs), and Scheduled Tribes (STs).

What is a Lateral Entry Scheme?

• Lateral entry refers to appointing individuals from outside the government directly into mid-level and senior positions.
• The scheme aims to integrate domain-specific expertise and fresh perspectives to improve governance.
• Lateral entrants are hired on contracts for three years, extendable up to a maximum of five years.

Origin and Implementation:

• The lateral entry concept was first introduced during 2004-09 and was supported by the Second Administrative Reforms Commission (ARC) established in 2005.
• NITI Aayog recommended its implementation in 2017 to bring in expertise and new perspectives.
• The 3-year Action Agenda of NITI Aayog and the Sectoral Group of Secretaries (SGoS) on Governance endorsed the recruitment of personnel at middle and senior management levels in the central government.

Eligibility:

• Individuals with domain expertise and a strong track record in relevant fields from the private sector, state governments, autonomous bodies, or public sector undertakings are eligible to apply.
• The selection criteria typically focus on professional accomplishments and subject matter expertise.

Reservation in Lateral Entry:

• Lateral entries are not covered by the reservation system due to the "13-point roster" policy.
• This policy determines a candidate's placement by calculating their group's quota percentage (SC, ST, OBC, and EWS) as a fraction of one hundred.
• Since each lateral entry position is treated as a "Single Post," the reservation system does not apply, allowing appointments without adhering to reservation guidelines.
• In the current recruitment cycle, 45 openings have been advertised separately for each department, thereby bypassing the reservation policy and excluding reserved categories from these positions.

Number of Recruitments So Far:

• Since the lateral recruitment process began in 2018, a total of 63 individuals have been appointed to various Ministries/Departments.
• As of August 2023, 57 of these lateral entrants currently hold positions in the central government.

What are the Arguments in Favour of Lateral Entry Scheme in Civil Services?

• Specialised Skill and Expertise: The scheme enables the recruitment of specialists with expertise in areas such as technology, management, and finance, addressing knowledge gaps that generalist civil servants may lack.
• Innovation and Reforms: Lateral recruits can introduce valuable experiences from the private sector, NGOs, and other organizations, enhancing administrative processes and governance.
• Filling The Gap: According to Department of Personnel and Training data, there is a shortage of about 1500 IAS officers, and lateral entry can help bridge this deficit.
• Bringing a Change in Work Culture: The scheme can help transform the work culture in government, which is often criticized for red tape and bureaucratic inefficiencies.
• Participatory Governance: Lateral entry encourages a more participatory governance model, allowing stakeholders from the private sector and non-profits to engage in governance activities.

What are the Criticisms of Lateral Entry Scheme in Civil Services?

• Short Tenure: The tenure for joint secretaries is set at three years, which may be insufficient for newcomers to adapt to complex governance frameworks and make significant contributions.
• Maintaining Objectivity and Neutrality: New recruits from diverse backgrounds may face challenges in maintaining objectivity and neutrality, especially if they have prior affiliations with private companies or interest groups.
• Impact on Permanent Officers' Morale: An increase in lateral entrants might create a divide between them and permanent officers, potentially affecting the morale of career bureaucrats.
• Potential Dilution of Merit-Based Recruitment: Lateral entry could undermine the merit-based recruitment system fundamental to civil services, leading to perceptions of favoritism if not conducted transparently.
• Outsider Syndrome: Traditional bureaucrats may resist lateral entrants, perceiving them as outsiders and displaying hostility towards their inclusion within established hierarchies.
• Experience Requirement for Senior Positions: In the existing system, IAS officers typically reach the joint secretary level after 17 years of service, around the age of 45. Applying similar experience requirements to lateral entrants may dissuade top talent from joining.

Way Forward:

• Ensure Transparency: A transparent, merit-based selection process for lateral entries should be maintained, focusing on relevant expertise and skills to avoid any perceptions of bias.
• Training of Lateral Entrants: An intensive training program should be developed for entrants from the private sector, helping them understand governmental processes.
• Clear Expectations and Role Definition: Clearly defining roles, responsibilities, and expectations will help align contributions with organizational goals.
• Relaxing Age Barrier: Age requirements for joint secretary positions should be relaxed to attract younger candidates, as seen with past economists who advanced to senior roles at a younger age.

Conclusion:

Lateral entry, like competition in any field, can be beneficial but requires careful consideration of criteria, roles, personnel numbers, and training to ensure positive change. Reforms to the traditional seniority-based system are essential for comprehensive administrative improvements.

Mains Question:

What is the Lateral Entry Scheme of the Government into Civil Services? What are its merits and demerits and its implications?

GS2/Governance

Subclinical Tuberculosis

Why in News?

Tuberculosis (TB) is increasingly becoming a significant issue in India, contributing to the gradual decline of TB incidence rates despite improvements in detection and treatment methods.

What is Subclinical Tuberculosis?

• Definition: Subclinical TB is a type of TB infection where individuals show no typical symptoms associated with the disease, such as a persistent cough. This absence of symptoms complicates detection compared to active TB, which has more visible signs.
• Detection: Subclinical TB is often diagnosed using imaging methods like chest X-rays or advanced molecular tests, as it might not be detectable through standard symptom-based screenings.
• Prevalence: According to the National TB Prevalence Survey (2019-2021), subclinical TB represented 42.6% of cases, with Tamil Nadu reporting a similar figure of 39%. Although these individuals do not exhibit symptoms, they can still transmit the bacteria to others.
• Global Context: High-burden countries, including India, have a substantial number of undetected subclinical TB cases, which perpetuates the disease's transmission. Countries like Vietnam have successfully reduced TB rates by implementing population-wide screening using X-rays and molecular tests, irrespective of symptoms.
• Implementation Strategies: To replicate Vietnam's success in India, there would need to be strategic changes, such as the use of mobile units and enhanced community engagement to facilitate large-scale screening.
• Impact: The presence of subclinical TB contributes to the slow decline in overall TB incidence rates, as many cases remain undiagnosed and untreated.

What are the Key Facts About Tuberculosis?

• About: TB is an infectious disease caused by the bacterium Mycobacterium tuberculosis, primarily affecting the lungs. It spreads through the air when infected individuals cough, sneeze, or spit.
• Symptoms: Common symptoms include a prolonged cough, chest pain, weakness, fatigue, weight loss, fever, and night sweats. Factors like diabetes, a weakened immune system, malnutrition, and tobacco use can heighten the risk of developing TB.
• Prevention: It is crucial to seek medical attention, get tested if at risk, and begin early treatment. The Bacille Calmette-Guérin (BCG) vaccine is effective in preventing TB outside the lungs but does not protect against pulmonary TB.
• Prevalence and Treatment: Approximately 25% of the global population is infected with TB bacteria, with 5-10% potentially progressing to active TB. TB is treatable and preventable with antibiotics, including isoniazid, rifampin, pyrazinamide, ethambutol, and streptomycin. Multidrug-resistant TB (MDR-TB) poses a significant challenge, as it arises from bacteria that are resistant to first-line drugs and requires expensive and potentially harmful second-line treatments. In 2022, only about 40% of individuals with MDR-TB received treatment, underscoring the public health crisis it represents.
• TB and HIV: Individuals living with HIV are 16 times more likely to develop TB, making it the leading cause of death among HIV-positive individuals. Without proper intervention, 60% of HIV-negative TB patients and nearly all HIV-positive TB patients are at risk of death.
• Demographics: TB disproportionately impacts adults in low- and middle-income countries, with over 80% of cases and deaths occurring in these regions. The highest burden is found in the WHO South-East Asian and African Regions. In 2022, TB caused 1.3 million deaths globally, including 167,000 among individuals with HIV. TB is the second leading infectious killer worldwide, following Covid-19.

Initiatives Related to TB

India:

• National TB Elimination Programme (NTEP): Aiming to eliminate TB by 2025.
• Ni-kshay Mitra Initiative: Provides Direct Benefit Transfers (DBT) to TB patients.
• TB-Mukt Panchayat Initiative: Engages over 250,000 Gram Panchayats to raise awareness, eliminate stigma, and improve service uptake.
• Pradhan Mantri TB Mukt Bharat Abhiyan (PMTBMBA): A national campaign to eliminate TB.

Global:

• Global Tuberculosis Programme: Works toward a world free of TB, aiming for zero deaths, disease, and suffering caused by the disease.
• Global Plan to End TB 2023-2030: A strategic plan to eradicate tuberculosis as a public health issue by 2030, aligning with the UN Sustainable Development Goals.
• SDG 3: Aims to prevent unnecessary suffering from preventable diseases and reduce premature deaths by focusing on crucial health targets.
• Global Tuberculosis Report: An annual report assessing the progress and challenges in combating TB worldwide.

GS2/Governance

Persistent Issue of Violence Against Women in India

Why in News?

• The recent tragic incident involving the rape and murder of a trainee doctor in Kolkata has sparked widespread outrage and renewed discussions about women's safety in India. Healthcare workers have intensified their protests, demanding a Central law aimed at protecting them. Despite the implementation of stricter laws, incidents of violence against women continue to rise, highlighting the pressing need for systemic reforms.

What are the Demands of Healthcare Workers?

• Central Protection Act: The Indian Medical Association (IMA) is calling for a nationwide law to secure the safety of healthcare professionals. This act would draw inspiration from international models like the UK's National Health Service (NHS) zero-tolerance policy and the felony classifications for assaults in the United States.
• Enhanced Safety Measures: Advocating for improvements such as better lighting, security personnel, and surveillance systems in medical facilities to ensure the safety of doctors and staff.

Current Provisions:

• State Responsibilities: Health and law enforcement fall under state jurisdiction, and the Union government lacks comprehensive data on attacks on medical professionals. N.K. Singh has suggested moving health to the Concurrent List of the Constitution for better oversight.
• Ministry of Health and Family Welfare Order: Mandates that First Information Reports (FIRs) be filed within six hours of any violence against healthcare workers.
• National Medical Commission (NMC) Directives: Requires medical colleges to create policies ensuring safe working conditions and timely reporting of incidents.

Central Government Response for Demands:

• The Health Ministry has stated that existing legal frameworks sufficiently cover the Kolkata incident, asserting that a Central Protection Act is unnecessary as 26 states and Union Territories already have laws protecting healthcare workers.
• These laws classify violence against healthcare personnel as cognizable and non-bailable, covering doctors, nurses, and paramedical staff.

What do the Crime Statistics Reveal About Women's Safety in India?

• Rising Crime Rates: According to the National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB), there were 445,256 reported cases of crime against women in 2022, marking a 12.9% increase from 2018 to 2022. The data reflects both a rise in incidents and improved reporting practices.
• Types of Crimes: Common crimes against women include cruelty by husbands or in-laws (31.4%), kidnapping and abduction (19.2%), and assault to outrage modesty (18.7%).
• Persistently High Rape Cases: Reports indicate that more than 30,000 rape cases have been recorded annually since 2012, with 2022 reflecting over 31,000 cases.
• Impact of the Pandemic: The COVID-19 pandemic exacerbated violence against women, increasing the crime rate from 56.5 per 100,000 women in 2020 to 64.5 in 2021, largely due to economic pressures and social isolation.
• Workplace Harassment: Despite the Protection of Women from Sexual Harassment Act, 2013, there has been a slight increase in reported cases of workplace harassment, from 402 in 2018 to 422 in 2022, likely underreported due to societal stigma.
• Index on Women's Safety: In the 2023 Women, Peace, and Security Index by the Georgetown Institute, India scored 0.595, placing it 128th out of 177 countries for women's inclusion, justice, and security.

What are India's Initiatives Related to Women Safety?

Legislations:

• India ratified the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW) in 1993, promoting gender equality.
• The Immoral Traffic (Prevention) Act, 1956, and the Indecent Representation of Women Act, 1986, aim to prevent trafficking and inappropriate depictions of women.
• The Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act, 2005, provides legal recourse and support for victims of domestic violence.
• The Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace (Prevention, Prohibition and Redressal) Act, 2013, outlines definitions and protections against workplace harassment.

Strategies and Measures:

• The Beti Bachao Beti Padhao Scheme works to prevent gender-biased sex selection and promote education for girls.
• The NIRBHAYA Fund supports initiatives aimed at enhancing women's safety and security across the country.
• Emergency response systems, such as the 182 Security helpline and CCTV in women's compartments, have been introduced to improve safety.

Why are Laws and Regulations Falling Short for Women Safety?

• Implementation Gaps: Despite stringent laws, enforcement is inconsistent across regions. Regulations like the establishment of Internal Complaints Committees (ICC) are often inadequately implemented.
• Systemic Issues: Corruption within law enforcement can hinder justice for victims, leading to mishandling or dismissal of cases.
• Cultural and Social Norms: Societal attitudes may normalize violence against women, discouraging reporting and contributing to stigma against victims.
• Legal Challenges: High burdens of proof and complex judicial processes can deter victims from seeking justice, further exacerbating the issue.
• Lack of Awareness and Education: Limited knowledge about legal rights and available resources can prevent women from accessing necessary support and justice.

Way Forward

• Nationwide Protection Law: A Central Protection Act similar to the UK's zero-tolerance policy is essential for uniform protection of all working professionals.
• Strengthening Monitoring Mechanisms: Regular audits and compliance checks for laws like the PoSH Act should be mandated to ensure effectiveness.
• Fast-Track Courts: Establishing fast-track courts for serious offenses and increasing women's representation in the judiciary can enhance justice delivery.
• Support Systems: Strengthening victim support services, including counseling and legal aid, will help survivors access the resources they need.
• Public Awareness Campaigns: National campaigns should be launched to educate about women's rights and available legal recourse, utilizing various media and community platforms.

Mains Question:
Despite existing legal provisions, crimes against women in India persist. Critically evaluate the reasons for the high rates of violence and suggest comprehensive reforms to address these issues.

GS3/Environment

Climate Change Impact on Panama Canal

Why in news?

• The Panama Canal, a vital global shipping route, is currently confronting serious challenges due to extended drought conditions intensified by climate change. This has resulted in decreased water levels in Lake Gatun, leading to urgent discussions regarding long-term strategies to maintain the operational efficiency of the Panama Canal.

What is the Impact of Climate Change on the Panama Canal?

Drought and Reduced Passage of Ships:

• The Panama Canal has been undergoing a prolonged drought since early 2023.
• Rainfall recorded in October 2023 was 43% below average, marking it as the driest October since the 1950s.
• Ship traffic through the canal fell to as few as 22 vessels per day in December 2023, a significant drop from the typical 36 to 38 vessels, due to the low water levels in Lake Gatun.

Restriction on Size of Ships:

• The lowered water levels restrict the dimensions of vessels that can navigate the canal, as larger ships face increased risks of grounding in shallower areas.
• Heavier ships also require more water from the lake to be lifted adequately in the locks.

Effect on Global Trade:

• As the Panama Canal is responsible for 5% of global shipping, disruptions here have significant repercussions on the international supply chain.
• Consequently, there are delays in shipments, increased fuel consumption, and potential GDP losses.
• Ships are compelled to take longer routes, often traveling to the southern parts of South America.

What are Key Facts about the Panama Canal?

About Panama Canal:

• The Panama Canal is an artificial waterway spanning 82 kilometers in Panama, linking the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans.
• This canal traverses the Isthmus of Panama, facilitating maritime trade.
• It saves approximately 12,600 kilometers on journeys between New York and San Francisco.
• The inaugural ship passed through the Panama Canal on August 15, 1914.

Functioning of Panama Canal:

• The canal operates through a sophisticated system of locks and elevators that elevate vessels from one end to the other.
• This system is necessary as the two oceans are at different elevations, with the Pacific Ocean being slightly higher than the Atlantic.
• When a ship enters the canal from the Atlantic, it must gain elevation to reach the Pacific Ocean.
• This elevation is achieved through a lock system that can lift and drop vessels to the required sea level at either end of the canal.
• The locks can be flooded to gain elevation or drained to lose it, functioning as water elevators.
• In total, the canal comprises 12 locks, which are serviced by artificial lakes and channels.

Mains Question:

Q. Discuss the impact of Climate Change on water channels? How canals are inevitable for the smooth flow of global trade?

GS3/Health

Rising Cancer Concerns

Why in News?

• A recent study published in a journal predicts that global cancer cases in men will surge by 84.3%, with cancer-related deaths increasing by 93.2% by 2050 compared to estimates from 2022. This alarming trend signals a pressing public health challenge that demands immediate action.

What are the Key Findings of the Study?

• Projected Increase in Cancer Cases and Deaths: The study forecasts that cancer cases among men will reach 19 million by 2050, while deaths are expected to rise to 10.5 million.
• Projection of Specific Cancer Types: From 2022 to 2050, mesothelioma (the most common type of lung cancer) is anticipated to increase by 105.5%. Prostate cancer deaths are projected to rise by 136.4%, while testicular cancer will see smaller increases, with incidents up by 22.7% and deaths by 40%.
• Dominance of Lung Cancer: Lung cancer is expected to remain the most prevalent type of cancer in terms of both incidence and mortality, with a projected increase of over 87% compared to 2022.
• Disparities Across Age and Regions: The report highlights significant variations in cancer rates by age and region, noting that approximately 10.3 million cases and 5.4 million deaths among men globally were recorded in 2022. Nearly two-thirds of these cases occurred in adults aged 65 and older.
• Impact of Human Development Index (HDI): The report indicates that cancer cases will rise by 50.2% in countries with a very high HDI and by 138.6% in low HDI countries between 2022 and 2050. Cancer deaths are expected to increase by 63.9% in very high HDI countries and by 141.6% in low HDI countries.
• High Mortality-to-Incidence Ratios: The report underscores high mortality-to-incidence ratios, with older men facing a ratio of 61% and low HDI countries experiencing a ratio of 74%. Rare cancers, such as pancreatic cancer, exhibit an even higher ratio of 91%, signifying poor survival outcomes.
• Understanding Mortality-to-Incidence Ratio (MIR): MIR is a metric that compares the number of cancer deaths (mortality) to the number of new cancer cases (incidence) over a defined period.

What is the State of Cancer Prevalence in India?

• In India, there were 1,413,316 new cancer cases reported in 2022, with a higher proportion of female patients (691,178 men and 722,138 women).
• Breast cancer had the highest incidence in the country, with 192,020 new cases, constituting 13.6% of all patients and over 26% in women.
• Following breast cancer, cases of lip and oral cavity cancer were noted (143,759 new cases, 10.2%), along with cervix and uterine, lung, and esophageal cancers.
• A recent WHO study on cancer burden in Asia, published in The Lancet Regional Health, found that India accounted for 32.9% of global cancer deaths and 28.1% of new cases of lip and oral cavity cancer in 2019. This is largely attributed to high consumption of smokeless tobacco (SMT) like khaini, gutkha, betel quid, and paan masala in South Asian countries such as India, Bangladesh, and Nepal.
• Globally, SMT is responsible for 50% of oral cancer cases.
• According to the Lancet Global Health 2023, 23% of deaths due to cervical cancer occurred globally, with the five-year survival rate for cervical cancer at 51.7%, which is notably lower than in high-income countries like the United States.

What are the Government Initiatives for Cancer Control In India?

• The Union Budget 2024-25 has exempted customs duties on three cancer drugs: Trastuzumab Deruxtecan, Osimertinib, and Durvalumab.
• The Interim Budget 2024-25 promotes the vaccination of girls aged 9-14 years to prevent cervical cancer.
• National Programme for Prevention and Control of Cancer, Diabetes, Cardiovascular Diseases and Stroke.
• National Cancer Grid.
• National Cancer Awareness Day.
• HPV Vaccine initiatives.
• Ayushman Bharat - Health & Wellness Centres (AB-HWCs).

What are the Key Highlights of the NITI Aayog Report on Early Cancer Detection in India?

Cancer Screening Gap: 

• According to NITI Aayog’s report, there is a substantial shortfall in cancer screening at Ayushman Bharat Health and Wellness Centres (HWCs). Less than 10% of these centres have conducted even a single round of screening for non-communicable diseases, including cancer.

Screening Practices:

• Breast Cancer: Screening is mainly performed through self-examination.
• Cervical Cancer: Screening has not been fully implemented across facilities.
• Oral Cancer: Screening occurs on a case-by-case basis, depending on visible symptoms.

Infrastructure and Resources: 

• HWCs are reported to lack fundamental infrastructure, including necessary devices, medicines, and diagnostic tests as outlined in operational guidelines.

Staff Training and Awareness: 

• There is inadequate training and monitoring for Auxiliary Nurses and Midwives (ANMs) regarding screening methods. Additionally, HWC staff exhibit limited awareness of the necessity for annual screenings for hypertension and diabetes.

Mains Question:

• Discuss the significance of early detection and screening in cancer control strategies and evaluate the effectiveness of India's current cancer control policies in addressing the growing burden of the disease.

GS2/International Relations

Comprehensive Strategic Partnership between India and Malaysia

Why in News?

• India and Malaysia have recently made a significant advancement in their bilateral relations by establishing a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership. This milestone was achieved during the visit of the Malaysian Prime Minister to India, where discussions focused on fostering deeper cooperation and addressing mutual interests.

What are the Key Outcomes of the Malaysian Prime Minister Visit to India?

• Comprehensive Strategic Partnership: The relationship was upgraded from the Enhanced Strategic Partnership established in 2015 to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership.
• Economic and Trade Enhancements: Bilateral trade hit a record high of USD 19.5 billion, highlighting strong economic ties. Both leaders emphasized the need for increased investment in sectors such as fintech, energy, digital technologies, and start-ups.
• ASEAN-India Trade in Goods Agreement (AITIGA): An agreement was made to expedite the review process of AITIGA, aiming for completion by 2025 to improve supply chain connectivity between India and ASEAN countries.
• MoUs and Agreements: Several Memorandums of Understanding were signed to enhance cooperation:
• Recruitment and Employment: An MoU was signed to facilitate the management of worker movement between the two nations.
• Ayurveda and Traditional Systems of Medicine: An MoU was established to promote traditional medicine, including the creation of an Ayurveda Chair at Universiti Tunku Abdul Rahman in Malaysia.
• Digital Technologies: An MoU focused on collaboration in digital areas like cybersecurity, AI, and quantum computing. Plans were made to connect India's Unified Payments Interface (UPI) with Malaysia's PayNet.
• Culture and Heritage: Efforts to promote cultural exchange and preserve heritage were agreed upon.
• Tourism: Initiatives to enhance tourism and ease travel were discussed, coinciding with Malaysia's designation of 2026 as Visit Malaysia Year.
• Public Administration and Governance: Both countries will share best practices in governance reforms.
• Youth and Sports: There will be initiatives to foster youth engagement and sports collaboration.
• Defense and Security Collaboration: Plans were made to enhance defense cooperation through exchanges and joint exercises, along with commitments to counter terrorism and organized crime.
• Educational Cooperation: Malaysia welcomed an allocation of 100 seats for Malaysian students under India's ITEC Programme in relevant fields like cybersecurity and AI.
• Multilateral Cooperation: Malaysia expressed appreciation for India's support of ASEAN centrality and agreed to enhance collaboration through ASEAN mechanisms. India will assist Malaysia in its request to join BRICS.
• Sustainable Development and Climate Action: Both nations agreed to work together on sustainable energy initiatives and climate change, with Malaysia joining the International Big Cat Alliance.

What is the Significance of Visit for India’s Strategic Interests?

• India’s Act East Policy: The visit supports India's strategy to strengthen ties with Southeast Asian nations, enhancing its influence in the region.
• Past Frictions: Previous tensions arose from Malaysia's criticism of India's policies, affecting trade, particularly palm oil imports. Recent diplomatic engagement aims to mend these relationships.
• Indo-Pacific Oceans Initiative (IPOI): Opportunities for collaboration in this initiative could improve regional cooperation, although Malaysia's involvement remains limited.
• Addressing South China Sea Concerns: Discussions on regional security dynamics, particularly concerning China’s influence, will help India navigate its strategies in the Indo-Pacific region.
• Boosting Trade Relations: Malaysia ranks as a significant investor in India, and the visit aims to secure and expand these economic ties.

What are the Key Highlights of the India Malaysia Relations?

• Historical Ties: India and Malaysia share a historical connection dating back over a thousand years, significantly influenced by the Chola Empire, which established maritime trade routes between South India and the Malay Peninsula.
• Economic and Commercial Relations: Malaysia is India's 13th largest trading partner, with India being among Malaysia's top trading partners. Trade agreements promote mutual economic interests.
• Trade Settlement in Indian Rupees: Since July 2022, trade can be settled in Indian Rupees, facilitating smoother transactions.
• Defense Cooperation: The longstanding MoU on Defense Cooperation enables joint military exercises and collaborative projects.
• Indian Community: Approximately 2.95 million Indians reside in Malaysia, contributing to cultural and economic exchanges.
• Cultural Cooperation: The Indian Cultural Centre in Kuala Lumpur promotes Indian culture through various educational programs.
• Ramayana Influence: The Ramayana has influenced Malaysian culture, with local adaptations reflecting shared heritage.

Mains Question:

What is the significance of upgrading India-Malaysia relations to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership? Discuss its potential impact on regional stability and economic growth.

GS2/International Relations

3rd Voice of Global South Summit 2024 (VOGSS)

Why in News?

• India hosted the 3rd Voice of Global South Summit (VOGSS) on 17 August 2024, in a virtual format, with the overarching theme, "An Empowered Global South for a Sustainable Future." A total of 123 countries participated in the summit, although China and Pakistan were notably not invited. This event follows India's previous hosting of the summit on 12-13 January 2023 and again in November 2023, both also conducted virtually.

What is the Voice of the Global South Summit?

• About: The VOGSS is a unique initiative led by India aimed at uniting countries of the Global South to share their perspectives and priorities on various issues.
• Philosophy: It reflects India’s ethos of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam, meaning "One Earth, One Family, One Future," alongside the Prime Minister's vision of Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas, Sabka Vishwas, and Sabka Prayas.

Need of the VOGSS

• Global Developments: Recent global challenges, including the COVID-19 pandemic and the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, have significantly impacted developing nations, leading to increased debt and threats to food and energy security.
• Ignorance: The concerns of developing countries often do not receive adequate attention on the global stage.
• Inadequate Resources: Existing platforms have proven insufficient for addressing the unique challenges faced by developing nations.
• Renewed Cooperation: India aims to provide a platform for discussing the interests and priorities of developing countries while exchanging ideas and solutions.

Key Outcomes of 3rd VOGSS 2024

• Global Development Compact (GDC): The Prime Minister proposed a comprehensive four-fold initiative including trade for development, capacity building for sustainable growth, technology sharing, and project-specific concessional finance and grants.
• Funding and Support: India announced significant initiatives to enhance development partnerships, including a USD 2.5 million fund for trade promotion and a USD 1 million fund for capacity building in trade policy.
• Healthcare Promotion: India will strive to provide affordable and effective generic medicines to Global South countries, support training for drug regulators, and share expertise in natural farming practices.
• Reforming Global Institutions: The Prime Minister stressed the necessity for just and inclusive global governance, advocating for reforms in global institutions to prioritize the concerns of developing nations while ensuring developed countries fulfill their commitments.
• Collaboration for SDGs: The summit emphasized a shared vision for the Global South to achieve Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and accelerate development beyond 2030, focusing on collective efforts to tackle challenges in finance, health, climate, technology, governance, energy, trade, youth empowerment, and digital transformation.

What is Global South?

• The term "Global South" was coined by American academic Carl Oglesby in 1969 to describe countries affected by the dominance of the Global North through political and economic exploitation.
• It broadly refers to regions in Latin America, Asia, Africa, and Oceania, which are generally low-income and often politically or culturally marginalized.
• China and India are key advocates for the Global South, representing a visual depiction of the world's economic divide based on GDP per capita.
• The concept was popularized by Willy Brandt in the 1970s, representing areas outside Europe and North America, encapsulated within a geographical divide known as the Brandt line.

What are Challenges for India as the “Voice of Global South”?

• Geopolitical Competition: India is viewed as a competitor to China in leading the Global South, as China extends its influence through initiatives like the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI).
• Food Security Dilemma: India's decision to restrict rice exports in July 2023 has drawn criticism as it conflicts with its leadership role in addressing global food security challenges.
• Pharmaceutical Challenge: India's status as the "pharmacy of the world" is questioned due to recent issues with contaminated medicines produced by Indian manufacturers, prompting the WHO to issue warnings.
• Internal Development Issues: Critics argue that India must first address its own domestic challenges such as wealth inequality, unemployment, and inadequate infrastructure before taking on a leadership role.

Way Forward

• Strengthen Strategic Partnerships: India should focus on building alliances with Global South countries through collaborative projects in technology, education, and healthcare to counter China's influence.
• Balanced Development Model: Advocating for a model that emphasizes sustainability and inclusivity can help India differentiate itself from China's debt-driven approach.
• Reassess Export Policies: India needs to balance domestic needs and international responsibilities, investing in agricultural innovation to enhance food production.
• Prioritize Domestic Challenges: Addressing issues like poverty and unemployment is crucial for India to enhance its credibility and moral authority on the global stage.

Mains Question:

• Q. India faces significant challenges in its leadership role within the Global South. How can these challenges be addressed to position India as a responsible and effective leader?