International Relations & Security

All (4265)Current Affairs (4243)Mains Practice (77)Mains PYQs by Subjects (40)

The lesser-known battles of Maoist women

Context: The article reflects that everything is not well in the Communist Party of India (Maoist) which, besides waging an armed struggle to capture political power, also claims to fight for gender equality. The Maoists profess discipline and integrity, but exploitation of women in the party is a stark reality. Women who join the party in the hope of bringing about a “revolution” for the proletariat and the landless class are often subject to the same structural violence that they are supposed to fight.

Gender issues within the movement

Under-representation: Women constitute 35%-40% of the total party members, but their representation in the Central Committee and the Dandakaranya Special Zonal Committee (DKSZC) is negligible.
Health issues: While jungle life is difficult for all cadres, the women have to face additional health challenges
The women cadres in the CPI(Maoist) don’t get even get sentry duty off and need to be alert all the time with a gun. In addition, they have to walk for miles daily to change their location.
Basic necessities ignored: Further Women are not permitted to liberally use water. Each cadre has to carry water in bottles for her own use. It is taboo to use water from streams or ponds for washing. Women are at the mercy of the unit commander who carries some medical necessities.
Lacking nutrition: Most women who are not conscious of their nutrition intake, particularly iron, become anaemic
Exploitation: There are instances of women cadres dying by suicide on account of ill treatment or suspicion.

Origin of left-wing movement in India

Naxalite are a group of left radical communist and the supporter of Maoist political ideology. The word Naxalite derived from the word "Naxalbari" which is the name of a village of west Bengal where a peasant insurgencies took place on 1967 against the landlords. Generally the majority of people of naxalite group are belongs to labourer, adibashi, and unemployed and mostly of them are living in remote area where the development failed to reach yet.
In India about 8% people are adhibasi and 92% of them living in tribal areas such as forest and hills and this tribal areas are far away from development or the government failed to give them a secure or peaceful life and this are the main causes for increasing number of naxalite movement in this areas. According shri Gadar "the revolutionary poet support Naxalism and said Naxalism is the result of failure of democracy."
The left-wing movement was originated under the aegis of Kanu Sanyal, Charu Majumdar and Jangal Santhal.
Kanu Sanyal, who was the follower of communist ideology thought that the economic freedom will come when you fight with maximum wealth holder
Charu Majumdar, who were inspired by the various ideology of Mao Zedong of China. He said, "That Indian peasants and lower class tribal's overthrow the government and upper class by force for whom he held responsible for their commitment." A large of urban elites were also attracted to the ideology, which spread through Charu Majumdar writing particularly the "eight historic documents" which formed basis naxalite ideology. Charu Majumdar wanted a prolonged people's war in India similar to Chinese revolution 1949.
The Naxalite movement first time appeared on 1967 in Naxalbari village of West Bengal by peasants against the landlords and this movement was leading by Charu Majumdar, Kanu Sanyal, and Jangal Santhal.. Initially the Naxalite movement originated in West Bengal and had later moved to the less developed rural areas in southern and eastern India including in the state of chhatisgarh, Odisha, Andhrapradesh, and telengana. This was testified by the fact that as per 1971 census, about 60% of people of the population were landless and the major share of land were in the hands of 4% richest peoples. The peasants were exploited by the landlords raised their bow and arrows in insurgencies. And this was the primary cause of this movement.

Causes of Left-Wing Extremism

Land Related Factors

Evasion of land ceiling laws.
Existence of special land tenures (enjoying exemptions under ceiling laws).
Encroachment and occupation of Government and Community lands (even the waterbodies) by powerful sections of society.
Lack of title to public land cultivated by the landless poor.
Poor implementation of laws prohibiting transfer of tribal land to non-tribals in the Fifth Schedule areas.
Non-regularisation of traditional land rights.

Displacement and Forced Evictions

Eviction from lands traditionally used by tribals.
Displacements caused by irrigation and power projects without adequate arrangements for rehabilitation.
Large scale land acquisition for ‘public purposes’ without appropriate compensation or rehabilitation.

Livelihood Related Causes

Lack of food security – corruption in the Public Distribution System (which is often non-functional).
Disruption of traditional occupations and lack of alternative work opportunities.
Deprivation of traditional rights in common property resources.

Social Exclusion

Denial of dignity.
Continued practice, in some areas, of untouchability in various forms.
Poor implementation of special laws on prevention of atrocities, protection of civil rights and abolition of bonded labour etc.

Governance Related Factors

Corruption and poor provision/non-provision of essential public services including primary health care and education.
Incompetent, ill-trained and poorly motivated public personnel who are mostly absent from their place of posting.
Misuse of powers by the police and violations of the norms of law.
Perversion of electoral politics and unsatisfactory working of local government institutions.
These causes are most glaring in forest areas predominantly inhabited by tribal populations who thus become the main instruments and victims of left extremist violence.

Sources of Funding for Naxalites

Financial mobilisation by Naxalites is in the form of extortion from local people and from contractors executing various projects in the affected areas. Besides, funds are also raised through forest and mining operations.
The extensive contractor-transporter-extremist nexus and its links with illegal mining and collection of forest produce in the entire region affected by left extremism yields a huge volume of funds for the extremists.

Government’s Approach And Action Plan To Curb Lwe

The Government of India has adopted an integrated and holistic approach to deal with the Left-Wing Extremist (LWE) insurgency by simultaneously addressing the areas of security, development and promoting good governance. To achieve this, a National Policy and Action Plan has been put in place that adopts a multi-pronged strategy in the areas of security, development, ensuring rights & entitlements of Other Traditional Dwellers /Tribals etc with focused attention on 106 Districts in 10 States and particularly in 35 most affected LWE districts in 07 States.

Specific Measures taken by Central government

‘Police’ and ‘public order’ are state subjects. Central government, however, closely monitors situation and coordinates and supplements their efforts in several ways to deal with the LWE problem.
Ban on CPI (Maoist): This organisation is responsible for most incidents of violence/casualties.
Strengthening the Intelligence Mechanism: This includes intelligence sharing through Multi-Agency Centre (MAC) at the Central level and State Multi Agency Centre (SMAC) at the State level on 24x7 basis.
Better Inter-State coordination: The menace of Maoists is spread across various states. Thus, Government of India has taken a number of steps to improve Inter-State coordination through periodic Inter-State meetings and facilitating interactions between the bordering districts of LWE affected States.
Tackling the problem of Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs): Majority of casualties incurred by the Security force are attributable to IEDs. The Ministry of Home Affairs has formulated an SOP on ‘Issues related to Explosives/IEDs/Landmines in Naxal Affected Areas’ and circulated to all stakeholders concerned for compliance.
Deployment of the Central Armed Police Forces
India reserve (IR)/Specialised India Reserve Battalion (SIRB): The Left-Wing Extremism affected states have been sanctioned India Reserve (IR) battalions mainly to strengthen security apparatus at their level and to enable the States to provide gainful employment to youth, particularly in the LWE affected areas.

Development measures taken by Government
Monitoring and Implementation of Flagship Programs:(a) Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana (PMGSY)(b) National Rural Health Mission (NRHM)(c) Ashram School(d) Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA)(e) Sarva Shiksha Abhiyan (SSA)(f) National Rural Drinking Water Program (NRDWP)(g) Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana (PMKVY)(h) Deen Dayal Upadhyay Gram Jyoti Yojana (DDUGJY)(I) Integrated Child Development Services (ICDS)(j) Scheduled Tribes and Other Traditional Forest Dwellers (Recognition of Forest Right) Act, 2006.

Way forward

Left extremism feeds on persistent and serious shortcomings in the domain of general and

development administration, resulting in the failure of the government to address the needs of the poor in areas pertaining to land, food, water and personal security, equity, ethnic/cultural identity etc. The ‘containment’ of the problem may inter alia require consideration of the following:

Most of the ‘participants’ in violence perpetrated under the banner of left extremist organisations are alienated sections of society rather than perpetrators of ‘high treason’ – they must be treated as such.
A fortiori police action over a long period is counterproductive; it is likely to affect the innocent more than the extremists.
Negotiations have a definite ameliorative role under the circumstances; this is the experience the world over.
Faithful, fair, and just implementation of laws and programs for social justice will go a long way to remove the basic causes of resentment among aggrieved sections of society.
Sustained, professionally sound and sincere development initiatives suitable to local conditions along with democratic methods of conflict resolution must be developed.

Changing foreign policy of Saudi Arabia

Context: Saudi Arabia has been pursuing as assertive foreign policy in order to extend its influence in the West Asia.

Background

For past many years, Saudi’s foreign policy centred around Iran and it resulted into the proxy conflicts across the region. The rivalry between Saudi Arabia and Iran is rooted in Islamic sectarianism. While Iran is the foremost Shia state in the world, Saudi Arabia is considered to be the religious home of Sunni Islam. This sectarian rivalry has translated into a tussle for regional hegemony and both sides being involved in multiple proxy conflicts against each other in Iraq, Lebanon, Syria and most devastatingly, Yemen.

Saudi’s changing foreign policy:

It agreed to establish ties with Iran through talks mediated by China.
Saudi – Omani delegation hold talks with Houthi rebels for a permanent ceasefire.
It is holding talks with Syria to normalize ties with Assad Regime which may result into re-entry of Syria to Arab League.
It is also trying to balance its relationships with the US, Russia, and China.

Timeline

Description automatically generated

The reason behind the shift:

Saudi’s past endeavours in West Asia were either unsuccessful or only partially successful.
In Yemen, Saudi led coalition failed to oust Houthi’s from Sana’a (Yemen’s Capital).
Saudi Arabia’s “Vision 2030” calls for diversifying the oil-dependent economy by attracting tourism and foreign investment. Regional peace will be crucial to turning Saudi Arabia into the global hub that “Vision 2030” envisions. This has led to Saudi Arabia making concerted efforts to end long-standing conflicts/rivalries with powers across the region.
As the U.S. shifts its priorities away from West Asia, Saudi Arabia is confronted with a choice to either persist in their unsuccessful efforts to contain Iran in a region or they can work towards establishing a new balance with Iran.

Implications for the region:

Saudi Arabia’s normalization talks with Syria would help improve the overall relationship between Syria and other Arab capitals.
If Saudis can reach a settlement with Houthis, it could infuse some stability in the Gulf region.

6JMC3BnjgO3hLvigh sLLqPHAfGriOBH17fR6rfrjf96 6P8Op1KuHg74LZ0dSCICt1ohw0b1Oew3CHEb04fDSvzvbNVmfPRdtXMrRAJ39AG4OIfJfXWvR nKSfh9oo utEFK1yvoXkuDtZNiOtAYQ

Finland’s Journey, from Neutral to NATO

Context: Finland joined the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO), becoming its 31st member. This is a significant event, given that NATO security guarantees will extend to this country which shares a 1,340 kilometre border with Russia. This historical moment in NATO’s history was full of symbolism, since NATO had clearly scored an additional point against Russia.

‘Conventional deterrence’ as a response to post-cold War Russian policies:

The main rationale behind Finland’s decision has been to receive additional security guarantees from NATO, which are specified in Article 5 of NATO’s founding treaty. It ‘binds the members together, committing them to protect each other and setting a spirit of solidarity within the alliance’.
Finland’s NATO membership can be viewed through the lens of ‘conventional deterrence’. As described John Mearsheimer this concept as ‘an attempt to persuade an adversary not to initiate a war because the expected costs and risks outweigh the anticipated benefits’.
Finland is certainly not the first and will not be the last neighbour of Russia to join the alliance. Before Finland’s accession, countries such as Norway (1949), Latvia (2004), Estonia (2004), Poland (1999) and Lithuania (2004) were already a part of NATO.
In this scenario, Russia needs to learn how to navigate through these growing complexities, which it is partly responsible for.

Complicated past of Russia and Finland

The ‘relationship between Finland and Russia has been a combination of struggle and compromise. In 1809, the Russian Tsar Alexander I defeated Sweden, acquired Finland, and made it an autonomous Grand Duchy of the Russian empire.
In 1917, the collapse of the Tsarist regime and the Bolshevik Revolution paved the way for the full independence of Finland’. This made Finland pursue a pragmatic security policy which was flexible enough to balance its autonomy with the need for military cooperation with the West.
In the post-war era and during the cold war Finland saved itself from the spread of communist ideology. In 1948, the Agreement of Friendship, Cooperation, and Mutual Assistance was signed between the USSR and Finland, outlining ‘Finland’s desire to stay outside the conflicts of interests between the great powers’. This came to be known as Finland’s ‘neutrality’.
Paasikivi’s line (named after Juho Kusti Paasikivi, the president of Finland between 1946 and 1956) emerged and began to morph into what would eventually become Finland’s foreign policy strategy.
This Paasikivi’s line was based on the idea of peaceful coexistence with the Soviet Union with neutrality being its cornerstone. It helped Finland navigate complex international relations after the turbulent time of the Second World War.
While the Finno-Soviet Treaty of 1948 helped Finland boost trade with the Soviet Union, it became heavily dependent on Moscow thereby making it vulnerable to economic and political overtures from the Soviets.

Policy Change?

There were tensions between Finland and Russia as a result of the flux in domestic politics in both countries. For instance, Nikita Khrushchev was willing to negotiate with Finland and allowed for increased trade and cultural exchange between the two countries, despite the 1950s seeing Finland side with the West when the Soviet Union called for a boycott of the 1956 Summer Olympics in Australia.
Following the collapse of the Soviet Union in 1991, it sought to build closer ties with Russia while also pursuing greater integration with Europe.
The country has been an active participant in European security initiatives such as the Common Security and Defence Policy (CSDP) and the Nordic Defence Cooperation (NORDEFCO). At the same time, it has been able to maintain close economic ties with Russia.
The cooperation between Finland and NATO began as early as in 1994 with the Partnership for Peace (PfP) programme. Finland had the status of an ‘Enhanced Opportunity Partner’ and contributed in a significant manner to the NATO-led operations in the Balkans, Afghanistan and Iraq.

Possible Outcome and wayforward

Finland's accession to NATO gives the impression that Finland’s security concerns are mostly assuaged.
However Russian authorities have signalled possible ‘countermeasures’ to the alleged ‘assault on its security and national interests’.
International political scientist believe that Russia and NATO should exercise cautious behaviour vis-à-vis the other. NATO and Russia should search for ways out of the constant cycle of implementing ‘measures’ and imposing ‘countermeasures’. During the last decade, a classic example of ‘security dilemma’ has been unfolding, whereby Russia and the West have been enhancing their security and creating a more precarious environment altogether.
Neither Finland nor Russia should see an escalation in their relations. The newly elected centre-right government in Finland should not exaggerate the potential threats from Russia but engage in bilateral dialogue, trying to understand the other’s security concerns. There should be at least some NATO members who would be willing to rely more on diplomatic tools and ‘lower the temperatures’.

Further reading about NATO and accession process
( https://compass.rauias.com/current-affairs/north-atlantic-treaty-organization/ )

Future of India-U.S. Ties

Context: The United States has announced its next Ambassador to India, Eric Garcetti. Mr. Garcetti, who is known to be a close confidante of Mr. Biden, in Delhi is a sign of things to come. While his appointment signifies the potential for greater partnership, there are also differences in opinion to be overcome in the U.S.-India relationship.

The U.S. may want India to change its stance on the Ukraine crisis, while India may seek to persuade the U.S. to have a stronger position against China.

While India would seek greater partnership with the U.S., it would also be reluctant to sever its stable relations with Russia. As Moscow has just released its foreign policy strategy in which it has identified China and India as its main allies. India is also the president of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization

Areas of convergence:

The India-U.S. Initiative on Critical and Emerging Technology, launched in 2022, is expected to expand strategic technology partnership and defence industrial cooperation between the governments, businesses, and academic institutions of the two countries.
The indo-Pacific partnership is aimed at promoting security and economic growth, increasing trade and investment, and enhancing connectivity in the region. The partnership is based on the shared vision of a free, open, and inclusive Indo-Pacific region that is respectful of the sovereignty and territorial integrity of all countries.
The partnership involves a range of initiatives, including joint military exercises, information-sharing on security issues, and collaboration on economic and infrastructure development projects. It also involves cooperation in areas such as counter-terrorism, cybersecurity, and maritime security.
One of the key objectives of the Indo-Pacific partnership is to counter the growing influence of China in the region. The U.S. and India share concerns about China’s aggressive actions in the South China Sea, its expanding military presence in the region, and its efforts to establish economic dominance through its Belt and Road Initiative.
Further India’s growing consumer market makes it an attractive destination for U.S. businesses looking to expand their customer base. India has a relatively low-cost labour force and an abundance of skilled workers in sectors such as Information Technology, engineering, and manufacturing. The government has also implemented policies aimed at attracting foreign investment and promoting economic growth.
In the past, the nuclear deal, liberalisation of markets, and the outsourcing of Indian techies for U.S. companies are a few key moments of the relationship. Indian Americans are among the most successful immigrants in the U.S
The U.S. also aided Green Revolution which transformed India from a shortage economy to one with surplus food. The U.S. has also played an important role in making India an IT superpower.
The U.S. and India are also partners in combating climate change. This involves a wide range of initiatives, including promoting renewable energy, joint research and development projects, and investment in renewable energy infrastructure. The two countries are also aligned on the importance of space technology.

Challenges/Impediments that are likely to be faced

Infrastructure, logistics, and regulatory systems in India are not as well developed as those in China. India also has a complex legal and bureaucratic system.
India also feels that the U.S. has not always lent support to it and has instead pivoted to supporting Pakistan. Moreover, the American pull-out from Afghanistan does not inspire confidence in the U.S. as a trusted partner.
The U.S. has been flagging issues related to terrorism, human rights and democracy in India.
In agriculture, India has been demanding enhanced market access for its agricultural products in the US market. India has opposed enhanced Phyto-sanitary standards being imposed by USA to curb imports from India.
For Intellectual property rights, US concerns include piracy of software, film, and music and weak patent protections. Despite the changes in the Patent act, US has raised concerns about insufficient patent protections, restrictive standards for patents, and threats of compulsory licensing.
Regarding the digital Economy there exist issues regarding data localization, data privacy and e-commerce. The E-commerce rules of India and the Data Equalisation levy have also been contentious trade issues between the two countries. The US feels that these hit global software giants adversely. For ex. Amazon, Apple, Microsoft and Google.
In the field of pharmaceuticals U.S. Trade Representative (USTR) expressed concern for years about customs duties on medical equipment and devices. Issues increased when the Indian government applied new price controls on coronary stents and knee implants.

India wants cooperation from the US in developing a secure pharmaceutical manufacturing base for augmenting global supply chains.

Conclusion

The U.S. and Indian governments in the past have taken steps to promote closer economic ties and facilitate investment. For example, the U.S.-India Strategic Energy Partnership, launched in 2020, aims to enhance cooperation in areas such as energy security and access, and climate change. Thus building on their strategic partnership, the two countries can slowly become stronger together. This is the time to take the relationship forward constructively and make it reach its potential as well as look for positive areas of collaboration.

Telecom authorities have blocked as many as 120 headers operated by a group linked to a Chinese entity

Context: Telecom authorities have blocked as many as 120 headers operated by a group linked to a Chinese entity in the past two months based on information provided by the Union Home Ministry.

What is a header?

A header, also known as sender ID, is a unique combination of characters or numbers representing the brand or company name of the message sender.
Headers are used by banks, marketing companies, utility providers and even government offices to send bulk messages (SMS) to consumers and customers.

Current Issue?

An investigation by the Indian Cyber Crime Coordination Centre (I4C) found that the headers were hosted from China.

The particular example in this case was the header of West Bengal State Electricity Distribution Company Ltd. WBSEDC was compromised and taken over by a Chinese host.
The header was misused to dupe consumers who received messages pertaining to outstanding electricity bills. These SMS contained malicious links, which when clicked would lead to financial loss for the consumer as the hacker would get access to the person’s phone.
Consumers would fall for it as the header genuinely belongs to the electricity distribution company.
Further it is for the Threat Analytical Unit (TAU) of the I4C, that analyses the pattern of financial crimes and frauds and sends reports to central agencies such as the National Investigation Agency (NIA), Enforcement Directorate or State police forces.

About Indian Cybercrime Coordination Centre (I4C)

Indian Cybercrime Coordination Centre (I4C) is an initiative of the Ministry of Home Affairs, Government of India to deal with cybercrime in the country in a coordinated and comprehensive manner.

I4C focuses on tackling all the issues related to Cybercrime for the citizens, which includes improving coordination between various Law Enforcement Agencies and the stakeholders, driving change in India's overall capability to tackle Cybercrime and to improve citizen satisfaction levels.

Objectives of I4C

To act as a nodal point to curb Cybercrime in the country.
To strengthen the fight against Cybercrime committed against women and children.
Facilitate easy filing Cybercrime related complaints and identifying Cybercrime trends and patterns.
To act as an early warning system for Law Enforcement Agencies for proactive Cybercrime prevention and detection.
Awareness creation among public about preventing Cybercrime.
Assist States/UTs in capacity building of Police Officers, Public Prosecutors and Judicial Officers in the area of cyber forensic, investigation, cyber hygiene, cyber-criminology, etc.

The Components of the I4C Scheme

National Cybercrime Threat Analytics Unit (TAU)
National Cybercrime Reporting
Platform for Joint Cybercrime Investigation Team
National Cybercrime Forensic Laboratory (NCFL) Ecosystem
National Cybercrime Training Centre (NCTC)
Cybercrime Ecosystem Management Unit
National Cyber Crime Research and Innovation Centre

About National Cybercrime Threat Analytics Unit (NCTAU)

It is a platform for Law Enforcement Agencies (LEAs), persons from private sector, academia and research Organisations to work collaboratively in order to analyse all pieces of information relating to Cybercrime.
This unit collects Cybercrime feeds from open sources, National Cybercrime Reporting Portal, CERT-In, and other agencies working in this field, analyse it and further disseminates it to the concerned agencies for taking further appropriate action.

Saudi-Omani delegation to hold ceasefire talks with Yemen's Houthis in Sanaa

Context: A Saudi-Omani delegation is planning to travel to Yemen's capital Sanaa next week to hash out a permanent ceasefire deal with Houthi officials and end the country's eight-year-old conflict. The visit by Saudi officials to Sanaa is an indication of progress in Oman-mediated talks between the kingdom and the Iran-aligned Houthi movement, which run in parallel to U.N. peace efforts.

It is also a sign that regional rifts are easing after rivals Saudi Arabia and Iran agreed to restore relations last month after years of hostility and backing opposite sides in Middle Eastern conflicts, including Yemen.

The discussions are focused on a full reopening of Yemen's ports and airports, payment of wages for public servants, a rebuilding process and a political transition, they added.

History of Crisis in Yemen

What is the Internal division of Yemen?

Yemen has long struggled with religious and cultural differences between its north and south and the legacy of European colonialism.
The modern Yemeni state was formed in 1990 with the unification of the U.S.- and Saudi-backed Yemeni Arab Republic in the north, and the Soviet-backed People’s Democratic Republic of Yemen, in the south.
Ali Abdullah Saleh, a military officer who had ruled North Yemen since 1978, assumed leadership of the new country.

Crisis continues

Though just a few years after unification, southern separatists movement re-emerged in 2007 as the Southern Movement, which has continued to press for greater autonomy within Yemen. Al-Qaeda in Arabian Peninsula (AQAP) an Islamist militant group, captured territory in the south and east.
The Houthi movement on the other hand having base among the Zaydi Shiites of northern Yemen, rose up against Saleh’s government six times between 2004 and 2010.
It was alleged that Saleh ran a corrupt and autocratic government. As the popular protests of the 2011 Arab Spring spread to Yemen, the president’s political and military rivals jockeyed to oust him. While Yemeni security forces focused on putting down protests in urban areas, AQAP made gains in outlying regions.

Transfer of power

Under escalating domestic and International pressure, Saleh stepped aside in 2012 after receiving assurances of immunity from prosecution.

His vice president, Abd Rabbu Mansour Hadi, assumed office as interim president in a transition brokered by the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) and backed by the United States.

The crisis in 2014

The civil war began in Yemen began in 2014 when Houthi insurgents—Shiite rebels having links with Iran and a history of rising up against the Sunni government—took control of Yemen’s capital and largest city, Sana’a.

Fuel price hikes: Under pressure from the International Monetary Fund, which had extended to Yemen a $550 million loan premised on promises of economic reforms, Hadi’s government lifted fuel subsidies in 2014. The Houthi movement, which had attracted support beyond its base with its criticisms of the UN transition, organized mass protests demanding lower fuel prices and a new government.
Houthi takeover: The Houthis captured much of Sanaa by late 2014. Reneging on a UN peace deal, they consolidated control of the capital and continued their southward advance. Hadi’s government resigned under pressure in January 2015, and Hadi later fled to Saudi Arabia.
Military division: Military units loyal to Saleh aligned themselves with the Houthis, contributing to their battlefield success. Other militias mobilized against the Houthi-Saleh forces, aligning with those in the military who had remained loyal to the Hadi government. Southern separatists ramped up their calls for secession.
Failed negotiation: Despite of the rounds of negotiation, the negotiation failed and the rebels seized the presidential palace in 2015, leading President Abd Rabbu Mansour Hadi and his government to resign. But in the backdrop of popular support (from Saudi) Abd Rabbu Mansour Hadi rescinded his resignation and returned to Aden in September 2015, and fighting has continued since. There was a UN effort to broker peace talks between allied Houthi rebels and the internationally recognized Yemeni government stalled. Hadi has reportedly been residing in exile in Saudi Arabia.
Saudi intervention: In 2015, keeping in mind the geostrategic calculus of the Middle East, a coalition of Gulf states led by Saudi Arabia launched a campaign of economic isolation and air strikes against the Houthi insurgents having support from U.S. logistical and intelligence support with aim to restore the Hadi administration to Sanaa.
Iranian intervention: Iran is the Houthis’ primary international backer and has reportedly provided them with military support, including weapons. Hadi’s government has also accused Hezbollah Iran’s Lebanese ally, of aiding the Houthis. Saudi Arabia’s perception that the Houthis are an Iranian Proxy rather than an indigenous movement has driven Riyadh’s military intervention.

Impact of Civil War and missing peace

Around three-quarters of its population lives in the property. Yemen has long been the Arab world’s poorest country, and its humanitarian crisis has been called one of the worst in the world. Disease runs rampant; suspected cholera cases passed two hundred thousand.
Many countries cut back on critical aid to Yemen amid the crush of the pandemic, leading the United Nations to reduce food rations for some eight million Yemenis in Three out of four Yemenis require humanitarian aid and protection, and four million are internally displaced
The UN Development Program estimates that more than 370000 people have died as a result of the war, with indirect causes such as lack of food, water, and health services causing almost 60 percent of deaths.
In addition, the United Nations has found that both Houthi and coalition forces have knowingly attacked civilian targets in violation of international law.

Resumption of Oil Exports from Northern Iraq to Turkey after a Long-standing Dispute

Context: The article reports on the recent agreement between the Iraqi central government and officials from the semi-autonomous Kurdish region to resume oil exports from northern Iraq through a pipeline to Turkey. The dispute between Baghdad and Irbil over oil revenues has been a longstanding issue, and this deal marks a crucial step towards resolving the conflict.

The Importance of Oil for Iraq's Economy:

Iraq is the second-largest oil producer in OPEC and one of the most oil-dependent economies in the world.
Oil accounts for over 90% of the country's total exports and 60% of its GDP.
While most of Iraq's oil reserves are located in the south, the Kurdish region heavily relies on exports from northern fields.
Thus, halting oil exports from the region has been harming Iraq's revenues.

The Dispute over Oil Revenues:

Iraq filed for arbitration against Turkey in 2014 after the Kurdish region began exporting crude oil through the neighbouring country, sidestepping Iraq's state-owned oil marketing company, SOMO (State Organization for Marketing of Oil (SOMO) is an Iraqi national company responsible for marketing Iraq's oil. It is headquartered in Baghdad, Iraq.).
Iraq claimed that all oil exports had to go through SOMO under a 1973 agreement with Turkey.
The International Chamber of Commerce had ruled in favour of Iraq, leading to the halt of nearly half a million barrels of oil exports last month.

The Deal to Resume Oil Exports:

The agreement reached will allow SOMO to market crude oil in coordination with Kurdish authorities.
The Kurdish region will have full control over oil revenues, but the federal government can audit the account where the funds will be deposited.
While the deal is temporary, it is a crucial step towards ending the long-standing dispute between Irbil and Baghdad and creating a positive and safe atmosphere to finally approve the national oil and gas law.

Impact on India

Energy Security
- As a major oil importer, India depends on a stable and affordable oil supply. Iraq accounts for over 10% of India's oil imports, so the deal allows for continued exports and supply security.
- However, Iraq's overdependence on oil poses risks of supply shocks from geopolitical events. India should diversify oil sources and increase strategic reserves to hedge against disruptions.
Economic Impact
- Fluctuating oil prices affect India's import bill, trade deficit and economy. The deal will support moderate oil prices and benefit India's economy.
- However, Iraq's oil dependence makes its economy and government budget vulnerable to price changes which can weaken an important trade partner.
- Diversifying Iraq's economy could benefit both countries.
- According to OPEC, Iraq holds over 15% of the world's oil reserves. Oil comprises 65% of Iraq's GDP and over 90% of government revenue according to the IMF. Volatility can undermine Iraq's economic stability with ripple effects on India's interests.
Promoting the Rule of Law
- The dispute resolution through arbitration showed Iraq's commitment to following due legal processes. This is important for India to expand trade and investments with partners like Iraq.
- India should encourage Iraq to strengthen contract enforcement, independent judiciary and institutions to uphold rule of law. Reneging on contracts can discourage foreign companies from investing in Iraq's oil industry.
Geopolitical Stability
- The Kurdish dispute highlights ethnic divisions that threaten Iraq's unity if mishandled. Resolving such issues through democratic processes is important for Iraq's stability.
- A destabilized Iraq could undermine India's strategic and energy interests. India should support Iraq's federal government in maintaining stability by promoting inclusiveness and institution-building.

In summary, while the oil deal benefits India and Iraq's economic interests, overreliance on oil and weak institutions threaten long-term stability and prosperity. Diversification, promoting rule of law, dialogue and democratic reforms are key to stability, growth and progress in India-Iraq relations. By cooperating with Iraq's knowledge exchanges in technology, governance and trade, India can advance its strategic priorities in the region.

The resumption of oil exports from northern Iraq through the pipeline to Turkey will benefit Iraq's economy and provide a source of revenue for the Kurdish region. The deal struck on Tuesday marks a crucial step towards resolving the conflict over oil revenues between Baghdad and Irbil.

International Chamber of Commerce

The International Chamber of Commerce or ICC is the world's largest business organization with over 45 million members in over 100 countries. It was founded in 1919 to promote international trade, responsible business conduct and a global approach to regulation.

Key roles and functions of ICC:

Rule Setting: ICC develops voluntary rules, standards and policy recommendations for global business. This includes Incoterms rules for global trade, the ICC Arbitration Rules, the ICC Guidelines for International Investment and the ICC Anti-corruption Compliance Toolkit.

Arbitration and Dispute Resolution: ICC administers over 25,000 international commercial arbitrations each year through the ICC International Court of Arbitration. ICC dispute resolution services aim to facilitate trade by providing appropriate tools for risk mitigation and dispute settlement.

Advocacy and Policy: ICC works with intergovernmental organizations like the UN, WTO and G20 to advocate business priorities and shape global trade policies. ICC also provides business input to governments and regulators on issues like trade facilitation, digital economy, sustainability, anti-corruption, etc.

Network and events: ICC organizes high-level events, forums and local network meetings around the world to enable business leaders and experts to exchange knowledge, strengthen relationships and promote cross-border trade.

Training and Certification: ICC offers online and in-person training in areas such as international arbitration, international commercial mediation, trade finance, and anti-corruption compliance. ICC also administers professional certifications to build expertise in international business regulation and policy.

Market intelligence: ICC provides research and analysis on policy developments, court rulings, and market trends on the environment, banking, digital economy, arbitration, trade, etc. through publications like the ICC Digital Economy Report, ICC Arbitration Bulletin, ICC Trade Register Report, etc.

ICC aims to facilitate cross-border trade and promote responsible international business policies and practices. It plays an important role in global governance by setting voluntary business standards, providing dispute resolution mechanisms, advocating priorities with policymakers and enabling business networks and knowledge exchange. ICC's activities and policy positions have implications for global trade, investments, regulation as well as sustainable development.

India gets elected to UN Statistical Commission

Context: India has been elected to the United Nations Statistical Commission for a four year term beginning January 1, 2024. India secured 46 out of 53 votes in the election to the Commission.

United Nations Statistical Commission

The United Nations Statistical Commission (StatCom), established in 1947, is the highest body of the global statistical system bringing together the Chief Statisticians from member states from around the world.
It is responsible for setting statistical standards and the development of concepts and methods, including their implementation at the national and international level.
The StatCom oversees the work of the United Nations Statistics Division (UNSD) and it is also a Functional Commission of the UN Economic and Social Council.
Since 1999 the Commission meets every year, as set forth by the Economic and Social Council.
Location: Headquarters of the United Nations, New York, United States

Mandate

The terms of reference as set forth in Economic and Social Council resolution in 1946, state that the Commission shall assist the Council:

In promoting the development of national statistics and the improvement of their comparability
In the coordination of the statistical work of specialized agencies
In the development of the central statistical services of the Secretariat
In advising the organs of the United Nations on general questions relating to the collection, analysis and dissemination of statistical information
In promoting the improvement of statistics and statistical methods generally

Elections

The Commission consists of 24 member countries of the United Nations elected by the United Nations Economic and Social Council on the basis of an equitable geographical distribution according to the following pattern

1.African states (5)

2.Asian States (4)

3.Eastern European States (4)

4.Latin American and Caribbean States (4)

5.Western European and other States (7)

The term of office of members is four years.

FUNDAMENTAL PRINCIPLES OF OFFICIAL STATISTICS

The Fundamental Principles of Official Statistics were developed and adopted by the Conference of European Statisticians in 1991, which were subsequently adopted in 1992 at the ministerial level by the United Nations Economic Commission for Europe.
In 1994, these Principles were adopted by the United Nations Statistical Commission.
At its forty-second session in 2011, the Statistical Commission recommended the development of an updated preamble, which was presented and adopted in its forty-fourth session in 2013.
The United Nations General Assembly has endorsed the Fundamental Principles of Official Statistics in 2014, in its 68th session.
These principles are considered a basic framework which all statistical activities developed by national and international organizations must follow in recognizing official statistics as a public good.
It is the first time the Fundamental Principles have received such high recognition at global political level.

International Finance Corporation to stop funding new coal-related infra projects

Context: The International Finance Corporation will stop supporting investments in new coal projects as part of its alignment with the Paris Agreement. The decision comes after a 13-year campaign against IFC's support for a financial intermediary client backing coal in India, which affected communities' livelihoods.

About International Finance Corporation (IFC)

Text

Description automatically generated

IFC was founded in 1956 on an idea that the private sector has the potential to transform developing countries.
It is the largest global development institution focused on the private sector in developing countries.
It is a member of World Bank Group.
It focuses on economic development and improving the lives of people by encouraging the growth of the private sector in developing countries.

It helps private sector in variety of ways:

Investing in companies through loans, equity investments, debt securities and guarantees.
Mobilizing capital from other lenders and investors through loan participations, parallel loans and other means.
Advising businesses and governments to encourage private investment and improve the investment climate.

World Bank

Background: The Bretton Woods Conference of July 1944 established the framework for post – World War II international economic cooperation and reconstruction. It resulted in the formation of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and the International Bank for Reconstruction and Development (World Bank). The World Bank provides loans and grants to low and middle-income countries for capital projects. World Bank comprises of the International Bank for Reconstruction and Development (IBRD) and International Development Association (IDA), two of five organizations in the World Bank Group.

Mission of World Bank

The World Bank has two goals: end extreme poverty and promote shared prosperity in a sustainable way.

World Bank Group

The World Bank Group consists of five organizations:

The International Bank for Reconstruction and Development (IBRD): is a global development cooperative owned by 189 member countries. It supports the World Bank Group’s mission by providing loans, guarantees, risk management products, and advisory services to middle-income and creditworthy low-income countries.
The International Development Association (IDA): It was established in 1960 with an aim to reduce poverty by providing zero to low-interest loans (called “credits”) and grants for programs that boost economic growth, reduce inequalities, and improve people’s living conditions. It is the part of the World Bank that helps the world’s poorest countries.
The International Finance Corporation (IFC): is the largest global development institution focused exclusively on the private sector. It helps the developing countries to achieve sustainable growth by financing investment, mobilizing capital in international financial markets, and providing advisory services to businesses and governments.
The Multilateral Investment Guarantee Agency (MIGA): it was created in 1988 to promote foreign direct investment into developing countries to support economic growth, reduce poverty, and improve people’s lives. MIGA fulfils this mandate by offering political risk insurance (guarantees) to investors and lenders.
The International Centre for Settlement of Investment Disputes (ICSID): provides international facilities for conciliation and arbitration of investment disputes.

Note: India is a member of all the organizations of World Bank Group except The International Centre for Settlement of Investment Disputes (ICSID).

Germany may offer sale of advanced submarines to India

Context: Germany is expected to present a proposal to India for the sale of advanced conventional submarines through the government-to-government route. The Navy, which is staring at a dwindling sub-surface fleet, is looking to procure six advanced diesel-electric submarines under Project-75I estimated to cost over ₹45,000 crore.

Background

In January 2020, the Defence Acquisition Council (DAC) shortlisted Mazgaon Docks Ltd. (MDL) and Larsen & Toubro (L&T) as the Indian partners for the P-75 deal, the first to be processed under the strategic partnership model of the procurement procedure.

The five foreign original equipment manufacturers (OEM) are Daewoo Shipbuilding & Marine Engineering (South Korea), Naval Group (France), Navantia (Spain), Rosoboronexport (Russia) and Thyssenkrupp Marine Systems (TKMS, Germany).

About Project 75I

In June 1999, the Cabinet Committee on Security approved a plan for the Indian Navy to induct indigenously build and induct submarines by 2030. It was broken down in two phases — the P-75 and P-75I.
Under the first phase of P-75, signed in 2005, India and France signed a $3.75 billion contract for building six Scorpene class submarines. The executing company on the Indian side was Mazgaon Docks Ltd, and on the French side, it was DCNS, which is now called Naval Group.
The first submarine under the project was commissioned in December 2017. Subsequently, the other five have been built and on 20 April, INS Vagsheer was launched and would be commissioned by 2023.
The P-75I phase envisages the construction of six conventional submarines with better sensors and weapons and the Air Independent Propulsion System (AIP).
The Nirmala Sitharaman-headed Defence Acquisition Council cleared the project in 2019 under the strategic partnership model.
As per the plan, an Indian shipyard was selected by the government, which would nominate the foreign original equipment manufacturer (OEM).
The Ministry of Defence then appointed a high-powered committee to assess the eight Indian shipyards and select the eligible ones for the project.
After much deliberation, it was decided that state-run Mazgaon Dockyard Limited and Larsen and Toubro would be the chosen 'Selected Partner'.
Besides the Naval Group, four companies were part of the bidding, including Russia’s Rosoboronexport, Germany’s Thyssenkrupp, Spain’s Navantia and South Korea’s Daewoo.

What is an Air Independent Propulsion system?

Simply put, AIP technology allows a conventional submarine to remain submerged for much longer than ordinary diesel-electric submarines.
Currently, all conventional submarines have to surface to recharge the batteries that allow the boat to function underwater. However, AIP permits a submarine to remain underwater for more than a fortnight, compared to two-three days for diesel-powered boats.
India wants the AIP technology, as none of its current ships has it while Both Pakistan and China have AIP-equipped submarines.

India’s submarine fleet

The Naval Group’s announcement could lead to further delays in India’s plan of having more submarines in its arsenal.
As of today, India has 16 conventional diesel-electric submarines. After the last two Kalvari Class subs are commissioned under P-75, this number will go up to 18. India also has two nuclear ballistic submarines, reports Indian Express.
On the other hand, Pakistan has nine diesel-electric submarines, as per Global Fire Index — a website that analyses the strength of the armies of countries around the world.
China, which is also posing a threat to India, boasts of being the largest navy in the world. In 2020, Beijing had six nuclear-powered ballistic missile submarines (SSBNs) that are armed with nuclear missiles, as well as around 40 attack submarines, of which six are nuclear-powered, according to Military Balance, the International Institute for Strategic Studies' annual assessment of military capacity around the world.

Oil surges as OPEC+ surprise output cuts shake markets

Context: Globally oil prices surged, posting the biggest daily rise in nearly a year, after a surprise announcement by OPEC+ to cut more production jolted markets.

The Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries and their allies including Russia shook markets by announcing further production cuts of about 1.16 million barrels per day (bpd).

How this price is being raised?

Through intentional cut in the oil supplies by the OPEC+ members.

About Organisation of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC)

OPEC is a permanent intergovernmental organisation of 13 oil-exporting developing nations that coordinates and unifies the petroleum policies of its Member Countries.
In economics terms, OPEC is a cartel (A cartel is an organisation created from a formal agreement between a group of producers of a good or service to control supply or to regulate or manipulate prices).
OPEC provides more than 70% of the world's oil requirements.

History

It was created at the Baghdad Conference on September 10–14, 1960, by Iran, Iraq, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia and Venezuela.

Objective

To coordinate and unify petroleum policies among Member Countries, in order to secure fair and stable prices for petroleum producers; an efficient, economic and regular supply of petroleum to consuming nations; and a fair return on capital to those investing in the industry.

The OPEC Secretariat is the executive organ of the Organization. Located in Vienna (previously in Geneva), it also functions as the Headquarters of the Organization, in accordance with the provisions of the OPEC Statute. It is responsible for the implementation of all resolutions passed by the Conference and carries out all decisions made by the Board of Governors. It also conducts research, the findings of which constitute key inputs in decision-making.
OPEC publications: World Oil Outlook and Annual Statistical Bulletin.
OPEC+ is a group of non-OPEC member countries that also participate in the organisation's initiatives such as voluntary supply cuts in order to further bind policy objectives between OPEC and non-OPEC members. This loose grouping of countries, known as OPEC+, includes Azerbaijan, Bahrain, Brunei, Kazakhstan, Malaysia, Mexico, Oman, Russia, South Sudan and Sudan.

ICCR to build ambassador programme among foreign students in India

Context: By drawing on the experiences of foreign students who are currently studying here, the Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR) aims to increase the country's artistic and creative influence throughout the world.

More about news

The council expects that more than 48,000 foreign students who are now enrolled in Indian Universities will work as brand ambassadors for India's culture, history, tourist destinations, textiles, yoga, ayurveda, and handicrafts.
The ICCR will launch E3, or exit engagement nights: With foreign students starting three to four months before they complete their coursework.

Visits to national monuments are part of the engagements. As students return to their home countries, this "soft diplomacy" is supposed to help spread the word about India.
The Indian Tourist Development Corporation, the Khadi Commission, and the Department of Ayush have been chosen by the ICCR to host these evenings.
Aim: In addition to retaining their ties to India, the aim is that they bring some business back to India.
India Alumni Portal, 2022: To communicate with the international students from all around the world who have studied in India.

INDIAN COUNCIL FOR CULTURAL RELATIONS

Founded in 1950 by Maulana Abul Kalam Azad, the first Education Minister of independent India.
It is an autonomous organisation that comes under the Ministry of Culture.
The council's headquarters are in New Delhi, and it also operates through worldwide missions.

Organization

To facilitate its operations, the Council may establish sections at its headquarters, regional offices in different parts of India, and cultural centres and offices overseas.
The Council shall be a corporate body, shall have a permanent seal, and may be sued in its corporate name.

Objectives

Fostering and strengthening cultural ties and mutual understanding between India and other countries;
Promoting cultural exchange with other countries and peoples;
Developing relationships with national and international organisations in the field of culture;
Taking part in the formulation and implementation of policies and programmes relating to India's external cultural relations.

Activities

The council administers several scholarship initiatives each year and provides scholarships to international students from over 180 different nations under 21 distinct programmes.
Six of these 21 programmes are supported by ICCR through its funding, while the remaining 19 are managed on their behalf by the Ministries of External Affairs and Ministry of Ayush.
As part of its efforts to promote "Digital India," ICCR created the "Admissions to Alumni (A2A) Portal" to simplify the application process. The portal includes names of Indian universities as well as any pertinent information on scholarship programmes.
With a wide range of initiatives, the Council carries out its role of cultural diplomacy. The ICCR promotes individual artists in the performing arts and the visual arts in addition to organising cultural festivals both domestically and abroad. It also provides financial support to a number of cultural organisations in India.

Note:

Soft Diplomacy/ Soft Power

The phrase "soft power" was first used by Joseph Nye. The ability to influence other countries by persuasion and appeal rather than coercion or force is known as soft power. Education diplomacy, science diplomacy, public diplomacy, and digital diplomacy are a few of the diplomatic strategies used to develop soft power.
Indian example: India has been utilising yoga diplomacy as a strategy for cross-cultural dialogue and global collaboration. Its centrepiece event is International Yoga Day (June 21 since 2015). It has been celebrated across the world annually on June 21 since 2015, following its inception in the United Nations General Assembly in 2014.

Difference between hard and soft power:

Hard power is the tactic of influencing another state's behaviour by coercion, military force, or economic force.
The use of culture, values, and ideas to influence the preferences of others is known as "soft power.
By instilling a desire for the aims of the power holder, soft power tries to exert indirect influence, whereas hard power uses coercion to accomplish its goals.

Several examples in which soft power tools are utilised in global politics and international

Relations:

1.E-diplomacy It involves influencing public opinion and intercultural dialogue through the use of websites, blogs, and social media. Social media's significance during the Arab Spring encouraged the use of Twitter and Facebook diplomacy.

2.Cultural diplomacy Developing relationships with other groups and promoting understanding of a nation's values and culture. Festival and exhibition planning, artist exchanges, and financial assistance for artistic endeavours are examples of cultural diplomacy.

3.Public Diplomacy

Public diplomacy is used to build relationships with individuals around the globe and project a positive image. It is a key component of soft power. Countries strengthen ties, advance their foreign policy goals, and boost their influence in the world through public diplomacy.

4.Sports diplomacy

Soft power is increasingly including sports diplomacy as a key component.

The FIFA World Cup and other events that Qatar has hosted have enhanced its reputation.

Countries make a lot of lobbying efforts to host sporting events like the Olympics, World Cup, because of the importance of these events for soft power.

5.Economic diplomacy

The "Marshall Plan" was employed to build the European Union's economy after World War II. It also influenced the interests of society and culture in Europe. Another example of something that impacts more than just infrastructure and economic development is China's Belt and Road Initiative.