1. BharatNet: Connecting Rural India to a Digital Future

Context: BharatNet, the world’s largest rural broadband connectivity initiative, has connected over 2.14 lakh Gram Panchayats using technologies like optical fibre, radio, and satellites. This transformative project is bridging the digital divide, bringing the power of the internet to the remotest corners of India.

Genesis of BharatNet:

• Launched in October 2011 by the Government of India under the Ministry of Communications.
• The project aims to provide affordable high-speed internet to every Gram Panchayat across the country.
• BharatNet is a cornerstone of the government’s mission to create a digitally empowered India.

Amended BharatNet Program (ABP) 2023:

In 2023, the government introduced the Amended BharatNet Program (ABP) with an outlay of ₹1,39,579 crores, enhancing its scope and efficiency.

Key Highlights:

1. Extensive Connectivity:
   • Optical Fibre (OF) connections to 2.64 lakh Gram Panchayats in ring topology.
   • Provision for connecting approximately 3.8 lakh non-GP villages on a demand basis.
2. Maintenance and Monitoring:
   • Operation and maintenance for 10 years, monitored by a Centralized Network Operating Centre (CNOC).
   • Payments to Project Implementation Agencies (PIAs) based on Service Level Agreements (SLAs).
3. Advanced Infrastructure:
   • Power backups at Gram Panchayats and Block levels.
   • Deployment of Remote Fibre Monitoring Systems (RFMS) for efficient network oversight.

Digital Bharat Nidhi (DBN): The Digital Bharat Nidhi (DBN) is a fund established to improve telecommunications services in India, replacing the Universal Service Obligation Fund (USOF). It supports BharatNet by ensuring better accessibility and service quality in rural areas.

Phased Implementation of BharatNet:

1. Phase I (Completed): Connected 1 lakh Gram Panchayats using existing infrastructure with optical fibre cables.
2. Phase II (Completed): Extended coverage to an additional 1.5 lakh Gram Panchayats using a mix of optical fibre, radio, and satellite technologies.
3. Phase III (Ongoing):

• Aims to future-proof the network with:
  • 5G technology integration.
  • Enhanced bandwidth capacity.
  • Improved last-mile connectivity to ensure reliability and accessibility.

Transformative Impact of BharatNet:

1. Digital Inclusion
   • Rural villages now have access to high-speed internet, enabling e-governance, online education, and telemedicine services.
   • Supports initiatives like Digital India, fostering inclusivity.
2. Economic Empowerment
   • Internet connectivity has unlocked opportunities for digital commerce, financial inclusion, and entrepreneurship in rural communities.
3. Education and Healthcare
   • Facilitates digital classrooms, bridging the education divide.
   • Enables telehealth services, improving rural healthcare accessibility.
4. Strengthening Governance
   • Empowers Gram Panchayats to implement e-governance projects, enhancing transparency, efficiency, and citizen engagement.

Conclusion: BharatNet is more than just a connectivity project—it is a lifeline for rural India, empowering millions to access opportunities far beyond their physical reach. With continued investment, robust execution, and a sustained focus on inclusion, BharatNet is set to transform rural India into a digitally empowered and economically vibrant society, bridging the digital divide one village at a time.

2. India’s Path to a Developed Nation by 2047

Context: India envisions a transformative journey to become a developed nation by 2047, fueled by the energy, innovation, and determination of its youth. As the nation celebrates its centenary of independence, its focus lies on inclusive growth, sustainable progress, and effective governance, positioning youth at the heart of this mission.

Vision: Viksit Bharat @2047

• The Viksit Bharat @2047 initiative aims to create a prosperous and inclusive India with a focus on empowering youth as both drivers and beneficiaries of change.
• Prime Minister Narendra Modi emphasized that the youth are critical agents for steering the nation toward this goal.

Strategic Roadmap:

The Union Budget 2024-25 outlines a nine-pronged strategy to realize the dream of Viksit Bharat:

1. Agriculture: Boosting productivity and ensuring resilience.
2. Employment and Skilling: Expanding opportunities and workforce capabilities.
3. Human Resource Development: Promoting social justice and inclusive growth.
4. Manufacturing and Services: Enhancing competitiveness and innovation.
5. Urban Development: Creating smart, sustainable cities.
6. Energy Security: Focusing on green and renewable energy sources.
7. Infrastructure: Building world-class infrastructure.
8. Research and Innovation: Driving cutting-edge advancements.
9. Next-Gen Reforms: Implementing transformative policies for future growth.

Key Initiatives for Viksit Bharat:

Skilling and Empowerment:

• National Policy on Skill Development and Entrepreneurship (NPSDE): Bridges skill gaps and promotes apprenticeships.
• Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana (PMKVY): Trained over 1.42 crore individuals since 2015.
• Craftsmen Training Scheme (CTS): Provides vocational training with a focus on female participation.
• PM Vishwakarma Initiative: Upskills traditional artisans and craftsmen.

Digital Transformation:

• Digital India Land Records Modernization Programme (DILRMP): Enhances transparency and resolves land disputes.
• APAAR ID: A digital academic identity streamlining educational transitions and prior learning recognition.
• 5G Connectivity: Extends digital inclusion to remote areas, boosting sectors like agriculture, healthcare, and retail.

Innovative Platforms:

• PRAGATI Platform: Real-time tracking of projects worth ₹18 lakh crore, ensuring timely execution.
• Aspirational Districts Program: Addresses regional disparities using digital tools for inclusive development.

Youth Engagement:

• Viksit Bharat Young Leaders Dialogue: Transformed from the National Youth Festival, empowering young leaders to contribute holistically.

Challenges on the Path to Viksit Bharat:

1. Economic Inequality: Persistent income and regional disparities hinder equitable progress.
2. Skill Development and Education: Insufficient infrastructure and training leave youth unprepared for future job markets.
3. Environmental Concerns: Rapid industrialization and urbanization exert pressure on natural resources, exacerbating climate change issues.
4. Governance and Corruption: Inefficiencies and corruption delay essential reforms.
5. Technological Disruptions: While AI and advancements enhance productivity, they also risk labor displacement and inequality.

Conclusion and Way Forward:

India’s journey to Viksit Bharat by 2047 is a shared vision involving citizens, industries, and institutions. By addressing challenges, leveraging its youth potential, and fostering transparent governance, India is well-positioned to achieve its ambitions.

This mission isn’t just about development—it’s about creating a thriving, inclusive, and sustainable nation where every individual contributes to and benefits from the nation’s progress. Together, we can realize the dream of a brighter and prosperous India.

3. Government Ends No-Detention Policy in Central Schools

Context: The Central Government has officially abolished the no-detention policy in schools under its administration, including Kendriya Vidyalayas and Jawahar Navodaya Vidyalayas.

About the New Decision:

• The move impacts nearly 3,000 Central schools, including:
  • Sainik Schools, managed by the Ministry of Defence.
  • Eklavya Model Residential Schools, overseen by the Ministry of Tribal Affairs.

Understanding the No-Detention Policy:

• Introduced under Section 16 of the Right to Education Act, 2009, the policy prohibited schools from detaining students up to Class 8.
• Objective: The policy aimed to minimize dropouts and ensure all children received a basic level of education.
• Criticism:
  • States reported that students were becoming less serious about academics.
  • In 2016, the Central Advisory Board of Education recommended abolishing the policy due to declining academic standards.
• 2019 Amendment:
  • Allowed governments to hold back students in Class 5, Class 8, or both if they failed a re-examination.
  • Gave States the discretion to implement or scrap the no-detention policy.
  • Following this, 18 States and Union Territories abolished the policy.

New Policy Framework:

The abolition of the no-detention policy allows schools to:

• Hold back students who fail their annual examinations.
• Provide additional support mechanisms for struggling students to ensure they catch up academically.

Why the Change?

• Academic Standards: The policy was linked to compromised learning outcomes, especially in higher grades.
• Fear of Failing: The prospect of being held back is expected to motivate students to focus on learning fundamental concepts and excelling in exams.
• Improved Outcomes: This shift aims to raise academic and educational standards across India.

Conclusion:

Scrapping the no-detention policy marks a significant step towards addressing declining academic rigor in schools. By reintroducing accountability, the move is expected to help students grasp core concepts, build a solid educational foundation, and contribute to enhancing the nation’s academic standards.

4. India’s Dependence on China for Critical Minerals: Challenges and the Road Ahead

Context: In 2023, the Ministry of Mines identified 30 critical minerals vital for India’s economic growth and national security.

• The report highlighted complete import dependence for 10 of these minerals but didn’t address India’s dependence on China, the global leader in critical minerals.
• This dependency exposes India to strategic vulnerabilities, emphasizing the urgency of exploring alternatives.

5. Bangladesh’s Extradition Request for Sheikh Hasina: Implications and Challenges

Context: Bangladesh has formally requested India to extradite its former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, who sought asylum in India on August 5 after mass protests led to the end of her 16-year rule.

• Diplomatic Note: Bangladesh has sent an official request to India, citing the need for Hasina to face judicial processes for alleged crimes, including genocide and crimes against humanity.
• Legal Action: The International Crimes Tribunal (ICT) in Dhaka has issued arrest warrants for Hasina and some of her former ministers and officials.

The India-Bangladesh Extradition Treaty:

Overview of the Treaty:

• Signed in 2013 to address cross-border criminal activities, particularly involving Indian insurgents in Bangladesh and Bangladeshi militants hiding in India.
• It provides a legal framework for extradition but does not make compliance mandatory in every case.

Key Provisions:

1. Extraditable Offences:
   • The treaty mandates extradition for individuals charged with, convicted of, or wanted for committing offences punishable by at least one year of imprisonment in both countries.
   • This includes financial crimes, murder, and attempts to commit or assist in such crimes.
2. Dual Criminality:
   • The offence must be recognized as a crime in both countries.
3. Provisions for Refusal:
   • Political Offences: Extradition can be denied if the offence is of a political nature, except for crimes like murder, enforced disappearance, or torture.
   • Good Faith: Refusal is possible if the accusations are not made in good faith or are seen as unjust.
   • Military Offences: Acts classified solely as military offences are not subject to extradition under the treaty.

2016 Amendment:

• Simplified the process by removing the requirement for evidence.
• Now, only an arrest warrant from a competent court is required.
• Sheikh Hasina’s multiple arrest warrants make her case eligible for extradition under this amendment.

Details of Bangladesh’s Extradition Request:

Bangladesh’s Diplomatic Note:

• The request asks New Delhi to send back Sheikh Hasina to face judicial processes.

India’s Response:

• The Ministry of External Affairs has acknowledged receiving the request but has not provided an official statement.
• Indian officials are evaluating the legal and diplomatic grounds before deciding.

Strained Bilateral Relations:

• Sheikh Hasina’s asylum in India and her public remarks have strained India-Bangladesh ties.
• Hasina’s Allegations:
  • She accused the interim government of genocide and minority persecution, including attacks on Hindu, Buddhist, and Christian communities.
  • She called for justice and investigations into violence during the protests.
• Bangladesh’s Concerns:
  • Interim leader Prof. Muhammad Yunus has expressed discontent over Hasina’s statements, claiming they create tension between the nations.
  • Yunus urged India to help resolve these issues to maintain bilateral harmony.

Regional Implications:

• The extradition request and the political situation surrounding Hasina’s asylum could significantly impact India-Bangladesh relations, necessitating cautious and strategic diplomacy.

Can Sheikh Hasina Be Extradited?

India’s Right to Refuse:

India has grounds to deny extradition based on the treaty’s provisions:

• Good Faith Concerns: India can argue that the charges lack good faith or are politically motivated.
• Political Offences: If the charges are deemed political, extradition may be refused.
• Military Offences: Accusations related solely to military laws are not extraditable.

Potential Impact of Refusal

Refusing the request could further strain bilateral relations, but compliance must align with India’s legal framework and diplomatic interests.

Conclusion: The extradition of Sheikh Hasina presents a complex challenge for India-Bangladesh relations. While the extradition treaty provides a legal framework, political sensitivities and bilateral ties will play a crucial role in determining India’s response.

For India, balancing its commitment to justice with preserving regional diplomatic harmony will be key to navigating this delicate issue.

6. MHA Reimposes Restrictions in Three Northeast States: What You Need to Know

Context: The Union Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has reintroduced the Protected Area Regime (PAR) in the northeastern states of Manipur, Nagaland, and Mizoram. This move places new restrictions on the movement of foreigners, requiring them to obtain prior permission and Protected Area Permits (PAP) to visit these regions.

• The relaxation previously granted to these states under the Foreigners (Protected Areas) Order, 1958 has been withdrawn with immediate effect.

What is the Foreigners (Protected Areas) Order, 1958?

Under this order, foreign nationals cannot enter or remain in a protected area without a permit issued by the Central government or an authorized office. The permit specifies entry points, residence, and stay duration.

• This order covers areas located between the inner line and the international border of certain states, including Manipur, Mizoram, Nagaland, and regions in Himachal Pradesh, Jammu and Kashmir, Ladakh, Rajasthan, Uttarakhand, and part of Sikkim.
• Additionally, the Andaman & Nicobar Islands and parts of Sikkim are designated as restricted areas.

Relaxation of the Protected Area Regime:

In 2010, the MHA relaxed the PAR for Manipur, Mizoram, and Nagaland due to improved security conditions and efforts to boost tourism.

• Relaxation Timeline: The initial relaxation, meant to last one year, was extended multiple times. By 2022, the exemption was extended until December 31, 2027.
• However, on December 17, 2024, the relaxation was withdrawn due to rising security concerns.

Reasons Behind the Withdrawal of the Relaxation:

The growing security issues in the region, particularly in Manipur, have prompted the MHA to reimpose the PAR.

• Ethnic Violence: Since May 2023, Manipur has been grappling with violent ethnic clashes.
• Myanmar Refugees: The influx of refugees from Myanmar following the military coup in 2021 has escalated tensions along India’s 1,643 km border with Myanmar, which passes through the northeastern states of Manipur, Nagaland, and Mizoram.
• The Free Movement Regime (FMR), which allowed people living within 16 km of the international border to move freely, was suspended by the MHA in January.

How to Obtain a Protected Area Permit (PAP):

Foreigners wishing to visit Manipur, Nagaland, and Mizoram must now follow the PAP procedure.

• Application Process: The PAP can be obtained through Indian embassies, consulates, the Ministry of Home Affairs, or Foreigners Regional Registration Offices (FRRO).
• Foreign nationals from countries such as Afghanistan, China, and Pakistan must also seek prior approval from the MHA.

• Registration Requirements: Foreign visitors must now register with the Foreigners Registration Officer (FRO) within 24 hours of arrival in any district or state.
• Myanmar Nationals: Previously exempt from PAP requirements, Myanmar nationals must now also register within 24 hours of arrival, regardless of the type of visa held.

The Inner Line and its Significance:

The Inner Line (IL) is a colonial-era concept designed to protect the indigenous tribes of the Northeast from external exploitation.

• It separates the tribal-majority hills from the plains and requires visitors to obtain an Inner Line Permit (ILP) for entry and stay in these areas.

Conclusion: Addressing Security Concerns and Monitoring Movement:

By reimposing the Protected Area Regime (PAR), the MHA aims to address growing security challenges in Manipur, Nagaland, and Mizoram, especially in the wake of ethnic violence and the Myanmar refugee crisis.

While the restrictions might impact tourism, the government’s priority is to safeguard national security and control the movement of foreigners in these sensitive border regions.