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Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana 3.0

Why in News The Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship (MSDE) has launched Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana (PMKVY) 3.0, in a bid to...

16 Jan 2021 News Analysis
Good Governance Day

Why in News Good governance day is celebrated annually on 25th December to mark the birth anniversary of the former Prime Minister Atal Bihari...

26 Dec 2020 News Analysis
India-Uzbekistan Virtual Summit

Why in News In a recent virtual summit, India and Uzbekistan have deliberated on expanding bilateral ties aiming to expand cooperation in a range of...

12 Dec 2020 News Analysis
United Nations Investment Promotion Award 2020

Why in News The United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD) has declared ‘Invest India’ as winner of the United Nations...

08 Dec 2020 News Analysis
Media Registrations for Aero India 2021

Why in News Recently, the online media registration for the 13th edition of Aero India has been started, which will be held at Air Force Station,...

03 Nov 2020 News Analysis
Taiwan Insecurity of China

Why in News Recently, China has objected to any official exchanges between India and Taiwan. Key Points Chinese Concern: The statement from...

21 Oct 2020 News Analysis
BrahMos Testing

Why in News BrahMos Land-Attack Cruise Missile (surface-to-surface) was successfully flight tested from the Integrated Test Range at Balasore in...

01 Oct 2020 News Analysis
Green Strategic Partnership between India and Denmark

Why in News India and the Kingdom of Denmark have launched the Green Strategic Partnership for delivering sustainable solutions to India. The...

30 Sep 2020 News Analysis
Defence Acquisition Procedure 2020

Why in News Recently, a new Defence Acquisition Procedure (DAP) (erstwhile Defence Procurement Procedure or DPP), 2020 was released by the Ministry...

29 Sep 2020 News Analysis
Promotion of Buddhist Sites

Why in News The Ministry of Tourism has undertaken development of tourism related infrastructure and facilities at various Buddhist Sites in the...

15 Sep 2020 News Analysis
New FDI Policy in Defence Sector

Why in News Recently, the Union Cabinet approved a new Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) policy in the defence sector which allows the FDI through...

10 Sep 2020 News Analysis
Aatmanirbhar Bharat ARISE-Atal New India Challenge

Why in News The Aatmanirbhar Bharat ARISE-Atal New India Challenge (ANIC) Program, launched by the government, is a national initiative to promote...

10 Sep 2020 News Analysis
Rising Imports from China

Why in News According to the latest figures from China’s General Administration of Customs (GAC), Indian imports from China, its largest...

11 Aug 2020 News Analysis
Electric Vehicles Policy 2020: Delhi

Why in News Recently, the Delhi government has notified the Electric Vehicles (EV) Policy 2020. It lays the maximum emphasis on replacement of...

10 Aug 2020 News Analysis
National Handloom Day

Why in News On the occasion of the 6th National Handloom Day on 7th August 2020, the Ministry of Textiles is organizing a virtual function in the...

07 Aug 2020 News Analysis
Thenzawl Golf Resort in Mizoram

Why in News Recently, the Thenzawl Golf Resort Project in Mizoram has been virtually inaugurated. The project was implemented under the Swadesh...

05 Aug 2020 News Analysis
Electronics Manufacturing in India

Why in News Recently, the Government of India unveiled three schemes with an outlay of about Rs. 48,000 crore to promote electronics manufacturing...

25 Jul 2020 News Analysis
Mine Ploughs on T-90 Tanks

Why in News Recently, the Ministry of Defence has signed Rs. 557 crore contract with the BEML Limited (formerly known as the Bharat Earth Movers...

21 Jul 2020 News Analysis
USA Extends Ban on Work Visas

Why in News Recently, the USA has decided to extend the 60-day ban on immigrant and non-immigrant worker visas till the end of 2020. The ban is...

24 Jun 2020 News Analysis
Country of Origin Made Mandatory on GeM

Why in News Government e-Marketplace (GeM), a Special Purpose Vehicle under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, has made it mandatory for sellers...

24 Jun 2020 News Analysis

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			'title' => 'Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana 3.0',
			'catname' => 'News Analysis',
			'desc' => '<h3>Why in News</h3>
<p>The <strong>Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship (MSDE)</strong> has launched <strong>Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana (PMKVY) 3.0,</strong> in a bid to empower India&rsquo;s youth with employable skills by <strong>making over 300 skill courses available</strong> to them.</p>
<h3>Key Points</h3>
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li><strong>Background:</strong><br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li><strong>Skill India Mission</strong> was launched by the government in <strong>2015</strong> under which the flagship scheme Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana (PMKVY) is run.</li>
<li>It <strong>aims to train over 40 crore people in India in different skills by 2022.</strong> It aims at <strong>vocational training and certification</strong> of Indian youth for a better livelihood and respect in the society.</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li><strong>PMKVY 1.0:</strong><br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li><strong>Launch: India&rsquo;s largest Skill Certification Scheme -<a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/pradhan-mantri-kaushal-vikas-yojana-pmkvy" target="_blank" rel="noopener"> Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana (PMKVY)</a></strong> - was launched on 15<sup>th</sup> July, 2015 <a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/world-youth-skills-day-1" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>(World Youth Skills Day)</strong></a>.</li>
<li><strong>Aim:</strong> To encourage and promote skill development in the country by providing <strong>free short duration skill training</strong> and incentivizing this by providing <strong>monetary rewards to youth for skill certification.</strong></li>
<li><strong>Implementation:</strong> PMKVY is implemented by the <a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/national-skills-study" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>National Skills Development Corporation (NSDC)</strong></a> under the guidance of the <strong>Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship (MSDE).</strong></li>
<li><strong>Key Components:</strong> Short Term Training, Special Projects, <a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/recognition-of-prior-learning-programme" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Recognition of Prior Learning</strong></a>, Kaushal &amp; Rozgar Mela, etc.</li>
<li><strong>Outcome:</strong> In 2015-16, 19.85 lakh candidates were trained.</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li><strong>PMKVY 2.0:</strong><br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li><strong>Coverage: PMKVY 2016-20</strong> (PMKVY 2.0) was launched by scaling up<strong> both in terms of Sector and Geography</strong> and by <strong>greater alignment with other missions</strong> of the Government of India like <a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-editorials/assessment-of-make-in-india" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Make in India</strong></a>,<a href="/loksabha-rajyasabha-discussions/in-depth-digital-india" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong> Digital India</strong></a>, <a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/swachh-bharat-mission-urban" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Swachh Bharat</strong></a>, etc.</li>
<li><strong>Budget:</strong> Rs. 12,000 Crore.</li>
<li><strong>Implementation Through Two Components:</strong><br />
<ul style="list-style-type: disc;">
<li><strong>Centrally Sponsored Centrally Managed (CSCM):</strong> This component was <strong>implemented by National Skill Development Corporation.</strong> 75% of the PMKVY 2016-20 funds and corresponding physical targets have been allocated under CSCM.</li>
<li><strong>Centrally Sponsored State Managed (CSSM):</strong> This component was <strong>implemented by State Governments</strong> through State Skill Development Missions (SSDMs). 25% of the PMKVY 2016-20 funds and corresponding physical targets have been allocated under CSSM.</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li><strong>Outcome:</strong> More than <strong>1.2 Crore youth</strong> have been trained/oriented through an improved standardized skilling ecosystem in the country under PMKVY 1.0 and PMKVY 2.0.</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li><strong>PMKVY 3.0:</strong><br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li><strong>Coverage:</strong> Launched in 717 districts, 28 States/eight UTs, PMKVY 3.0 is a step towards <a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/atmanirbhar-bharat-and-economic-stimulus" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>&lsquo;Atmnanirbhar Bharat&rsquo;</strong></a>.</li>
<li><strong>Implementation:</strong> It <strong>will be implemented in a more decentralized structure</strong> with greater responsibilities and support from States/UTs and Districts. <br />
<ul style="list-style-type: disc;">
<li>District Skill Committees (DSCs), under the guidance of State Skill Development Missions (SSDM), shall play a key role in addressing the skill gap and assessing demand at the district level.</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li><strong>Features:</strong><br />
<ul style="list-style-type: disc;">
<li>It <strong>envisages training of eight lakh candidates</strong> over a <strong>scheme period of 2020-2021</strong> with an outlay of Rs. 948.90 crore. <br />
<ul style="list-style-type: disc;">
<li>The <strong>729 Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Kendras (PMKKs), empaneled non-PMKK training centres and more than 200 Industrial Training Institutes (ITIs)</strong> under Skill India will be rolling out PMKVY 3.0 training to build a robust pool of skilled professionals.</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li>It will be <strong>more trainee- and learner-centric.</strong> The focus is on bridging the demand-supply gap by <strong>promoting skill development in areas of new-age and <a href="/loksabha-rajyasabha-discussions/in-depth-industrial-revolution-4-0" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Industry 4.0</a> job roles.</strong></li>
<li>It will be <strong>a propagator of vocational education</strong> at an early level for youth to capitalize on industry-linked opportunities.<br />
<ul style="list-style-type: disc;">
<li>The <a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/national-education-policy-2020" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>National Educational Policy 2020</strong></a> also puts focus on vocational training for a holistic growth and increased employability.</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li>By taking the bottom-up approach to training, it will<strong> identify job roles that have demand at the local level and skill the youth,</strong> linking them to these opportunities <strong>(Vocal for Local).</strong></li>
<li>It will <strong>encourage healthy competition between states</strong> by making available increased allocation to those states that perform better.</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
<p><a href="https://pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=1688836" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Source: PIB</strong></a></p>',
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		(int) 1 => [
			'title' => 'Good Governance Day',
			'catname' => 'News Analysis',
			'desc' => '<h3>Why in News</h3>
<p><a href="/to-the-points/paper4/good-governance-2" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Good governance</strong></a> day is <strong>celebrated annually on 25<sup>th</sup> December</strong> to mark the birth anniversary of the former Prime Minister <strong>Atal Bihari Vajpayee.</strong></p>
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li>The aim is to<strong> create awareness of accountability in government</strong> among the citizens of India.</li>
</ul>
<h3>Key Points</h3>
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li><strong>Governance:</strong> <br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li>It is the <strong>process of decision-making</strong> and the <strong>process by which decisions are implemented</strong> (or not implemented).</li>
<li>Governance <strong>can be used in several contexts</strong> such as corporate governance, international governance, national governance and local governance.</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li><strong>Eight Characteristics of Good Governance (as identified by the <a href="/important-institutions/drishti-specials-important-institutions-international-institution/united-nations-1" target="_blank" rel="noopener">United Nations</a>):</strong><br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li><strong>Participation:</strong><br />
<ul style="list-style-type: disc;">
<li>People should have <strong>a voice in decision-making,</strong> either directly or through legitimate intermediate institutions that represent their interests.</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li><strong>Rule of law:</strong><br />
<ul style="list-style-type: disc;">
<li><strong>Legal frameworks should be fair</strong> and enforced impartially, particularly the laws on human rights.</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li><strong>Transparency:</strong><br />
<ul style="list-style-type: disc;">
<li>Transparency is built on the free<strong> flow of information.</strong> Processes, institutions and information are directly accessible to those concerned with them, and enough information is provided to understand and monitor them.</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li><strong>Responsiveness:</strong><br />
<ul style="list-style-type: disc;">
<li>Institutions and processes <strong>try to serve all stakeholders within a reasonable timeframe.</strong></li>
</ul>
</li>
<li><strong>Consensus orientation:</strong><br />
<ul style="list-style-type: disc;">
<li>Good governance requires <strong>mediation of the different interests in society to reach a broad consensus</strong> in society on what is in the best interest of the whole community and how this can be achieved.</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li><strong>Equity:</strong><br />
<ul style="list-style-type: disc;">
<li>All groups, particularly the most vulnerable, have <strong>opportunities to improve or maintain their well being.</strong></li>
</ul>
</li>
<li><strong>Effectiveness and efficiency:</strong><br />
<ul style="list-style-type: disc;">
<li>Processes and institutions produce results that <strong>meet needs while making the best use of resources.</strong></li>
</ul>
</li>
<li><strong>Accountability:</strong><br />
<ul style="list-style-type: disc;">
<li>Decision-makers in government, the private sector and civil society organisations are<strong> accountable to the public, as well as to institutional stakeholders.</strong></li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
<p><a href="http://www.drishtiias.com/images/uploads/1608974947_image7.png" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong><img class="content-img" src="http://www.drishtiias.com/images/uploads/1608974947_image7.png" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="400" caption="false" /></strong></a></p>
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li><strong>Challenges to Good Governance in India:</strong><br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li><strong>Women Empowerment:</strong> <br />
<ul style="list-style-type: disc;">
<li>Women are not adequately represented in government institutions, and other allied sectors.</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li><strong>Corruption:</strong> <br />
<ul style="list-style-type: disc;">
<li>The high level of corruption in India has been widely perceived as a major obstacle in improving the quality of governance.</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li><strong>Delay in Justice:</strong> <br />
<ul style="list-style-type: disc;">
<li>A citizen has the right to avail timely justice, but there are several factors, because of which a common man doesn&rsquo;t get timely justice. One such factor is lack of personnel and logistics under disposal of court.</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li><strong>Centralisation of Administrative System:</strong> <br />
<ul style="list-style-type: disc;">
<li>Governments at lower levels can only function efficiently if they are empowered to do so. This is particularly relevant for the <a href="/important-institutions/drishti-specials-important-institutions-national-institutions/panchayati-raj-institution-pri#:~:text=74th%20Amendment%20provides%20for%20a,and%20Municipalities%20(Article%20243ZD).&amp;text=The%20Eleventh%20Scheduled%20of%20the,of%20the%20Panchayati%20Raj%20bodies." target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Panchayati Raj Institutions (PRIs)</strong></a>, which currently suffer from inadequate devolution of funds as well as functionaries to carry out the functions constitutionally assigned to them.</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li><strong>Criminalisation of Politics:</strong> <br />
<ul style="list-style-type: disc;">
<li>The criminalisation of the political process and the unholy nexus between politicians, civil servants, and business houses are having a baneful influence on public policy formulation and governance.</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li><strong>Environmental security,</strong> sustainable development.</li>
<li>Challenges of <strong>globalization, liberalisation and market economy.</strong></li>
</ul>
</li>
<li><strong>Initiatives Taken:</strong><br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li><strong><a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/good-governance-day" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Good Governance Index</a>:</strong><br />
<ul style="list-style-type: disc;">
<li>GGI has been launched by the <strong>Ministry of Personnel, Public Grievances &amp; Pensions</strong> to determine the status of governance in the country.</li>
<li>It assesses the impact of various interventions taken up by the State Government and UTs.</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li><a href="/to-the-points/Paper2/e-governance-1" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>National e-Governance Plan:</strong></a><br />
<ul style="list-style-type: disc;">
<li>It has the vision to &ldquo;make all government services accessible to the common man in his locality, through common service delivery outlets and ensure efficiency, transparency &amp; reliability of such services at affordable costs to realize the basic needs of the common man.&rdquo;</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li><a href="/to-the-points/paper4/right-to-information-1" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Right to Information Act, 2005:</strong> </a><br />
<ul style="list-style-type: disc;">
<li>It plays an effective role in ensuring transparency in governance.</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li><strong>Other Initiatives:</strong> Setting up of <a href="/important-institutions/drishti-specials-important-institutions-national-institutions/niti-aayog-national-institution-for-transforming-india" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>NITI Aayog</strong></a>, <a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-editorials/assessment-of-make-in-india" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Make in India</strong></a> programme, <a href="/pdf/lokpal-lokayukta-ombudsman-upsc-governance-transparency.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Lokpal</strong></a>, etc.</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
<div class="border-bg">
<p><strong>Atal Bihari Vajpayee<a href="http://www.drishtiias.com/images/uploads/1608975277_image6.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img class="content-img" src="http://www.drishtiias.com/images/uploads/1608975277_image6.jpg" style="float: right;" width="300" caption="false" /></a></strong></p>
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li>Atal Bihari Vajpayee was born on 25<sup>th</sup> December, 1924 in the erstwhile princely state of Gwalior (now a part of Madhya Pradesh).</li>
<li>He entered in national politics during the <a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/77th-anniversary-of-quit-india-movement" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Quit India Movement of 1942</strong></a> which hastened the end of British colonial rule.</li>
<li>In 1947, Vajpayee <strong>started working as a journalist for newspapers of Deendayal Upadhyaya &mdash;</strong> Rashtradharma (a Hindi monthly), Panchjanya (a Hindi weekly) and the dailies Swadesh and Veer Arjun. Later, influenced by Syama Prasad Mookerjee, Vajpayee<strong> joined the Bharatiya Jana Sangh in 1951.</strong></li>
<li>He was the <strong>former Prime Minister of India</strong> and was <strong>elected to the position twice in 1996 and 1999.</strong></li>
<li>As a parliamentarian, Vajpayee was awarded with the<strong> Pandit Govind Ballabh Pant Award for Best Parliamentarian in 1994,</strong> which defines him as "a role model par excellence for all legislators."</li>
<li>He was <strong>conferred</strong> with the country's highest civilian honour, the <strong><a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/important-facts-for-prelims-28th-january-2019" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Bharat Ratna</a> in 2015</strong> and second-highest civilian honour, the <strong><a href="/printpdf/padma-awards-2020" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Padma Vibhushan</a> in 1994.</strong></li>
</ul>
</div>',
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		(int) 2 => [
			'title' => 'India-Uzbekistan Virtual Summit',
			'catname' => 'News Analysis',
			'desc' => '<h3>Why in News</h3>
<p>In a recent virtual summit, <a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/uzbekistans-president-visit-to-india" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>India and Uzbekistan</strong></a> have deliberated on <strong>expanding bilateral ties aiming to expand cooperation in a range of areas,</strong> including new and renewable energy, digital technologies, cybersecurity and sharing of information.</p>
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li>The agreements also include cooperation on <strong>connectivity projects in Afghanistan</strong> and its <strong>peace process, trilateral dialogue with Iran, combatting terrorism,</strong> etc.</li>
</ul>
<p><a href="http://www.drishtiias.com/images/uploads/1607768550_pasted%20image 0.png" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img class="content-img" src="http://www.drishtiias.com/images/uploads/1607768550_pasted image 0.png" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="350" caption="false" /></a></p>
<h3>Key Points</h3>
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li><strong>Trade, Economic and Investment Cooperation:</strong><br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li>Making efforts to achieve the <strong>mutually identified target of USD 1 billion for bilateral trade.</strong><br />
<ul style="list-style-type: disc;">
<li>The <strong>current bilateral trade</strong> level of about <strong>USD 285 million</strong> (2018) is far below the potential.</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li>Fast-track the conclusion of the ongoing <strong>Joint Feasibility Study</strong> that will pave the way for the commencement of negotiations on a <strong>Preferential Trade Agreement.</strong></li>
<li>Early conclusion of the <strong>Bilateral Investment Treaty</strong> which shall facilitate investment promotion and protection for further improvement of trade and economic cooperation.<br />
<ul style="list-style-type: disc;">
<li>The sides noted the prospects for greater opportunities in the free economic zones of the two countries, including in the<strong> Uzbek-Indian free pharmaceutical zone</strong> in the <strong>Andijan region</strong> (eastern part of the Fergana Valley in far eastern Uzbekistan).</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li>Uzbekistan welcomed the opportunities in India for investing/manufacturing under the <a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-editorials/assessment-of-make-in-india" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>&lsquo;Make in India&rsquo;</strong> </a>programme.</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li><strong>Development Cooperation:</strong><br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li>India confirmed the <strong>approval of a USD 448 million Line of Credit for four developmental projects</strong> in Uzbekistan in the areas of road construction, sewerage treatment and information technology.</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li><strong>Defence and Security:</strong><br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li>Appreciated the enhanced pace of bilateral defence cooperation since the convening of the first meeting of<strong> Joint Working Group on Defence Cooperation in February 2019.</strong></li>
<li>Welcomed the holding of the <strong><a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/india-and-uzbekistan" target="_blank" rel="noopener">&ldquo;Dustlik 2019&rdquo;</a>, first-ever joint military exercises in November 2019.</strong></li>
<li>Agreed to further strengthen cooperation between the law enforcement agencies and special services of the two countries, including under the framework of the <strong>Uzbekistan-India Joint Working Group on Counter-Terrorism.</strong></li>
</ul>
</li>
<li><strong>Civil Nuclear Energy:</strong><br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li>Welcomed the conclusion of the bilateral agreement between the <strong>Global Centre for Nuclear Energy Partnership</strong> (GCNEP) <strong>India</strong> and the<strong> Agency for Development of Nuclear Energy, Uzbekistan.</strong><br />
<ul style="list-style-type: disc;">
<li>GCNEP is the <strong>sixth research and development</strong> (R&amp;D) <strong>unit</strong> under the aegis of <strong>Department of Atomic Energy</strong> (DAE) and helps in capacity building, in association with the interested countries and the<a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/63rd-general-conference-of-iaea" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong> International Atomic Energy Agency</strong></a> (IAEA).</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li><strong>Connectivity:</strong><br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li>Reiterated continued commitment for <strong>enhancing connectivity</strong> between India and Uzbekistan and in the larger Central Asian region to bolster trade and investment.</li>
<li>India welcomed the <strong>proposal to hold trilateral dialogue among India, Iran and Uzbekistan</strong> to promote connectivity through the Chabahar port.</li>
<li>India also <strong>requested Uzbekistan to consider joining</strong> the<a href="/to-the-points/Paper2/india-central-asia-relations" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong> International North-South Transport Corridor</strong> </a>(INSTC) which would add to the overall improvement of connectivity in the larger Eurasian space.</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li><strong>Culture, Education and People-to-People Contacts:</strong><br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li>India invited Uzbekistan to avail of increased scholarship opportunities provided by the <a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/70-years-of-indian-council-for-cultural-relations" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Indian Council for Cultural Relations</strong></a> (ICCR) and training and capacity building under the <a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/vice-president-s-visit-to-comoros-and-sierra-leone" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Indian Technical and Economic Cooperation (ITEC) programme.</strong></a></li>
</ul>
</li>
<li><strong>Terrorism:</strong><br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li>Strongly <strong>condemned terrorism</strong> in all its forms and manifestations and reaffirmed the determination to combat this menace by destroying terrorist safe-havens, networks, infrastructure and funding channels.</li>
<li>Also underlined the need for every country to ensure that its territory is not used to launch terrorist attacks against other countries and called for early finalisation of a <a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/at-unga-india-call-for-early-adoption-of-ccit" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Comprehensive Convention on International Terrorism</strong></a> (CCIT).</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li><strong>Afghanistan:</strong><br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li>Called for the <strong>settlement of the <a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-editorials/afghan-turmoil-and-india" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Afghan conflict</a></strong> on the principle of Afghan-led, Afghan-owned and Afghan-controlled peace process and expressed unanimity in support for a united, sovereign and democratic Islamic Republic of Afghanistan.</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li><strong>Reformed Multilateralism:</strong><br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li>Reaffirmed that the <a href="/important-institutions/drishti-specials-important-institutions-international-institution/united-nations-1" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>United Nations</strong></a> (UN) must play a central role in maintaining global peace and security and also called for <strong><a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-editorials/un-reforms-india" target="_blank" rel="noopener">comprehensive reform</a> of the UN structures</strong> including the Security Council with expansion in both categories of membership.</li>
<li>Uzbekistan <strong>reaffirmed its support to <a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-editorials/india-permanent-seat-in-unsc" target="_blank" rel="noopener">India&rsquo;s candidature for permanent membership</a> of the UN Security Council</strong> and congratulated India on its <a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/india-s-non-permanent-seat-at-the-unsc" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>election as a non-permanent member</strong> </a>of the UN Security Council for the term <strong>2021-22.</strong></li>
<li>India also congratulated the <strong>Uzbek side on its successful election</strong> to the <a href="/daily-news-editorials/the-relevance-of-unhrc" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>UN Human Rights Council</strong> </a>for the term <strong>2021-23.</strong></li>
<li>Appreciated their close cooperation in the<a href="/important-institutions/drishti-specials-important-institutions-international-institution/important-international-institutions-shanghai-cooperation-organisation-sco" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong> Shanghai Cooperation Organization</strong></a> (SCO).<br />
<ul style="list-style-type: disc;">
<li>In November 2020, India hosted the <strong><a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/sco-summit-2" target="_blank" rel="noopener">first-ever meeting of the Council of the Heads of Government of SCO</a> since its joining the SCO.</strong></li>
</ul>
</li>
<li>India appreciated Uzbekistan&rsquo;s support in the successful holding of the <a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/second-meeting-of-india-central-asia-dialogue" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>2<sup>nd</sup> India-Central Asia Dialogue</strong></a> at the level of Foreign Ministers with the participation of Afghanistan.</li>
<li><strong>Uzbekistan is a member of the <a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/organisation-of-islamic-cooperation-oic" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Organisation of Islamic Cooperation</a></strong> (OIC), which is the second largest intergovernmental organization after the UN.<br />
<ul style="list-style-type: disc;">
<li><strong>India is not a member</strong> of the OIC. However, India was<strong> invited as a guest of honour at the 46<sup>th</sup> Session of the Council of Foreign Minister in 2019.</strong></li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li><strong>Covid-19 Pandemic:</strong><br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li>Emphasized the need for bilateral and global cooperation to continue the<strong> fight against the <a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/covid-19-now-pandemic-who" target="_blank" rel="noopener">pandemic</a></strong> including development and distribution of effective vaccines and other medicines.</li>
<li><strong>Uzbekistan thanked India for the assistance rendered to Uzbekistan in its fight against the pandemic</strong> and India reaffirmed its continued commitment.</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
<h3>Way Forward</h3>
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li>Agreements reached during various bilateral visits have strengthened cooperation between India and Uzbekistan in diverse sectors such as political, trade and investment, defence, security, counter-terrorism, science and technology, nuclear energy, space, information technology and have promoted cultural and academic linkages.</li>
<li>Both countries thanked each other for the productive discussions held during the virtual summit and expressed confidence that the understandings and agreements will further deepen the strategic partnership between the two countries for the well-being of their peoples and mutual prosperity.</li>
</ul>
<p><a href="https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/pm-uzbek-president-discuss-afghanistan-iran-connectivity/article33305691.ece" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Source: TH</strong></a></p>',
			'postdate' => object(Cake\I18n\FrozenTime) {},
			'url' => 'https://www.drishtiias.com/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/india-uzbekistan-virtual-summit'
		],
		(int) 3 => [
			'title' => 'United Nations Investment Promotion Award 2020',
			'catname' => 'News Analysis',
			'desc' => '<h3>Why in News</h3>
<p>The<a href="/important-institutions/drishti-specials-important-institutions-international-institution/united-nations-1" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong> United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD)</strong></a> has <strong>declared &lsquo;Invest India&rsquo;</strong> as<strong> winner of the United Nations Investment Promotion Award 2020.</strong></p>
<h3>Key Points</h3>
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li><strong>United Nations Investment Promotion Award:</strong> <br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li>It recognises and celebrates the outstanding achievements of the world&rsquo;s <strong>Investment Promotion Agencies (IPAs).</strong> Since <strong>2002,</strong> UNCTAD has organised these awards <strong>annually.</strong></li>
<li>The Awards also highlight the contributions of these organizations in raising private sector investment in sustainable development and in achieving the <a href="/to-the-points/paper3/sustainable-development-3" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).</strong></a></li>
<li>The <strong>response of IPAs to the <a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/coronavirus-disease-named-covid-19#:~:text=The%20World%20Health%20Organisation%20(WHO,31st%20December%2C%202019)." target="_blank" rel="noopener">Covid-19 pandemic</a></strong> became the <strong>basis for the evaluation</strong> of the 2020 Award.</li>
<li><strong>Germany, South Korea and Singapore</strong> have been some of the <strong>past winners</strong> of the award.</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li><strong>Invest India:</strong> <br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li>It is the <strong>National Investment Promotion and Facilitation Agency of India</strong> and acts as the first point of reference for investors in India.</li>
<li>It is a<strong> non-profit venture set up in 2009</strong> under the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade, <strong>Ministry of Commerce and Industry,</strong> Government of India.</li>
<li><strong>UNCTAD highlighted good practices followed by Invest India,</strong> such as the Business Immunity Platform, Exclusive Investment Forum webinar series, its social media engagement and focus Covid response teams (such as business reconstruction, stakeholder outreach and supplier outreach) created as a response to the pandemic, in its publications.</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li><strong>Government Measures Related to Investment Promotion:</strong><br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li>India&rsquo;s attractiveness as an<a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/fdi-inflow" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong> FDI (Foreign Direct Investment)</strong> </a><strong>destination</strong> has surged in recent times. In 2019, it was<strong> among the top 10 countries attracting foreign funds,</strong> receiving billions of dollars in a variety of sectors, including services, technology, IT and telecom, and construction.</li>
<li>In <strong>2020, factors such as</strong> a swift response in combating the Covid crisis, favourable demographics, impressive mobile and internet penetration, massive consumption and technology uptake, played an important role in attracting the investments.</li>
<li>Launch of Schemes attracting investments, such as, <a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/export-promotion-council-for-technical-textiles" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>National technical Textile Mission</strong></a>, <a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/pli-scheme-for-ten-more-sectors" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Production Linked Incentive Scheme</strong></a>, <a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/pradhan-mantri-kisan-sampada-yojana" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Pradhan Mantri Kisan SAMPADA Yojana</strong></a>, etc.<br />
<ul style="list-style-type: disc;">
<li>The government has elaborated upon the initiatives under the<a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/measures-on-atmanirbhar-bharat-3-0" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong> Atmanirbhar Bharat</strong> </a>to encourage investments in different sectors.</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li>As a part of its <a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-editorials/assessment-of-make-in-india" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Make in India initiative</strong></a> to promote domestic manufacturing, India deregulated FDI rules for several sectors over the last few years.</li>
<li>The Government of India continues to improve<strong> Ease of Doing Business</strong> in the country by releasing notifications highlighting measures to improve the business environment in India.<br />
<ul style="list-style-type: disc;">
<li>India <strong>ranked 63<sup>rd</sup> out of 190 countries</strong> (moved up by 14 spots) in <a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/ease-of-doing-business-2020" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Doing Business 2020: World Bank Report.</strong></a></li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
<div class="border-bg">
<p><strong>United Nations Conference on Trade and Development</strong></p>
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li>UNCTAD is a<strong> permanent intergovernmental body</strong> established by the United Nations General Assembly in <strong>1964.</strong> Its headquarters are located in <strong>Geneva, Switzerland.</strong></li>
<li>It was established to <strong>promote development-friendly integration of developing countries into the world economy.</strong></li>
<li>It is a <strong>central agency</strong> that monitors performance of Investment promotion Agencies (IPAs) and identifies global best practices.</li>
<li>Some of the<strong> reports</strong> published by it are:<br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li>Trade and Development Report</li>
<li><a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/world-investment-report-unctad" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>World Investment Report</strong></a></li>
<li><a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/global-investment-trend-monitor-report-unctad" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Global Investment Trend Monitor Report</strong></a></li>
<li>The Least Developed Countries Report</li>
<li>Information and Economy Report</li>
<li>Technology and Innovation Report</li>
<li>Commodities and Development Report</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
</div>
<p><a href="https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetailm.aspx?PRID=1678902#:~:text=The%20United%20Nations%20(UNCTAD)%20has,at%20UNCTAD%20Headquarters%20in%20Geneva.&amp;text=In%20March%202020%2C%20UNCTAD%20constituted,IPAs%20response%20to%20the%20pandemic." target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Source: PIB</strong></a></p>',
			'postdate' => object(Cake\I18n\FrozenTime) {},
			'url' => 'https://www.drishtiias.com/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/united-nations-investment-promotion-award-2020'
		],
		(int) 4 => [
			'title' => 'Media Registrations for Aero India 2021',
			'catname' => 'News Analysis',
			'desc' => '<h3>Why in News</h3>
<p>Recently, the<strong> online media registration</strong> for the <strong>13<sup>th</sup> edition of <a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/aero-india" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Aero India</a></strong> has been started, which will be held at <strong>Air Force Station, Bengaluru</strong> (Karnataka) in <strong>February 2021.</strong></p>
<h3>Key Points</h3>
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li>Aero India is a <strong>biennial international military and civil airshow.</strong><br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li>It is a premier event that draws <strong>international and Indian military and civil aircraft makers,</strong> their support industries, military brass and government dignitaries and business visitors.</li>
<li>It provides a <strong>unique opportunity for the exchange of information, ideas and new developments</strong> in the aviation industry, in addition to giving a fillip to the domestic aviation industry furthering the cause of <a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-editorials/assessment-of-make-in-india" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Make in India.</strong></a></li>
</ul>
</li>
<li>The <strong>Yelahanka air base,</strong> about 30 km from the city centre Bengaluru, has been hosting the air show in February since it was<strong> started in 1996.</strong></li>
<li>In <strong>2019,</strong> it was organised by <a href="/loksabha-rajyasabha-discussions/the-big-picture-need-to-modernise-indian-air-force" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd.</strong></a> (HAL) and in <strong>2021,</strong> it will be organised by the <strong>Defence Exhibition Organisation, Ministry of Defence.</strong><br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li>DEO is an<strong> autonomous organisation</strong> of the Indian Government<strong> established in 1981,</strong> to <strong>promote the export potential</strong> of the Indian defence industry.</li>
<li>It is responsible for organising international exhibitions such as <strong><a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/defexpo-2020" target="_blank" rel="noopener">DefExpo</a></strong> and Indian participation at overseas exhibitions.</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
<p><a href="https://www.pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=1669441" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Source: PIB</strong></a></p>',
			'postdate' => object(Cake\I18n\FrozenTime) {},
			'url' => 'https://www.drishtiias.com/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/media-registrations-for-aero-india-2021'
		],
		(int) 5 => [
			'title' => 'Taiwan Insecurity of China',
			'catname' => 'News Analysis',
			'desc' => '<h3>Why in News</h3>
<p>Recently, China has objected to any official exchanges between India and<a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/solomon-islands-and-taiwan" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong> Taiwan</strong></a>.</p>
<h3>Key Points</h3>
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li><strong>Chinese Concern:</strong> The statement from China came in response to reports that India and Taiwan were considering going forward with<strong> talks on a trade deal.</strong><br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li>China believes the <a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/why-china-insists-on-chinese-taipei-rather-than-taiwan" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>'One-China principle&rsquo;</strong> </a>is a universal consensus of the international community, including India.</li>
<li>China also objected to the recent<strong> campaign (posters and social media)</strong> in India <strong>wishing Taiwan &ldquo;Happy National Day&rdquo;</strong> (October 10) and referring to it as <strong>a &ldquo;country&rdquo; or a &ldquo;nation&rdquo;.</strong></li>
<li>China is also opposing inclusion of Australia in the upcoming <a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/australia-to-be-included-in-malabar-exercise" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Malabar naval exercise</strong></a> with India, Japan and the United States.</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li><strong>India-Taiwan Relations</strong><br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li>India and Taiwan do not maintain formal diplomatic relations. The areas of cooperation between India and Taiwan have been limited due to negligible political relations.</li>
<li><strong>From</strong> 1995 to 2014, the bilateral trade turnover has grown manifold from just $934 million to $5.91 billion.</li>
<li><strong>Technology:</strong> In the field of science and technology, there are more than thirty ongoing government-funded joint research projects.<br />
<ul style="list-style-type: disc;">
<li>In August 2015, the Taiwan-based Foxconn, one of the largest hardware manufacturers in the world, announced an investment of $5 billion in India.</li>
<li>India and Taiwan <strong>in 2018</strong> signed a<strong> bilateral investment agreement.</strong> India-Taiwan trade ties have been <strong>expanded</strong> and Taiwanese firms are <strong>prominent investors in India,</strong></li>
<li>Taiwan has for long been a world leader in high-tech hardware manufacturing, and can contribute much to the <strong>&ldquo;<a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-editorials/assessment-of-make-in-india" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Make in India</a>&rdquo;</strong>, <strong>&ldquo;<a href="/loksabha-rajyasabha-discussions/in-depth-digital-india" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Digital India</a>&rdquo;</strong> and <strong>&ldquo;<a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/smart-cities-command-centres#:~:text=Smart%20City%20Mission,create%20smart%20outcomes%20for%20citizens." target="_blank" rel="noopener">Smart Cities</a>&rdquo;</strong> campaigns.</li>
<li>Taiwan&rsquo;s agro-technology and food processing technology can also be very beneficial for India&rsquo;s agriculture sector.</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li>Both sides have also expanded <strong>educational exchanges</strong> after a mutual degree recognition agreement in higher education was <strong>signed in 2010.</strong></li>
</ul>
</li>
<li><strong>Challenges:</strong><br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li><strong>One China policy:</strong> India finds it difficult to realise the full potential of its bilateral relationship with Taiwan. At present, about 16 countries worldwide continue to recognise Taiwan as an independent state. India is not among the sixteen countries.</li>
<li><strong>Trade &amp; Investment:</strong> The economic exchange is still relatively insignificant. Taiwan&rsquo;s share of trade with India is around 1% of its global trade.</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
<div class="border-bg">
<p><strong>Taiwan</strong></p>
<p><a href="http://www.drishtiias.com/images/uploads/1603272458_image1.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong><img class="content-img" src="http://www.drishtiias.com/images/uploads/1603272458_image1.jpg" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="650" caption="false" /></strong></a></p>
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li>Taiwan - the Republic of China (ROC), home to <strong>twenty-three million people,</strong> is an island <strong>off the southern coast of China</strong> that has been governed independently from mainland China since <strong>1949.</strong></li>
<li>Its neighbours include China (officially the People&rsquo;s Republic of China, PRC) to the west, Japan to the northeast, and the Philippines to the south.</li>
<li>Taiwan is the most populous state that is not a member of the United Nations and the largest economy outside the UN.</li>
<li>Taiwan is Asia&rsquo;s 5<sup>th</sup> largest economy.</li>
<li>It is a global leader in chip manufacture and the second-largest manufacturer of IT hardware, etc.</li>
<li><strong>China&rsquo;s Claim:</strong> The People&rsquo;s Republic of China (PRC) views the island as a province, while in Taiwan&mdash;a territory with its own democratically elected government&mdash;leading political voices have differing views on the island&rsquo;s status and relations with the mainland.<br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li>China and Taiwan maintain a fragile relationship, which has improved during the past seven years but is periodically tested.</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
</div>
<h3>Way Forward</h3>
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li>Taiwan has invested heavily on China studies. India should take advantage of this fact. Resource rich India can benefit from Taiwan&rsquo;s technology. For instance, India has abundant natural bamboo resources while Taiwan owns the world-class bamboo charcoal technology. With this sort of technology, India can make use of its bamboo resources to produce high value-added goods.</li>
<li>With the recent appointment of a senior diplomat to serve as the <strong>new envoy to Taiwan,</strong> India has signalled a shift in its One-China policy (although not officially abandoned) a clear indication of taking forward the diplomatic relationship with Taiwan.</li>
</ul>
<p><a href="https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/china-warns-india-on-ties-with-taiwan/article32902761.ece" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Source: TH</strong></a></p>',
			'postdate' => object(Cake\I18n\FrozenTime) {},
			'url' => 'https://www.drishtiias.com/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/taiwan-insecurity-of-china'
		],
		(int) 6 => [
			'title' => 'BrahMos Testing',
			'catname' => 'News Analysis',
			'desc' => '<h3>Why in News</h3>
<p><strong><a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/brahmos-missile" target="_blank" rel="noopener">BrahMos</a> Land-Attack Cruise Missile</strong> (surface-to-surface) was successfully flight tested from the Integrated Test Range at <strong>Balasore</strong> in <strong>Odisha.</strong></p>
<h3>Key Points<a href="http://www.drishtiias.com/images/uploads/1601538577_image2.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img class="content-img" src="http://www.drishtiias.com/images/uploads/1601538577_image2.jpg" style="float: right;" width="300" caption="false" /></a></h3>
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li>It is a<strong> joint venture</strong> between the <a href="/important-institutions/drishti-specials-important-institutions-national-institutions/defence-research-and-development-organisation-drdo" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Defence Research and Development Organisation of India (DRDO)</strong> </a>and the NPOM of <strong>Russia.</strong><br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li>Brahmos is named on the<strong> rivers Brahmaputra (India) and Moskva (Russia).</strong></li>
</ul>
</li>
<li>It is a <strong>supersonic</strong> missile travelling at a speed of <strong>Mach 2.8</strong> (nearly three times the speed of sound)<br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li>It is the world&rsquo;s<strong> fastest supersonic cruise missile.</strong></li>
</ul>
</li>
<li>It is a <strong>multiplatform</strong> i.e it can be launched from<strong> land, air, and sea</strong> and multi capability missile with pinpoint accuracy that works in <strong>both day and night</strong> irrespective of the weather conditions.<br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li>It is, therefore, used by all three forces, the <strong>Army, Navy and the Air Force.</strong></li>
</ul>
</li>
<li>It operates on the <strong>"Fire and Forget"</strong> principle i.e it does not require further guidance after launch.</li>
<li>It is the<strong> heaviest weapon</strong> to be deployed on <a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/sukhoi-30-mki-equipped-with-the-brahmos-missile" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Sukhoi-30 MKI fighter aircraft</strong></a>, with a weight of 2.5 tonnes.</li>
<li>Its <strong>range has been recently enhanced</strong> from 300 Km to 450-600 Km,<br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li>Increasing the missile&rsquo;s range became possible after India&rsquo;s induction into the <a href="/to-the-points/paper3/india-s-prospects-as-a-nuclear-power" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Missile Technology Control Regime (MTCR)</strong> </a>in June 2016.</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li>The missile features<strong> indigenous Booster and Airframe Section,</strong> along with many other <strong>indigenous sub-systems.</strong></li>
<li><strong>Advantages:</strong> <br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li>BrahMos has been deployed in <strong>Ladakh</strong> as well as the <strong>Eastern Sector in Arunachal Pradesh</strong> to tackle any threats in the <a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/india-china-conflict" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>ongoing standoff with China.</strong></a></li>
<li>Enhanced use of indigenous technologies will give a boost to India&rsquo;s <a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-editorials/atma-nirbhar-bharat-abhiyan-challenges" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>AtmaNirbhar Bharat</strong></a> and <a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-editorials/assessment-of-make-in-india" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Make in India</strong> </a>Initiatives.</li>
<li>Increasing indigenous content in defence systems has also been a prime focus of <a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/defence-acquisition-procedure-2020" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Defence Acquisition Procedure, 2020</strong></a> and <a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/draft-defence-production-and-export-promotion-policy-2020" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>draft Defence Production and Export Promotion Policy 2020.</strong></a></li>
</ul>
</li>
<li><strong>Others:</strong><br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li>India is also working on a hypersonic missile, <strong>BrahMos-II (K),</strong> capable of taking out hardened targets such as underground bunkers and weapon storage facilities at seven times the speed of sound (Mach 7).</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
<p><a href="https://pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=1660288" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Source: PIB</strong></a></p>',
			'postdate' => object(Cake\I18n\FrozenTime) {},
			'url' => 'https://www.drishtiias.com/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/brahmos-testing'
		],
		(int) 7 => [
			'title' => 'Green Strategic Partnership between India and Denmark',
			'catname' => 'News Analysis',
			'desc' => '<h3>Why in News</h3>
<p>India and the Kingdom of Denmark have launched the <strong>Green Strategic Partnership</strong> for delivering sustainable solutions to India.</p>
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li>The Ministry of Commerce and Industry has also signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for <a href="/to-the-points/paper3/intellectual-property-rights" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Intellectual Property (IP)</strong></a> <strong>Cooperation</strong> with Denmark.</li>
</ul>
<h3>Key Points</h3>
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li><strong>Green Strategic Partnership:</strong><br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li>The Partnership will focus on <strong>expanding economic ties, green growth, and cooperation on global challenges such as <a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/virtual-climate-action-ministerial" target="_blank" rel="noopener">climate change.</a></strong> <br />
<ul style="list-style-type: disc;">
<li><strong>Green growth</strong> is a term to describe a path of economic growth that uses natural resources in a sustainable manner.</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li>Danish companies with niche technologies and expertise have offered to help India in meeting its <a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-editorials/tackling-the-air-pollution" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>air pollution</strong></a> control targets, including in the key area of tackling the problem of<a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-editorials/stubble-burning-2" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong> burning crop stubble.</strong></a></li>
<li>Other key points under the partnership include dealing with the<a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-editorials/covid-19-and-india-1" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong> Covid-19</strong> </a>pandemic and <strong>cooperation in water efficiency and water loss.</strong></li>
<li>The creation of<strong> India-Denmark energy parks</strong> in areas with large numbers of Danish firms and an <strong>India-Denmark skill institute</strong> to train Indian manpower has been proposed.</li>
<li>The Green Strategic Partnership will build on an existing <strong>Joint Commission for Cooperation</strong> and existing<strong> joint working groups.</strong></li>
</ul>
</li>
<li><strong>Intellectual Property Cooperation:</strong><br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li>The MoU aims at increasing IP co-operation between the two countries by way of, exchange of information and best practices on processes for disposal of applications for patents, trademarks, industrial designs, and <a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/bangalore-blue-grapes" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Geographical Indications</strong></a>, and cooperation in the field of protection of Traditional Knowledge.</li>
<li>It will be a landmark step forward in India&rsquo;s journey towards becoming a major player in global innovation and further the objectives of the <strong><a href="/to-the-points/paper3/intellectual-property-rights" target="_blank" rel="noopener">National Intellectual Property Rights Policy</a>, 2016.</strong></li>
</ul>
</li>
<li><strong>India Denmark Relationship:</strong><br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li>India and Denmark had signed a <strong>Joint Commission for Cooperation in February 2009</strong> for cooperation in politics, economics and commerce, science and technology, energy, environment, and education.</li>
<li>They have <strong>joint working groups</strong> on Shipping; Food, Agriculture and Fisheries; Environment, Biotechnology; New and Renewable Energy; and Labour Mobility.</li>
<li>Currently, over 140 Danish companies are participating in the <a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-editorials/assessment-of-make-in-india" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Make in India</strong></a> initiative.</li>
<li>However, the relations got affected due to the <strong>non-extradition of the main accused of the Purulia arms drop case</strong> (Kim Davy) to India by Danish Officials. <br />
<ul style="list-style-type: disc;">
<li><strong>Purulia arms drop case, 1995:</strong> Unauthorised arms were dropped from an aircraft in Purulia district in the state of West Bengal in India.</li>
<li>In the recent meeting for Green Strategic Partnership, both sides agreed that concerned officials will work for an early resolution of the matter.</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li>India has also invited Denmark to join the<a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/proposal-of-supply-chain-resilience-initiative#:~:text=Supply%20Chain%20Resilience%20Initiative%20(SCRI)%3A,lead%20to%20the%20supply%20chain." target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong> supply chain resilience initiative</strong></a>, which is proposed between Japan, Australia to diversify supply chains and reduce dependence on any one nation.</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
<div class="border-bg">
<p><strong>Denmark<a href="http://www.drishtiias.com/images/uploads/1601458157_image5.png" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img class="content-img" src="http://www.drishtiias.com/images/uploads/1601458157_image5.png" style="float: right;" width="350" caption="false" /></a></strong></p>
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li><strong>Location:</strong> It is an archipelago of more than 400 islands to the east of the<strong> Jutland peninsula</strong> in Europe.</li>
<li><strong>Flag:&nbsp;<img class="content-img" src="http://www.drishtiias.com/images/uploads/1601458248_image4.png" width="30" caption="false" /></strong></li>
<li><strong>Capital:</strong> Copenhagen</li>
<li><strong>Currency:</strong> Danish krone</li>
<li><strong>People:</strong> Mostly inhabited by ethnic Danes.</li>
<li><strong>Languages:</strong> Danish is official.</li>
<li><strong>Religions:</strong> Catholic Christians, Jews.</li>
<li><strong>Government:</strong> The Kingdom of Denmark is a unitary state.<br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li>In addition to Denmark proper, two autonomous territories in the North Atlantic Ocean: Greenland and the Faroe Islands.</li>
<li>It establishes a sovereign state in the form of a constitutional monarchy, with a representative parliamentary system.</li>
<li>The Danish parliament is unicameral and called the Folketing.</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li><strong>Others:</strong> Denmark ranked 1<sup>st</sup> in <a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/digital-quality-of-life-index-2020-surfshark" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Digital Quality of Life 2020</strong></a>, <a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/corruption-perceptions-index-2019-transparency-international" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Corruption Perceptions Index 2019</strong></a>, <a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/environmental-performance-index" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Environmental Performance Index 2020</strong></a>, <a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/global-social-mobility-index-wef" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Global Social Mobility Index 2020</strong></a>. It also ranked in <strong>the top 10 in the <a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/henley-passport-index-2020" target="_blank" rel="noopener">most powerful passports</a></strong> in 2020 and was one of the <strong>most peaceful countries</strong> according to the <strong><a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/global-peace-index-2019" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Global Peace Index 2019</a>.</strong></li>
</ul>
</div>
<h3>Way Forward</h3>
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li>India and Denmark have shared values of human rights, democracy, and rule of law and they must cooperate in multilateral fora like the <a href="/important-institutions/drishti-specials-important-institutions-international-institution/world-trade-organisation-wto" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>World Trade Organization</strong></a>, <a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/second-assembly-of-isa" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>International Solar Alliance</strong></a>, <a href="/important-institutions/drishti-specials-important-institutions-international-institution/arctic-council" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Arctic Council</strong></a> to advance democracy and human rights and promote a rule-based multilateral system.</li>
<li>The Green Strategic Partnership is a mutually beneficial arrangement to advance political cooperation, expand economic relations and green growth, create jobs, and strengthen cooperation on addressing global challenges and opportunities; with a focus on an ambitious implementation of the <a href="/loksabha-rajyasabha-discussions/the-big-picture-climate-change-act-now" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Paris Agreement</strong></a> and the <a href="/to-the-points/paper3/sustainable-development-3#:~:text=Three%20core%20elements%20of%20sustainable,are%20important%20for%20sustainable%20development." target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.</strong></a></li>
</ul>
<p><a href="/to-the-points/paper3/sustainable-development-3#:~:text=Three%20core%20elements%20of%20sustainable,are%20important%20for%20sustainable%20development." target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Source: TH</strong></a></p>',
			'postdate' => object(Cake\I18n\FrozenTime) {},
			'url' => 'https://www.drishtiias.com/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/green-strategic-partnership-between-india-and-denmark'
		],
		(int) 8 => [
			'title' => 'Defence Acquisition Procedure 2020',
			'catname' => 'News Analysis',
			'desc' => '<h3>Why in News</h3>
<p>Recently, a new <strong>Defence Acquisition Procedure (DAP)</strong> (erstwhile Defence Procurement Procedure or DPP), 2020 was released by the Ministry of Defence (MoD).</p>
<h3>Key Points</h3>
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li><strong>About:</strong> The DAP contains policies and procedures for procurement and acquisition from the capital budget of the MoD in order to modernise the Armed Forces including the <a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/recaap-isc-capacity-building-workshop" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Coast Guard.</strong></a></li>
<li><strong>Background:</strong> The first Defence Procurement Procedure (DPP) was promulgated in 2002.<br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li>A <a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/reviewing-defence-procurement-procedure" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>committee under the chairmanship of Director General (Acquisition)</strong></a> was constituted to review the <a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-editorials/a-flawed-defence-procurement-policy" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Defence Procurement Procedure (DPP) 2016.</strong></a><br />
<ul style="list-style-type: disc;">
<li><strong>DPP 2016</strong> was released replacing the DPP 2013 based on the recommendations of <strong>Dhirendra Singh committee.</strong></li>
<li>It focussed on indigenously designed, developed and manufactured weapon systems.</li>
<li>It was facing several issues like lack of transparency (leading to Rafale Scam), inconvenient offset regulations etc.</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li><strong>Objective:</strong> Turning India into a global manufacturing hub.<br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li>Aligned with the vision of the Government of <a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-editorials/atma-nirbhar-bharat-abhiyan-challenges" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Atmanirbhar Bharat</strong> </a>and empowering Indian domestic industry through <strong><a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-editorials/assessment-of-make-in-india" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Make in India</a> initiative.</strong></li>
</ul>
</li>
<li><strong>Salient Features:</strong><br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li><strong>For <a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/ease-of-doing-business-2020" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Ease of Doing Business:</a></strong><br />
<ul style="list-style-type: disc;">
<li><strong>Time Bound Defence Procurement Process and Faster Decision Making:</strong> By setting up a <a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-editorials/self-reliance-in-defence-manufacturing" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Project Management Unit</strong></a> to support contract management and to streamline the Acquisition process.</li>
<li><strong>Revised Offset Guidelines</strong>: Preference will be given to manufacture of complete defence products over components and various multipliers have been added to give incentivisation in discharge of offsets.<br />
<ul style="list-style-type: disc;">
<li>Further, there will be<strong> no offset clause</strong> in government-to-government, single vendor and Intergovernmental Agreements (IGA).</li>
<li><strong>Offsets</strong> are a portion of a contracted price with a foreign supplier that must be <strong>re-invested in the Indian defence sector,</strong> or against which the government can purchase technology.</li>
<li><strong>Multipliers</strong> are credit values earned on offset transactions. A multiplier of 3 means a foreign company can claim credits upto three times of its actual offset investment.</li>
<li>The offset policy for defence deals <strong>was adopted in 2005</strong> for all defence capital imports above Rs. 300 crore under which the foreign vendor is required to invest at least 30% of the value of the contract in India.</li>
<li>Offset clause was hindering the transfer of technology, according to a recent CAG report.</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li><strong>Rationalization of Procedures for Trials and Testing:</strong> Scope of trials will be <strong>restricted to physical evaluation of core operational parameters.</strong></li>
</ul>
</li>
<li><strong>To Develop India into Global Manufacturing Hub:</strong><br />
<ul style="list-style-type: disc;">
<li><strong>FDI in Defence Manufacturing:</strong> Provisions have been incorporated like a new category<strong> &lsquo;Buy (Global &ndash; Manufacture in India)&rsquo;,</strong> to encourage foreign companies to set up manufacturing through its subsidiary in India.</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li><strong>To promote Make in India and Atmanirbhar Bharat initiatives:</strong><br />
<ul style="list-style-type: disc;">
<li><strong>Reservation in Categories for Indian Vendors:</strong> Some categories like Buy (Indian Indigenously Designed Developed and Manufactured -IDDM), Production Agency in Design &amp; Development etc. will be exclusively reserved for Indian Vendors and FDI of more than 49% is not allowed.</li>
<li><strong>Ban on Import of Certain Items:</strong> With a view to promote domestic and indigenous industry, the MoD will notify a list of weapons/platforms banned for import.</li>
<li><strong>Indigenisation of Imported Spares:</strong> Steps to promote manufacturing of parts in India have been taken. This includes establishment of co-production facilities through Intergovernmental Agreements (IGA) achieving <strong>&lsquo;Import Substitution&rsquo; and reducing Life Cycle Cost.</strong></li>
<li><strong>Overall Enhancement in Indigenous Content (IC):</strong> This has been done in all the categories, for products like softwares etc, as follows:<a href="http://www.drishtiias.com/images/uploads/1601366967_image1.png" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img class="content-img" src="http://www.drishtiias.com/images/uploads/1601366967_image1.png" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="650" caption="false" /></a></li>
</ul>
</li>
<li><strong>Other Features</strong><br />
<ul style="list-style-type: disc;">
<li><strong>Cost Cutting : Leasing</strong> has been introduced as a new category for acquisition in addition to the existing &lsquo;Buy&rsquo; and &lsquo;Make&rsquo; categories so that periodical rental payments are made instead of huge capital investment.</li>
<li>This will be useful for military equipment not used in actual warfare like transport fleets, trainers, simulators, among others.</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li><strong>Other Related Initiatives:</strong><br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li>Recently, the Ministry of Defence has formulated a <strong><a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/draft-defence-production-and-export-promotion-policy-2020" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Draft Defence Production and Export Promotion Policy 2020</a> (DPEPP 2020).</strong></li>
<li><a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/innovations-for-defence-excellence-idex-initiative#:~:text=iDEX%20aims%20to%20promote%20innovation,to%20carry%20out%20Research%20%26%20Development." target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Innovations for Defence Excellence (iDEX)</strong></a> has been operationalised to provide necessary incubation and infrastructure support to the startups in the defence area.<br />
<ul style="list-style-type: disc;">
<li>iDEX would be further scaled up to engage with 300 more startups and develop 60 new technologies/products during the next five years.</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li><a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/mission-raksha-gyan-shakti-1" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Mission Raksha Gyan Shakti</strong></a> was launched to promote a greater culture of innovation and technology development and file a higher number of patents in Defence Public Sector Undertakings (DPSUs), Ordnance Factory Board (OFB).<br />
<ul style="list-style-type: disc;">
<li>It would be scaled up for promoting the creation of Intellectual Property in the sector and its commercial utilisation.</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
<h3>Way Forward</h3>
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li>Self-reliance in defence manufacturing is a crucial component of effective defence capability and to maintain national sovereignty and achieve military superiority. The DAP 2020 not only protects the interests of domestic manufacturers by<a href="/to-the-points/paper3/indigenisation-of-defence" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong> indigenization of technology</strong></a>, but also provides impetus to foreign investment in the country.</li>
<li>Given the key geostrategic challenges, emanating from the threat of two-front war (against <a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/india-china-conflict" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>China</strong> </a>and <a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/pakistan-s-new-map" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Pakistan</strong></a> combinedly), India needs to carry out much-needed <a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-editorials/urgency-of-defence-reforms" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>defence reforms</strong></a>. DAP 2020 is the one of the many needed defence reforms.</li>
</ul>
<p><a href="https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/rajnath-singh-unveils-new-defence-acquisition-procedure/article32715556.ece" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Source: TH</strong></a></p>',
			'postdate' => object(Cake\I18n\FrozenTime) {},
			'url' => 'https://www.drishtiias.com/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/defence-acquisition-procedure-2020'
		],
		(int) 9 => [
			'title' => 'Promotion of Buddhist Sites',
			'catname' => 'News Analysis',
			'desc' => '<h3>Why in News</h3>
<p>The Ministry of Tourism has undertaken development of<a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-editorials/tourism-industry-in-india" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong> tourism</strong> </a>related infrastructure and facilities at various<strong> Buddhist Sites</strong> in the country under its flagship schemes of <strong>Swadesh Darshan &amp; PRASHAD.</strong></p>
<h3>Key Points</h3>
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li><strong>Steps Taken to Promote Buddhist Sites:</strong><br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li><strong>Swadesh Darshan Scheme:</strong> It has included Buddhist circuit and Spiritual circuit abong its <strong>13 thematic circuits</strong> under which buddhist sites are being promoted.</li>
<li><strong>PRASHAD Scheme:</strong> 30 projects for <strong>development of infrastructure</strong> have also been undertaken under the PRASHAD Scheme.</li>
<li><strong>Iconic Tourist Sites:</strong> Buddhist Sites at <a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/maha-bodhi-temple-complex" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Bodhgaya</strong></a>, <a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/ajanta-and-ellora-caves" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Ajanta &amp; Ellora</strong> </a>have been identified to be developed as <a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/iconic-tourist-sites" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Iconic Tourist Sites</strong></a> <strong>(aimed at enhancing India&rsquo;s soft power).</strong></li>
<li><strong>Buddhist Conclave: <a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/international-buddhist-conclave-2018" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Buddhist Conclave</a></strong> is organised every alternate year with the objective of promoting India as a Buddhist Destination and major markets around the globe.</li>
<li><strong>Diversity of Languages:</strong> Signages have been installed in <strong>Chinese</strong> language at buddhist monuments in Uttar Pradesh and in<strong> Sinhala</strong> language (official language of Sri Lanka) at Sanchi monuments in Madhya Pradesh.</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li><strong>PRASHAD Scheme:</strong><br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li>The &lsquo;National Mission on Pilgrimage Rejuvenation and Spiritual Augmentation Drive&rsquo; (PRASAD) was launched by the <strong>Ministry of Tourism</strong> in the year 2014-15 with the objective of <strong>holistic development of identified pilgrimage destinations.</strong></li>
<li>The name of the scheme was changed from PRASAD to<strong> &ldquo;National Mission on Pilgrimage Rejuvenation and Spiritual, Heritage Augmentation Drive (PRASHAD)&rdquo;</strong> in October 2017.<br />
<ul style="list-style-type: disc;">
<li>After the discontinuation of the HRIDAY scheme of the Ministry of Housing and Urban Development, the <strong>development of Heritage destinations</strong> was included in the PRASAD Scheme, changing it to PRASHAD.</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li><strong>Implementation Agency:</strong> The projects identified under this scheme shall be implemented through the identified agencies by the respective State/ Union Territory Government.</li>
<li><strong>Objective:</strong> <br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li><strong>Rejuvenation and spiritual augmentation</strong> of important national/ global pilgrimage and heritage sites.</li>
<li>Follow <strong>community-based development</strong> and create <strong>awareness</strong> among the local communities.</li>
<li><strong>Integrated tourism development</strong> of heritage city, local arts, culture, handicrafts, cuisine, etc., to generate livelihood.</li>
<li>Strengthen the mechanism for <strong>bridging the infrastructural gaps.</strong></li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li><strong>Swadesh Darshan Scheme</strong><br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li>Swadesh Darshan, a <a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/proposal-to-hike-monthly-pensions" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Central Sector Scheme</strong></a>, was launched in 2014 -15 for <strong>integrated development of theme based tourist circuits</strong> in the country.</li>
<li>Under the scheme, the Ministry of Tourism provides <strong>Central Financial Assistance (CFA)</strong> to State Governments/Union Territory Administrations for infrastructure development of circuits.</li>
<li>This scheme is envisioned to <strong>synergise with other schemes</strong> like <a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/swachh-bharat-mission-urban" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Swachh Bharat Abhiyan</strong></a>, <a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/pradhan-mantri-kaushal-vikas-yojana-pmkvy" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Skill India</strong></a>, <a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-editorials/assessment-of-make-in-india" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Make in India</strong></a> etc. with the idea of positioning the tourism sector as a major engine for job creation, driving force for economic growth, building synergy with various sectors to enable tourism to realise its potential.</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
<h3>Way Forward</h3>
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li>India&rsquo;s Buddhist heritage is not only important from the tourism point of view but is also a binding factor that strengthens its relationship with Asian countries, in line with its <a href="/loksabha-rajyasabha-discussions/the-big-picture-india-s-act-east-policy" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Act East Policy.</strong></a></li>
<li>As peace and <a href="/to-the-points/paper3/sustainable-development-3" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>sustainable development</strong></a> are interlinked, the Buddha&rsquo;s prism can be the guiding lights to every single stakeholder from local to global institutions and leaders, to work together for promoting dialogue, harmony, and justice based on compassion and wisdom.</li>
</ul>
<p><a href="https://pib.nic.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=1654149" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Source: PIB</strong></a></p>',
			'postdate' => object(Cake\I18n\FrozenTime) {},
			'url' => 'https://www.drishtiias.com/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/promotion-of-buddhist-sites'
		],
		(int) 10 => [
			'title' => 'New FDI Policy in Defence Sector',
			'catname' => 'News Analysis',
			'desc' => '<h3>Why in News</h3>
<p>Recently, the Union Cabinet approved a new <a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/rise-in-foreign-direct-investment" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Foreign Direct Investment</strong></a> <strong>(FDI)</strong> policy in the defence sector which allows the FDI through automatic approval to be increased from 49% to 74%.</p>
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li>Earlier, the defence industry can bring FDI up to 49% under the<strong> automatic route,</strong> and above it <strong>under government route.</strong></li>
<li>However, the new policy has a <strong>&lsquo;National Security&rsquo;</strong> clause as a condition which has been proposed by the <strong>Ministry of Commerce and Industry.</strong></li>
</ul>
<h3>Key Points</h3>
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li><strong>National Security Clause:</strong> FDI in the defence sector<strong> shall be subject to scrutiny on the ground of National Security</strong> and the <strong>Government reserves the right to review</strong> any foreign investment in the defence sector that may affect national security.</li>
<li><strong>Strengthening Indigenous Manufacturing:</strong> Through more <strong>liberalised FDI policy</strong> the government is seeking<strong> to attract foreign players</strong> to set up manufacturing units in India.<br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li>It has been focusing on the <strong>defence sector to act as an engine for boosting manufacturing in the country,</strong> and is <strong>aiming</strong> to achieve a turnover of Rs 1.75 lakh crore, including exports worth Rs 35,000 crore, by 2025. <br />
<ul style="list-style-type: disc;">
<li>As of 2019, the defence industry, along with the aerospace and shipbuilding industry, was estimated to be worth Rs. 80,000 crore, of which the share of Public Sector Units (PSUs) was nearly 80%.</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li>The government has brought a <a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/draft-defence-production-and-export-promotion-policy-2020" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>draft Defence Production and Export Promotion Policy 2020 (DPEPP 2020)</strong></a>, which <strong>aims</strong> to provide an overarching guiding document to provide a focused, structured and significant thrust to defence production capabilities of the country for self-reliance and exports.</li>
<li>The government has also brought a <a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/negative-imports-list-for-defence" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>negative imports list</strong></a> for defence equipment and a dedicated budget for capital acquisition from the domestic industry. <br />
<ul style="list-style-type: disc;">
<li>The negative imports list<strong> contains a list of weapons that will not be imported</strong> and can only be purchased from within the country.</li>
<li>It was done with an aim to <strong>reduce the defence import bill.</strong></li>
</ul>
</li>
<li>The government has <strong>inaugurated two defence industrial corridors,</strong> in <strong>Tamil Nadu and in Uttar Pradesh,</strong> to boost the flagship <a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-editorials/assessment-of-make-in-india#:~:text=On%20September%2025%2C%202014%2C%20the,surpassing%20the%20U.S.%20and%20China." target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>'Make in India'</strong></a> programme that in turn would attract investments as well as encourage employment generation.</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
<div class="border-bg">
<p><strong>Foreign Direct Investment</strong></p>
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li>FDI is an <strong>investment made by a firm or individual</strong> in one country into business interests located in another country.</li>
<li>Generally, FDI takes place when an investor establishes foreign business operations or acquires foreign business assets, including establishing ownership or controlling interest in a foreign company.</li>
<li>It is different from<strong> Foreign Portfolio Investment</strong> where the foreign entity merely buys equity shares of a company. FPI does not provide the investor with control over the business.</li>
<li>Routes through which India gets FDI:<br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li><strong>Automatic Route:</strong> In this, the foreign entity does not require the prior approval of the government or the RBI.</li>
<li><strong>Government route:</strong> In this, the foreign entity has to take the approval of the government.<br />
<ul style="list-style-type: disc;">
<li>The <strong>Foreign Investment Facilitation Portal</strong> (FIFP) facilitates the single window clearance of applications which are through approval route.</li>
<li>This portal is administered by the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT), Ministry of Commerce and Industry.</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
</div>
<h3>Way Forward</h3>
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li>The new FDI policy has the potential to reduce dependency on imports in the defence sector and boost manufacturing in India.</li>
<li>It will also provide employment and business opportunities to the Indian businesses and boost self-dependency.</li>
</ul>
<p><a href="https://indianexpress.com/article/business/economy/govt-puts-national-security-clause-in-defence-fdi-hike-to-74-per-cent-6589841/" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Source: IE</strong></a></p>',
			'postdate' => object(Cake\I18n\FrozenTime) {},
			'url' => 'https://www.drishtiias.com/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/new-fdi-policy-in-defence-sector'
		],
		(int) 11 => [
			'title' => 'Aatmanirbhar Bharat ARISE-Atal New India Challenge',
			'catname' => 'News Analysis',
			'desc' => '<h3>Why in News</h3>
<p>The <a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-editorials/atma-nirbhar-bharat-abhiyan-challenges" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Aatmanirbhar Bharat</strong> </a>ARISE-Atal New India Challenge (ANIC) Program, launched by the government, is a<strong> national initiative</strong> to promote <strong>research &amp; innovation</strong> and increase<strong> competitiveness</strong> of Indian <a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/policy-reforms-for-startups" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>startups</strong></a> and <a href="/to-the-points/paper3/micro-small-and-medium-enterprises-msme" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises</strong></a> (MSMEs).</p>
<h3>Key Points</h3>
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li><strong>Objective:</strong> To proactively collaborate with Ministries and the associated industries <strong>to catalyse research, innovation and facilitate innovative solutions</strong> to sectoral problems.<br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li>The objective is also to provide a steady stream of innovative products &amp; solutions where the Central Government Ministries/Departments will become the <strong>potential first buyers.</strong></li>
</ul>
</li>
<li><strong>Administration:</strong><br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li>The initiative will be carried under the <a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/aim-icrest-niti-aayog" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Atal Innovation Mission</strong></a> <strong>(AIM - an</strong> initiative by the <a href="/important-institutions/drishti-specials-important-institutions-national-institutions/niti-aayog-national-institution-for-transforming-india" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>NITI Aayog</strong></a>).</li>
<li>The programme will be driven by <a href="/important-institutions/drishti-specials-important-institutions-national-institutions/indian-space-research-organisation-isro" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Indian Space Research Organization</strong> </a><strong>(ISRO)</strong> and four ministries:<br />
<ul style="list-style-type: disc;">
<li>Ministry of Defence;</li>
<li>Ministry of Food Processing Industries;</li>
<li>Ministry of Health and Family Welfare; and</li>
<li>Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs.</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li><strong>Features:</strong> <br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li>The initiative will help promote techno-preneurs who deserve to be supported because of their immense potential of taking India forward.</li>
<li>A total of 15 sector-specific challenges will be selected where <strong>three challenges</strong> are kept for<strong> each ministry.</strong></li>
<li>A grant-of-aid of up<strong> Rs. 50 lakh</strong> for a period of 9 to 12 months have been earmarked for startups to develop <strong>a minimum usable prototype.</strong></li>
<li>Innovators would also be attracted by using the <a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/the-gandhian-challenge" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Mahatma Gandhi Challenge method.</strong></a><br />
<ul style="list-style-type: disc;">
<li>On the 150<sup>th</sup> birth Anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi, &lsquo;the Gandhian Challenge&rsquo; was launched.</li>
<li>It provides a platform for <strong>every child across India</strong> to ideate innovative solutions for a sustainable India of their dreams, using Gandhi&rsquo;s principles.</li>
<li>Broad categories in the challenge:<strong> Art &amp; Innovation and Science, Technology &amp; Innovation.</strong></li>
</ul>
</li>
<li>The Program is in line with the mandate of:<br />
<ul style="list-style-type: disc;">
<li><a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-editorials/assessment-of-make-in-india#:~:text=On%20September%2025%2C%202014%2C%20the,surpassing%20the%20U.S.%20and%20China." target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>&ldquo;Make in India&rdquo;</strong></a></li>
<li><a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/the-start-up-india-fund#:~:text=early%2Dstage%20companies.-,Startup%20India,innovation%20and%20entrepreneurship%20in%20India." target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>&ldquo;Startup India&rdquo;</strong></a></li>
<li>&ldquo;Aatmanirbhar Bharat&rdquo;</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li><strong>Role of the Indian Space Research Organisation :</strong><br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li>ISRO is the leading organization to promote innovations and entrepreneurship across the length and breath of our country.</li>
<li>ISRO has extensively supported MSMEs and has also set up R&amp;D labs across India to promote innovation and research in space science and technology.</li>
<li>ISRO is planning to <strong>adopt 100 <a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/launch-of-collabcad-in-atal-tinkering-labs" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Atal Tinkering Labs</a>,</strong> 3 each in each state and UTs.</li>
<li><strong>Three thrust areas identified by ISRO:</strong><br />
<ul style="list-style-type: disc;">
<li><strong>Propulsion:</strong> Green propellants, electric propulsion, and advanced air-breathing.</li>
<li><strong>Geo-spatial Information:</strong> Using <strong><a href="/loksabha-rajyasabha-discussions/in-depth-artificial-intelligence" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Artificial Intelligence</a> (AI)</strong> for crop monitoring, weather forecasting and programme evaluation.</li>
<li><strong>AI and Robotics:</strong> For supporting space exploration and outer space monitoring.</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
<h3>Importance of MSMEs for Indian Economy</h3>
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li>They are considered as the engine of growth in an economy.</li>
<li><strong>Employment:</strong> It is the second largest employment generating sector after agriculture. It provides employment to around 120 million persons in India.</li>
<li><strong>Contribution to GDP:</strong> With around 36.1 million units throughout the geographical expanse of the country, MSMEs contribute around 6.11% of the manufacturing GDP and 24.63% of the GDP from service activities.<br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li>MSME ministry has set a target to up its contribution to GDP to 50% by 2025 as India becomes a $5 trillion economy.</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li><strong>Exports:</strong> It contributes around 45% of the overall exports from India.</li>
<li><strong>Inclusive growth:</strong> MSMEs promote inclusive growth by providing employment opportunities in rural areas especially to people belonging to weaker sections of the society.</li>
<li><strong>Financial inclusion:</strong> Small industries and retail businesses in tier-II and tier-III cities create opportunities for people to use banking services and products.</li>
<li><strong>Promote innovation:</strong> It provides opportunity for budding entrepreneurs to build creative products boosting business competition and fuels growth.</li>
</ul>
<div class="border-bg">
<p><strong>Atal Innovation Mission</strong></p>
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li>AIM is Government of India&rsquo;s flagship initiative to promote a culture of innovation and entrepreneurship in the country.</li>
<li>It&rsquo;s <strong>objective</strong> is to develop new programmes and policies for fostering innovation in different sectors of the economy, provide platform and collaboration opportunities for different stakeholders, create awareness and create an umbrella structure to oversee the innovation ecosystem of the country.</li>
<li><strong>Major Initiatives:</strong><br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li><a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/launch-of-collabcad-in-atal-tinkering-labs" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Atal Tinkering Labs</strong></a>: These are creating problem solving mindset across schools in India.</li>
<li><strong>Atal Incubation Centers:</strong> Fostering world class startups and adding a new dimension to the incubator model.</li>
<li><strong>Atal New India Challenges:</strong> Fostering product innovations and aligning them to the needs of various sectors/ministries.</li>
<li><strong>Mentor India Campaign:</strong> A national mentor network in collaboration with the public sector, corporates and institutions, to support all the initiatives of the mission.</li>
<li><a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/atal-community-innovation-centre" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Atal Community Innovation Center:</strong></a> To stimulate community centric innovation and ideas in the <strong>unserved/underserved regions of the</strong> <strong>country</strong> including Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities.</li>
<li><strong>Atal Research and Innovation for Small Enterprises (ARISE):</strong> To stimulate innovation and research in the MSME industry.</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
<p><a href="http://www.drishtiias.com/images/uploads/1599727741_image4.png" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img class="content-img" src="http://www.drishtiias.com/images/uploads/1599727741_image4.png" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="350" caption="false" /></a></p>
</div>
<p><a href="https://pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=1652751#:~:text=ISRO%20and%20Four%20Ministries%20Roped%20In&amp;text=Atal%20Innovation%20Mission%20(AIM)%2C,in%20Indian%20MSMEs%20and%20startups." target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Source: PIB</strong></a></p>',
			'postdate' => object(Cake\I18n\FrozenTime) {},
			'url' => 'https://www.drishtiias.com/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/aatmanirbhar-bharat-arise-atal-new-india-challenge'
		],
		(int) 12 => [
			'title' => 'Rising Imports from China',
			'catname' => 'News Analysis',
			'desc' => '<h3>Why in News</h3>
<p>According to the latest figures from <strong>China&rsquo;s General Administration of Customs</strong> (GAC),<strong> Indian imports from China,</strong> its largest trading partner in goods, are <strong>on a rise</strong> after the months of June and July.</p>
<h3>Key Points</h3>
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li>India&rsquo;s imports from China had<strong> fallen to a record low of USD 3.2 billion</strong> both in the months of <strong>April and May,</strong> coinciding with the<a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/covid-19-now-pandemic-who" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong> pandemic</strong></a> <strong>induced <a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/lockdown-extended" target="_blank" rel="noopener">lockdowns.</a></strong></li>
<li>Imports <strong>subsequently rose to USD 4.8 billion in June</strong> and<strong> further to USD 5.6 billion in July,</strong> almost back to the pre-lockdown level of USD 5.8 billion reported in March.<br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li>It was mainly due to <strong>increased import of Chinese medical supplies.</strong></li>
<li><strong>Online shoppers in India seem to prefer Chinese mobile phones and electronic gadgets</strong> despite the environment of<a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/economic-measures-by-india-against-china" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong> anti-China sentiments</strong></a> in the nation.<br />
<ul style="list-style-type: disc;">
<li>As per the Prime Day 2020 sale data of Amazon, an <a href="/to-the-points/paper3/e-commerce-in-india" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>e-commerce</strong></a> giant, OnePlus, Oppo, Huawei&rsquo;s Honor and Xiaomi were among the top-selling smartphone brands in India.</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li>For the seven months of 2020, <strong>India&rsquo;s imports from China have reached USD 32.2 billion.</strong> However, It is <strong>still down by 24.7% year-on-year,</strong> mainly because of the record slump in April and May.</li>
<li><strong>Two-way trade between both countries is USD 43.37 billion</strong> and it continues to be <strong>heavily tilted in China&rsquo;s favour. Indian exports account for USD 11 billion</strong> and are <strong>up 6.7% year-on-year.</strong></li>
<li>China&rsquo;s <strong>exports overall rose 7.2% in July,</strong> beating most estimates, while imports fell 1.4% year-on-year.</li>
<li>China noticed a <strong>trade surplus of USD 62.33 billion,</strong> surpassing the estimated USD 42 billion.<br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li>The major reason behind this was the <strong>increased export of medical supplies and work-from-home equipment.</strong></li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
<h3>Initiatives to Support Local Entrepreneurs</h3>
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li><strong>Amazon Karigar Store:</strong><br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li>In <strong>2019,</strong> on the eve of the <a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/national-handloom-day-1#:~:text=Key%20Points,of%20this%20sector%20is%20highlighted." target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>National Handloom Day</strong> </a>(<strong>7<sup>th</sup> August</strong>), Amazon announced the launch of the Karigar store which showcases over 55,000 products, including more than 270 arts and crafts from 20 states.</li>
<li>It will give prominence to India&rsquo;s handicrafts heritage by enabling weavers and artisans to showcase <a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-editorials/assessment-of-make-in-india#:~:text=On%20September%2025%2C%202014%2C%20the,surpassing%20the%20U.S.%20and%20China." target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>&lsquo;Made in India&rsquo;</strong></a> products to customers.</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li><strong>Saheli Programme:</strong><br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li>In November 2017, Amazon launched this programme with the <strong>aim to empower and enable Indian women entrepreneurs to sell their products</strong> across the country.</li>
<li>Promotion of entrepreneurship amongst women has become the key motive of the programme.</li>
<li>It was rolled out in partnership with <strong>non-government social service entities</strong> like <strong>Self-Employed Women Enterprise</strong> (SEWA) and <strong>Impulse Social Enterprise.</strong></li>
</ul>
</li>
<li><strong>Amazon Launchpad:</strong><br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li>It is a<strong> marketplace within a marketplace</strong> as it works on two<strong> levels to create value for both Amazon shoppers and up-and-coming brands.</strong></li>
<li>New companies get the <strong>time and guidance</strong> they need to fine-tune their business and <strong>generate greater visibility</strong> for their products while <strong>shoppers enjoy early access to innovative products</strong> from the latest startups. <br />
<ul style="list-style-type: disc;">
<li>Since startups tend to have limited time and resources, they often need additional support to drive traffic to their products and get their business off the ground.</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li><strong>Significance:</strong><br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li>In the wake of the <a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/coronavirus-disease-named-covid-19" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Covid-19</strong></a> <strong>pandemic</strong> and the <a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/india-china-conflict" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>growing tensions between India and China</strong></a>, it is important to boost the local market and make the economy less dependent on imports.</li>
<li>By boosting up the local entrepreneurs and talent, their<strong> professions will become more profitable</strong> enabling them to have a better life.</li>
<li>The country will also profit from it by the <strong>reduced imports and a strong sustainable domestic market,</strong> strengthening the economy.</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
<p><a href="https://www.thehindu.com/business/Economy/indias-imports-from-china-rise-in-june-and-july/article32320584.ece#:~:text=India's%20imports%20from%20China%20have,down%20by%2024%25%20from%202019.&amp;text=China%20posted%20a%20trade%20surplus,given%20by%20economists%20to%20Reuters." target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Source: TH</strong></a></p>',
			'postdate' => object(Cake\I18n\FrozenTime) {},
			'url' => 'https://www.drishtiias.com/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/rising-imports-from-china'
		],
		(int) 13 => [
			'title' => 'Electric Vehicles Policy 2020: Delhi',
			'catname' => 'News Analysis',
			'desc' => '<h3>Why in News</h3>
<p>Recently, the Delhi government has notified the<strong> Electric Vehicles (EV) Policy 2020.</strong></p>
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li>It lays the maximum emphasis on replacement of two-wheelers, public transport and shared vehicles and goods-carriers instead of private four-wheelers, with <a href="/to-the-points/paper3/electric-vehicles-evs" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Electric Vehicles</strong></a> (EVs).</li>
</ul>
<h3>Key Points</h3>
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li><strong>Features:</strong><br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li>It envisions the <strong>replacement of the existing auto rickshaws and State-run buses with e-autos and e-buses</strong> respectively. It will also ensure that <strong>delivery-based services</strong> operating in the city are powered by e-mobility.</li>
<li>It talks about<strong> increasing road tax for fuel-based vehicles,</strong> at least in the luxury segment and imposing in certain parts of the city a congestion fee that EVs will be exempt from.</li>
<li>It has a<strong> &lsquo;scrapping incentive&rsquo;</strong> for those people who want to make the switch, allowing them to exchange an old fuel-based vehicle while purchasing a new EV, further reducing its cost.</li>
<li>The government will also <strong>offer low-interest rate loans</strong> to people interested in buying commercial EVs.</li>
<li>The policy also offers <strong>subsidies and road tax and registration fee waivers,</strong> for EVs bought in the capital.<br />
<ul style="list-style-type: disc;">
<li>At present, road tax ranges from 4% to 10% of the cost of the vehicle, while the registration fee could cost up to Rs. 3,000.</li>
<li>In addition, a subsidy of Rs. 5,000 per kWh of the battery capacity up to Rs. 30,000 will be given on the purchase of each EV.</li>
<li>For the first 1,000 e-cars or electric four-wheelers, a subsidy of Rs. 10,000 per kWh will be given, capped at Rs. 1,50,000 per vehicle.</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li>These <strong>grants will be in addition to the subsidies offered by the Union government</strong> under its <strong><a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/fame-ii-1#:~:text=The%20phase%202%20of%20FAME,2022%20for%20FAME%202%20scheme.&amp;text=The%20government%20will%20offer%20incentives,be%20used%20for%20commercial%20purposes." target="_blank" rel="noopener">FAME India Phase 2</a> scheme</strong>, which offers similar incentives, especially on the purchase of electric two-wheelers and electric heavy passenger and goods vehicles.</li>
<li>A<strong> State EV</strong> fund will be set up, encompassing all the expenditure of the EV Policy. A <strong>State Electric Vehicle Board</strong> will be constituted for effective implementation of the policy and managing the fund. Besides, a<strong> dedicated EV Cell</strong> will also be constituted.</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li><strong>Aims:</strong><br />
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li>To<strong> reduce<a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-editorials/tackling-the-air-pollution" target="_blank" rel="noopener"> air pollution</a></strong> and to<strong> kick-start the economy by spurring demand.</strong><br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li>Delhi experiences a public health emergency every winter due to the rise in air pollution, which has become a recurrent annual crisis.</li>
<li>During the <a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/coronavirus-disease-named-covid-19" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Covid-19</strong> </a>induced <a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/21-days-lockdown" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>lockdowns</strong></a>, the capital witnessed a drastic <strong><a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/covid-19-lockdown-improved-air-quality" target="_blank" rel="noopener">reduction in the PM10 and PM2.5 levels</a></strong>.</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li>To address both <strong>problems of the high cost of purchase</strong> and the <strong>lack of sufficient charging infrastructure.</strong></li>
<li>To register <strong>at least 5,00,000 EVs in Delhi</strong> in the <strong>next five years.</strong></li>
</ul>
</li>
<li><strong>Delivery-based and Ride-hailing Services:</strong><br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li>Ride-hailing service providers will be <strong>allowed to operate electric two-wheeler taxis</strong> subject to operating within the guidelines to be issued by the Transport Department.</li>
<li>It is expected that the incentives provided by the policy would <strong>encourage delivery service providers</strong> related to food delivery,<a href="/to-the-points/paper3/e-commerce-in-india" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong> e-commerce</strong></a> logistics providers and couriers to switch to using electric two-wheelers.</li>
<li>All delivery service providers shall be <strong>expected to convert 50%</strong> of their fleet operating in Delhi to electric <strong>by 31<sup>st</sup> March 2023</strong> and <strong>100% by 31<sup>st</sup> March 2025.</strong></li>
<li>Delivery service providers who <strong>commit to achieving these targets will be eligible for financing support</strong> from the Delhi Finance Corporation.</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li><strong>Autorickshaws:</strong><br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li><strong>Incentives</strong> will be provided related to the purchase<strong> (Rs. 30,000 per vehicle)</strong> and use of new electric autos.</li>
<li>An <strong>open permit system</strong> will be put in place to<strong> provide permits on a first-come, first-served basis</strong> to those with valid light motor vehicle driving licences and a Public Service Vehicle badge.<br />
<ul style="list-style-type: disc;">
<li>The open permit system for e-autos shall be subject to the cap on the maximum number of autos if the <a href="/important-institutions/drishti-specials-important-institutions-national-institutions/supreme-court-of-india" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Supreme Court</strong></a> will direct so in future.</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li>There will be<strong> no cap on permits issued to e-autos in Delhi</strong> since they are <strong>zero-emission vehicles and can be very effective in ensuring clean,</strong> last-mile connectivity.<br />
<ul style="list-style-type: disc;">
<li>Currently, there is a cap on the number of CNG-run auto rickshaws, allowed to ply in the city.</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li><strong>Buses:</strong><br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li>The policy envisions that <strong>half of the State-run buses to be procured over the next three years will be pure electric buses.</strong></li>
<li>It will start doing so with the <strong>induction of 1,000 pure electric buses by 2020.</strong></li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
<div class="border-bg">
<p><strong>Central Government Initiatives on EVs</strong></p>
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li>Government has set a <strong>target of EV making up 30% of new sales of cars and two-wheelers by 2030.</strong></li>
<li>To build a sustainable EV ecosystem, initiatives like <a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/national-electric-mobility-mission-2020#:~:text=Under%20its%20National%20Electric%20Mobility,electric%20vehicles%20in%20the%20country." target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>National Electric Mobility Mission Plan</strong></a> (NEMMP) and <strong>Faster Adoption and Manufacturing of (Hybrid &amp;) Electric Vehicles in India</strong> (FAME India) have been launched.<br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li><strong>NEMMP</strong> was launched in<strong> 2013</strong> with an aim to <strong>achieve national fuel security</strong> by promoting hybrid and EVs in the country. There is an ambitious target to achieve 6-7 million sales of hybrid and EVs year on year from 2020 onwards.</li>
<li><strong>FAME India</strong> was launched in <strong>2015</strong> with the objective to support hybrid/EV market development and manufacturing ecosystem. The scheme has 4 focus areas viz. technology development, demand creation, pilot projects and charging infrastructure.</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li>Organisations like <a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/bureau-of-indian-standards-bis-act-2016" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Bureau of Indian Standards</strong> </a>(BIS), Department of Heavy Industry, <strong>Automotive Research Association of India</strong> are devising design and manufacturing standards of EVs, Electric Vehicle Supply Equipment (EVSEs) and charging infrastructure to smoothen the advent of in-house production of EVs.</li>
</ul>
</div>
<h3>Way Forward</h3>
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li><strong>Affordable, accessible, inclusive and safe mobility solutions</strong> are primary strategic levers for rapid economic development and improving<a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/ease-of-living-index#:~:text='Ease%20of%20Living'%20as%20a,opportunities%2C%20economic%20dynamism%20or%20safety." target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong> &lsquo;Ease of Living&rsquo;.</strong></a></li>
<li>Establishing the right coordination among <strong>three pillars of EV industry</strong> viz. <strong>urban planning, transportation and power sectors</strong> will assist in systematic adoption of EVs.</li>
<li>EVs are a <strong>rapidly growing sunrise sector</strong> which can give a push to &lsquo;Make in India&rsquo;.</li>
</ul>
<p><a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-editorials/assessment-of-make-in-india#:~:text=On%20September%2025%2C%202014%2C%20the,surpassing%20the%20U.S.%20and%20China." target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Source: TH</strong></a></p>',
			'postdate' => object(Cake\I18n\FrozenTime) {},
			'url' => 'https://www.drishtiias.com/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/electric-vehicles-policy-2020-delhi'
		],
		(int) 14 => [
			'title' => 'National Handloom Day',
			'catname' => 'News Analysis',
			'desc' => '<h3>Why in News</h3>
<p>On the occasion of the <strong>6<sup>th</sup> National Handloom Day</strong> on <strong>7<sup>th</sup> August</strong> 2020, the Ministry of Textiles is organizing a virtual function in the wake of the <a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/coronavirus-disease-named-covid-19" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Covid-19 pandemic.</strong></a></p>
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li>The <strong>first</strong> National Handloom Day was celebrated in <strong>Chennai in 2015.</strong></li>
</ul>
<h3>Key Points</h3>
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li>The date, 7<sup>th</sup> August, was chosen as the <strong>Swadeshi Movement was launched</strong> on the same date in the year <strong>1905,</strong> which was based on <a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-editorials/legacy-of-lokmanya-tilak" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Bal Gangadhar Tilak's ideology of swadeshi</strong></a>.</li>
<li>On this day, the <strong>handloom weaving community is honoured</strong> and the <strong>contribution of this sector is highlighted.</strong></li>
<li><strong>Objectives:</strong><br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li>To <strong>generate awareness</strong> about the handloom industry amongst the public at large and its contribution to socio-economic development.</li>
<li>To<strong> protect India&rsquo;s handloom heritage</strong> and to enable the handloom weavers and workers with greater opportunities.</li>
<li>To <strong>ensure sustainable development</strong> of the handloom sector thereby empowering handloom workers financially and instilling pride in their exquisite craftsmanship.</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li><strong>Significance:</strong><br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li>Handloom sector is a <strong>symbol of India&rsquo;s glorious cultural heritage.</strong><br />
<ul style="list-style-type: disc;">
<li>India&rsquo;s<strong> soft power</strong> has long been endorsed by the handloom and handicraft space. &lsquo;Saree diplomacy&rsquo; and<strong> &lsquo;Khadi diplomacy&rsquo;</strong> are some such examples.</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li>The textiles and handloom sector in India is the <strong>second-largest source of employment</strong> to people, after <strong>agriculture.</strong><br />
<ul style="list-style-type: disc;">
<li>According to the <strong>Fourth All India Handloom Census 2019-20,</strong> 31.45 lakh households are engaged in handloom, weaving and allied activities.</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li>It is an important <strong>source of livelihood</strong> in the country and a<strong> key to women empowerment</strong> as over 70% of handloom weavers and allied workers are women.</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
<h3>Steps Taken</h3>
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li>A <strong>social media campaign</strong> has been planned for the handloom weaving community.<br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li>All the Secretaries of the States, Textile Bodies like the <a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/silk-samagra" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Central Silk Board</strong></a>, <a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/packaging-in-jute-bags-made-mandatory" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>National Jute Board</strong></a>, <a href="/to-the-points/paper3/e-commerce-in-india" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>e-commerce</strong></a> entities, retail companies and designer bodies have been requested to amplify the campaign.</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li>The Prime Minister has <strong>urged the people to use Indian handlooms and handicrafts and further spread awareness</strong> to others as well.<br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li>The more the world knows about the richness and diversity of these products, the greater Indian artisans and weavers will benefit.</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li>Under<strong> Atmanirbhar Bharat Abhiyan, Handloom Export Promotion Council</strong> (HEPC) is organising a <strong>Virtual Fair,</strong> connecting more than 150 participants from different regions of the country showcasing their products with unique designs and skills.<br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li>Various exquisite handloom products and numerous other <a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/gi-tag-to-two-products#:~:text=GI%20is%20an%20indication%20used,relating%20to%20goods%20in%20India." target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Geographical Indication (GI) Tagged</strong></a> products will be displayed to attract the attention of international buyers.</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li>Other events include the<strong> launching of a mobile app</strong> and <strong>backend website for Handloom Mark Scheme</strong> (HLM), the <strong>launching of My Handloom Portal,</strong> etc.<br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li>HLM was <strong>launched in 2006</strong> with the basic objective to brand Indian handloom products and secure a premium position for them in domestic as well as international markets.</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
<div class="border-bg">
<p><strong>Handloom Export Promotion Council</strong></p>
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li>It is a <strong>nodal agency</strong> constituted under the <strong>Ministry of Textiles,</strong> Government of India.</li>
<li>It was incorporated as a <strong>not-for-profit company under <a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/personal-protective-equipment-for-sanitation-workers#:~:text=Section%2025%20of%20the%20Companies%20Act%2C%201956%20provides%20an%20alternative,a%20Society%20for%20the%20purpose." target="_blank" rel="noopener">section 25 of the Companies Act, 1956.</a></strong></li>
<li><strong>Aim:</strong> To promote the exports of all handloom products like fabrics, home furnishings, carpets, floor coverings, etc.</li>
</ul>
</div>
<h3>Challenges</h3>
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li>Due to the Covid-19 induced <a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-editorials/covid-19-and-lockdown" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>lockdowns</strong></a>, norms of<strong> social distancing</strong> and the <strong>resultant economic turbulence,</strong> there are no handicraft and handloom exhibitions or markets.<br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li>It has <strong>impacted incomes and the entire supply chains</strong> involved in handloom and handicraft, along with <strong>supplies of raw materials and unused inventory.</strong></li>
<li>According to the <a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/tech-for-tribals-trifed#:~:text=The%20Tribal%20Cooperative%20Marketing%20Development%20Federation%20of%20India%20(TRIFED)%20came,the%20Ministry%20of%20Tribal%20Affairs." target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Tribal Cooperative Marketing Development Federation of India</strong></a> (TRIFED), tribal handicraft and handloom worth Rs. 100 crore went unsold owing to the lockdown.</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li><strong>Natural calamities</strong> such as the recent <a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/assam-s-flood-and-kaziranga-s-ecosystem" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Assam floods</strong> </a>also<strong> impact the livelihoods</strong> of artisans, especially in the silk clusters of the state.</li>
<li>The sector also faces the issues of<strong> cheap emulations, automated looms</strong> which <strong>threaten the sustenance of original arts and the timeless skills</strong> of the weavers.</li>
<li>The Centre has <strong>abolished the All India Handicrafts Board, ending the one official forum where weavers and craftspeople could raise their voices</strong> directly and were empowered to advise the government on policy and spending.<br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li>The move is in consonance with the government&rsquo;s vision of <strong>&lsquo;minimum government and maximum governance&rsquo;</strong> in the pursuit of achieving <a href="/to-the-points/paper4/good-governance-2" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>good governance</strong></a>, <strong>leaner government machinery</strong> and the <strong>need for systematic rationalisation</strong> of government bodies.<br />
<ul style="list-style-type: disc;">
<li>The government platforms for such direct interactions are <strong>fastly reducing which is a cause for concern.</strong></li>
</ul>
</li>
<li>The board was <strong>established in 1952</strong> and used to <strong>advise the Ministry of Textile on development programmes</strong> for handicrafts.</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
<h3>Suggestions</h3>
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li>There is a need to<strong> promote the finesse of Indian weavers globally</strong> to <strong>communicate, disseminate and engage</strong> with not just the global audience but the Indian diaspora as well.</li>
<li>The <strong>textile clusters should be encouraged</strong> in<strong> making masks and other medical equipment that uses textiles</strong> such as bedsheets, etc. contributing to the medical infrastructure.</li>
<li>Government programmes like <a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-editorials/atma-nirbhar-bharat-abhiyan-challenges" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Atmanirbhar Bharat Abhiyan</strong></a>, <strong><a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/economic-stimulus-iii#:~:text=A%20%E2%82%B910%2C000%20crore%20scheme,standards%2C%20build%20brands%20and%20marketing." target="_blank" rel="noopener">Vocal for Local</a> </strong>campaign and<a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-editorials/assessment-of-make-in-india" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong> Make in India</strong> </a>need to be popularised within the country to increase the domestic demand.</li>
<li><strong>Corporate organisations</strong> must buy products from <strong>artisans for the purposes of awards, corporate engagement programmes, and business gifting</strong> which will facilitate direct producer-consumer interface, thereby ensuring proper returns on the products to artisans.</li>
</ul>
<h3>Way Forward</h3>
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li>Initiatives such as the <strong>Northeast Expo 2019</strong> must be continued digitally so that states and the Centre have more online market portals for Indian handlooms, handicrafts and forest produce, as the sectors are interlinked.<br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li>The Northeast Expo 2019 through<strong> &lsquo;Tea and Khadi&rsquo; diplomacy</strong> helped in improving the trade ties with the <a href="/important-institutions/drishti-specials-important-institutions-international-institution/asean" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Association of Southeast Asian Nations</strong></a> (ASEAN) and <a href="/important-institutions/drishti-specials-important-institutions-international-institution/drishti-specials-important-international-bimstec" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation</strong></a> (BIMSTEC) nations.</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li>While the markets move online, it is <strong>equally important for the artisans to get adequately equipped and trained</strong> in operating online portals.</li>
<li><strong>Online exhibitions through Indian embassies must be organised</strong> to make the global audience aware of the rich legacy of handlooms and to honour artisans from India.</li>
</ul>
<p><a href="https://www.pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=1643739" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Source: PIB</strong></a></p>',
			'postdate' => object(Cake\I18n\FrozenTime) {},
			'url' => 'https://www.drishtiias.com/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/national-handloom-day-1'
		],
		(int) 15 => [
			'title' => 'Thenzawl Golf Resort in Mizoram',
			'catname' => 'News Analysis',
			'desc' => '<h3>Why in News</h3>
<p>Recently, the <strong>Thenzawl Golf Resort</strong> <strong>Project</strong> in <strong>Mizoram</strong>&nbsp;has been virtually inaugurated.</p>
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li>The project was implemented under the <strong>Swadesh Darshan Scheme</strong> of the Ministry of Tourism, Government of India.</li>
</ul>
<h3>Key Points</h3>
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li>The project was sanctioned under the <strong>Integrated Development of New Eco-Tourism</strong> under <strong>Swadesh Darshan-North East Circuit</strong> at Thenzawl and South Zote, District Serchhip and Reiek, Mizoram.<br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li>Eco-Tourism has been broadly defined as <strong><a href="/to-the-points/paper3/tourism-in-india" target="_blank" rel="noopener">tourism</a> which is ecologically sustainable.</strong></li>
</ul>
</li>
<li>A<strong> total amount of Rs. 92.25 crore</strong> was sanctioned for it, out of which Rs. 64.48 crore was sanctioned for various components at Thenzawl including the <strong>golf course which is designed to have facilities of international standards.</strong><br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li>The competitive advantage of Thenzawl Golf Course is that it will<strong> provide quality golfing experience at a fair price.</strong></li>
</ul>
</li>
<li><strong>Golf Tourism in India:</strong><br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li>Currently, India has<strong> more than 230 golf courses</strong> in all out of which several are of international standards and golf events held there <strong>attract domestic and international tourists.</strong></li>
<li>Golf tourism has a strong potential in India because the <strong>climatic condition is more favourable</strong> here as compared to most countries.</li>
<li>India&rsquo;s <strong>picturesque landscapes and exceptional hospitality services</strong> add to the enhanced experience.</li>
<li>The Ministry of Tourism, Government of India endeavours to work as a<strong> catalyst and active supporter</strong> for the development of golf tourism in the country.<br />
<ul style="list-style-type: disc;">
<li>For that, it is creating a <strong>comprehensive and coordinated framework for promoting golf tourism</strong> in India as a niche tourism product.</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
<div class="border-bg">
<p><strong>Swadesh Darshan Scheme</strong></p>
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li>It was <strong>launched in 2014-15</strong> for integrated development of <strong>theme-based tourist circuits</strong> in the country.<br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li>Currently, there are <strong>15 theme based circuits -</strong> Buddhist, Coastal, Desert, Eco, Heritage, Himalayan, Krishna, North-east, Ramayana, Rural, Spiritual, Sufi, Tirthankara, Tribal and Wildlife.</li>
<li>Theme-based tourist circuits are developed on the principles of high tourist value, competitiveness and sustainability in an integrated manner to enrich tourist experience and enhance employment opportunities.</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li>It is a <a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/proposal-to-hike-monthly-pensions" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Central Sector Scheme.</strong></a></li>
<li>Under the scheme, the Ministry of Tourism provides <strong>Central Financial Assistance</strong> (CFA) to State Governments/Union Territory Administrations for <strong>infrastructure development of circuits.</strong></li>
<li>This scheme is <strong>envisioned to synergise with other schemes</strong> like <a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/Swachh%20Bharat%20Mission" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Swachh Bharat Abhiyan</strong></a>, <a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-editorials/the-problem-of-skilling-india" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Skill India</strong></a>, <a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-editorials/assessment-of-make-in-india#:~:text=Make%20in%20India%20is%20designed,India%20a%20global%20manufacturing%20hub.&amp;text=To%20create%20100%20million%20additional%20manufacturing%20jobs%20in%20the%20economy%20by%202022." target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Make in India</strong></a>, etc. with the idea of positioning the tourism sector as a major engine for job creation, driving force for economic growth, building synergy with various sectors to enable tourism to realise its potential.</li>
</ul>
</div>
<p><a href="https://www.pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=1643290" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Source: PIB</strong></a></p>',
			'postdate' => object(Cake\I18n\FrozenTime) {},
			'url' => 'https://www.drishtiias.com/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/thenzawl-golf-resort-in-mizoram'
		],
		(int) 16 => [
			'title' => 'Electronics Manufacturing in India',
			'catname' => 'News Analysis',
			'desc' => '<h3>Why in News</h3>
<p>Recently, the Government of India <strong>unveiled three schemes</strong> with an outlay of about Rs. 48,000 crore to <a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/schemes-for-electronic-manufacturing" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>promote electronics manufacturing</strong></a> in India. <strong>These schemes are:</strong></p>
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li>Production Linked Incentive (PLI) Scheme.</li>
<li>Scheme for Promotion of Manufacturing of Electronic Components and Semiconductors (SPECS).</li>
<li><a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/electronics-manufacturing-clusters-emc2-0-scheme" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Modified Electronics Manufacturing Clusters (EMC 2.0) Scheme.</strong></a></li>
</ul>
<h3>Key Points</h3>
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li>The Indian electronics sector is <strong>tremendously growing</strong> with the <strong>demand expected to cross USD 400 billion by 2023-24.</strong></li>
<li><strong>Domestic production has grown</strong> from USD 29 billion in 2014-15 to nearly USD 70 billion in 2019-20 (<a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/important-facts-for-prelims-29th-april-2019" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Compounded Annual Growth Rate</strong></a> of 25%).</li>
<li>Most of this production takes place in the<strong> final assembly units</strong> (last-mile industries) located in India and <strong>focussing on them</strong> would help <strong>develop deep backward linkages,</strong> thus inducing industrialisation.<br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li>This was an idea propounded by<strong> economist Albert O Hirschman</strong> in his theory of <strong>&lsquo;Unbalanced Growth&rsquo;.</strong></li>
<li>The <a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/economic-survey-2019-20-highlights#:~:text=The%20Economic%20Survey%202019%2D20,its%20theme%20of%20%23WealthCreation%22." target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Economic Survey 2019-20</strong></a> also promoted this idea and suggested<strong> &ldquo;assembly in India for the world&rdquo;</strong>, especially in <strong>&ldquo;networked products&rdquo;,</strong> in a bid to create four crore well-paid jobs by 2025 and eight crore jobs by 2030.<br />
<ul style="list-style-type: disc;">
<li>This is the <strong>strategy that helped China</strong> become the economic superpower it is today.</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li>The recently launched <strong>PLI Scheme</strong> plans to achieve this goal by granting an <strong>incentive of 4-6% for domestic production.</strong></li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
<h3>Challenges</h3>
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li><strong>Missing Profits:</strong><br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li>Despite the impressive growth of electronic production in India, the<strong> net value added by production units is very low.</strong></li>
<li>The net value addition ranges <strong>between 5% and 15%,</strong> as most components are imported rather than locally sourced.</li>
<li>It implies that<strong> local value addition is a mere USD 7-10 billion</strong> out of a global market of USD 2.1 trillion.</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li><strong>Limited Indigenous Capability in Upstream Industries:</strong><br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li>In the era of <a href="/loksabha-rajyasabha-discussions/the-big-picture-restoring-global-supply-chains" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>global supply chains</strong></a>, the <strong>value addition at the final stages of production is very low,</strong> especially in electronics because the more complicated processes, involving greater value addition, occur prior to assembly, in <strong>&lsquo;upstream&rsquo; industries.</strong></li>
<li>These include the <strong>production of processors, display panels, memory chips, cameras, etc.</strong></li>
<li>Currently, these <strong>imports nearly constitute 80% of these components,</strong> with approximately <strong>67% of the imports coming from China</strong> alone.</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li><strong>Absence of Foundries:</strong><br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li>In the absence of<strong> foundries (semiconductor fabrication plants where microchips are produced),</strong> India has to<strong> rely on foreign contractors to produce microchips.</strong><br />
<ul style="list-style-type: disc;">
<li>There are about <strong>170 commercial foundries globally</strong> but India does not have a single one.</li>
<li>Chip manufacturers like Intel, TSMC and Samsung choose other countries instead of India<strong> citing uncertain domestic demand and poor cost efficiencies</strong> here.</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li><strong>Challenges in Set-up of Foundries:</strong><br />
<ul style="list-style-type: disc;">
<li>It <strong>requires massive capital expenditure</strong> to the tune of USD 2 billion and more.</li>
<li>Foundries are also required to<strong> adopt newer technologies and processes</strong> almost every 18 months to ensure competitiveness which means <strong>high capital depreciation</strong> and often accounts for 50-60% of the production cost.</li>
<li><strong>Domestic players</strong> have also shown low interest due to their <strong>inability to compete with tech giants in research and development (R&amp;D) and investment.</strong></li>
<li>Due to this, proposals to develop foundries in Gujarat and Uttar Pradesh in recent years were abandoned.</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li>Many industry experts also cite the<strong> lack of a foundry as contributing to low R&amp;D</strong> in this sector in India, which results in<strong> poor talent retention</strong> and eventually <a href="/current-affairs-news-analysis-editorials/news-editorials/26-02-2019" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>&lsquo;brain drain&rsquo;.</strong></a></li>
<li>The <a href="/important-institutions/drishti-specials-important-institutions-national-institutions/indian-space-research-organisation-isro" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Indian Space Research Organisation</strong></a> (ISRO) and the <a href="/important-institutions/drishti-specials-important-institutions-national-institutions/defence-research-and-development-organisation-drdo" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Defence Research and Development Organisation</strong> </a>(DRDO) have their own foundries but their use is <strong>restricted for space and defence systems,</strong> respectively.</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li><strong>National Security Considerations:</strong><br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li>Most of the chips, as well as components used in Indian communication and critical systems,<strong> are imported.</strong></li>
<li>This could <strong>hamper national security and sovereignty</strong> as <strong>backdoors could be programmed in chips</strong> during manufacturing, which could<strong> compromise networks and <a href="/to-the-points/paper3/cyber-security" target="_blank" rel="noopener">cyber-security</a>.</strong><br />
<ul style="list-style-type: disc;">
<li><strong>Backdoor</strong> refers to any method by which authorized and unauthorized users are able to get around normal security measures and gain high-level user access on a computer system, network or software application.</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li><strong>Increasing Imports:</strong><br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li>It is expected that <strong>electronics imports will soon overtake crude oil as India&rsquo;s largest import commodity</strong> which will result in assembly units ending up as little more than mere packaging units.</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
<h3>Suggestions</h3>
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li><strong>Increasing Investments:</strong> The<strong> total outlay of Scheme for Promotion of Manufacturing of Electronic Components and Semiconductors (SPECS) must be increased</strong> from the current Rs. 3300 crore, to attract the microchip giants.<br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li>The government launched SPECS to provide a <strong>25% incentive on capital expenditure for semiconductor manufacturing</strong> among other core components.</li>
<li>The <strong>economic impact of a foundry is immense</strong> and ranges from 6 to 23 times the investment in the plant.<br />
<ul style="list-style-type: disc;">
<li>According to a recent report, a single foundry can offset imports worth USD 8 billion over a projected period and have a further multiplier effect of USD 15 billion on the <a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/gdp-decreases-to-11-year-low#:~:text=Gross%20Domestic%20Product%20(GDP)%3A,output%20from%20the%20consumers'%20side." target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Gross Domestic Product</strong></a> (GDP).</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li><strong>Profiting from Anti-Chinese Sentiments:</strong> Due to the <a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/usa-bill-to-put-sanction-on-china" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>USA&rsquo;s allegations on China</strong> </a>for worsening <a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/coronavirus-disease-named-covid-19" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Covid-19</strong></a> and <a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/india-china-conflict" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>India-China conflict</strong></a> and <a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/economic-measures-by-india-against-china" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>recent developments as a result of it</strong></a>, numerous multinational companies (MNCs) are shifting their production out of China.<br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li>The <strong>USA</strong> and the <strong>UK</strong> have <strong>blocked China's access to chip making tools</strong> and <a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/tech-cold-war-between-u-s-a-and-china" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>designated Chinese telecom giants as national security threats.</strong></a></li>
<li>It is a golden <strong>opportunity for India to act fastly on it and attract</strong> this outgoing investment.</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li><strong>Pushing Make in India:</strong> There is a need to promote semiconductor manufacturing alongside assembly units in India.<br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li>This will <strong>induce greater local production of components</strong> and also fuel the growth of the industry as a whole, making <a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-editorials/assessment-of-make-in-india#:~:text=Make%20in%20India%20is%20designed,India%20a%20global%20manufacturing%20hub.&amp;text=To%20create%20100%20million%20additional%20manufacturing%20jobs%20in%20the%20economy%20by%202022." target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Make in India</strong> </a>successful.</li>
<li>In 2019, the Union Cabinet gave its approval to the <a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/national-policy-on-electronics-2019#:~:text=The%20Union%20Cabinet%20gave%20its,and%20Information%20Technology%20(MeitY).&amp;text=creating%20an%20enabling%20environment%20for%20the%20industry%20to%20compete%20globally." target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>National Policy on Electronics 2019</strong></a> which envisions positioning India as a <strong>global hub for Electronics System Design and Manufacturing.</strong></li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
<h3>Way Forward</h3>
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li>Today, India is one of the upcoming hubs for microchip designing with hundreds of start-ups making substantial progress in this field. Even some IITs have developed indigenous microchip designs like Shakti and Ajit.</li>
<li>The schemes to promote electronics manufacturing combined with the Prime Minister&rsquo;s call for an <a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/atmanirbhar-bharat-and-economic-stimulus" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>&lsquo;Atmanirbhar Bharat&rsquo;</strong></a>, have rejuvenated hopes of a rise of the indigenous electronics industry, allowing India to be truly self-sufficient.</li>
<li>It is only through such actions, India can hope to realise the dream of being a truly indigenous electronic ecosystem encompassing all aspects of the electronics industry.</li>
</ul>
<p><a href="https://www.thehindubusinessline.com/opinion/why-india-must-manufacture-microchips/article32131506.ece" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Source: BL</strong></a></p>',
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			'url' => 'https://www.drishtiias.com/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/electronics-manufacturing-in-india'
		],
		(int) 17 => [
			'title' => 'Mine Ploughs on T-90 Tanks',
			'catname' => 'News Analysis',
			'desc' => '<h3>Why in News</h3>
<p>Recently, the<strong> Ministry of Defence</strong> has signed <strong>Rs. 557 crore contract</strong> with the <strong>BEML Limited</strong> (formerly known as the <strong>Bharat Earth Movers Limited</strong>) for the procurement of <strong>1,512 mine ploughs for T-90 Tanks.</strong></p>
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li>The induction is <strong>expected to be completed by 2027.</strong></li>
</ul>
<p><a href="http://www.drishtiias.com/images/uploads/1595327601_image3.png" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong><img class="content-img" src="http://www.drishtiias.com/images/uploads/1595327601_image3.png" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="500" caption="false" /></strong></a></p>
<h3>Key Points</h3>
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li><strong>T-90 Tanks:</strong><br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li>These <strong>Russian-origin</strong> tanks are the <strong>Indian Army&rsquo;s main battle tanks.</strong></li>
<li>Indian Army recently deployed them in the <a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-editorials/galwan-valley-clash" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Galwan Valley</strong></a> sector of Ladakh amid the <a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/face-off-between-india-and-china" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>face-off with Chinese troops.</strong></a></li>
</ul>
</li>
<li><strong>Mine Ploughs:</strong><br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li>Mine ploughs <strong>help tanks to clear minefields and minimize risks to men and machines.</strong></li>
<li>After being fitted on T-90 Tanks, they will<strong> facilitate individual mobility</strong> to the tanks while negotiating a minefield.</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li><strong>Advantages:</strong><br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li>The <strong>mobility of the tank fleet will enhance manifolds</strong> which in turn would <strong>extend the reach of the armoured formations deep into enemy territory</strong> without becoming a mine casualty.</li>
<li>The decision is expected to boost the government&rsquo;s <a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-editorials/assessment-of-make-in-india#:~:text=On%20September%2025%2C%202014%2C%20the,surpassing%20the%20U.S.%20and%20China." target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>&lsquo;Make in India&rsquo;</strong></a> initiative.<br />
<ul style="list-style-type: disc;">
<li>As per the procedure, the contract has <strong>Buy and Make (Indian) categorisation</strong> with a minimum of <strong>50% indigenous content</strong> in the Make portion.</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
<div class="border-bg">
<p><strong>BEML Limited</strong></p>
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li>It was <strong>established in 1964</strong> as a <strong>Public Sector Undertaking</strong> (PSU).</li>
<li>It has <strong>partially disinvested</strong> and presently the <strong>Government of India owns 54%</strong> of total equity and the rest 46% is held by public and financial institutions, foreign institutional investors, banks and employees.</li>
<li>The company operates under<strong> three major business verticals</strong> viz. <strong>Mining and Construction, Defence and Rail and Metro.</strong></li>
</ul>
</div>
<p><a href="https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/defence-ministry-signs-557-cr-deal-for-t-90-tanks-mine-ploughs/article32140818.ece" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Source: TH</strong></a></p>',
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		(int) 18 => [
			'title' => 'USA Extends Ban on Work Visas',
			'catname' => 'News Analysis',
			'desc' => '<h3>Why in News</h3>
<p>Recently, the USA has decided to<strong> extend the 60-day ban</strong> on<strong> immigrant and non-immigrant worker visas</strong> till the end of 2020.</p>
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li>The <strong>ban is effective immediately</strong> so the processing of <strong>all new <a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/h-1b-visa" target="_blank" rel="noopener">H-1B</a>, H-2B, J and L visa</strong> categories stands suspended.<br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li>There will be an exemption for professors and scholars on J visas as well as for some food industry workers needing an H-2B visa.</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
<h3>Key Points</h3>
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li><strong>Work Visas:</strong><br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li>The IT revolution,<strong> arrival of internet and low-cost computers</strong> in developing nations like India has given rise to the number of people who are <strong>willing to work at relatively low costs</strong> in the USA which is a win-win situation for both the employer and the employee.</li>
<li>The USA administration<strong> issues a certain number of visas each year to fill a vacuum of highly-skilled low-cost employees</strong> in IT and other related domains.</li>
<li>These visas allow companies from outside the USA to send employees to work on client sites.</li>
<li><strong>H-1B Visa:</strong><br />
<ul style="list-style-type: disc;">
<li>These are issued to skilled workers and the most popular among Indian IT companies.</li>
<li>H-1B is for people in Specialty Occupation and requires a higher education degree or its equivalent.</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li><strong>H-2B Visa:</strong> These are issued to seasonal workers in the landscaping and hospitality industries.</li>
<li><strong>L-1 Visa:</strong> It allows companies to transfer highly skilled workers to the USA for a period of up to seven years.</li>
<li><strong>H-4 Visas:</strong> It is for dependents of H-1B visa holders.</li>
<li><strong>J-1 Visas:</strong> It is for students on work-study summer programmes.</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li><strong>Reasons Behind the Suspension:</strong><br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li>The move intends to <strong>protect the domestic workers</strong> who had been impacted due to a contraction in the economy in the wake of the <a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/coronavirus-disease-named-covid-19" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Covid-19</strong></a> <a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/covid-19-now-pandemic-who" target="_blank" rel="noopener">pandemic</a>.<br />
<ul style="list-style-type: disc;">
<li>The overall unemployment rate in the USA nearly quadrupled between February and May of 2020, producing some of the most extreme unemployment rates ever recorded.</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li>The <strong>entry of additional workers</strong> through the H-1B, H-2B, J, and L non-immigrant visa programmes presents a significant threat to employment opportunities for domestic workers by <strong>undercutting their jobs.</strong></li>
<li>However, the USA held that post-ban, under normal circumstances, properly administered temporary worker programs can provide benefits to the economy.</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li><strong>People Affected:</strong><br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li>The new rule would <strong>apply only to those who are outside the USA and do not have a valid non-immigrant visa</strong> as of 23<sup>rd</sup> June and an official travel document other than a visa to enter the country. They will not be allowed to enter the USA until 31<sup>st</sup> December 2020.</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li><strong>People not Affected:</strong><br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li>No impact on<strong> lawful permanent residents of the USA </strong>and <strong>foreign nationals who are spouses or child of an American citizen.</strong></li>
<li><strong>Foreign nationals seeking to enter the USA to provide temporary labour or services essential to the food supply</strong> chain are also exempted from the latest proclamation.</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li><strong>Impact on Indian IT Companies:</strong><br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li><strong>Indian IT companies are amongst the biggest beneficiaries</strong> of the USA H-1B visa regime and corner a huge share of the total number of visas every year.<br />
<ul style="list-style-type: disc;">
<li>As of 1<sup>st</sup> April 2020, the <strong>US Citizenship and Immigration Services</strong> (USCIS) had received about <strong>2.5 lakh H-1B work visa applications </strong>and <strong>67% of that was applied by Indians.</strong></li>
</ul>
</li>
<li>It will significantly <strong>impact the margins and worker wages of Indian IT companies which send thousands of low-cost employees</strong> to work on client sites in the USA.</li>
<li>Though the large Indian IT companies in the USA have cut down their dependency on H-1B and other worker visas by hiring as much as 50% of staff locally, they<strong> still rely on these visas to keep costs in check.</strong></li>
</ul>
</li>
<li><strong>Overall Impact on India:</strong><br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li>Although it is desired that the USA revokes the ban but if it does not, then India may still have some positive impacts.<br />
<ul style="list-style-type: disc;">
<li><strong>Probable Increase in Remittances:</strong> With this ban, already employed skilled workers from India may get higher salaries which in turn would increase inflow of remittances.</li>
<li><strong>Addressing Brain Drain:</strong> Newly graduated skilled workers would seek opportunities in India itself, thereby addressing the issue of brain drain.</li>
<li><strong>Enhanced Self Reliance:</strong> India desperately needs the skilled workforce to work within the country in order to become more self-reliant (under <a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/atmanirbhar-bharat-and-economic-stimulus" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Atmanirbhar Bharat</strong></a>) and to realise the dream of<a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-editorials/assessment-of-make-in-india" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong> Make in India</strong></a> and the <strong><a href="/gist-of-economic-survey/gist-of-economic-survey-2018-19/gist-of-economic-survey2018-19" target="_blank" rel="noopener">5 trillion dollar economy.</a><br /></strong></li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
<h3>Criticism</h3>
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li>The move has been criticised for being <strong>misguided and harmful to the USA&rsquo;s own economy.</strong> It has the <strong>potential to do permanent damage</strong> to the USA's reputation of attracting the best and the brightest.</li>
<li>The ban on issuing visas will <strong>harm employers, families, universities, hospitals, communities and delay America&rsquo;s economic recovery.</strong></li>
<li>Without highly skilled immigrants, the industry will slow down and the economy will worsen affecting the timeline for a treatment and cure of Covid-19 as well.<br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li>The H-1B programme in particular plays a crucial role in addressing the shortage of healthcare professionals while also providing other key sectors of economy with talent from around the world to not only fill jobs but create new ones.</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li><strong>Legal immigration is a positive for the American economy</strong> and visa programs allow American companies to secure qualified, legal labour throughout the world which will not be the same after the move.</li>
</ul>
<h3>Way Forward</h3>
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li>Immigrants have played a crucial role in making the USA a global leader in cutting edge technology.</li>
<li>Suspending the visas will only weaken the USA's economy and its health care workforce at a time when there is a need to strengthen the both.</li>
<li>Politics should not trump smart policy and the ingenuity of migrant workers should be harnessed to revive an economy in dire straits.</li>
</ul>
<p><a href="https://indianexpress.com/article/explained/us-h1b-visa-suspension-india-it-companies-6471966/" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Source: IE</strong></a></p>',
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		(int) 19 => [
			'title' => 'Country of Origin Made Mandatory on GeM',
			'catname' => 'News Analysis',
			'desc' => '<h3>Why in News</h3>
<p><strong>Government e-Marketplace (GeM),</strong> a Special Purpose Vehicle under<strong> the Ministry of Commerce and Industry,</strong> has made it mandatory for sellers to enter the <strong>Country of Origin</strong> while registering all new products on GeM.</p>
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li>GeM has taken this significant step to promote <a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-editorials/assessment-of-make-in-india" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Make in India</strong></a> and<strong><a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/atmanirbhar-bharat-and-economic-stimulus" target="_blank" rel="noopener"> Atma Nirbhar Bharat</a></strong> initiatives.</li>
</ul>
<h3>Key Points</h3>
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li><strong>Provisions:</strong> <br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li><strong>Indication of the Local Content:</strong> GeM has enabled a provision for indication of the percentage of local content in products.<br />
<ul style="list-style-type: disc;">
<li>Now, the<strong> Country of Origin</strong> as well as the <strong>local content percentage</strong> are visible in the marketplace for all items.</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li><strong>Make in India Filter:</strong> This new filter has been enabled on the portal so that the <a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/gem-samvaad" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>buyers</strong> </a>can choose to buy only those products that meet the minimum 50% local content criteria.<br />
<ul style="list-style-type: disc;">
<li>They can also switch on a new Make in India filter to see products that match their preferences on local content.</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li><strong>Significance of GeM:</strong><br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li><strong>Promotion of the &lsquo;Make in India&rsquo; Initiative:</strong> Since its inception, GeM has continuously worked towards promotion of the <strong>&lsquo;Make in India&rsquo;</strong> initiative.</li>
<li><strong>Entry of Small Local Sellers:</strong> The Marketplace has facilitated entry of small local sellers in Public Procurement, while implementing &lsquo;Make in India&rsquo; and <a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/support-and-outreach-initiative-for-msme-sector" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>MSME</strong></a> Purchase Preference Policies of the Government in the true sense.</li>
<li><strong>Transparent and Cost-effective Procurement:</strong> GeM is enabling quick, efficient, transparent and cost-effective procurement, especially when government organizations require products and services urgently to fight against the Covid-19 pandemic.</li>
<li><strong>Promotion of Atma Nirbhar Bharat:</strong> GeM has been promoting the Atma Nirbhar Bharat policy, introduced in the wake of the<a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-editorials/covid-19-and-india-1" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong> Covid-19</strong> </a><a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/covid-19-now-pandemic-who" target="_blank" rel="noopener">pandemic</a>, meant to encourage self-reliance and boost small Indian manufacturers.</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
<div class="border-bg">
<p><strong>Government e-Marketplace (GeM)</strong></p>
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li>GeM is a <strong>one-stop National Public Procurement Portal to facilitate online procurement</strong> of common use Goods &amp; Services required by various Central and State Government Departments/Organizations/Public Sector Undertakings (PSUs).</li>
<li>It was launched in <strong>2016 to bring transparency and efficiency</strong> in the government buying process.</li>
<li>It operates under the<strong> Ministry of Commerce and Industry.</strong></li>
<li>The procurement of goods and services by Ministries and the Central Public Sector Enterprises (CPSEs) is mandatory for goods and services available on GeM.</li>
<li>It also provides the<strong> tools of e-bidding and reverse e-auction to facilitate</strong> the government users achieve the best value for their money.</li>
<li>At present, GeM has more than 15 lakh products, around 20,000 services, and more than 40,000 Government buyer organizations.</li>
</ul>
</div>
<p><a href="https://pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=1633511#:~:text=Government%20e%2DMarketplace%20(GeM),all%20new%20products%20on%20GeM." target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Source: PIB</strong></a></p>',
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	(int) 0 => [
		'title' => 'Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana 3.0',
		'catname' => 'News Analysis',
		'desc' => '<h3>Why in News</h3>
<p>The <strong>Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship (MSDE)</strong> has launched <strong>Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana (PMKVY) 3.0,</strong> in a bid to empower India&rsquo;s youth with employable skills by <strong>making over 300 skill courses available</strong> to them.</p>
<h3>Key Points</h3>
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li><strong>Background:</strong><br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li><strong>Skill India Mission</strong> was launched by the government in <strong>2015</strong> under which the flagship scheme Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana (PMKVY) is run.</li>
<li>It <strong>aims to train over 40 crore people in India in different skills by 2022.</strong> It aims at <strong>vocational training and certification</strong> of Indian youth for a better livelihood and respect in the society.</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li><strong>PMKVY 1.0:</strong><br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li><strong>Launch: India&rsquo;s largest Skill Certification Scheme -<a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/pradhan-mantri-kaushal-vikas-yojana-pmkvy" target="_blank" rel="noopener"> Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana (PMKVY)</a></strong> - was launched on 15<sup>th</sup> July, 2015 <a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/world-youth-skills-day-1" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>(World Youth Skills Day)</strong></a>.</li>
<li><strong>Aim:</strong> To encourage and promote skill development in the country by providing <strong>free short duration skill training</strong> and incentivizing this by providing <strong>monetary rewards to youth for skill certification.</strong></li>
<li><strong>Implementation:</strong> PMKVY is implemented by the <a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/national-skills-study" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>National Skills Development Corporation (NSDC)</strong></a> under the guidance of the <strong>Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship (MSDE).</strong></li>
<li><strong>Key Components:</strong> Short Term Training, Special Projects, <a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/recognition-of-prior-learning-programme" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Recognition of Prior Learning</strong></a>, Kaushal &amp; Rozgar Mela, etc.</li>
<li><strong>Outcome:</strong> In 2015-16, 19.85 lakh candidates were trained.</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li><strong>PMKVY 2.0:</strong><br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li><strong>Coverage: PMKVY 2016-20</strong> (PMKVY 2.0) was launched by scaling up<strong> both in terms of Sector and Geography</strong> and by <strong>greater alignment with other missions</strong> of the Government of India like <a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-editorials/assessment-of-make-in-india" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Make in India</strong></a>,<a href="/loksabha-rajyasabha-discussions/in-depth-digital-india" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong> Digital India</strong></a>, <a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/swachh-bharat-mission-urban" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Swachh Bharat</strong></a>, etc.</li>
<li><strong>Budget:</strong> Rs. 12,000 Crore.</li>
<li><strong>Implementation Through Two Components:</strong><br />
<ul style="list-style-type: disc;">
<li><strong>Centrally Sponsored Centrally Managed (CSCM):</strong> This component was <strong>implemented by National Skill Development Corporation.</strong> 75% of the PMKVY 2016-20 funds and corresponding physical targets have been allocated under CSCM.</li>
<li><strong>Centrally Sponsored State Managed (CSSM):</strong> This component was <strong>implemented by State Governments</strong> through State Skill Development Missions (SSDMs). 25% of the PMKVY 2016-20 funds and corresponding physical targets have been allocated under CSSM.</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li><strong>Outcome:</strong> More than <strong>1.2 Crore youth</strong> have been trained/oriented through an improved standardized skilling ecosystem in the country under PMKVY 1.0 and PMKVY 2.0.</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li><strong>PMKVY 3.0:</strong><br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li><strong>Coverage:</strong> Launched in 717 districts, 28 States/eight UTs, PMKVY 3.0 is a step towards <a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/atmanirbhar-bharat-and-economic-stimulus" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>&lsquo;Atmnanirbhar Bharat&rsquo;</strong></a>.</li>
<li><strong>Implementation:</strong> It <strong>will be implemented in a more decentralized structure</strong> with greater responsibilities and support from States/UTs and Districts. <br />
<ul style="list-style-type: disc;">
<li>District Skill Committees (DSCs), under the guidance of State Skill Development Missions (SSDM), shall play a key role in addressing the skill gap and assessing demand at the district level.</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li><strong>Features:</strong><br />
<ul style="list-style-type: disc;">
<li>It <strong>envisages training of eight lakh candidates</strong> over a <strong>scheme period of 2020-2021</strong> with an outlay of Rs. 948.90 crore. <br />
<ul style="list-style-type: disc;">
<li>The <strong>729 Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Kendras (PMKKs), empaneled non-PMKK training centres and more than 200 Industrial Training Institutes (ITIs)</strong> under Skill India will be rolling out PMKVY 3.0 training to build a robust pool of skilled professionals.</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li>It will be <strong>more trainee- and learner-centric.</strong> The focus is on bridging the demand-supply gap by <strong>promoting skill development in areas of new-age and <a href="/loksabha-rajyasabha-discussions/in-depth-industrial-revolution-4-0" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Industry 4.0</a> job roles.</strong></li>
<li>It will be <strong>a propagator of vocational education</strong> at an early level for youth to capitalize on industry-linked opportunities.<br />
<ul style="list-style-type: disc;">
<li>The <a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/national-education-policy-2020" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>National Educational Policy 2020</strong></a> also puts focus on vocational training for a holistic growth and increased employability.</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li>By taking the bottom-up approach to training, it will<strong> identify job roles that have demand at the local level and skill the youth,</strong> linking them to these opportunities <strong>(Vocal for Local).</strong></li>
<li>It will <strong>encourage healthy competition between states</strong> by making available increased allocation to those states that perform better.</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
<p><a href="https://pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=1688836" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Source: PIB</strong></a></p>',
		'postdate' => object(Cake\I18n\FrozenTime) {},
		'url' => 'https://www.drishtiias.com/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/pradhan-mantri-kaushal-vikas-yojana-3-0'
	],
	(int) 1 => [
		'title' => 'Good Governance Day',
		'catname' => 'News Analysis',
		'desc' => '<h3>Why in News</h3>
<p><a href="/to-the-points/paper4/good-governance-2" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Good governance</strong></a> day is <strong>celebrated annually on 25<sup>th</sup> December</strong> to mark the birth anniversary of the former Prime Minister <strong>Atal Bihari Vajpayee.</strong></p>
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li>The aim is to<strong> create awareness of accountability in government</strong> among the citizens of India.</li>
</ul>
<h3>Key Points</h3>
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li><strong>Governance:</strong> <br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li>It is the <strong>process of decision-making</strong> and the <strong>process by which decisions are implemented</strong> (or not implemented).</li>
<li>Governance <strong>can be used in several contexts</strong> such as corporate governance, international governance, national governance and local governance.</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li><strong>Eight Characteristics of Good Governance (as identified by the <a href="/important-institutions/drishti-specials-important-institutions-international-institution/united-nations-1" target="_blank" rel="noopener">United Nations</a>):</strong><br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li><strong>Participation:</strong><br />
<ul style="list-style-type: disc;">
<li>People should have <strong>a voice in decision-making,</strong> either directly or through legitimate intermediate institutions that represent their interests.</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li><strong>Rule of law:</strong><br />
<ul style="list-style-type: disc;">
<li><strong>Legal frameworks should be fair</strong> and enforced impartially, particularly the laws on human rights.</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li><strong>Transparency:</strong><br />
<ul style="list-style-type: disc;">
<li>Transparency is built on the free<strong> flow of information.</strong> Processes, institutions and information are directly accessible to those concerned with them, and enough information is provided to understand and monitor them.</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li><strong>Responsiveness:</strong><br />
<ul style="list-style-type: disc;">
<li>Institutions and processes <strong>try to serve all stakeholders within a reasonable timeframe.</strong></li>
</ul>
</li>
<li><strong>Consensus orientation:</strong><br />
<ul style="list-style-type: disc;">
<li>Good governance requires <strong>mediation of the different interests in society to reach a broad consensus</strong> in society on what is in the best interest of the whole community and how this can be achieved.</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li><strong>Equity:</strong><br />
<ul style="list-style-type: disc;">
<li>All groups, particularly the most vulnerable, have <strong>opportunities to improve or maintain their well being.</strong></li>
</ul>
</li>
<li><strong>Effectiveness and efficiency:</strong><br />
<ul style="list-style-type: disc;">
<li>Processes and institutions produce results that <strong>meet needs while making the best use of resources.</strong></li>
</ul>
</li>
<li><strong>Accountability:</strong><br />
<ul style="list-style-type: disc;">
<li>Decision-makers in government, the private sector and civil society organisations are<strong> accountable to the public, as well as to institutional stakeholders.</strong></li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
<p><a href="http://www.drishtiias.com/images/uploads/1608974947_image7.png" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong><img class="content-img" src="http://www.drishtiias.com/images/uploads/1608974947_image7.png" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="400" caption="false" /></strong></a></p>
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li><strong>Challenges to Good Governance in India:</strong><br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li><strong>Women Empowerment:</strong> <br />
<ul style="list-style-type: disc;">
<li>Women are not adequately represented in government institutions, and other allied sectors.</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li><strong>Corruption:</strong> <br />
<ul style="list-style-type: disc;">
<li>The high level of corruption in India has been widely perceived as a major obstacle in improving the quality of governance.</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li><strong>Delay in Justice:</strong> <br />
<ul style="list-style-type: disc;">
<li>A citizen has the right to avail timely justice, but there are several factors, because of which a common man doesn&rsquo;t get timely justice. One such factor is lack of personnel and logistics under disposal of court.</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li><strong>Centralisation of Administrative System:</strong> <br />
<ul style="list-style-type: disc;">
<li>Governments at lower levels can only function efficiently if they are empowered to do so. This is particularly relevant for the <a href="/important-institutions/drishti-specials-important-institutions-national-institutions/panchayati-raj-institution-pri#:~:text=74th%20Amendment%20provides%20for%20a,and%20Municipalities%20(Article%20243ZD).&amp;text=The%20Eleventh%20Scheduled%20of%20the,of%20the%20Panchayati%20Raj%20bodies." target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Panchayati Raj Institutions (PRIs)</strong></a>, which currently suffer from inadequate devolution of funds as well as functionaries to carry out the functions constitutionally assigned to them.</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li><strong>Criminalisation of Politics:</strong> <br />
<ul style="list-style-type: disc;">
<li>The criminalisation of the political process and the unholy nexus between politicians, civil servants, and business houses are having a baneful influence on public policy formulation and governance.</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li><strong>Environmental security,</strong> sustainable development.</li>
<li>Challenges of <strong>globalization, liberalisation and market economy.</strong></li>
</ul>
</li>
<li><strong>Initiatives Taken:</strong><br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li><strong><a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/good-governance-day" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Good Governance Index</a>:</strong><br />
<ul style="list-style-type: disc;">
<li>GGI has been launched by the <strong>Ministry of Personnel, Public Grievances &amp; Pensions</strong> to determine the status of governance in the country.</li>
<li>It assesses the impact of various interventions taken up by the State Government and UTs.</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li><a href="/to-the-points/Paper2/e-governance-1" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>National e-Governance Plan:</strong></a><br />
<ul style="list-style-type: disc;">
<li>It has the vision to &ldquo;make all government services accessible to the common man in his locality, through common service delivery outlets and ensure efficiency, transparency &amp; reliability of such services at affordable costs to realize the basic needs of the common man.&rdquo;</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li><a href="/to-the-points/paper4/right-to-information-1" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Right to Information Act, 2005:</strong> </a><br />
<ul style="list-style-type: disc;">
<li>It plays an effective role in ensuring transparency in governance.</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li><strong>Other Initiatives:</strong> Setting up of <a href="/important-institutions/drishti-specials-important-institutions-national-institutions/niti-aayog-national-institution-for-transforming-india" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>NITI Aayog</strong></a>, <a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-editorials/assessment-of-make-in-india" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Make in India</strong></a> programme, <a href="/pdf/lokpal-lokayukta-ombudsman-upsc-governance-transparency.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Lokpal</strong></a>, etc.</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
<div class="border-bg">
<p><strong>Atal Bihari Vajpayee<a href="http://www.drishtiias.com/images/uploads/1608975277_image6.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img class="content-img" src="http://www.drishtiias.com/images/uploads/1608975277_image6.jpg" style="float: right;" width="300" caption="false" /></a></strong></p>
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li>Atal Bihari Vajpayee was born on 25<sup>th</sup> December, 1924 in the erstwhile princely state of Gwalior (now a part of Madhya Pradesh).</li>
<li>He entered in national politics during the <a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/77th-anniversary-of-quit-india-movement" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Quit India Movement of 1942</strong></a> which hastened the end of British colonial rule.</li>
<li>In 1947, Vajpayee <strong>started working as a journalist for newspapers of Deendayal Upadhyaya &mdash;</strong> Rashtradharma (a Hindi monthly), Panchjanya (a Hindi weekly) and the dailies Swadesh and Veer Arjun. Later, influenced by Syama Prasad Mookerjee, Vajpayee<strong> joined the Bharatiya Jana Sangh in 1951.</strong></li>
<li>He was the <strong>former Prime Minister of India</strong> and was <strong>elected to the position twice in 1996 and 1999.</strong></li>
<li>As a parliamentarian, Vajpayee was awarded with the<strong> Pandit Govind Ballabh Pant Award for Best Parliamentarian in 1994,</strong> which defines him as "a role model par excellence for all legislators."</li>
<li>He was <strong>conferred</strong> with the country's highest civilian honour, the <strong><a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/important-facts-for-prelims-28th-january-2019" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Bharat Ratna</a> in 2015</strong> and second-highest civilian honour, the <strong><a href="/printpdf/padma-awards-2020" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Padma Vibhushan</a> in 1994.</strong></li>
</ul>
</div>',
		'postdate' => object(Cake\I18n\FrozenTime) {},
		'url' => 'https://www.drishtiias.com/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/good-governance-day-1'
	],
	(int) 2 => [
		'title' => 'India-Uzbekistan Virtual Summit',
		'catname' => 'News Analysis',
		'desc' => '<h3>Why in News</h3>
<p>In a recent virtual summit, <a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/uzbekistans-president-visit-to-india" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>India and Uzbekistan</strong></a> have deliberated on <strong>expanding bilateral ties aiming to expand cooperation in a range of areas,</strong> including new and renewable energy, digital technologies, cybersecurity and sharing of information.</p>
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li>The agreements also include cooperation on <strong>connectivity projects in Afghanistan</strong> and its <strong>peace process, trilateral dialogue with Iran, combatting terrorism,</strong> etc.</li>
</ul>
<p><a href="http://www.drishtiias.com/images/uploads/1607768550_pasted%20image 0.png" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img class="content-img" src="http://www.drishtiias.com/images/uploads/1607768550_pasted image 0.png" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="350" caption="false" /></a></p>
<h3>Key Points</h3>
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li><strong>Trade, Economic and Investment Cooperation:</strong><br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li>Making efforts to achieve the <strong>mutually identified target of USD 1 billion for bilateral trade.</strong><br />
<ul style="list-style-type: disc;">
<li>The <strong>current bilateral trade</strong> level of about <strong>USD 285 million</strong> (2018) is far below the potential.</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li>Fast-track the conclusion of the ongoing <strong>Joint Feasibility Study</strong> that will pave the way for the commencement of negotiations on a <strong>Preferential Trade Agreement.</strong></li>
<li>Early conclusion of the <strong>Bilateral Investment Treaty</strong> which shall facilitate investment promotion and protection for further improvement of trade and economic cooperation.<br />
<ul style="list-style-type: disc;">
<li>The sides noted the prospects for greater opportunities in the free economic zones of the two countries, including in the<strong> Uzbek-Indian free pharmaceutical zone</strong> in the <strong>Andijan region</strong> (eastern part of the Fergana Valley in far eastern Uzbekistan).</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li>Uzbekistan welcomed the opportunities in India for investing/manufacturing under the <a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-editorials/assessment-of-make-in-india" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>&lsquo;Make in India&rsquo;</strong> </a>programme.</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li><strong>Development Cooperation:</strong><br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li>India confirmed the <strong>approval of a USD 448 million Line of Credit for four developmental projects</strong> in Uzbekistan in the areas of road construction, sewerage treatment and information technology.</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li><strong>Defence and Security:</strong><br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li>Appreciated the enhanced pace of bilateral defence cooperation since the convening of the first meeting of<strong> Joint Working Group on Defence Cooperation in February 2019.</strong></li>
<li>Welcomed the holding of the <strong><a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/india-and-uzbekistan" target="_blank" rel="noopener">&ldquo;Dustlik 2019&rdquo;</a>, first-ever joint military exercises in November 2019.</strong></li>
<li>Agreed to further strengthen cooperation between the law enforcement agencies and special services of the two countries, including under the framework of the <strong>Uzbekistan-India Joint Working Group on Counter-Terrorism.</strong></li>
</ul>
</li>
<li><strong>Civil Nuclear Energy:</strong><br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li>Welcomed the conclusion of the bilateral agreement between the <strong>Global Centre for Nuclear Energy Partnership</strong> (GCNEP) <strong>India</strong> and the<strong> Agency for Development of Nuclear Energy, Uzbekistan.</strong><br />
<ul style="list-style-type: disc;">
<li>GCNEP is the <strong>sixth research and development</strong> (R&amp;D) <strong>unit</strong> under the aegis of <strong>Department of Atomic Energy</strong> (DAE) and helps in capacity building, in association with the interested countries and the<a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/63rd-general-conference-of-iaea" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong> International Atomic Energy Agency</strong></a> (IAEA).</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li><strong>Connectivity:</strong><br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li>Reiterated continued commitment for <strong>enhancing connectivity</strong> between India and Uzbekistan and in the larger Central Asian region to bolster trade and investment.</li>
<li>India welcomed the <strong>proposal to hold trilateral dialogue among India, Iran and Uzbekistan</strong> to promote connectivity through the Chabahar port.</li>
<li>India also <strong>requested Uzbekistan to consider joining</strong> the<a href="/to-the-points/Paper2/india-central-asia-relations" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong> International North-South Transport Corridor</strong> </a>(INSTC) which would add to the overall improvement of connectivity in the larger Eurasian space.</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li><strong>Culture, Education and People-to-People Contacts:</strong><br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li>India invited Uzbekistan to avail of increased scholarship opportunities provided by the <a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/70-years-of-indian-council-for-cultural-relations" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Indian Council for Cultural Relations</strong></a> (ICCR) and training and capacity building under the <a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/vice-president-s-visit-to-comoros-and-sierra-leone" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Indian Technical and Economic Cooperation (ITEC) programme.</strong></a></li>
</ul>
</li>
<li><strong>Terrorism:</strong><br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li>Strongly <strong>condemned terrorism</strong> in all its forms and manifestations and reaffirmed the determination to combat this menace by destroying terrorist safe-havens, networks, infrastructure and funding channels.</li>
<li>Also underlined the need for every country to ensure that its territory is not used to launch terrorist attacks against other countries and called for early finalisation of a <a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/at-unga-india-call-for-early-adoption-of-ccit" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Comprehensive Convention on International Terrorism</strong></a> (CCIT).</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li><strong>Afghanistan:</strong><br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li>Called for the <strong>settlement of the <a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-editorials/afghan-turmoil-and-india" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Afghan conflict</a></strong> on the principle of Afghan-led, Afghan-owned and Afghan-controlled peace process and expressed unanimity in support for a united, sovereign and democratic Islamic Republic of Afghanistan.</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li><strong>Reformed Multilateralism:</strong><br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li>Reaffirmed that the <a href="/important-institutions/drishti-specials-important-institutions-international-institution/united-nations-1" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>United Nations</strong></a> (UN) must play a central role in maintaining global peace and security and also called for <strong><a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-editorials/un-reforms-india" target="_blank" rel="noopener">comprehensive reform</a> of the UN structures</strong> including the Security Council with expansion in both categories of membership.</li>
<li>Uzbekistan <strong>reaffirmed its support to <a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-editorials/india-permanent-seat-in-unsc" target="_blank" rel="noopener">India&rsquo;s candidature for permanent membership</a> of the UN Security Council</strong> and congratulated India on its <a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/india-s-non-permanent-seat-at-the-unsc" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>election as a non-permanent member</strong> </a>of the UN Security Council for the term <strong>2021-22.</strong></li>
<li>India also congratulated the <strong>Uzbek side on its successful election</strong> to the <a href="/daily-news-editorials/the-relevance-of-unhrc" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>UN Human Rights Council</strong> </a>for the term <strong>2021-23.</strong></li>
<li>Appreciated their close cooperation in the<a href="/important-institutions/drishti-specials-important-institutions-international-institution/important-international-institutions-shanghai-cooperation-organisation-sco" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong> Shanghai Cooperation Organization</strong></a> (SCO).<br />
<ul style="list-style-type: disc;">
<li>In November 2020, India hosted the <strong><a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/sco-summit-2" target="_blank" rel="noopener">first-ever meeting of the Council of the Heads of Government of SCO</a> since its joining the SCO.</strong></li>
</ul>
</li>
<li>India appreciated Uzbekistan&rsquo;s support in the successful holding of the <a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/second-meeting-of-india-central-asia-dialogue" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>2<sup>nd</sup> India-Central Asia Dialogue</strong></a> at the level of Foreign Ministers with the participation of Afghanistan.</li>
<li><strong>Uzbekistan is a member of the <a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/organisation-of-islamic-cooperation-oic" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Organisation of Islamic Cooperation</a></strong> (OIC), which is the second largest intergovernmental organization after the UN.<br />
<ul style="list-style-type: disc;">
<li><strong>India is not a member</strong> of the OIC. However, India was<strong> invited as a guest of honour at the 46<sup>th</sup> Session of the Council of Foreign Minister in 2019.</strong></li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li><strong>Covid-19 Pandemic:</strong><br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li>Emphasized the need for bilateral and global cooperation to continue the<strong> fight against the <a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/covid-19-now-pandemic-who" target="_blank" rel="noopener">pandemic</a></strong> including development and distribution of effective vaccines and other medicines.</li>
<li><strong>Uzbekistan thanked India for the assistance rendered to Uzbekistan in its fight against the pandemic</strong> and India reaffirmed its continued commitment.</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
<h3>Way Forward</h3>
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li>Agreements reached during various bilateral visits have strengthened cooperation between India and Uzbekistan in diverse sectors such as political, trade and investment, defence, security, counter-terrorism, science and technology, nuclear energy, space, information technology and have promoted cultural and academic linkages.</li>
<li>Both countries thanked each other for the productive discussions held during the virtual summit and expressed confidence that the understandings and agreements will further deepen the strategic partnership between the two countries for the well-being of their peoples and mutual prosperity.</li>
</ul>
<p><a href="https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/pm-uzbek-president-discuss-afghanistan-iran-connectivity/article33305691.ece" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Source: TH</strong></a></p>',
		'postdate' => object(Cake\I18n\FrozenTime) {},
		'url' => 'https://www.drishtiias.com/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/india-uzbekistan-virtual-summit'
	],
	(int) 3 => [
		'title' => 'United Nations Investment Promotion Award 2020',
		'catname' => 'News Analysis',
		'desc' => '<h3>Why in News</h3>
<p>The<a href="/important-institutions/drishti-specials-important-institutions-international-institution/united-nations-1" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong> United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD)</strong></a> has <strong>declared &lsquo;Invest India&rsquo;</strong> as<strong> winner of the United Nations Investment Promotion Award 2020.</strong></p>
<h3>Key Points</h3>
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li><strong>United Nations Investment Promotion Award:</strong> <br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li>It recognises and celebrates the outstanding achievements of the world&rsquo;s <strong>Investment Promotion Agencies (IPAs).</strong> Since <strong>2002,</strong> UNCTAD has organised these awards <strong>annually.</strong></li>
<li>The Awards also highlight the contributions of these organizations in raising private sector investment in sustainable development and in achieving the <a href="/to-the-points/paper3/sustainable-development-3" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).</strong></a></li>
<li>The <strong>response of IPAs to the <a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/coronavirus-disease-named-covid-19#:~:text=The%20World%20Health%20Organisation%20(WHO,31st%20December%2C%202019)." target="_blank" rel="noopener">Covid-19 pandemic</a></strong> became the <strong>basis for the evaluation</strong> of the 2020 Award.</li>
<li><strong>Germany, South Korea and Singapore</strong> have been some of the <strong>past winners</strong> of the award.</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li><strong>Invest India:</strong> <br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li>It is the <strong>National Investment Promotion and Facilitation Agency of India</strong> and acts as the first point of reference for investors in India.</li>
<li>It is a<strong> non-profit venture set up in 2009</strong> under the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade, <strong>Ministry of Commerce and Industry,</strong> Government of India.</li>
<li><strong>UNCTAD highlighted good practices followed by Invest India,</strong> such as the Business Immunity Platform, Exclusive Investment Forum webinar series, its social media engagement and focus Covid response teams (such as business reconstruction, stakeholder outreach and supplier outreach) created as a response to the pandemic, in its publications.</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li><strong>Government Measures Related to Investment Promotion:</strong><br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li>India&rsquo;s attractiveness as an<a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/fdi-inflow" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong> FDI (Foreign Direct Investment)</strong> </a><strong>destination</strong> has surged in recent times. In 2019, it was<strong> among the top 10 countries attracting foreign funds,</strong> receiving billions of dollars in a variety of sectors, including services, technology, IT and telecom, and construction.</li>
<li>In <strong>2020, factors such as</strong> a swift response in combating the Covid crisis, favourable demographics, impressive mobile and internet penetration, massive consumption and technology uptake, played an important role in attracting the investments.</li>
<li>Launch of Schemes attracting investments, such as, <a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/export-promotion-council-for-technical-textiles" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>National technical Textile Mission</strong></a>, <a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/pli-scheme-for-ten-more-sectors" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Production Linked Incentive Scheme</strong></a>, <a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/pradhan-mantri-kisan-sampada-yojana" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Pradhan Mantri Kisan SAMPADA Yojana</strong></a>, etc.<br />
<ul style="list-style-type: disc;">
<li>The government has elaborated upon the initiatives under the<a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/measures-on-atmanirbhar-bharat-3-0" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong> Atmanirbhar Bharat</strong> </a>to encourage investments in different sectors.</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li>As a part of its <a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-editorials/assessment-of-make-in-india" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Make in India initiative</strong></a> to promote domestic manufacturing, India deregulated FDI rules for several sectors over the last few years.</li>
<li>The Government of India continues to improve<strong> Ease of Doing Business</strong> in the country by releasing notifications highlighting measures to improve the business environment in India.<br />
<ul style="list-style-type: disc;">
<li>India <strong>ranked 63<sup>rd</sup> out of 190 countries</strong> (moved up by 14 spots) in <a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/ease-of-doing-business-2020" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Doing Business 2020: World Bank Report.</strong></a></li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
<div class="border-bg">
<p><strong>United Nations Conference on Trade and Development</strong></p>
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li>UNCTAD is a<strong> permanent intergovernmental body</strong> established by the United Nations General Assembly in <strong>1964.</strong> Its headquarters are located in <strong>Geneva, Switzerland.</strong></li>
<li>It was established to <strong>promote development-friendly integration of developing countries into the world economy.</strong></li>
<li>It is a <strong>central agency</strong> that monitors performance of Investment promotion Agencies (IPAs) and identifies global best practices.</li>
<li>Some of the<strong> reports</strong> published by it are:<br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li>Trade and Development Report</li>
<li><a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/world-investment-report-unctad" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>World Investment Report</strong></a></li>
<li><a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/global-investment-trend-monitor-report-unctad" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Global Investment Trend Monitor Report</strong></a></li>
<li>The Least Developed Countries Report</li>
<li>Information and Economy Report</li>
<li>Technology and Innovation Report</li>
<li>Commodities and Development Report</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
</div>
<p><a href="https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetailm.aspx?PRID=1678902#:~:text=The%20United%20Nations%20(UNCTAD)%20has,at%20UNCTAD%20Headquarters%20in%20Geneva.&amp;text=In%20March%202020%2C%20UNCTAD%20constituted,IPAs%20response%20to%20the%20pandemic." target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Source: PIB</strong></a></p>',
		'postdate' => object(Cake\I18n\FrozenTime) {},
		'url' => 'https://www.drishtiias.com/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/united-nations-investment-promotion-award-2020'
	],
	(int) 4 => [
		'title' => 'Media Registrations for Aero India 2021',
		'catname' => 'News Analysis',
		'desc' => '<h3>Why in News</h3>
<p>Recently, the<strong> online media registration</strong> for the <strong>13<sup>th</sup> edition of <a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/aero-india" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Aero India</a></strong> has been started, which will be held at <strong>Air Force Station, Bengaluru</strong> (Karnataka) in <strong>February 2021.</strong></p>
<h3>Key Points</h3>
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li>Aero India is a <strong>biennial international military and civil airshow.</strong><br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li>It is a premier event that draws <strong>international and Indian military and civil aircraft makers,</strong> their support industries, military brass and government dignitaries and business visitors.</li>
<li>It provides a <strong>unique opportunity for the exchange of information, ideas and new developments</strong> in the aviation industry, in addition to giving a fillip to the domestic aviation industry furthering the cause of <a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-editorials/assessment-of-make-in-india" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Make in India.</strong></a></li>
</ul>
</li>
<li>The <strong>Yelahanka air base,</strong> about 30 km from the city centre Bengaluru, has been hosting the air show in February since it was<strong> started in 1996.</strong></li>
<li>In <strong>2019,</strong> it was organised by <a href="/loksabha-rajyasabha-discussions/the-big-picture-need-to-modernise-indian-air-force" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd.</strong></a> (HAL) and in <strong>2021,</strong> it will be organised by the <strong>Defence Exhibition Organisation, Ministry of Defence.</strong><br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li>DEO is an<strong> autonomous organisation</strong> of the Indian Government<strong> established in 1981,</strong> to <strong>promote the export potential</strong> of the Indian defence industry.</li>
<li>It is responsible for organising international exhibitions such as <strong><a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/defexpo-2020" target="_blank" rel="noopener">DefExpo</a></strong> and Indian participation at overseas exhibitions.</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
<p><a href="https://www.pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=1669441" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Source: PIB</strong></a></p>',
		'postdate' => object(Cake\I18n\FrozenTime) {},
		'url' => 'https://www.drishtiias.com/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/media-registrations-for-aero-india-2021'
	],
	(int) 5 => [
		'title' => 'Taiwan Insecurity of China',
		'catname' => 'News Analysis',
		'desc' => '<h3>Why in News</h3>
<p>Recently, China has objected to any official exchanges between India and<a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/solomon-islands-and-taiwan" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong> Taiwan</strong></a>.</p>
<h3>Key Points</h3>
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li><strong>Chinese Concern:</strong> The statement from China came in response to reports that India and Taiwan were considering going forward with<strong> talks on a trade deal.</strong><br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li>China believes the <a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/why-china-insists-on-chinese-taipei-rather-than-taiwan" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>'One-China principle&rsquo;</strong> </a>is a universal consensus of the international community, including India.</li>
<li>China also objected to the recent<strong> campaign (posters and social media)</strong> in India <strong>wishing Taiwan &ldquo;Happy National Day&rdquo;</strong> (October 10) and referring to it as <strong>a &ldquo;country&rdquo; or a &ldquo;nation&rdquo;.</strong></li>
<li>China is also opposing inclusion of Australia in the upcoming <a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/australia-to-be-included-in-malabar-exercise" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Malabar naval exercise</strong></a> with India, Japan and the United States.</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li><strong>India-Taiwan Relations</strong><br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li>India and Taiwan do not maintain formal diplomatic relations. The areas of cooperation between India and Taiwan have been limited due to negligible political relations.</li>
<li><strong>From</strong> 1995 to 2014, the bilateral trade turnover has grown manifold from just $934 million to $5.91 billion.</li>
<li><strong>Technology:</strong> In the field of science and technology, there are more than thirty ongoing government-funded joint research projects.<br />
<ul style="list-style-type: disc;">
<li>In August 2015, the Taiwan-based Foxconn, one of the largest hardware manufacturers in the world, announced an investment of $5 billion in India.</li>
<li>India and Taiwan <strong>in 2018</strong> signed a<strong> bilateral investment agreement.</strong> India-Taiwan trade ties have been <strong>expanded</strong> and Taiwanese firms are <strong>prominent investors in India,</strong></li>
<li>Taiwan has for long been a world leader in high-tech hardware manufacturing, and can contribute much to the <strong>&ldquo;<a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-editorials/assessment-of-make-in-india" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Make in India</a>&rdquo;</strong>, <strong>&ldquo;<a href="/loksabha-rajyasabha-discussions/in-depth-digital-india" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Digital India</a>&rdquo;</strong> and <strong>&ldquo;<a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/smart-cities-command-centres#:~:text=Smart%20City%20Mission,create%20smart%20outcomes%20for%20citizens." target="_blank" rel="noopener">Smart Cities</a>&rdquo;</strong> campaigns.</li>
<li>Taiwan&rsquo;s agro-technology and food processing technology can also be very beneficial for India&rsquo;s agriculture sector.</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li>Both sides have also expanded <strong>educational exchanges</strong> after a mutual degree recognition agreement in higher education was <strong>signed in 2010.</strong></li>
</ul>
</li>
<li><strong>Challenges:</strong><br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li><strong>One China policy:</strong> India finds it difficult to realise the full potential of its bilateral relationship with Taiwan. At present, about 16 countries worldwide continue to recognise Taiwan as an independent state. India is not among the sixteen countries.</li>
<li><strong>Trade &amp; Investment:</strong> The economic exchange is still relatively insignificant. Taiwan&rsquo;s share of trade with India is around 1% of its global trade.</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
<div class="border-bg">
<p><strong>Taiwan</strong></p>
<p><a href="http://www.drishtiias.com/images/uploads/1603272458_image1.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong><img class="content-img" src="http://www.drishtiias.com/images/uploads/1603272458_image1.jpg" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="650" caption="false" /></strong></a></p>
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li>Taiwan - the Republic of China (ROC), home to <strong>twenty-three million people,</strong> is an island <strong>off the southern coast of China</strong> that has been governed independently from mainland China since <strong>1949.</strong></li>
<li>Its neighbours include China (officially the People&rsquo;s Republic of China, PRC) to the west, Japan to the northeast, and the Philippines to the south.</li>
<li>Taiwan is the most populous state that is not a member of the United Nations and the largest economy outside the UN.</li>
<li>Taiwan is Asia&rsquo;s 5<sup>th</sup> largest economy.</li>
<li>It is a global leader in chip manufacture and the second-largest manufacturer of IT hardware, etc.</li>
<li><strong>China&rsquo;s Claim:</strong> The People&rsquo;s Republic of China (PRC) views the island as a province, while in Taiwan&mdash;a territory with its own democratically elected government&mdash;leading political voices have differing views on the island&rsquo;s status and relations with the mainland.<br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li>China and Taiwan maintain a fragile relationship, which has improved during the past seven years but is periodically tested.</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
</div>
<h3>Way Forward</h3>
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li>Taiwan has invested heavily on China studies. India should take advantage of this fact. Resource rich India can benefit from Taiwan&rsquo;s technology. For instance, India has abundant natural bamboo resources while Taiwan owns the world-class bamboo charcoal technology. With this sort of technology, India can make use of its bamboo resources to produce high value-added goods.</li>
<li>With the recent appointment of a senior diplomat to serve as the <strong>new envoy to Taiwan,</strong> India has signalled a shift in its One-China policy (although not officially abandoned) a clear indication of taking forward the diplomatic relationship with Taiwan.</li>
</ul>
<p><a href="https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/china-warns-india-on-ties-with-taiwan/article32902761.ece" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Source: TH</strong></a></p>',
		'postdate' => object(Cake\I18n\FrozenTime) {},
		'url' => 'https://www.drishtiias.com/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/taiwan-insecurity-of-china'
	],
	(int) 6 => [
		'title' => 'BrahMos Testing',
		'catname' => 'News Analysis',
		'desc' => '<h3>Why in News</h3>
<p><strong><a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/brahmos-missile" target="_blank" rel="noopener">BrahMos</a> Land-Attack Cruise Missile</strong> (surface-to-surface) was successfully flight tested from the Integrated Test Range at <strong>Balasore</strong> in <strong>Odisha.</strong></p>
<h3>Key Points<a href="http://www.drishtiias.com/images/uploads/1601538577_image2.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img class="content-img" src="http://www.drishtiias.com/images/uploads/1601538577_image2.jpg" style="float: right;" width="300" caption="false" /></a></h3>
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li>It is a<strong> joint venture</strong> between the <a href="/important-institutions/drishti-specials-important-institutions-national-institutions/defence-research-and-development-organisation-drdo" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Defence Research and Development Organisation of India (DRDO)</strong> </a>and the NPOM of <strong>Russia.</strong><br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li>Brahmos is named on the<strong> rivers Brahmaputra (India) and Moskva (Russia).</strong></li>
</ul>
</li>
<li>It is a <strong>supersonic</strong> missile travelling at a speed of <strong>Mach 2.8</strong> (nearly three times the speed of sound)<br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li>It is the world&rsquo;s<strong> fastest supersonic cruise missile.</strong></li>
</ul>
</li>
<li>It is a <strong>multiplatform</strong> i.e it can be launched from<strong> land, air, and sea</strong> and multi capability missile with pinpoint accuracy that works in <strong>both day and night</strong> irrespective of the weather conditions.<br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li>It is, therefore, used by all three forces, the <strong>Army, Navy and the Air Force.</strong></li>
</ul>
</li>
<li>It operates on the <strong>"Fire and Forget"</strong> principle i.e it does not require further guidance after launch.</li>
<li>It is the<strong> heaviest weapon</strong> to be deployed on <a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/sukhoi-30-mki-equipped-with-the-brahmos-missile" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Sukhoi-30 MKI fighter aircraft</strong></a>, with a weight of 2.5 tonnes.</li>
<li>Its <strong>range has been recently enhanced</strong> from 300 Km to 450-600 Km,<br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li>Increasing the missile&rsquo;s range became possible after India&rsquo;s induction into the <a href="/to-the-points/paper3/india-s-prospects-as-a-nuclear-power" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Missile Technology Control Regime (MTCR)</strong> </a>in June 2016.</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li>The missile features<strong> indigenous Booster and Airframe Section,</strong> along with many other <strong>indigenous sub-systems.</strong></li>
<li><strong>Advantages:</strong> <br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li>BrahMos has been deployed in <strong>Ladakh</strong> as well as the <strong>Eastern Sector in Arunachal Pradesh</strong> to tackle any threats in the <a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/india-china-conflict" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>ongoing standoff with China.</strong></a></li>
<li>Enhanced use of indigenous technologies will give a boost to India&rsquo;s <a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-editorials/atma-nirbhar-bharat-abhiyan-challenges" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>AtmaNirbhar Bharat</strong></a> and <a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-editorials/assessment-of-make-in-india" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Make in India</strong> </a>Initiatives.</li>
<li>Increasing indigenous content in defence systems has also been a prime focus of <a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/defence-acquisition-procedure-2020" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Defence Acquisition Procedure, 2020</strong></a> and <a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/draft-defence-production-and-export-promotion-policy-2020" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>draft Defence Production and Export Promotion Policy 2020.</strong></a></li>
</ul>
</li>
<li><strong>Others:</strong><br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li>India is also working on a hypersonic missile, <strong>BrahMos-II (K),</strong> capable of taking out hardened targets such as underground bunkers and weapon storage facilities at seven times the speed of sound (Mach 7).</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
<p><a href="https://pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=1660288" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Source: PIB</strong></a></p>',
		'postdate' => object(Cake\I18n\FrozenTime) {},
		'url' => 'https://www.drishtiias.com/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/brahmos-testing'
	],
	(int) 7 => [
		'title' => 'Green Strategic Partnership between India and Denmark',
		'catname' => 'News Analysis',
		'desc' => '<h3>Why in News</h3>
<p>India and the Kingdom of Denmark have launched the <strong>Green Strategic Partnership</strong> for delivering sustainable solutions to India.</p>
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li>The Ministry of Commerce and Industry has also signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for <a href="/to-the-points/paper3/intellectual-property-rights" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Intellectual Property (IP)</strong></a> <strong>Cooperation</strong> with Denmark.</li>
</ul>
<h3>Key Points</h3>
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li><strong>Green Strategic Partnership:</strong><br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li>The Partnership will focus on <strong>expanding economic ties, green growth, and cooperation on global challenges such as <a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/virtual-climate-action-ministerial" target="_blank" rel="noopener">climate change.</a></strong> <br />
<ul style="list-style-type: disc;">
<li><strong>Green growth</strong> is a term to describe a path of economic growth that uses natural resources in a sustainable manner.</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li>Danish companies with niche technologies and expertise have offered to help India in meeting its <a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-editorials/tackling-the-air-pollution" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>air pollution</strong></a> control targets, including in the key area of tackling the problem of<a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-editorials/stubble-burning-2" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong> burning crop stubble.</strong></a></li>
<li>Other key points under the partnership include dealing with the<a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-editorials/covid-19-and-india-1" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong> Covid-19</strong> </a>pandemic and <strong>cooperation in water efficiency and water loss.</strong></li>
<li>The creation of<strong> India-Denmark energy parks</strong> in areas with large numbers of Danish firms and an <strong>India-Denmark skill institute</strong> to train Indian manpower has been proposed.</li>
<li>The Green Strategic Partnership will build on an existing <strong>Joint Commission for Cooperation</strong> and existing<strong> joint working groups.</strong></li>
</ul>
</li>
<li><strong>Intellectual Property Cooperation:</strong><br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li>The MoU aims at increasing IP co-operation between the two countries by way of, exchange of information and best practices on processes for disposal of applications for patents, trademarks, industrial designs, and <a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/bangalore-blue-grapes" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Geographical Indications</strong></a>, and cooperation in the field of protection of Traditional Knowledge.</li>
<li>It will be a landmark step forward in India&rsquo;s journey towards becoming a major player in global innovation and further the objectives of the <strong><a href="/to-the-points/paper3/intellectual-property-rights" target="_blank" rel="noopener">National Intellectual Property Rights Policy</a>, 2016.</strong></li>
</ul>
</li>
<li><strong>India Denmark Relationship:</strong><br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li>India and Denmark had signed a <strong>Joint Commission for Cooperation in February 2009</strong> for cooperation in politics, economics and commerce, science and technology, energy, environment, and education.</li>
<li>They have <strong>joint working groups</strong> on Shipping; Food, Agriculture and Fisheries; Environment, Biotechnology; New and Renewable Energy; and Labour Mobility.</li>
<li>Currently, over 140 Danish companies are participating in the <a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-editorials/assessment-of-make-in-india" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Make in India</strong></a> initiative.</li>
<li>However, the relations got affected due to the <strong>non-extradition of the main accused of the Purulia arms drop case</strong> (Kim Davy) to India by Danish Officials. <br />
<ul style="list-style-type: disc;">
<li><strong>Purulia arms drop case, 1995:</strong> Unauthorised arms were dropped from an aircraft in Purulia district in the state of West Bengal in India.</li>
<li>In the recent meeting for Green Strategic Partnership, both sides agreed that concerned officials will work for an early resolution of the matter.</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li>India has also invited Denmark to join the<a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/proposal-of-supply-chain-resilience-initiative#:~:text=Supply%20Chain%20Resilience%20Initiative%20(SCRI)%3A,lead%20to%20the%20supply%20chain." target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong> supply chain resilience initiative</strong></a>, which is proposed between Japan, Australia to diversify supply chains and reduce dependence on any one nation.</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
<div class="border-bg">
<p><strong>Denmark<a href="http://www.drishtiias.com/images/uploads/1601458157_image5.png" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img class="content-img" src="http://www.drishtiias.com/images/uploads/1601458157_image5.png" style="float: right;" width="350" caption="false" /></a></strong></p>
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li><strong>Location:</strong> It is an archipelago of more than 400 islands to the east of the<strong> Jutland peninsula</strong> in Europe.</li>
<li><strong>Flag:&nbsp;<img class="content-img" src="http://www.drishtiias.com/images/uploads/1601458248_image4.png" width="30" caption="false" /></strong></li>
<li><strong>Capital:</strong> Copenhagen</li>
<li><strong>Currency:</strong> Danish krone</li>
<li><strong>People:</strong> Mostly inhabited by ethnic Danes.</li>
<li><strong>Languages:</strong> Danish is official.</li>
<li><strong>Religions:</strong> Catholic Christians, Jews.</li>
<li><strong>Government:</strong> The Kingdom of Denmark is a unitary state.<br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li>In addition to Denmark proper, two autonomous territories in the North Atlantic Ocean: Greenland and the Faroe Islands.</li>
<li>It establishes a sovereign state in the form of a constitutional monarchy, with a representative parliamentary system.</li>
<li>The Danish parliament is unicameral and called the Folketing.</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li><strong>Others:</strong> Denmark ranked 1<sup>st</sup> in <a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/digital-quality-of-life-index-2020-surfshark" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Digital Quality of Life 2020</strong></a>, <a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/corruption-perceptions-index-2019-transparency-international" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Corruption Perceptions Index 2019</strong></a>, <a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/environmental-performance-index" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Environmental Performance Index 2020</strong></a>, <a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/global-social-mobility-index-wef" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Global Social Mobility Index 2020</strong></a>. It also ranked in <strong>the top 10 in the <a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/henley-passport-index-2020" target="_blank" rel="noopener">most powerful passports</a></strong> in 2020 and was one of the <strong>most peaceful countries</strong> according to the <strong><a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/global-peace-index-2019" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Global Peace Index 2019</a>.</strong></li>
</ul>
</div>
<h3>Way Forward</h3>
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li>India and Denmark have shared values of human rights, democracy, and rule of law and they must cooperate in multilateral fora like the <a href="/important-institutions/drishti-specials-important-institutions-international-institution/world-trade-organisation-wto" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>World Trade Organization</strong></a>, <a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/second-assembly-of-isa" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>International Solar Alliance</strong></a>, <a href="/important-institutions/drishti-specials-important-institutions-international-institution/arctic-council" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Arctic Council</strong></a> to advance democracy and human rights and promote a rule-based multilateral system.</li>
<li>The Green Strategic Partnership is a mutually beneficial arrangement to advance political cooperation, expand economic relations and green growth, create jobs, and strengthen cooperation on addressing global challenges and opportunities; with a focus on an ambitious implementation of the <a href="/loksabha-rajyasabha-discussions/the-big-picture-climate-change-act-now" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Paris Agreement</strong></a> and the <a href="/to-the-points/paper3/sustainable-development-3#:~:text=Three%20core%20elements%20of%20sustainable,are%20important%20for%20sustainable%20development." target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.</strong></a></li>
</ul>
<p><a href="/to-the-points/paper3/sustainable-development-3#:~:text=Three%20core%20elements%20of%20sustainable,are%20important%20for%20sustainable%20development." target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Source: TH</strong></a></p>',
		'postdate' => object(Cake\I18n\FrozenTime) {},
		'url' => 'https://www.drishtiias.com/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/green-strategic-partnership-between-india-and-denmark'
	],
	(int) 8 => [
		'title' => 'Defence Acquisition Procedure 2020',
		'catname' => 'News Analysis',
		'desc' => '<h3>Why in News</h3>
<p>Recently, a new <strong>Defence Acquisition Procedure (DAP)</strong> (erstwhile Defence Procurement Procedure or DPP), 2020 was released by the Ministry of Defence (MoD).</p>
<h3>Key Points</h3>
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li><strong>About:</strong> The DAP contains policies and procedures for procurement and acquisition from the capital budget of the MoD in order to modernise the Armed Forces including the <a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/recaap-isc-capacity-building-workshop" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Coast Guard.</strong></a></li>
<li><strong>Background:</strong> The first Defence Procurement Procedure (DPP) was promulgated in 2002.<br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li>A <a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/reviewing-defence-procurement-procedure" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>committee under the chairmanship of Director General (Acquisition)</strong></a> was constituted to review the <a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-editorials/a-flawed-defence-procurement-policy" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Defence Procurement Procedure (DPP) 2016.</strong></a><br />
<ul style="list-style-type: disc;">
<li><strong>DPP 2016</strong> was released replacing the DPP 2013 based on the recommendations of <strong>Dhirendra Singh committee.</strong></li>
<li>It focussed on indigenously designed, developed and manufactured weapon systems.</li>
<li>It was facing several issues like lack of transparency (leading to Rafale Scam), inconvenient offset regulations etc.</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li><strong>Objective:</strong> Turning India into a global manufacturing hub.<br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li>Aligned with the vision of the Government of <a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-editorials/atma-nirbhar-bharat-abhiyan-challenges" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Atmanirbhar Bharat</strong> </a>and empowering Indian domestic industry through <strong><a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-editorials/assessment-of-make-in-india" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Make in India</a> initiative.</strong></li>
</ul>
</li>
<li><strong>Salient Features:</strong><br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li><strong>For <a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/ease-of-doing-business-2020" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Ease of Doing Business:</a></strong><br />
<ul style="list-style-type: disc;">
<li><strong>Time Bound Defence Procurement Process and Faster Decision Making:</strong> By setting up a <a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-editorials/self-reliance-in-defence-manufacturing" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Project Management Unit</strong></a> to support contract management and to streamline the Acquisition process.</li>
<li><strong>Revised Offset Guidelines</strong>: Preference will be given to manufacture of complete defence products over components and various multipliers have been added to give incentivisation in discharge of offsets.<br />
<ul style="list-style-type: disc;">
<li>Further, there will be<strong> no offset clause</strong> in government-to-government, single vendor and Intergovernmental Agreements (IGA).</li>
<li><strong>Offsets</strong> are a portion of a contracted price with a foreign supplier that must be <strong>re-invested in the Indian defence sector,</strong> or against which the government can purchase technology.</li>
<li><strong>Multipliers</strong> are credit values earned on offset transactions. A multiplier of 3 means a foreign company can claim credits upto three times of its actual offset investment.</li>
<li>The offset policy for defence deals <strong>was adopted in 2005</strong> for all defence capital imports above Rs. 300 crore under which the foreign vendor is required to invest at least 30% of the value of the contract in India.</li>
<li>Offset clause was hindering the transfer of technology, according to a recent CAG report.</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li><strong>Rationalization of Procedures for Trials and Testing:</strong> Scope of trials will be <strong>restricted to physical evaluation of core operational parameters.</strong></li>
</ul>
</li>
<li><strong>To Develop India into Global Manufacturing Hub:</strong><br />
<ul style="list-style-type: disc;">
<li><strong>FDI in Defence Manufacturing:</strong> Provisions have been incorporated like a new category<strong> &lsquo;Buy (Global &ndash; Manufacture in India)&rsquo;,</strong> to encourage foreign companies to set up manufacturing through its subsidiary in India.</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li><strong>To promote Make in India and Atmanirbhar Bharat initiatives:</strong><br />
<ul style="list-style-type: disc;">
<li><strong>Reservation in Categories for Indian Vendors:</strong> Some categories like Buy (Indian Indigenously Designed Developed and Manufactured -IDDM), Production Agency in Design &amp; Development etc. will be exclusively reserved for Indian Vendors and FDI of more than 49% is not allowed.</li>
<li><strong>Ban on Import of Certain Items:</strong> With a view to promote domestic and indigenous industry, the MoD will notify a list of weapons/platforms banned for import.</li>
<li><strong>Indigenisation of Imported Spares:</strong> Steps to promote manufacturing of parts in India have been taken. This includes establishment of co-production facilities through Intergovernmental Agreements (IGA) achieving <strong>&lsquo;Import Substitution&rsquo; and reducing Life Cycle Cost.</strong></li>
<li><strong>Overall Enhancement in Indigenous Content (IC):</strong> This has been done in all the categories, for products like softwares etc, as follows:<a href="http://www.drishtiias.com/images/uploads/1601366967_image1.png" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img class="content-img" src="http://www.drishtiias.com/images/uploads/1601366967_image1.png" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="650" caption="false" /></a></li>
</ul>
</li>
<li><strong>Other Features</strong><br />
<ul style="list-style-type: disc;">
<li><strong>Cost Cutting : Leasing</strong> has been introduced as a new category for acquisition in addition to the existing &lsquo;Buy&rsquo; and &lsquo;Make&rsquo; categories so that periodical rental payments are made instead of huge capital investment.</li>
<li>This will be useful for military equipment not used in actual warfare like transport fleets, trainers, simulators, among others.</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li><strong>Other Related Initiatives:</strong><br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li>Recently, the Ministry of Defence has formulated a <strong><a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/draft-defence-production-and-export-promotion-policy-2020" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Draft Defence Production and Export Promotion Policy 2020</a> (DPEPP 2020).</strong></li>
<li><a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/innovations-for-defence-excellence-idex-initiative#:~:text=iDEX%20aims%20to%20promote%20innovation,to%20carry%20out%20Research%20%26%20Development." target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Innovations for Defence Excellence (iDEX)</strong></a> has been operationalised to provide necessary incubation and infrastructure support to the startups in the defence area.<br />
<ul style="list-style-type: disc;">
<li>iDEX would be further scaled up to engage with 300 more startups and develop 60 new technologies/products during the next five years.</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li><a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/mission-raksha-gyan-shakti-1" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Mission Raksha Gyan Shakti</strong></a> was launched to promote a greater culture of innovation and technology development and file a higher number of patents in Defence Public Sector Undertakings (DPSUs), Ordnance Factory Board (OFB).<br />
<ul style="list-style-type: disc;">
<li>It would be scaled up for promoting the creation of Intellectual Property in the sector and its commercial utilisation.</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
<h3>Way Forward</h3>
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li>Self-reliance in defence manufacturing is a crucial component of effective defence capability and to maintain national sovereignty and achieve military superiority. The DAP 2020 not only protects the interests of domestic manufacturers by<a href="/to-the-points/paper3/indigenisation-of-defence" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong> indigenization of technology</strong></a>, but also provides impetus to foreign investment in the country.</li>
<li>Given the key geostrategic challenges, emanating from the threat of two-front war (against <a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/india-china-conflict" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>China</strong> </a>and <a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/pakistan-s-new-map" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Pakistan</strong></a> combinedly), India needs to carry out much-needed <a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-editorials/urgency-of-defence-reforms" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>defence reforms</strong></a>. DAP 2020 is the one of the many needed defence reforms.</li>
</ul>
<p><a href="https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/rajnath-singh-unveils-new-defence-acquisition-procedure/article32715556.ece" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Source: TH</strong></a></p>',
		'postdate' => object(Cake\I18n\FrozenTime) {},
		'url' => 'https://www.drishtiias.com/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/defence-acquisition-procedure-2020'
	],
	(int) 9 => [
		'title' => 'Promotion of Buddhist Sites',
		'catname' => 'News Analysis',
		'desc' => '<h3>Why in News</h3>
<p>The Ministry of Tourism has undertaken development of<a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-editorials/tourism-industry-in-india" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong> tourism</strong> </a>related infrastructure and facilities at various<strong> Buddhist Sites</strong> in the country under its flagship schemes of <strong>Swadesh Darshan &amp; PRASHAD.</strong></p>
<h3>Key Points</h3>
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li><strong>Steps Taken to Promote Buddhist Sites:</strong><br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li><strong>Swadesh Darshan Scheme:</strong> It has included Buddhist circuit and Spiritual circuit abong its <strong>13 thematic circuits</strong> under which buddhist sites are being promoted.</li>
<li><strong>PRASHAD Scheme:</strong> 30 projects for <strong>development of infrastructure</strong> have also been undertaken under the PRASHAD Scheme.</li>
<li><strong>Iconic Tourist Sites:</strong> Buddhist Sites at <a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/maha-bodhi-temple-complex" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Bodhgaya</strong></a>, <a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/ajanta-and-ellora-caves" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Ajanta &amp; Ellora</strong> </a>have been identified to be developed as <a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/iconic-tourist-sites" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Iconic Tourist Sites</strong></a> <strong>(aimed at enhancing India&rsquo;s soft power).</strong></li>
<li><strong>Buddhist Conclave: <a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/international-buddhist-conclave-2018" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Buddhist Conclave</a></strong> is organised every alternate year with the objective of promoting India as a Buddhist Destination and major markets around the globe.</li>
<li><strong>Diversity of Languages:</strong> Signages have been installed in <strong>Chinese</strong> language at buddhist monuments in Uttar Pradesh and in<strong> Sinhala</strong> language (official language of Sri Lanka) at Sanchi monuments in Madhya Pradesh.</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li><strong>PRASHAD Scheme:</strong><br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li>The &lsquo;National Mission on Pilgrimage Rejuvenation and Spiritual Augmentation Drive&rsquo; (PRASAD) was launched by the <strong>Ministry of Tourism</strong> in the year 2014-15 with the objective of <strong>holistic development of identified pilgrimage destinations.</strong></li>
<li>The name of the scheme was changed from PRASAD to<strong> &ldquo;National Mission on Pilgrimage Rejuvenation and Spiritual, Heritage Augmentation Drive (PRASHAD)&rdquo;</strong> in October 2017.<br />
<ul style="list-style-type: disc;">
<li>After the discontinuation of the HRIDAY scheme of the Ministry of Housing and Urban Development, the <strong>development of Heritage destinations</strong> was included in the PRASAD Scheme, changing it to PRASHAD.</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li><strong>Implementation Agency:</strong> The projects identified under this scheme shall be implemented through the identified agencies by the respective State/ Union Territory Government.</li>
<li><strong>Objective:</strong> <br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li><strong>Rejuvenation and spiritual augmentation</strong> of important national/ global pilgrimage and heritage sites.</li>
<li>Follow <strong>community-based development</strong> and create <strong>awareness</strong> among the local communities.</li>
<li><strong>Integrated tourism development</strong> of heritage city, local arts, culture, handicrafts, cuisine, etc., to generate livelihood.</li>
<li>Strengthen the mechanism for <strong>bridging the infrastructural gaps.</strong></li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li><strong>Swadesh Darshan Scheme</strong><br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li>Swadesh Darshan, a <a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/proposal-to-hike-monthly-pensions" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Central Sector Scheme</strong></a>, was launched in 2014 -15 for <strong>integrated development of theme based tourist circuits</strong> in the country.</li>
<li>Under the scheme, the Ministry of Tourism provides <strong>Central Financial Assistance (CFA)</strong> to State Governments/Union Territory Administrations for infrastructure development of circuits.</li>
<li>This scheme is envisioned to <strong>synergise with other schemes</strong> like <a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/swachh-bharat-mission-urban" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Swachh Bharat Abhiyan</strong></a>, <a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/pradhan-mantri-kaushal-vikas-yojana-pmkvy" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Skill India</strong></a>, <a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-editorials/assessment-of-make-in-india" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Make in India</strong></a> etc. with the idea of positioning the tourism sector as a major engine for job creation, driving force for economic growth, building synergy with various sectors to enable tourism to realise its potential.</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
<h3>Way Forward</h3>
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li>India&rsquo;s Buddhist heritage is not only important from the tourism point of view but is also a binding factor that strengthens its relationship with Asian countries, in line with its <a href="/loksabha-rajyasabha-discussions/the-big-picture-india-s-act-east-policy" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Act East Policy.</strong></a></li>
<li>As peace and <a href="/to-the-points/paper3/sustainable-development-3" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>sustainable development</strong></a> are interlinked, the Buddha&rsquo;s prism can be the guiding lights to every single stakeholder from local to global institutions and leaders, to work together for promoting dialogue, harmony, and justice based on compassion and wisdom.</li>
</ul>
<p><a href="https://pib.nic.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=1654149" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Source: PIB</strong></a></p>',
		'postdate' => object(Cake\I18n\FrozenTime) {},
		'url' => 'https://www.drishtiias.com/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/promotion-of-buddhist-sites'
	],
	(int) 10 => [
		'title' => 'New FDI Policy in Defence Sector',
		'catname' => 'News Analysis',
		'desc' => '<h3>Why in News</h3>
<p>Recently, the Union Cabinet approved a new <a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/rise-in-foreign-direct-investment" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Foreign Direct Investment</strong></a> <strong>(FDI)</strong> policy in the defence sector which allows the FDI through automatic approval to be increased from 49% to 74%.</p>
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li>Earlier, the defence industry can bring FDI up to 49% under the<strong> automatic route,</strong> and above it <strong>under government route.</strong></li>
<li>However, the new policy has a <strong>&lsquo;National Security&rsquo;</strong> clause as a condition which has been proposed by the <strong>Ministry of Commerce and Industry.</strong></li>
</ul>
<h3>Key Points</h3>
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li><strong>National Security Clause:</strong> FDI in the defence sector<strong> shall be subject to scrutiny on the ground of National Security</strong> and the <strong>Government reserves the right to review</strong> any foreign investment in the defence sector that may affect national security.</li>
<li><strong>Strengthening Indigenous Manufacturing:</strong> Through more <strong>liberalised FDI policy</strong> the government is seeking<strong> to attract foreign players</strong> to set up manufacturing units in India.<br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li>It has been focusing on the <strong>defence sector to act as an engine for boosting manufacturing in the country,</strong> and is <strong>aiming</strong> to achieve a turnover of Rs 1.75 lakh crore, including exports worth Rs 35,000 crore, by 2025. <br />
<ul style="list-style-type: disc;">
<li>As of 2019, the defence industry, along with the aerospace and shipbuilding industry, was estimated to be worth Rs. 80,000 crore, of which the share of Public Sector Units (PSUs) was nearly 80%.</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li>The government has brought a <a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/draft-defence-production-and-export-promotion-policy-2020" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>draft Defence Production and Export Promotion Policy 2020 (DPEPP 2020)</strong></a>, which <strong>aims</strong> to provide an overarching guiding document to provide a focused, structured and significant thrust to defence production capabilities of the country for self-reliance and exports.</li>
<li>The government has also brought a <a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/negative-imports-list-for-defence" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>negative imports list</strong></a> for defence equipment and a dedicated budget for capital acquisition from the domestic industry. <br />
<ul style="list-style-type: disc;">
<li>The negative imports list<strong> contains a list of weapons that will not be imported</strong> and can only be purchased from within the country.</li>
<li>It was done with an aim to <strong>reduce the defence import bill.</strong></li>
</ul>
</li>
<li>The government has <strong>inaugurated two defence industrial corridors,</strong> in <strong>Tamil Nadu and in Uttar Pradesh,</strong> to boost the flagship <a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-editorials/assessment-of-make-in-india#:~:text=On%20September%2025%2C%202014%2C%20the,surpassing%20the%20U.S.%20and%20China." target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>'Make in India'</strong></a> programme that in turn would attract investments as well as encourage employment generation.</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
<div class="border-bg">
<p><strong>Foreign Direct Investment</strong></p>
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li>FDI is an <strong>investment made by a firm or individual</strong> in one country into business interests located in another country.</li>
<li>Generally, FDI takes place when an investor establishes foreign business operations or acquires foreign business assets, including establishing ownership or controlling interest in a foreign company.</li>
<li>It is different from<strong> Foreign Portfolio Investment</strong> where the foreign entity merely buys equity shares of a company. FPI does not provide the investor with control over the business.</li>
<li>Routes through which India gets FDI:<br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li><strong>Automatic Route:</strong> In this, the foreign entity does not require the prior approval of the government or the RBI.</li>
<li><strong>Government route:</strong> In this, the foreign entity has to take the approval of the government.<br />
<ul style="list-style-type: disc;">
<li>The <strong>Foreign Investment Facilitation Portal</strong> (FIFP) facilitates the single window clearance of applications which are through approval route.</li>
<li>This portal is administered by the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT), Ministry of Commerce and Industry.</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
</div>
<h3>Way Forward</h3>
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li>The new FDI policy has the potential to reduce dependency on imports in the defence sector and boost manufacturing in India.</li>
<li>It will also provide employment and business opportunities to the Indian businesses and boost self-dependency.</li>
</ul>
<p><a href="https://indianexpress.com/article/business/economy/govt-puts-national-security-clause-in-defence-fdi-hike-to-74-per-cent-6589841/" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Source: IE</strong></a></p>',
		'postdate' => object(Cake\I18n\FrozenTime) {},
		'url' => 'https://www.drishtiias.com/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/new-fdi-policy-in-defence-sector'
	],
	(int) 11 => [
		'title' => 'Aatmanirbhar Bharat ARISE-Atal New India Challenge',
		'catname' => 'News Analysis',
		'desc' => '<h3>Why in News</h3>
<p>The <a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-editorials/atma-nirbhar-bharat-abhiyan-challenges" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Aatmanirbhar Bharat</strong> </a>ARISE-Atal New India Challenge (ANIC) Program, launched by the government, is a<strong> national initiative</strong> to promote <strong>research &amp; innovation</strong> and increase<strong> competitiveness</strong> of Indian <a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/policy-reforms-for-startups" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>startups</strong></a> and <a href="/to-the-points/paper3/micro-small-and-medium-enterprises-msme" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises</strong></a> (MSMEs).</p>
<h3>Key Points</h3>
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li><strong>Objective:</strong> To proactively collaborate with Ministries and the associated industries <strong>to catalyse research, innovation and facilitate innovative solutions</strong> to sectoral problems.<br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li>The objective is also to provide a steady stream of innovative products &amp; solutions where the Central Government Ministries/Departments will become the <strong>potential first buyers.</strong></li>
</ul>
</li>
<li><strong>Administration:</strong><br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li>The initiative will be carried under the <a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/aim-icrest-niti-aayog" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Atal Innovation Mission</strong></a> <strong>(AIM - an</strong> initiative by the <a href="/important-institutions/drishti-specials-important-institutions-national-institutions/niti-aayog-national-institution-for-transforming-india" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>NITI Aayog</strong></a>).</li>
<li>The programme will be driven by <a href="/important-institutions/drishti-specials-important-institutions-national-institutions/indian-space-research-organisation-isro" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Indian Space Research Organization</strong> </a><strong>(ISRO)</strong> and four ministries:<br />
<ul style="list-style-type: disc;">
<li>Ministry of Defence;</li>
<li>Ministry of Food Processing Industries;</li>
<li>Ministry of Health and Family Welfare; and</li>
<li>Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs.</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li><strong>Features:</strong> <br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li>The initiative will help promote techno-preneurs who deserve to be supported because of their immense potential of taking India forward.</li>
<li>A total of 15 sector-specific challenges will be selected where <strong>three challenges</strong> are kept for<strong> each ministry.</strong></li>
<li>A grant-of-aid of up<strong> Rs. 50 lakh</strong> for a period of 9 to 12 months have been earmarked for startups to develop <strong>a minimum usable prototype.</strong></li>
<li>Innovators would also be attracted by using the <a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/the-gandhian-challenge" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Mahatma Gandhi Challenge method.</strong></a><br />
<ul style="list-style-type: disc;">
<li>On the 150<sup>th</sup> birth Anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi, &lsquo;the Gandhian Challenge&rsquo; was launched.</li>
<li>It provides a platform for <strong>every child across India</strong> to ideate innovative solutions for a sustainable India of their dreams, using Gandhi&rsquo;s principles.</li>
<li>Broad categories in the challenge:<strong> Art &amp; Innovation and Science, Technology &amp; Innovation.</strong></li>
</ul>
</li>
<li>The Program is in line with the mandate of:<br />
<ul style="list-style-type: disc;">
<li><a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-editorials/assessment-of-make-in-india#:~:text=On%20September%2025%2C%202014%2C%20the,surpassing%20the%20U.S.%20and%20China." target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>&ldquo;Make in India&rdquo;</strong></a></li>
<li><a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/the-start-up-india-fund#:~:text=early%2Dstage%20companies.-,Startup%20India,innovation%20and%20entrepreneurship%20in%20India." target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>&ldquo;Startup India&rdquo;</strong></a></li>
<li>&ldquo;Aatmanirbhar Bharat&rdquo;</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li><strong>Role of the Indian Space Research Organisation :</strong><br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li>ISRO is the leading organization to promote innovations and entrepreneurship across the length and breath of our country.</li>
<li>ISRO has extensively supported MSMEs and has also set up R&amp;D labs across India to promote innovation and research in space science and technology.</li>
<li>ISRO is planning to <strong>adopt 100 <a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/launch-of-collabcad-in-atal-tinkering-labs" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Atal Tinkering Labs</a>,</strong> 3 each in each state and UTs.</li>
<li><strong>Three thrust areas identified by ISRO:</strong><br />
<ul style="list-style-type: disc;">
<li><strong>Propulsion:</strong> Green propellants, electric propulsion, and advanced air-breathing.</li>
<li><strong>Geo-spatial Information:</strong> Using <strong><a href="/loksabha-rajyasabha-discussions/in-depth-artificial-intelligence" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Artificial Intelligence</a> (AI)</strong> for crop monitoring, weather forecasting and programme evaluation.</li>
<li><strong>AI and Robotics:</strong> For supporting space exploration and outer space monitoring.</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
<h3>Importance of MSMEs for Indian Economy</h3>
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li>They are considered as the engine of growth in an economy.</li>
<li><strong>Employment:</strong> It is the second largest employment generating sector after agriculture. It provides employment to around 120 million persons in India.</li>
<li><strong>Contribution to GDP:</strong> With around 36.1 million units throughout the geographical expanse of the country, MSMEs contribute around 6.11% of the manufacturing GDP and 24.63% of the GDP from service activities.<br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li>MSME ministry has set a target to up its contribution to GDP to 50% by 2025 as India becomes a $5 trillion economy.</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li><strong>Exports:</strong> It contributes around 45% of the overall exports from India.</li>
<li><strong>Inclusive growth:</strong> MSMEs promote inclusive growth by providing employment opportunities in rural areas especially to people belonging to weaker sections of the society.</li>
<li><strong>Financial inclusion:</strong> Small industries and retail businesses in tier-II and tier-III cities create opportunities for people to use banking services and products.</li>
<li><strong>Promote innovation:</strong> It provides opportunity for budding entrepreneurs to build creative products boosting business competition and fuels growth.</li>
</ul>
<div class="border-bg">
<p><strong>Atal Innovation Mission</strong></p>
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li>AIM is Government of India&rsquo;s flagship initiative to promote a culture of innovation and entrepreneurship in the country.</li>
<li>It&rsquo;s <strong>objective</strong> is to develop new programmes and policies for fostering innovation in different sectors of the economy, provide platform and collaboration opportunities for different stakeholders, create awareness and create an umbrella structure to oversee the innovation ecosystem of the country.</li>
<li><strong>Major Initiatives:</strong><br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li><a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/launch-of-collabcad-in-atal-tinkering-labs" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Atal Tinkering Labs</strong></a>: These are creating problem solving mindset across schools in India.</li>
<li><strong>Atal Incubation Centers:</strong> Fostering world class startups and adding a new dimension to the incubator model.</li>
<li><strong>Atal New India Challenges:</strong> Fostering product innovations and aligning them to the needs of various sectors/ministries.</li>
<li><strong>Mentor India Campaign:</strong> A national mentor network in collaboration with the public sector, corporates and institutions, to support all the initiatives of the mission.</li>
<li><a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/atal-community-innovation-centre" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Atal Community Innovation Center:</strong></a> To stimulate community centric innovation and ideas in the <strong>unserved/underserved regions of the</strong> <strong>country</strong> including Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities.</li>
<li><strong>Atal Research and Innovation for Small Enterprises (ARISE):</strong> To stimulate innovation and research in the MSME industry.</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
<p><a href="http://www.drishtiias.com/images/uploads/1599727741_image4.png" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img class="content-img" src="http://www.drishtiias.com/images/uploads/1599727741_image4.png" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="350" caption="false" /></a></p>
</div>
<p><a href="https://pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=1652751#:~:text=ISRO%20and%20Four%20Ministries%20Roped%20In&amp;text=Atal%20Innovation%20Mission%20(AIM)%2C,in%20Indian%20MSMEs%20and%20startups." target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Source: PIB</strong></a></p>',
		'postdate' => object(Cake\I18n\FrozenTime) {},
		'url' => 'https://www.drishtiias.com/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/aatmanirbhar-bharat-arise-atal-new-india-challenge'
	],
	(int) 12 => [
		'title' => 'Rising Imports from China',
		'catname' => 'News Analysis',
		'desc' => '<h3>Why in News</h3>
<p>According to the latest figures from <strong>China&rsquo;s General Administration of Customs</strong> (GAC),<strong> Indian imports from China,</strong> its largest trading partner in goods, are <strong>on a rise</strong> after the months of June and July.</p>
<h3>Key Points</h3>
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li>India&rsquo;s imports from China had<strong> fallen to a record low of USD 3.2 billion</strong> both in the months of <strong>April and May,</strong> coinciding with the<a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/covid-19-now-pandemic-who" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong> pandemic</strong></a> <strong>induced <a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/lockdown-extended" target="_blank" rel="noopener">lockdowns.</a></strong></li>
<li>Imports <strong>subsequently rose to USD 4.8 billion in June</strong> and<strong> further to USD 5.6 billion in July,</strong> almost back to the pre-lockdown level of USD 5.8 billion reported in March.<br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li>It was mainly due to <strong>increased import of Chinese medical supplies.</strong></li>
<li><strong>Online shoppers in India seem to prefer Chinese mobile phones and electronic gadgets</strong> despite the environment of<a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/economic-measures-by-india-against-china" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong> anti-China sentiments</strong></a> in the nation.<br />
<ul style="list-style-type: disc;">
<li>As per the Prime Day 2020 sale data of Amazon, an <a href="/to-the-points/paper3/e-commerce-in-india" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>e-commerce</strong></a> giant, OnePlus, Oppo, Huawei&rsquo;s Honor and Xiaomi were among the top-selling smartphone brands in India.</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li>For the seven months of 2020, <strong>India&rsquo;s imports from China have reached USD 32.2 billion.</strong> However, It is <strong>still down by 24.7% year-on-year,</strong> mainly because of the record slump in April and May.</li>
<li><strong>Two-way trade between both countries is USD 43.37 billion</strong> and it continues to be <strong>heavily tilted in China&rsquo;s favour. Indian exports account for USD 11 billion</strong> and are <strong>up 6.7% year-on-year.</strong></li>
<li>China&rsquo;s <strong>exports overall rose 7.2% in July,</strong> beating most estimates, while imports fell 1.4% year-on-year.</li>
<li>China noticed a <strong>trade surplus of USD 62.33 billion,</strong> surpassing the estimated USD 42 billion.<br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li>The major reason behind this was the <strong>increased export of medical supplies and work-from-home equipment.</strong></li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
<h3>Initiatives to Support Local Entrepreneurs</h3>
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li><strong>Amazon Karigar Store:</strong><br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li>In <strong>2019,</strong> on the eve of the <a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/national-handloom-day-1#:~:text=Key%20Points,of%20this%20sector%20is%20highlighted." target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>National Handloom Day</strong> </a>(<strong>7<sup>th</sup> August</strong>), Amazon announced the launch of the Karigar store which showcases over 55,000 products, including more than 270 arts and crafts from 20 states.</li>
<li>It will give prominence to India&rsquo;s handicrafts heritage by enabling weavers and artisans to showcase <a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-editorials/assessment-of-make-in-india#:~:text=On%20September%2025%2C%202014%2C%20the,surpassing%20the%20U.S.%20and%20China." target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>&lsquo;Made in India&rsquo;</strong></a> products to customers.</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li><strong>Saheli Programme:</strong><br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li>In November 2017, Amazon launched this programme with the <strong>aim to empower and enable Indian women entrepreneurs to sell their products</strong> across the country.</li>
<li>Promotion of entrepreneurship amongst women has become the key motive of the programme.</li>
<li>It was rolled out in partnership with <strong>non-government social service entities</strong> like <strong>Self-Employed Women Enterprise</strong> (SEWA) and <strong>Impulse Social Enterprise.</strong></li>
</ul>
</li>
<li><strong>Amazon Launchpad:</strong><br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li>It is a<strong> marketplace within a marketplace</strong> as it works on two<strong> levels to create value for both Amazon shoppers and up-and-coming brands.</strong></li>
<li>New companies get the <strong>time and guidance</strong> they need to fine-tune their business and <strong>generate greater visibility</strong> for their products while <strong>shoppers enjoy early access to innovative products</strong> from the latest startups. <br />
<ul style="list-style-type: disc;">
<li>Since startups tend to have limited time and resources, they often need additional support to drive traffic to their products and get their business off the ground.</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li><strong>Significance:</strong><br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li>In the wake of the <a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/coronavirus-disease-named-covid-19" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Covid-19</strong></a> <strong>pandemic</strong> and the <a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/india-china-conflict" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>growing tensions between India and China</strong></a>, it is important to boost the local market and make the economy less dependent on imports.</li>
<li>By boosting up the local entrepreneurs and talent, their<strong> professions will become more profitable</strong> enabling them to have a better life.</li>
<li>The country will also profit from it by the <strong>reduced imports and a strong sustainable domestic market,</strong> strengthening the economy.</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
<p><a href="https://www.thehindu.com/business/Economy/indias-imports-from-china-rise-in-june-and-july/article32320584.ece#:~:text=India's%20imports%20from%20China%20have,down%20by%2024%25%20from%202019.&amp;text=China%20posted%20a%20trade%20surplus,given%20by%20economists%20to%20Reuters." target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Source: TH</strong></a></p>',
		'postdate' => object(Cake\I18n\FrozenTime) {},
		'url' => 'https://www.drishtiias.com/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/rising-imports-from-china'
	],
	(int) 13 => [
		'title' => 'Electric Vehicles Policy 2020: Delhi',
		'catname' => 'News Analysis',
		'desc' => '<h3>Why in News</h3>
<p>Recently, the Delhi government has notified the<strong> Electric Vehicles (EV) Policy 2020.</strong></p>
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li>It lays the maximum emphasis on replacement of two-wheelers, public transport and shared vehicles and goods-carriers instead of private four-wheelers, with <a href="/to-the-points/paper3/electric-vehicles-evs" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Electric Vehicles</strong></a> (EVs).</li>
</ul>
<h3>Key Points</h3>
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li><strong>Features:</strong><br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li>It envisions the <strong>replacement of the existing auto rickshaws and State-run buses with e-autos and e-buses</strong> respectively. It will also ensure that <strong>delivery-based services</strong> operating in the city are powered by e-mobility.</li>
<li>It talks about<strong> increasing road tax for fuel-based vehicles,</strong> at least in the luxury segment and imposing in certain parts of the city a congestion fee that EVs will be exempt from.</li>
<li>It has a<strong> &lsquo;scrapping incentive&rsquo;</strong> for those people who want to make the switch, allowing them to exchange an old fuel-based vehicle while purchasing a new EV, further reducing its cost.</li>
<li>The government will also <strong>offer low-interest rate loans</strong> to people interested in buying commercial EVs.</li>
<li>The policy also offers <strong>subsidies and road tax and registration fee waivers,</strong> for EVs bought in the capital.<br />
<ul style="list-style-type: disc;">
<li>At present, road tax ranges from 4% to 10% of the cost of the vehicle, while the registration fee could cost up to Rs. 3,000.</li>
<li>In addition, a subsidy of Rs. 5,000 per kWh of the battery capacity up to Rs. 30,000 will be given on the purchase of each EV.</li>
<li>For the first 1,000 e-cars or electric four-wheelers, a subsidy of Rs. 10,000 per kWh will be given, capped at Rs. 1,50,000 per vehicle.</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li>These <strong>grants will be in addition to the subsidies offered by the Union government</strong> under its <strong><a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/fame-ii-1#:~:text=The%20phase%202%20of%20FAME,2022%20for%20FAME%202%20scheme.&amp;text=The%20government%20will%20offer%20incentives,be%20used%20for%20commercial%20purposes." target="_blank" rel="noopener">FAME India Phase 2</a> scheme</strong>, which offers similar incentives, especially on the purchase of electric two-wheelers and electric heavy passenger and goods vehicles.</li>
<li>A<strong> State EV</strong> fund will be set up, encompassing all the expenditure of the EV Policy. A <strong>State Electric Vehicle Board</strong> will be constituted for effective implementation of the policy and managing the fund. Besides, a<strong> dedicated EV Cell</strong> will also be constituted.</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li><strong>Aims:</strong><br />
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li>To<strong> reduce<a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-editorials/tackling-the-air-pollution" target="_blank" rel="noopener"> air pollution</a></strong> and to<strong> kick-start the economy by spurring demand.</strong><br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li>Delhi experiences a public health emergency every winter due to the rise in air pollution, which has become a recurrent annual crisis.</li>
<li>During the <a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/coronavirus-disease-named-covid-19" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Covid-19</strong> </a>induced <a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/21-days-lockdown" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>lockdowns</strong></a>, the capital witnessed a drastic <strong><a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/covid-19-lockdown-improved-air-quality" target="_blank" rel="noopener">reduction in the PM10 and PM2.5 levels</a></strong>.</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li>To address both <strong>problems of the high cost of purchase</strong> and the <strong>lack of sufficient charging infrastructure.</strong></li>
<li>To register <strong>at least 5,00,000 EVs in Delhi</strong> in the <strong>next five years.</strong></li>
</ul>
</li>
<li><strong>Delivery-based and Ride-hailing Services:</strong><br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li>Ride-hailing service providers will be <strong>allowed to operate electric two-wheeler taxis</strong> subject to operating within the guidelines to be issued by the Transport Department.</li>
<li>It is expected that the incentives provided by the policy would <strong>encourage delivery service providers</strong> related to food delivery,<a href="/to-the-points/paper3/e-commerce-in-india" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong> e-commerce</strong></a> logistics providers and couriers to switch to using electric two-wheelers.</li>
<li>All delivery service providers shall be <strong>expected to convert 50%</strong> of their fleet operating in Delhi to electric <strong>by 31<sup>st</sup> March 2023</strong> and <strong>100% by 31<sup>st</sup> March 2025.</strong></li>
<li>Delivery service providers who <strong>commit to achieving these targets will be eligible for financing support</strong> from the Delhi Finance Corporation.</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li><strong>Autorickshaws:</strong><br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li><strong>Incentives</strong> will be provided related to the purchase<strong> (Rs. 30,000 per vehicle)</strong> and use of new electric autos.</li>
<li>An <strong>open permit system</strong> will be put in place to<strong> provide permits on a first-come, first-served basis</strong> to those with valid light motor vehicle driving licences and a Public Service Vehicle badge.<br />
<ul style="list-style-type: disc;">
<li>The open permit system for e-autos shall be subject to the cap on the maximum number of autos if the <a href="/important-institutions/drishti-specials-important-institutions-national-institutions/supreme-court-of-india" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Supreme Court</strong></a> will direct so in future.</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li>There will be<strong> no cap on permits issued to e-autos in Delhi</strong> since they are <strong>zero-emission vehicles and can be very effective in ensuring clean,</strong> last-mile connectivity.<br />
<ul style="list-style-type: disc;">
<li>Currently, there is a cap on the number of CNG-run auto rickshaws, allowed to ply in the city.</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li><strong>Buses:</strong><br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li>The policy envisions that <strong>half of the State-run buses to be procured over the next three years will be pure electric buses.</strong></li>
<li>It will start doing so with the <strong>induction of 1,000 pure electric buses by 2020.</strong></li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
<div class="border-bg">
<p><strong>Central Government Initiatives on EVs</strong></p>
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li>Government has set a <strong>target of EV making up 30% of new sales of cars and two-wheelers by 2030.</strong></li>
<li>To build a sustainable EV ecosystem, initiatives like <a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/national-electric-mobility-mission-2020#:~:text=Under%20its%20National%20Electric%20Mobility,electric%20vehicles%20in%20the%20country." target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>National Electric Mobility Mission Plan</strong></a> (NEMMP) and <strong>Faster Adoption and Manufacturing of (Hybrid &amp;) Electric Vehicles in India</strong> (FAME India) have been launched.<br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li><strong>NEMMP</strong> was launched in<strong> 2013</strong> with an aim to <strong>achieve national fuel security</strong> by promoting hybrid and EVs in the country. There is an ambitious target to achieve 6-7 million sales of hybrid and EVs year on year from 2020 onwards.</li>
<li><strong>FAME India</strong> was launched in <strong>2015</strong> with the objective to support hybrid/EV market development and manufacturing ecosystem. The scheme has 4 focus areas viz. technology development, demand creation, pilot projects and charging infrastructure.</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li>Organisations like <a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/bureau-of-indian-standards-bis-act-2016" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Bureau of Indian Standards</strong> </a>(BIS), Department of Heavy Industry, <strong>Automotive Research Association of India</strong> are devising design and manufacturing standards of EVs, Electric Vehicle Supply Equipment (EVSEs) and charging infrastructure to smoothen the advent of in-house production of EVs.</li>
</ul>
</div>
<h3>Way Forward</h3>
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li><strong>Affordable, accessible, inclusive and safe mobility solutions</strong> are primary strategic levers for rapid economic development and improving<a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/ease-of-living-index#:~:text='Ease%20of%20Living'%20as%20a,opportunities%2C%20economic%20dynamism%20or%20safety." target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong> &lsquo;Ease of Living&rsquo;.</strong></a></li>
<li>Establishing the right coordination among <strong>three pillars of EV industry</strong> viz. <strong>urban planning, transportation and power sectors</strong> will assist in systematic adoption of EVs.</li>
<li>EVs are a <strong>rapidly growing sunrise sector</strong> which can give a push to &lsquo;Make in India&rsquo;.</li>
</ul>
<p><a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-editorials/assessment-of-make-in-india#:~:text=On%20September%2025%2C%202014%2C%20the,surpassing%20the%20U.S.%20and%20China." target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Source: TH</strong></a></p>',
		'postdate' => object(Cake\I18n\FrozenTime) {},
		'url' => 'https://www.drishtiias.com/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/electric-vehicles-policy-2020-delhi'
	],
	(int) 14 => [
		'title' => 'National Handloom Day',
		'catname' => 'News Analysis',
		'desc' => '<h3>Why in News</h3>
<p>On the occasion of the <strong>6<sup>th</sup> National Handloom Day</strong> on <strong>7<sup>th</sup> August</strong> 2020, the Ministry of Textiles is organizing a virtual function in the wake of the <a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/coronavirus-disease-named-covid-19" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Covid-19 pandemic.</strong></a></p>
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li>The <strong>first</strong> National Handloom Day was celebrated in <strong>Chennai in 2015.</strong></li>
</ul>
<h3>Key Points</h3>
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li>The date, 7<sup>th</sup> August, was chosen as the <strong>Swadeshi Movement was launched</strong> on the same date in the year <strong>1905,</strong> which was based on <a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-editorials/legacy-of-lokmanya-tilak" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Bal Gangadhar Tilak's ideology of swadeshi</strong></a>.</li>
<li>On this day, the <strong>handloom weaving community is honoured</strong> and the <strong>contribution of this sector is highlighted.</strong></li>
<li><strong>Objectives:</strong><br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li>To <strong>generate awareness</strong> about the handloom industry amongst the public at large and its contribution to socio-economic development.</li>
<li>To<strong> protect India&rsquo;s handloom heritage</strong> and to enable the handloom weavers and workers with greater opportunities.</li>
<li>To <strong>ensure sustainable development</strong> of the handloom sector thereby empowering handloom workers financially and instilling pride in their exquisite craftsmanship.</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li><strong>Significance:</strong><br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li>Handloom sector is a <strong>symbol of India&rsquo;s glorious cultural heritage.</strong><br />
<ul style="list-style-type: disc;">
<li>India&rsquo;s<strong> soft power</strong> has long been endorsed by the handloom and handicraft space. &lsquo;Saree diplomacy&rsquo; and<strong> &lsquo;Khadi diplomacy&rsquo;</strong> are some such examples.</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li>The textiles and handloom sector in India is the <strong>second-largest source of employment</strong> to people, after <strong>agriculture.</strong><br />
<ul style="list-style-type: disc;">
<li>According to the <strong>Fourth All India Handloom Census 2019-20,</strong> 31.45 lakh households are engaged in handloom, weaving and allied activities.</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li>It is an important <strong>source of livelihood</strong> in the country and a<strong> key to women empowerment</strong> as over 70% of handloom weavers and allied workers are women.</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
<h3>Steps Taken</h3>
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li>A <strong>social media campaign</strong> has been planned for the handloom weaving community.<br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li>All the Secretaries of the States, Textile Bodies like the <a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/silk-samagra" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Central Silk Board</strong></a>, <a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/packaging-in-jute-bags-made-mandatory" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>National Jute Board</strong></a>, <a href="/to-the-points/paper3/e-commerce-in-india" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>e-commerce</strong></a> entities, retail companies and designer bodies have been requested to amplify the campaign.</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li>The Prime Minister has <strong>urged the people to use Indian handlooms and handicrafts and further spread awareness</strong> to others as well.<br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li>The more the world knows about the richness and diversity of these products, the greater Indian artisans and weavers will benefit.</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li>Under<strong> Atmanirbhar Bharat Abhiyan, Handloom Export Promotion Council</strong> (HEPC) is organising a <strong>Virtual Fair,</strong> connecting more than 150 participants from different regions of the country showcasing their products with unique designs and skills.<br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li>Various exquisite handloom products and numerous other <a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/gi-tag-to-two-products#:~:text=GI%20is%20an%20indication%20used,relating%20to%20goods%20in%20India." target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Geographical Indication (GI) Tagged</strong></a> products will be displayed to attract the attention of international buyers.</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li>Other events include the<strong> launching of a mobile app</strong> and <strong>backend website for Handloom Mark Scheme</strong> (HLM), the <strong>launching of My Handloom Portal,</strong> etc.<br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li>HLM was <strong>launched in 2006</strong> with the basic objective to brand Indian handloom products and secure a premium position for them in domestic as well as international markets.</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
<div class="border-bg">
<p><strong>Handloom Export Promotion Council</strong></p>
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li>It is a <strong>nodal agency</strong> constituted under the <strong>Ministry of Textiles,</strong> Government of India.</li>
<li>It was incorporated as a <strong>not-for-profit company under <a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/personal-protective-equipment-for-sanitation-workers#:~:text=Section%2025%20of%20the%20Companies%20Act%2C%201956%20provides%20an%20alternative,a%20Society%20for%20the%20purpose." target="_blank" rel="noopener">section 25 of the Companies Act, 1956.</a></strong></li>
<li><strong>Aim:</strong> To promote the exports of all handloom products like fabrics, home furnishings, carpets, floor coverings, etc.</li>
</ul>
</div>
<h3>Challenges</h3>
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li>Due to the Covid-19 induced <a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-editorials/covid-19-and-lockdown" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>lockdowns</strong></a>, norms of<strong> social distancing</strong> and the <strong>resultant economic turbulence,</strong> there are no handicraft and handloom exhibitions or markets.<br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li>It has <strong>impacted incomes and the entire supply chains</strong> involved in handloom and handicraft, along with <strong>supplies of raw materials and unused inventory.</strong></li>
<li>According to the <a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/tech-for-tribals-trifed#:~:text=The%20Tribal%20Cooperative%20Marketing%20Development%20Federation%20of%20India%20(TRIFED)%20came,the%20Ministry%20of%20Tribal%20Affairs." target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Tribal Cooperative Marketing Development Federation of India</strong></a> (TRIFED), tribal handicraft and handloom worth Rs. 100 crore went unsold owing to the lockdown.</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li><strong>Natural calamities</strong> such as the recent <a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/assam-s-flood-and-kaziranga-s-ecosystem" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Assam floods</strong> </a>also<strong> impact the livelihoods</strong> of artisans, especially in the silk clusters of the state.</li>
<li>The sector also faces the issues of<strong> cheap emulations, automated looms</strong> which <strong>threaten the sustenance of original arts and the timeless skills</strong> of the weavers.</li>
<li>The Centre has <strong>abolished the All India Handicrafts Board, ending the one official forum where weavers and craftspeople could raise their voices</strong> directly and were empowered to advise the government on policy and spending.<br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li>The move is in consonance with the government&rsquo;s vision of <strong>&lsquo;minimum government and maximum governance&rsquo;</strong> in the pursuit of achieving <a href="/to-the-points/paper4/good-governance-2" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>good governance</strong></a>, <strong>leaner government machinery</strong> and the <strong>need for systematic rationalisation</strong> of government bodies.<br />
<ul style="list-style-type: disc;">
<li>The government platforms for such direct interactions are <strong>fastly reducing which is a cause for concern.</strong></li>
</ul>
</li>
<li>The board was <strong>established in 1952</strong> and used to <strong>advise the Ministry of Textile on development programmes</strong> for handicrafts.</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
<h3>Suggestions</h3>
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li>There is a need to<strong> promote the finesse of Indian weavers globally</strong> to <strong>communicate, disseminate and engage</strong> with not just the global audience but the Indian diaspora as well.</li>
<li>The <strong>textile clusters should be encouraged</strong> in<strong> making masks and other medical equipment that uses textiles</strong> such as bedsheets, etc. contributing to the medical infrastructure.</li>
<li>Government programmes like <a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-editorials/atma-nirbhar-bharat-abhiyan-challenges" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Atmanirbhar Bharat Abhiyan</strong></a>, <strong><a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/economic-stimulus-iii#:~:text=A%20%E2%82%B910%2C000%20crore%20scheme,standards%2C%20build%20brands%20and%20marketing." target="_blank" rel="noopener">Vocal for Local</a> </strong>campaign and<a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-editorials/assessment-of-make-in-india" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong> Make in India</strong> </a>need to be popularised within the country to increase the domestic demand.</li>
<li><strong>Corporate organisations</strong> must buy products from <strong>artisans for the purposes of awards, corporate engagement programmes, and business gifting</strong> which will facilitate direct producer-consumer interface, thereby ensuring proper returns on the products to artisans.</li>
</ul>
<h3>Way Forward</h3>
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li>Initiatives such as the <strong>Northeast Expo 2019</strong> must be continued digitally so that states and the Centre have more online market portals for Indian handlooms, handicrafts and forest produce, as the sectors are interlinked.<br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li>The Northeast Expo 2019 through<strong> &lsquo;Tea and Khadi&rsquo; diplomacy</strong> helped in improving the trade ties with the <a href="/important-institutions/drishti-specials-important-institutions-international-institution/asean" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Association of Southeast Asian Nations</strong></a> (ASEAN) and <a href="/important-institutions/drishti-specials-important-institutions-international-institution/drishti-specials-important-international-bimstec" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation</strong></a> (BIMSTEC) nations.</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li>While the markets move online, it is <strong>equally important for the artisans to get adequately equipped and trained</strong> in operating online portals.</li>
<li><strong>Online exhibitions through Indian embassies must be organised</strong> to make the global audience aware of the rich legacy of handlooms and to honour artisans from India.</li>
</ul>
<p><a href="https://www.pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=1643739" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Source: PIB</strong></a></p>',
		'postdate' => object(Cake\I18n\FrozenTime) {},
		'url' => 'https://www.drishtiias.com/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/national-handloom-day-1'
	],
	(int) 15 => [
		'title' => 'Thenzawl Golf Resort in Mizoram',
		'catname' => 'News Analysis',
		'desc' => '<h3>Why in News</h3>
<p>Recently, the <strong>Thenzawl Golf Resort</strong> <strong>Project</strong> in <strong>Mizoram</strong>&nbsp;has been virtually inaugurated.</p>
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li>The project was implemented under the <strong>Swadesh Darshan Scheme</strong> of the Ministry of Tourism, Government of India.</li>
</ul>
<h3>Key Points</h3>
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li>The project was sanctioned under the <strong>Integrated Development of New Eco-Tourism</strong> under <strong>Swadesh Darshan-North East Circuit</strong> at Thenzawl and South Zote, District Serchhip and Reiek, Mizoram.<br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li>Eco-Tourism has been broadly defined as <strong><a href="/to-the-points/paper3/tourism-in-india" target="_blank" rel="noopener">tourism</a> which is ecologically sustainable.</strong></li>
</ul>
</li>
<li>A<strong> total amount of Rs. 92.25 crore</strong> was sanctioned for it, out of which Rs. 64.48 crore was sanctioned for various components at Thenzawl including the <strong>golf course which is designed to have facilities of international standards.</strong><br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li>The competitive advantage of Thenzawl Golf Course is that it will<strong> provide quality golfing experience at a fair price.</strong></li>
</ul>
</li>
<li><strong>Golf Tourism in India:</strong><br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li>Currently, India has<strong> more than 230 golf courses</strong> in all out of which several are of international standards and golf events held there <strong>attract domestic and international tourists.</strong></li>
<li>Golf tourism has a strong potential in India because the <strong>climatic condition is more favourable</strong> here as compared to most countries.</li>
<li>India&rsquo;s <strong>picturesque landscapes and exceptional hospitality services</strong> add to the enhanced experience.</li>
<li>The Ministry of Tourism, Government of India endeavours to work as a<strong> catalyst and active supporter</strong> for the development of golf tourism in the country.<br />
<ul style="list-style-type: disc;">
<li>For that, it is creating a <strong>comprehensive and coordinated framework for promoting golf tourism</strong> in India as a niche tourism product.</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
<div class="border-bg">
<p><strong>Swadesh Darshan Scheme</strong></p>
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li>It was <strong>launched in 2014-15</strong> for integrated development of <strong>theme-based tourist circuits</strong> in the country.<br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li>Currently, there are <strong>15 theme based circuits -</strong> Buddhist, Coastal, Desert, Eco, Heritage, Himalayan, Krishna, North-east, Ramayana, Rural, Spiritual, Sufi, Tirthankara, Tribal and Wildlife.</li>
<li>Theme-based tourist circuits are developed on the principles of high tourist value, competitiveness and sustainability in an integrated manner to enrich tourist experience and enhance employment opportunities.</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li>It is a <a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/proposal-to-hike-monthly-pensions" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Central Sector Scheme.</strong></a></li>
<li>Under the scheme, the Ministry of Tourism provides <strong>Central Financial Assistance</strong> (CFA) to State Governments/Union Territory Administrations for <strong>infrastructure development of circuits.</strong></li>
<li>This scheme is <strong>envisioned to synergise with other schemes</strong> like <a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/Swachh%20Bharat%20Mission" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Swachh Bharat Abhiyan</strong></a>, <a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-editorials/the-problem-of-skilling-india" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Skill India</strong></a>, <a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-editorials/assessment-of-make-in-india#:~:text=Make%20in%20India%20is%20designed,India%20a%20global%20manufacturing%20hub.&amp;text=To%20create%20100%20million%20additional%20manufacturing%20jobs%20in%20the%20economy%20by%202022." target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Make in India</strong></a>, etc. with the idea of positioning the tourism sector as a major engine for job creation, driving force for economic growth, building synergy with various sectors to enable tourism to realise its potential.</li>
</ul>
</div>
<p><a href="https://www.pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=1643290" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Source: PIB</strong></a></p>',
		'postdate' => object(Cake\I18n\FrozenTime) {},
		'url' => 'https://www.drishtiias.com/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/thenzawl-golf-resort-in-mizoram'
	],
	(int) 16 => [
		'title' => 'Electronics Manufacturing in India',
		'catname' => 'News Analysis',
		'desc' => '<h3>Why in News</h3>
<p>Recently, the Government of India <strong>unveiled three schemes</strong> with an outlay of about Rs. 48,000 crore to <a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/schemes-for-electronic-manufacturing" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>promote electronics manufacturing</strong></a> in India. <strong>These schemes are:</strong></p>
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li>Production Linked Incentive (PLI) Scheme.</li>
<li>Scheme for Promotion of Manufacturing of Electronic Components and Semiconductors (SPECS).</li>
<li><a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/electronics-manufacturing-clusters-emc2-0-scheme" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Modified Electronics Manufacturing Clusters (EMC 2.0) Scheme.</strong></a></li>
</ul>
<h3>Key Points</h3>
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li>The Indian electronics sector is <strong>tremendously growing</strong> with the <strong>demand expected to cross USD 400 billion by 2023-24.</strong></li>
<li><strong>Domestic production has grown</strong> from USD 29 billion in 2014-15 to nearly USD 70 billion in 2019-20 (<a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/important-facts-for-prelims-29th-april-2019" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Compounded Annual Growth Rate</strong></a> of 25%).</li>
<li>Most of this production takes place in the<strong> final assembly units</strong> (last-mile industries) located in India and <strong>focussing on them</strong> would help <strong>develop deep backward linkages,</strong> thus inducing industrialisation.<br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li>This was an idea propounded by<strong> economist Albert O Hirschman</strong> in his theory of <strong>&lsquo;Unbalanced Growth&rsquo;.</strong></li>
<li>The <a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/economic-survey-2019-20-highlights#:~:text=The%20Economic%20Survey%202019%2D20,its%20theme%20of%20%23WealthCreation%22." target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Economic Survey 2019-20</strong></a> also promoted this idea and suggested<strong> &ldquo;assembly in India for the world&rdquo;</strong>, especially in <strong>&ldquo;networked products&rdquo;,</strong> in a bid to create four crore well-paid jobs by 2025 and eight crore jobs by 2030.<br />
<ul style="list-style-type: disc;">
<li>This is the <strong>strategy that helped China</strong> become the economic superpower it is today.</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li>The recently launched <strong>PLI Scheme</strong> plans to achieve this goal by granting an <strong>incentive of 4-6% for domestic production.</strong></li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
<h3>Challenges</h3>
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li><strong>Missing Profits:</strong><br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li>Despite the impressive growth of electronic production in India, the<strong> net value added by production units is very low.</strong></li>
<li>The net value addition ranges <strong>between 5% and 15%,</strong> as most components are imported rather than locally sourced.</li>
<li>It implies that<strong> local value addition is a mere USD 7-10 billion</strong> out of a global market of USD 2.1 trillion.</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li><strong>Limited Indigenous Capability in Upstream Industries:</strong><br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li>In the era of <a href="/loksabha-rajyasabha-discussions/the-big-picture-restoring-global-supply-chains" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>global supply chains</strong></a>, the <strong>value addition at the final stages of production is very low,</strong> especially in electronics because the more complicated processes, involving greater value addition, occur prior to assembly, in <strong>&lsquo;upstream&rsquo; industries.</strong></li>
<li>These include the <strong>production of processors, display panels, memory chips, cameras, etc.</strong></li>
<li>Currently, these <strong>imports nearly constitute 80% of these components,</strong> with approximately <strong>67% of the imports coming from China</strong> alone.</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li><strong>Absence of Foundries:</strong><br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li>In the absence of<strong> foundries (semiconductor fabrication plants where microchips are produced),</strong> India has to<strong> rely on foreign contractors to produce microchips.</strong><br />
<ul style="list-style-type: disc;">
<li>There are about <strong>170 commercial foundries globally</strong> but India does not have a single one.</li>
<li>Chip manufacturers like Intel, TSMC and Samsung choose other countries instead of India<strong> citing uncertain domestic demand and poor cost efficiencies</strong> here.</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li><strong>Challenges in Set-up of Foundries:</strong><br />
<ul style="list-style-type: disc;">
<li>It <strong>requires massive capital expenditure</strong> to the tune of USD 2 billion and more.</li>
<li>Foundries are also required to<strong> adopt newer technologies and processes</strong> almost every 18 months to ensure competitiveness which means <strong>high capital depreciation</strong> and often accounts for 50-60% of the production cost.</li>
<li><strong>Domestic players</strong> have also shown low interest due to their <strong>inability to compete with tech giants in research and development (R&amp;D) and investment.</strong></li>
<li>Due to this, proposals to develop foundries in Gujarat and Uttar Pradesh in recent years were abandoned.</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li>Many industry experts also cite the<strong> lack of a foundry as contributing to low R&amp;D</strong> in this sector in India, which results in<strong> poor talent retention</strong> and eventually <a href="/current-affairs-news-analysis-editorials/news-editorials/26-02-2019" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>&lsquo;brain drain&rsquo;.</strong></a></li>
<li>The <a href="/important-institutions/drishti-specials-important-institutions-national-institutions/indian-space-research-organisation-isro" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Indian Space Research Organisation</strong></a> (ISRO) and the <a href="/important-institutions/drishti-specials-important-institutions-national-institutions/defence-research-and-development-organisation-drdo" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Defence Research and Development Organisation</strong> </a>(DRDO) have their own foundries but their use is <strong>restricted for space and defence systems,</strong> respectively.</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li><strong>National Security Considerations:</strong><br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li>Most of the chips, as well as components used in Indian communication and critical systems,<strong> are imported.</strong></li>
<li>This could <strong>hamper national security and sovereignty</strong> as <strong>backdoors could be programmed in chips</strong> during manufacturing, which could<strong> compromise networks and <a href="/to-the-points/paper3/cyber-security" target="_blank" rel="noopener">cyber-security</a>.</strong><br />
<ul style="list-style-type: disc;">
<li><strong>Backdoor</strong> refers to any method by which authorized and unauthorized users are able to get around normal security measures and gain high-level user access on a computer system, network or software application.</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li><strong>Increasing Imports:</strong><br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li>It is expected that <strong>electronics imports will soon overtake crude oil as India&rsquo;s largest import commodity</strong> which will result in assembly units ending up as little more than mere packaging units.</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
<h3>Suggestions</h3>
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li><strong>Increasing Investments:</strong> The<strong> total outlay of Scheme for Promotion of Manufacturing of Electronic Components and Semiconductors (SPECS) must be increased</strong> from the current Rs. 3300 crore, to attract the microchip giants.<br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li>The government launched SPECS to provide a <strong>25% incentive on capital expenditure for semiconductor manufacturing</strong> among other core components.</li>
<li>The <strong>economic impact of a foundry is immense</strong> and ranges from 6 to 23 times the investment in the plant.<br />
<ul style="list-style-type: disc;">
<li>According to a recent report, a single foundry can offset imports worth USD 8 billion over a projected period and have a further multiplier effect of USD 15 billion on the <a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/gdp-decreases-to-11-year-low#:~:text=Gross%20Domestic%20Product%20(GDP)%3A,output%20from%20the%20consumers'%20side." target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Gross Domestic Product</strong></a> (GDP).</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li><strong>Profiting from Anti-Chinese Sentiments:</strong> Due to the <a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/usa-bill-to-put-sanction-on-china" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>USA&rsquo;s allegations on China</strong> </a>for worsening <a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/coronavirus-disease-named-covid-19" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Covid-19</strong></a> and <a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/india-china-conflict" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>India-China conflict</strong></a> and <a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/economic-measures-by-india-against-china" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>recent developments as a result of it</strong></a>, numerous multinational companies (MNCs) are shifting their production out of China.<br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li>The <strong>USA</strong> and the <strong>UK</strong> have <strong>blocked China's access to chip making tools</strong> and <a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/tech-cold-war-between-u-s-a-and-china" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>designated Chinese telecom giants as national security threats.</strong></a></li>
<li>It is a golden <strong>opportunity for India to act fastly on it and attract</strong> this outgoing investment.</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li><strong>Pushing Make in India:</strong> There is a need to promote semiconductor manufacturing alongside assembly units in India.<br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li>This will <strong>induce greater local production of components</strong> and also fuel the growth of the industry as a whole, making <a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-editorials/assessment-of-make-in-india#:~:text=Make%20in%20India%20is%20designed,India%20a%20global%20manufacturing%20hub.&amp;text=To%20create%20100%20million%20additional%20manufacturing%20jobs%20in%20the%20economy%20by%202022." target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Make in India</strong> </a>successful.</li>
<li>In 2019, the Union Cabinet gave its approval to the <a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/national-policy-on-electronics-2019#:~:text=The%20Union%20Cabinet%20gave%20its,and%20Information%20Technology%20(MeitY).&amp;text=creating%20an%20enabling%20environment%20for%20the%20industry%20to%20compete%20globally." target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>National Policy on Electronics 2019</strong></a> which envisions positioning India as a <strong>global hub for Electronics System Design and Manufacturing.</strong></li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
<h3>Way Forward</h3>
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li>Today, India is one of the upcoming hubs for microchip designing with hundreds of start-ups making substantial progress in this field. Even some IITs have developed indigenous microchip designs like Shakti and Ajit.</li>
<li>The schemes to promote electronics manufacturing combined with the Prime Minister&rsquo;s call for an <a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/atmanirbhar-bharat-and-economic-stimulus" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>&lsquo;Atmanirbhar Bharat&rsquo;</strong></a>, have rejuvenated hopes of a rise of the indigenous electronics industry, allowing India to be truly self-sufficient.</li>
<li>It is only through such actions, India can hope to realise the dream of being a truly indigenous electronic ecosystem encompassing all aspects of the electronics industry.</li>
</ul>
<p><a href="https://www.thehindubusinessline.com/opinion/why-india-must-manufacture-microchips/article32131506.ece" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Source: BL</strong></a></p>',
		'postdate' => object(Cake\I18n\FrozenTime) {},
		'url' => 'https://www.drishtiias.com/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/electronics-manufacturing-in-india'
	],
	(int) 17 => [
		'title' => 'Mine Ploughs on T-90 Tanks',
		'catname' => 'News Analysis',
		'desc' => '<h3>Why in News</h3>
<p>Recently, the<strong> Ministry of Defence</strong> has signed <strong>Rs. 557 crore contract</strong> with the <strong>BEML Limited</strong> (formerly known as the <strong>Bharat Earth Movers Limited</strong>) for the procurement of <strong>1,512 mine ploughs for T-90 Tanks.</strong></p>
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li>The induction is <strong>expected to be completed by 2027.</strong></li>
</ul>
<p><a href="http://www.drishtiias.com/images/uploads/1595327601_image3.png" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong><img class="content-img" src="http://www.drishtiias.com/images/uploads/1595327601_image3.png" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="500" caption="false" /></strong></a></p>
<h3>Key Points</h3>
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li><strong>T-90 Tanks:</strong><br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li>These <strong>Russian-origin</strong> tanks are the <strong>Indian Army&rsquo;s main battle tanks.</strong></li>
<li>Indian Army recently deployed them in the <a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-editorials/galwan-valley-clash" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Galwan Valley</strong></a> sector of Ladakh amid the <a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/face-off-between-india-and-china" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>face-off with Chinese troops.</strong></a></li>
</ul>
</li>
<li><strong>Mine Ploughs:</strong><br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li>Mine ploughs <strong>help tanks to clear minefields and minimize risks to men and machines.</strong></li>
<li>After being fitted on T-90 Tanks, they will<strong> facilitate individual mobility</strong> to the tanks while negotiating a minefield.</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li><strong>Advantages:</strong><br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li>The <strong>mobility of the tank fleet will enhance manifolds</strong> which in turn would <strong>extend the reach of the armoured formations deep into enemy territory</strong> without becoming a mine casualty.</li>
<li>The decision is expected to boost the government&rsquo;s <a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-editorials/assessment-of-make-in-india#:~:text=On%20September%2025%2C%202014%2C%20the,surpassing%20the%20U.S.%20and%20China." target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>&lsquo;Make in India&rsquo;</strong></a> initiative.<br />
<ul style="list-style-type: disc;">
<li>As per the procedure, the contract has <strong>Buy and Make (Indian) categorisation</strong> with a minimum of <strong>50% indigenous content</strong> in the Make portion.</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
<div class="border-bg">
<p><strong>BEML Limited</strong></p>
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li>It was <strong>established in 1964</strong> as a <strong>Public Sector Undertaking</strong> (PSU).</li>
<li>It has <strong>partially disinvested</strong> and presently the <strong>Government of India owns 54%</strong> of total equity and the rest 46% is held by public and financial institutions, foreign institutional investors, banks and employees.</li>
<li>The company operates under<strong> three major business verticals</strong> viz. <strong>Mining and Construction, Defence and Rail and Metro.</strong></li>
</ul>
</div>
<p><a href="https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/defence-ministry-signs-557-cr-deal-for-t-90-tanks-mine-ploughs/article32140818.ece" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Source: TH</strong></a></p>',
		'postdate' => object(Cake\I18n\FrozenTime) {},
		'url' => 'https://www.drishtiias.com/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/mine-ploughs-on-t-90-tanks'
	],
	(int) 18 => [
		'title' => 'USA Extends Ban on Work Visas',
		'catname' => 'News Analysis',
		'desc' => '<h3>Why in News</h3>
<p>Recently, the USA has decided to<strong> extend the 60-day ban</strong> on<strong> immigrant and non-immigrant worker visas</strong> till the end of 2020.</p>
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li>The <strong>ban is effective immediately</strong> so the processing of <strong>all new <a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/h-1b-visa" target="_blank" rel="noopener">H-1B</a>, H-2B, J and L visa</strong> categories stands suspended.<br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li>There will be an exemption for professors and scholars on J visas as well as for some food industry workers needing an H-2B visa.</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
<h3>Key Points</h3>
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li><strong>Work Visas:</strong><br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li>The IT revolution,<strong> arrival of internet and low-cost computers</strong> in developing nations like India has given rise to the number of people who are <strong>willing to work at relatively low costs</strong> in the USA which is a win-win situation for both the employer and the employee.</li>
<li>The USA administration<strong> issues a certain number of visas each year to fill a vacuum of highly-skilled low-cost employees</strong> in IT and other related domains.</li>
<li>These visas allow companies from outside the USA to send employees to work on client sites.</li>
<li><strong>H-1B Visa:</strong><br />
<ul style="list-style-type: disc;">
<li>These are issued to skilled workers and the most popular among Indian IT companies.</li>
<li>H-1B is for people in Specialty Occupation and requires a higher education degree or its equivalent.</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li><strong>H-2B Visa:</strong> These are issued to seasonal workers in the landscaping and hospitality industries.</li>
<li><strong>L-1 Visa:</strong> It allows companies to transfer highly skilled workers to the USA for a period of up to seven years.</li>
<li><strong>H-4 Visas:</strong> It is for dependents of H-1B visa holders.</li>
<li><strong>J-1 Visas:</strong> It is for students on work-study summer programmes.</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li><strong>Reasons Behind the Suspension:</strong><br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li>The move intends to <strong>protect the domestic workers</strong> who had been impacted due to a contraction in the economy in the wake of the <a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/coronavirus-disease-named-covid-19" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Covid-19</strong></a> <a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/covid-19-now-pandemic-who" target="_blank" rel="noopener">pandemic</a>.<br />
<ul style="list-style-type: disc;">
<li>The overall unemployment rate in the USA nearly quadrupled between February and May of 2020, producing some of the most extreme unemployment rates ever recorded.</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li>The <strong>entry of additional workers</strong> through the H-1B, H-2B, J, and L non-immigrant visa programmes presents a significant threat to employment opportunities for domestic workers by <strong>undercutting their jobs.</strong></li>
<li>However, the USA held that post-ban, under normal circumstances, properly administered temporary worker programs can provide benefits to the economy.</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li><strong>People Affected:</strong><br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li>The new rule would <strong>apply only to those who are outside the USA and do not have a valid non-immigrant visa</strong> as of 23<sup>rd</sup> June and an official travel document other than a visa to enter the country. They will not be allowed to enter the USA until 31<sup>st</sup> December 2020.</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li><strong>People not Affected:</strong><br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li>No impact on<strong> lawful permanent residents of the USA </strong>and <strong>foreign nationals who are spouses or child of an American citizen.</strong></li>
<li><strong>Foreign nationals seeking to enter the USA to provide temporary labour or services essential to the food supply</strong> chain are also exempted from the latest proclamation.</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li><strong>Impact on Indian IT Companies:</strong><br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li><strong>Indian IT companies are amongst the biggest beneficiaries</strong> of the USA H-1B visa regime and corner a huge share of the total number of visas every year.<br />
<ul style="list-style-type: disc;">
<li>As of 1<sup>st</sup> April 2020, the <strong>US Citizenship and Immigration Services</strong> (USCIS) had received about <strong>2.5 lakh H-1B work visa applications </strong>and <strong>67% of that was applied by Indians.</strong></li>
</ul>
</li>
<li>It will significantly <strong>impact the margins and worker wages of Indian IT companies which send thousands of low-cost employees</strong> to work on client sites in the USA.</li>
<li>Though the large Indian IT companies in the USA have cut down their dependency on H-1B and other worker visas by hiring as much as 50% of staff locally, they<strong> still rely on these visas to keep costs in check.</strong></li>
</ul>
</li>
<li><strong>Overall Impact on India:</strong><br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li>Although it is desired that the USA revokes the ban but if it does not, then India may still have some positive impacts.<br />
<ul style="list-style-type: disc;">
<li><strong>Probable Increase in Remittances:</strong> With this ban, already employed skilled workers from India may get higher salaries which in turn would increase inflow of remittances.</li>
<li><strong>Addressing Brain Drain:</strong> Newly graduated skilled workers would seek opportunities in India itself, thereby addressing the issue of brain drain.</li>
<li><strong>Enhanced Self Reliance:</strong> India desperately needs the skilled workforce to work within the country in order to become more self-reliant (under <a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/atmanirbhar-bharat-and-economic-stimulus" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Atmanirbhar Bharat</strong></a>) and to realise the dream of<a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-editorials/assessment-of-make-in-india" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong> Make in India</strong></a> and the <strong><a href="/gist-of-economic-survey/gist-of-economic-survey-2018-19/gist-of-economic-survey2018-19" target="_blank" rel="noopener">5 trillion dollar economy.</a><br /></strong></li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
<h3>Criticism</h3>
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li>The move has been criticised for being <strong>misguided and harmful to the USA&rsquo;s own economy.</strong> It has the <strong>potential to do permanent damage</strong> to the USA's reputation of attracting the best and the brightest.</li>
<li>The ban on issuing visas will <strong>harm employers, families, universities, hospitals, communities and delay America&rsquo;s economic recovery.</strong></li>
<li>Without highly skilled immigrants, the industry will slow down and the economy will worsen affecting the timeline for a treatment and cure of Covid-19 as well.<br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li>The H-1B programme in particular plays a crucial role in addressing the shortage of healthcare professionals while also providing other key sectors of economy with talent from around the world to not only fill jobs but create new ones.</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li><strong>Legal immigration is a positive for the American economy</strong> and visa programs allow American companies to secure qualified, legal labour throughout the world which will not be the same after the move.</li>
</ul>
<h3>Way Forward</h3>
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li>Immigrants have played a crucial role in making the USA a global leader in cutting edge technology.</li>
<li>Suspending the visas will only weaken the USA's economy and its health care workforce at a time when there is a need to strengthen the both.</li>
<li>Politics should not trump smart policy and the ingenuity of migrant workers should be harnessed to revive an economy in dire straits.</li>
</ul>
<p><a href="https://indianexpress.com/article/explained/us-h1b-visa-suspension-india-it-companies-6471966/" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Source: IE</strong></a></p>',
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	],
	(int) 19 => [
		'title' => 'Country of Origin Made Mandatory on GeM',
		'catname' => 'News Analysis',
		'desc' => '<h3>Why in News</h3>
<p><strong>Government e-Marketplace (GeM),</strong> a Special Purpose Vehicle under<strong> the Ministry of Commerce and Industry,</strong> has made it mandatory for sellers to enter the <strong>Country of Origin</strong> while registering all new products on GeM.</p>
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li>GeM has taken this significant step to promote <a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-editorials/assessment-of-make-in-india" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Make in India</strong></a> and<strong><a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/atmanirbhar-bharat-and-economic-stimulus" target="_blank" rel="noopener"> Atma Nirbhar Bharat</a></strong> initiatives.</li>
</ul>
<h3>Key Points</h3>
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li><strong>Provisions:</strong> <br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li><strong>Indication of the Local Content:</strong> GeM has enabled a provision for indication of the percentage of local content in products.<br />
<ul style="list-style-type: disc;">
<li>Now, the<strong> Country of Origin</strong> as well as the <strong>local content percentage</strong> are visible in the marketplace for all items.</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li><strong>Make in India Filter:</strong> This new filter has been enabled on the portal so that the <a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/gem-samvaad" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>buyers</strong> </a>can choose to buy only those products that meet the minimum 50% local content criteria.<br />
<ul style="list-style-type: disc;">
<li>They can also switch on a new Make in India filter to see products that match their preferences on local content.</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li><strong>Significance of GeM:</strong><br />
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li><strong>Promotion of the &lsquo;Make in India&rsquo; Initiative:</strong> Since its inception, GeM has continuously worked towards promotion of the <strong>&lsquo;Make in India&rsquo;</strong> initiative.</li>
<li><strong>Entry of Small Local Sellers:</strong> The Marketplace has facilitated entry of small local sellers in Public Procurement, while implementing &lsquo;Make in India&rsquo; and <a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/support-and-outreach-initiative-for-msme-sector" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>MSME</strong></a> Purchase Preference Policies of the Government in the true sense.</li>
<li><strong>Transparent and Cost-effective Procurement:</strong> GeM is enabling quick, efficient, transparent and cost-effective procurement, especially when government organizations require products and services urgently to fight against the Covid-19 pandemic.</li>
<li><strong>Promotion of Atma Nirbhar Bharat:</strong> GeM has been promoting the Atma Nirbhar Bharat policy, introduced in the wake of the<a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-editorials/covid-19-and-india-1" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong> Covid-19</strong> </a><a href="/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/covid-19-now-pandemic-who" target="_blank" rel="noopener">pandemic</a>, meant to encourage self-reliance and boost small Indian manufacturers.</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
<div class="border-bg">
<p><strong>Government e-Marketplace (GeM)</strong></p>
<ul style="list-style-type: square;">
<li>GeM is a <strong>one-stop National Public Procurement Portal to facilitate online procurement</strong> of common use Goods &amp; Services required by various Central and State Government Departments/Organizations/Public Sector Undertakings (PSUs).</li>
<li>It was launched in <strong>2016 to bring transparency and efficiency</strong> in the government buying process.</li>
<li>It operates under the<strong> Ministry of Commerce and Industry.</strong></li>
<li>The procurement of goods and services by Ministries and the Central Public Sector Enterprises (CPSEs) is mandatory for goods and services available on GeM.</li>
<li>It also provides the<strong> tools of e-bidding and reverse e-auction to facilitate</strong> the government users achieve the best value for their money.</li>
<li>At present, GeM has more than 15 lakh products, around 20,000 services, and more than 40,000 Government buyer organizations.</li>
</ul>
</div>
<p><a href="https://pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=1633511#:~:text=Government%20e%2DMarketplace%20(GeM),all%20new%20products%20on%20GeM." target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Source: PIB</strong></a></p>',
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