Introduction • Alumnus of prestigious IMA, Dehradun and IIMC, Delhi • Ist Attempt: Cleared UPSC Exams & Interview • Visiting Faculty: UPSC CSE I Ex- Intelligence Bureau I Defence Journalism • Expert in Current Affairs, IR & Security • Expertise in Personality & Psychological Analysis for UPSC Interview Preparation www.insightsonindia.com Thought
www.insightsonindia.com The Daily Decode @ Important News I Editorial for Today • Gentleman politician Manmohan Singh opened up India’s economy in 1991 • Rise of Hizb ut-Tahrir (HUT) Terror Group & impact on India • Need to equip youth with skills in emerging technologies: PM • Editorial: India must take measures to reform crowd management • UPSC Prelims Impact I LPG Reforms / New Economic Policy (NEP) • Q&A + Titbits + Extra Mile www.insightsonindia.com The Daily Decode @
Important Articles Remembering the Gentleman Politician • India mourns the loss of one of its most esteemed leaders, Dr. Manmohan Singh, who passed away at the age of 92 • The former Prime Minister, regarded as the architect of India's economic liberalization, leaves a legacy of transformative leadership and unwavering service to the nation www.insightsonindia.com • Under his leadership, India emerged as a thriving economic powerhouse, with millions lifted out of poverty and countless opportunities created for future generations • When Dr Manmohan Singh arrived, our foreign exchange reserves were 3 billion; when he left, they stood at 300 billion www.insightsonindia.com The Daily Decode @ Manmohan Singh: Architect of India's Economic Reforms and Strategic Foreign Policy A Life of Service and Accomplishment • Early life and education: Born on September 26, 1932, in Gah, undivided Punjab (now in Pakistan), Dr. Manmohan Singh exemplified the resilience of Partition-affected individuals. • Academic brilliance: Earned a first-class degree in economics from Cambridge University and a D.Phil. from Oxford in the early 1960s, establishing himself as a distinguished economist. • Key roles: Before becoming Finance Minister in 1991, he held pivotal positions, including Chief Economic Adviser, Deputy Chairman of the Planning Commission, RBI Governor, and Union Finance Secretary. www.insightsonindia.com The Daily Decode @ Economic Reforms and Legacy • 1991 economic liberalization: As Finance Minister under Prime Minister P.V. Narasimha Rao, Dr. Singh implemented transformative reforms that redefined India's economic trajectory, addressing a severe financial crisis. • Recognition: Garnered global admiration for steering India out of economic turmoil and earning India a place in the global nuclear club. • Barack Obama’s praise: At the G-20 summit in 2010, President Obama remarked, “When the Prime Minister speaks, people listen.” www.insightsonindia.com The Daily Decode @ Prime Ministerial Tenure: 2004–2014 • Indo-U.S. nuclear deal (2008): Overcame opposition from Left parties and secured a crucial trust vote, forging stronger ties with the U.S. • Foreign policy shift: Departed from the Nehruvian non-alignment approach, strengthening relations with superpowers on more equal terms • Notable agreements: Signed a joint statement with Pakistan's Yusuf Raza Gilani in 2009, advocating dialogue despite domestic opposition. www.insightsonindia.com The Daily Decode @ Challenges and Controversies 1. Scandals and governance issues: Dr. Singh’s tenure saw allegations of corruption, including the 2G spectrum, coal block allocation, and Commonwealth Games scams. These incidents fueled public dissatisfaction and accusations of “policy paralysis.” 2. Criticism of leadership: Labeled as “remote-controlled” by Sonia Gandhi, though his defiance on the nuclear deal contradicted this narrative. 3. Public disapproval: Events such as Rahul Gandhi’s dismissal of an ordinance in 2013 and public protests following the Nirbhaya gang rape in 2012 added to the political turbulence. www.insightsonindia.com The Daily Decode @ Legacy and Reflection • Political resilience: Despite being termed an “accidental” or “weak” Prime Minister, he often took bold decisions, prioritizing national interests over political expediency • Media perception vs. history: Addressing his final press conference in January 2014, Dr. Singh expressed confidence that “history will be kinder” to him than contemporary media or political opposition. • Enduring legacy: His role in transforming India’s economy and redefining its foreign policy is commemorated by the grief and respect following his passing. www.insightsonindia.com The Daily Decode @ • His integrity, humility, and dedication to public service have left an indelible mark on the nation's history • Dr. Manmohan Singh’s passing marks the end of an era, but his visionary leadership and contributions to India's progress will continue to inspire generations to come • He was PURE GOLD - Glittering Yet Malleable www.insightsonindia.com www.insightsonindia.com www.insightsonindia.com www.insightsonindia.com The Daily Decode @ UPSC prelims Impact I LPG Reforms I New Economic Policy (NEP) Introduction • In 1991, an economic crisis, marked by external debt challenges and declining foreign reserves, prompted a pivotal shift • The government initiated Liberalization, Privatisation, and Globalization (LPG) reforms, redirecting India towards a new developmental trajectory • Complying with the international agencies’ conditions, India announced the New Economic Policy (NEP)/LPG Reforms www.insightsonindia.com The Daily Decode @ The NEP encompassed two primary strategies: 1. Stabilization Measures: Short-term measures to rectify balance of payments discrepancies and control inflation by maintaining adequate foreign exchange reserves 2. Structural Reform Measures: Long-term measures to augment the economy’s efficiency and international competitiveness by eliminating rigidities in various segments of the Indian economy www.insightsonindia.com The Daily Decode @ The core themes of the reforms were 1. Liberalization: It is the direction of reforms 2. Privatisation: It is path to the reforms 3. Globalisation: It is the ultimate aim of reforms www.insightsonindia.com The Daily Decode @ Consider the following statements regarding the New Economic Policy (NEP) of 1991: 1. The NEP was introduced as part of compliance with international agencies to address India's economic crisis. 2. The Stabilisation Measures under the NEP aimed at improving long-term economic efficiency and international competitiveness. 3. The Structural Reform Measures under the NEP focused on short-term measures to rectify the balance of payments crisis. 4. Liberalization, Privatisation, and Globalization (LPG) were the core themes of the NEP. Which of the above statements is/are correct? (A) 1 and 4 only (B) 1, 2, and 3 only (C) 2 and 3 only (D) 1, 3, and 4 only
www.insightsonindia.com The Daily Decode @ • Answer: (A) • Statement 1 is correct: The NEP was introduced in 1991 to comply with international agencies and address the economic crisis. • Statement 2 is incorrect: The Stabilisation Measures were short-term measures to address balance of payments and inflation issues, not long- term efficiency. • Statement 3 is incorrect: Structural Reform Measures were long-term measures aimed at improving economic efficiency and international competitiveness. • Statement 4 is correct: The NEP was built on the core themes of Liberalization, Privatisation, and Globalization (LPG). www.insightsonindia.com The Daily Decode @
Important Articles Threat of Hizb ut-Tahrir (HUT) Terror Group: India The Daily Decode @ Threat of Hizb ut-Tahrir (HUT) Terror Group: India • Around mid October India added a new group to its Terror lis, a group that was not recently active it's called Hizb ut-Tahrir (HuT) • The Hizb ut-Tahrir (HuT), a group founded in 1953 in Jerusalem with the goal of establishing a global Islamic caliphate, has become a concern for India and Bangladesh • Despite its claimed rejection of violence, its methods, strategies, and leadership positions in Bangladesh raise alarms www.insightsonindia.com The Daily Decode @ Background and History • Founding: Established in 1953, Jerusalem; the name translates to "Party of Liberation." • Ideology: Rejects secularism and democracy, aiming for a global caliphate akin to the Islamic State (ISIS). • Methods: Officially non-violent but uses radical propaganda to dismantle democratic values
www.insightsonindia.com The Daily Decode @ Hizb ut-Tahrir in Bangladesh ▪Formation: Introduced in 2000 by Nasimul Gani, a former bureaucrat ▪Early Years: Supported by the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), indifferent to radical Islamists. ▪Ban: In 2009, Sheikh Hasina banned the HuT www.insightsonindia.com The Daily Decode @ • Revival: Post-Hasina leadership, key figures like Nasimul Gani and Mehfuz Alam have assumed influential roles in governance • Nasimul Gani is the Home Secretary now (man who founded a terror group in Dhaka- now Bangladesh's top bureaucrat ) • Mehfuz Alam, part of Muhammad Yunus' cabinet, has stoked anti-India rhetoric. Example: Recent FB Post
www.insightsonindia.com www.insightsonindia.com www.insightsonindia.com The Daily Decode @ HuT Strategy and Operations • Target Audience: Professionals and students in urban areas, contrasting with Jamaat-e-Islami, which focuses on rural areas Methods of Radicalization: • Storytelling: Narratives of Muslim victimhood, Islamophobia, and opposition to Western ideologies • Shock, Demolish, Rebuild: Shock with claims of persecution, demolish faith in democracy, rebuild beliefs using Islamist ideology. Evidence of Influence: • October 2024: Students in Bangladesh rallied with ISIS flags, allegedly inspired by HuT narratives • Arrests followed, linking HuT to the march. www.insightsonindia.com The Daily Decode @ HuT in India • An active chapter exists, targeting Indian youth. Two HuT members in Tamil Nadu charged with recruitment efforts Government Response: India's Home Ministry hosted a counterterrorism meet in November, addressing HuT as a critical threat Concerns include: • Instability in the Northeast: Potential collaborations with separatist movements • Radicalization Spillover: Financial and ideological infiltration into Indian communities www.insightsonindia.com The Daily Decode @ Threats: • Increased radicalization and separatist ties in India's Northeast • Youth recruitment for Islamist agendas, as seen in Tamil Nadu • Challenges with Bangladesh: Dhaka's current government, led by Muhammad Yunus, includes radical-friendly figures, making cooperation difficult India's Approach: • Border Security: Tighten monitoring and patrols • Intelligence Operations: Expand surveillance and counter- radicalization efforts www.insightsonindia.com The Daily Decode @
Important Articles The Daily Decode @ Need to Equip Youth with Skills in Emerging Technologies, Says PM • PM’s vision: In a rapidly evolving world, emerging technologies like Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML) are reshaping industries • He emphasized the need for a futuristic approach to equip the youth with these skills. • Youth’s role in India’s progress: Highlighting the importance of young talent, he affirmed the government’s commitment to fostering self-confidence and supporting their development. • Technological transition: The era has transitioned from machines to machine learning, with AI replacing traditional software applications, necessitating a focus on future-ready skills. www.insightsonindia.com The Daily Decode @ Youth-Centric Policies and Initiatives Comprehensive focus areas: 1. Start-up ecosystem to drive innovation 2. Space economy to capitalize on India’s advancements in space technology 3. Sports and fitness sector to promote a healthy lifestyle 4. Fintech and manufacturing industries to strengthen economic resilience 5. Skill development and internships to prepare youth for emerging job markets www.insightsonindia.com The Daily Decode @ Veer Bal Diwas Celebration • Observed annually on December 26, the day honors the bravery and sacrifice of Guru Gobind Singh’s four sons, revered figures in Sikhism. • PM’s address: Delivered at the Veer Bal Diwas celebrations, highlighting India’s heritage and the aspirations of its youth www.insightsonindia.com The Daily Decode @ Launch of Suposhit Gram Panchayat Abhiyan • Mission goals: Promoting proper nutrition in village panchayats through healthy competition • Impact: Aimed at eliminating malnutrition across rural India, contributing to holistic development Call to Action for Youth • Sectoral excellence: PM urged the youth to make their mark in diverse fields, including railways, semiconductors, travel, and astronomy, aspiring to global standards www.insightsonindia.com The Daily Decode @ UPSC Mains Question • Discuss the role of emerging technologies like AI and ML in shaping India's future. How can youth- centric policies, as envisioned by government contribute to achieving this vision? (10 Marks, 150 words).
Important Articles The Daily Decode @ An Avoidable Tragedy: India Must Reform Crowd Management- Chronic Crowd Management Failures in India • India's alarming record: Between 1996 and 2022, the National Crime Records Bureau reported 3,935 stampede incidents, resulting in over 3,000 deaths • Contributing events: Religious festivals, political rallies, and celebrity appearances dominate the list of events leading to such tragedies. www.insightsonindia.com The Daily Decode @ Examples of past stampedes: ▪2011 Sabarimala tragedy: 106 deaths on a narrow pathway ▪2013 Kumbh Mela, Allahabad: 36 deaths at a railway station due to overcrowding ▪2014 Patna political rally: Over 30 fatalities during a Gandhi Maidan event The Recent Incident: Hyderabad Stampede • During the promotion of Pushpa 2: The Rule at Hyderabad’s Sandhya Theatre, a surprise appearance by actor Allu Arjun led to a stampede www.insightsonindia.com The Daily Decode @ Casualties: • Death: A 35-year-old woman, Revathi • Injury: Her 8-year-old son, Sri Tej, is critically injured • Compensation: Allu Arjun, along with the production team, has pledged ₹2 crore to Revathi’s family Questions raised: • Was the Hyderabad police adequately prepared for the crowd size? • Did the actor and his team respond swiftly to mitigate the crisis? Was it the duty of them or Local Police or Administration? • Recurring issues: Mismanagement, negligence, and poor planning mirror previous tragedies www.insightsonindia.com The Daily Decode @ Key Measures to Prevent Stampedes Crowd Comfort and Safety Design: • Ensure spatial comfort and consider thermal conditions for large gatherings • Provide hydration facilities to prevent exhaustion and dehydration Infrastructure Planning: • Establish multiple, well-marked entry and exit points • Plan points to accommodate projected crowd sizes effectively www.insightsonindia.com The Daily Decode @ Emergency Preparedness: • Deploy medical aid teams and trained personnel on-site • Implement chaos management protocols with clear communication strategies Technology in Crowd Management: • Use AI and surveillance systems to monitor crowd behavior in real-time • Employ mobile alerts and apps to guide crowd movement and provide emergency updates www.insightsonindia.com The Daily Decode @ Stringent Regulation and Accountability: • Mandate event safety audits for high-attendance gatherings • Define clear accountability for event organizers, law enforcement, and other stakeholders Conclusion • Stampedes reflect a systemic failure in crowd management and event planning • Whether for faith, fandom, or politics, India must implement rigorous measures to ensure public safety • Revathi’s tragic death is a stark reminder of the urgent need for actionable protocols and strict accountability www.insightsonindia.com The Daily Decode @ UPSC Mains Question • Stampedes in India are an unfortunate yet recurring tragedy. Analyze the reasons for frequent stampedes in the country and suggest measures to reform crowd management. (15 Marks, 250 words)
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