1. The Role and Importance of the Deputy Speaker in the Lok Sabha – Polity
Why in News?
The position of Deputy Speaker of the Lok Sabha, though constitutionally mandated under Article 93, has remained vacant throughout the 17th Lok Sabha (2019–2024). This raises significant constitutional and procedural concerns, prompting debates on the need for timely appointments and parliamentary reforms.
What the Constitution Says: Article 93
“The House of the People shall, as soon as may be, choose two members of the House to be respectively Speaker and Deputy Speaker…”
- Mandatory Provision: The phrase “shall, as soon as may be” indicates constitutional urgency, though no fixed timeline is prescribed.
- The Deputy Speaker is elected by members of the Lok Sabha, typically soon after the Speaker is elected.
Functions and Significance of the Deputy Speaker
| Function | Description |
|---|---|
| Presiding Over Sessions | Chairs Lok Sabha proceedings in the absence of the Speaker to ensure uninterrupted legislative business. |
| Ensuring Impartiality | Must act above party politics, ensuring equal opportunity for all members during debates. |
| Committee Leadership | Heads critical parliamentary committees such as the Business Advisory Committee, managing legislative priorities and session agendas. |
| Support During Crisis Sessions | Plays a key role during high-stakes sessions like the Budget Session or No-Confidence Motions, preventing procedural deadlocks. |
Historical & Institutional Context
- The post originated from the Deputy President of the Central Legislative Assembly during the colonial period.
- In independent India, the Deputy Speaker has traditionally been offered to a member of the Opposition as a symbol of bipartisanship, though this is a convention, not a rule.
Issues Arising from Prolonged Vacancy
| Concern | Implication |
|---|---|
| Constitutional Violation | Extended vacancy contravenes the spirit of Article 93. |
| Lack of Backup Presiding Authority | May disrupt legislative functioning during Speaker’s absence. |
| Erosion of Parliamentary Norms | Undermines the practice of promoting non-partisan conduct in the House. |
| Political Centralization | May lead to excessive concentration of power in the ruling party, weakening parliamentary checks. |
Proposed Reforms
- Mandated Timeline: Set a fixed period (e.g., 30 days after Speaker’s election) for electing the Deputy Speaker.
- Formalizing Opposition Role: Institutionalize the practice of electing the Deputy Speaker from the Opposition to promote checks and balances.
- Judicial Clarification: The Supreme Court may be called upon to interpret “as soon as may be” in Article 93 to enforce timely appointments.
🇮🇳 Relevance to Himachal Pradesh
- Himachal Pradesh’s MLAs and MPs contribute to central legislative processes. Awareness of parliamentary roles is crucial for GS Paper 2 and for public administration roles.
- HP Vidhan Sabha also follows similar structures, making this knowledge applicable in state-level governance and legislative responsibilities.
Summary
- Article 93 of the Constitution mandates the election of a Deputy Speaker for the Lok Sabha.
- The Deputy Speaker acts as a neutral presiding authority in the absence of the Speaker.
- The position has been vacant since 2019, raising constitutional and procedural concerns.
- Reforms like fixed election timelines and opposition-based selection are being proposed.
- The role is critical for legislative stability, democratic fairness, and continuity of House proceedings.
Exam Connect – Possible Questions
Prelims :
1. Which Article of the Constitution mandates the election of the Deputy Speaker of the Lok Sabha?
A. Article 93
B. Article 89
C. Article 80
D. Article 94
Answer: A
2. Which of the following statements is correct regarding the Deputy Speaker of Lok Sabha?
- The Constitution prescribes a time limit for electing the Deputy Speaker.
- The Deputy Speaker is usually from the Opposition party.
A. 1 only
B. 2 only
C. Both 1 and 2
D. Neither 1 nor 2
Answer: B
3. Who presides over the Business Advisory Committee in the Lok Sabha when the Speaker is unavailable?
A. Prime Minister
B. Leader of the Opposition
C. Deputy Speaker
D. Parliamentary Affairs Minister
Answer: C
Mains :
- Discuss the constitutional role and practical significance of the Deputy Speaker of the Lok Sabha. What are the implications of the prolonged vacancy in this position? (250 words)
- Critically analyze the need for institutional reforms to ensure the timely election of the Deputy Speaker in India’s parliamentary democracy. (250 words)
- How does the role of the Deputy Speaker contribute to the balance of power and impartiality in the legislative process? Suggest reforms to strengthen this office. (250 words)
2. TN Revives Push for State Autonomy – Echoes of Rajamannar Committee After 50 Years – Polity
Why in News?
Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M.K. Stalin has set up a high-level committee, headed by former Supreme Court judge Justice Kurian Joseph, to review Centre-State relations and recommend reforms to protect and enhance state autonomy. This move revisits concerns raised by the Rajamannar Committee formed in 1969 under CM C.N. Annadurai, marking a significant moment in India’s federal discourse.
What Was the Rajamannar Committee?
- Formed in 1969 by the Tamil Nadu government (then under DMK).
- Chaired by P.V. Rajamannar, a former Chief Justice of the Madras High Court.
- Aimed to evaluate Centre-State relations and recommend ways to restore state autonomy.
- Released its report in 1971, which continues to influence federalism debates in India.
Key Observations of the Rajamannar Committee
| Issue | Observation |
|---|---|
| De Facto Centralization | Although the Constitution is federal in form, in practice, the Centre dominates. |
| Misuse of Constitutional Articles | Articles 256, 257, and 365 allow the Centre to direct states, undermining autonomy. |
| President’s Rule (Art. 356) | Often used politically to dismiss opposition state governments. Recommended repeal or strict limitations. |
| Inter-State Council | Recommended strengthening Article 263 to institutionalize dialogue and cooperation. |
| Financial Dependence | Criticized the use of discretionary grants and bodies like the Planning Commission (now replaced by NITI Aayog) that centralize control. |
| Political Centralization | Warned of “triple danger” to federalism: central planning, central funding, and same-party rule at both levels. |
Constitutional Articles Mentioned
| Article | Provision |
|---|---|
| Article 256 | States must follow laws of Parliament and Centre’s directions. |
| Article 257 | Centre can give directions to ensure national interest. |
| Article 365 | Non-compliance with Centre’s directives can be treated as a constitutional breakdown (used to justify Article 356). |
| Article 263 | Provides for the Inter-State Council to resolve disputes and coordinate policies. |
Contemporary Relevance
- The new TN committee comes amidst disputes over:
- NEET (education policy vs state autonomy),
- GST compensation delays,
- Language imposition concerns.
- Reflects a larger trend of states demanding more fiscal freedom, policy-making space, and political respect.
Federalism and Indian Polity:
India follows “quasi-federalism”:
- A federal system with a strong Centre, as described by the Supreme Court.
- However, debates over cooperative vs coercive federalism have intensified in recent years.
Relevance for Himachal Pradesh:
- HP, like other states, is affected by centrally designed schemes, funding patterns, and policy mandates (e.g., health, education, infrastructure).
- Understanding federal dynamics helps in roles involving state governance, policy negotiation, and center-state coordination.
Summary
- Tamil Nadu has revived federalism debate by appointing a committee under Justice Kurian Joseph.
- This echoes the Rajamannar Committee (1969), which critiqued increasing centralization and proposed key reforms.
- Issues include misuse of Article 356, financial control, and undermining of federal balance.
- Aims to protect state autonomy while maintaining constitutional unity.
- Reflects broader calls for cooperative federalism and democratic decentralization.
Exam Connect – Possible Questions
Prelims :
1. Which constitutional article provides for the establishment of an Inter-State Council?
A. Article 263
B. Article 280
C. Article 275
D. Article 356
Answer: A
2. The Rajamannar Committee was set up to examine which of the following?
A. Electoral reforms
B. Language policy
C. Centre-State relations
D. Public sector disinvestment
Answer: C
3. Which of the following correctly explains Article 256 of the Indian Constitution?
A. It empowers the Centre to amend state laws
B. It allows the President to impose Emergency
C. It requires states to comply with laws made by Parliament
D. It deals with financial grants to states
Answer: C
Mains :
- Discuss the recommendations of the Rajamannar Committee and their relevance in contemporary debates on federalism in India. (250 words)
- Centre-State relations in India often reflect a tension between constitutional federalism and political centralization. Examine this statement with recent examples. (250 words)
- Critically analyze the need for institutional mechanisms like the Inter-State Council to strengthen cooperative federalism in India. (250 words)
3. Padma Awards: 2024 Civil Investiture Ceremony Held at Rashtrapati Bhawan – Polity
Why in News?
The President of India recently conferred 4 Padma Vibhushan, 10 Padma Bhushan, and 57 Padma Shri Awards at the Civil Investiture Ceremony-I, held at the Ganatantra Mandap in Rashtrapati Bhawan. These awards recognize distinguished service across various fields.
What Are the Padma Awards?
| Award | Criteria |
|---|---|
| Padma Vibhushan | For exceptional and distinguished service |
| Padma Bhushan | For distinguished service of a high order |
| Padma Shri | For distinguished service in any field |
Introduced:
- 1954, alongside the Bharat Ratna
- Originally categorized as Pahela Varg, Dusra Varg, Tisra Varg, and renamed in 1955 via Presidential Notification.
Key Features of the Padma Awards
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Eligibility | All persons are eligible, regardless of race, gender, occupation. Govt servants are not eligible except for doctors and scientists. |
| Posthumous Awards | Allowed only in highly deserving cases |
| Disciplines Covered | Art, Literature, Education, Medicine, Public Affairs, Social Work, Science, Sports, Civil Services, Industry, etc. |
| Award Ceremony | Held annually around March–April, presented by the President of India |
| Award Limit | Capped at 120 awards per year, excluding posthumous and foreign awardees |
| International Scope | Open to NRIs, foreign nationals, and OCIs |
| No Title Status | Cannot be used as a prefix or suffix (i.e., not Padma Shri X) |
| Legal Standing | The awards are not considered titles under Article 18 of the Constitution and therefore do not violate the constitutional ban on titles. |
Selection and Approval Process
- Nominations: Open to the public via online portal; also submitted by ministries, states, and institutions.
- Screening: Handled by the Padma Awards Committee, headed by the Cabinet Secretary.
- Recommendations: Committee forwards recommendations to the Prime Minister, who then advises the President for final approval.
- Announcement: Made annually on the eve of Republic Day (January 25th).
Constitutional Context
- Article 18(1) of the Indian Constitution prohibits the state from conferring titles, except military or academic distinctions.
- The Supreme Court in Balaji Raghavan v. Union of India (1996) ruled that Padma Awards are not “titles” under Article 18, provided they are not used as honorifics.
🇮🇳 Relevance to Himachal Pradesh
- Several Padma awardees hail from Himachal Pradesh in fields like folk art, medicine, mountaineering, and public service.
- Recognizing local achievers encourages aspirational governance, community engagement, and talent promotion.
- Useful for GS2 answer writing on citizen recognition, grassroots contributions, and non-political nation-building efforts.
Summary
- Padma Awards recognize non-political, exceptional contributions in multiple fields.
- Instituted in 1954, renamed to current structure in 1955.
- Governed by a structured nomination, screening, and approval process.
- Cannot be used as titles—ensures constitutional compliance under Article 18.
- Annual cap: 120 awards, excluding foreign and posthumous recognitions.
Exam Connect – Possible Questions
Prelims :
1. Which of the following statements about Padma Awards is correct?
A. They are considered titles under Article 18
B. Government employees are fully eligible for all Padma Awards
C. Padma Shri is awarded for exceptional bravery in the military
D. Padma Vibhushan is awarded for exceptional and distinguished service
Answer: D
2. Who heads the Padma Awards Committee that recommends awardees?
A. President of India
B. Vice President
C. Prime Minister
D. Cabinet Secretary
Answer: D
3. Which of the following is not true about the Padma Awards?
A. They are announced on the eve of Republic Day
B. Posthumous awards are strictly prohibited
C. Awardees receive a certificate and medallion
D. Awards may be given to foreign nationals
Answer: B
Mains :
- Discuss the constitutional validity and significance of the Padma Awards in the context of Article 18. How do they contribute to inclusive national recognition? (250 words)
- The Padma Awards are India’s way of honouring excellence beyond the political domain. Evaluate the effectiveness of their selection process and impact on public perception. (250 words)
- Examine the role of national civilian awards like the Padma Awards in recognizing regional and grassroots-level contributions in India. (250 words)
4. Sariska Tiger Reserve’s Critical Tiger Habitat to Expand by 4,500 Hectares – Environment
Why in News?
The Critical Tiger Habitat (CTH) of Sariska Tiger Reserve (STR) in Rajasthan is set to expand by approximately 4,500 hectares, enhancing tiger conservation efforts. This expansion is driven by scientific studies of tiger movements, ensuring larger, disturbance-free core areas for breeding and survival.
What is a Critical Tiger Habitat (CTH)?
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Definition | CTHs are core areas of Tiger Reserves notified under the Wildlife Protection Act (WLPA), 1972, specifically under Section 38V. |
| Purpose | To create inviolate spaces for tigers and other wildlife, free from human interference. |
| Human Activity | Prohibited in CTHs (relocation may be considered in compliance with Forest Rights Act, 2006). |
| Buffer Zones | Surrounding areas that support co-existence with sustainable activities like eco-tourism, grazing, etc. |
| Legal Framework | Notified by the State Government in consultation with the National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA). |
Sariska Tiger Reserve (STR): Ecological Profile
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Alwar district, Rajasthan |
| History | Declared a sanctuary in 1955, national park in 1979; included in Project Tiger in 1978 |
| Conservation Milestone | Notorious for tiger extinction due to poaching in early 2000s; successful tiger relocation and reintroduction since 2008 |
| Flora | Semi-deciduous forests, grasslands, rocky terrain; Dhok tree is dominant |
| Fauna | Tigers, leopards, nilgai, sambar, chital, wild boar |
| Hydrology | Ruparel River enhances biodiversity and water availability |
Why Expand the CTH?
- Scientific Basis: Based on tiger movement studies, requiring larger undisturbed territories for breeding and protection.
- Ecological Security: Aids genetic diversity, reduces human-wildlife conflict, and supports prey base expansion.
- Legal Compliance: Supports India’s commitment to Global Tiger Recovery Program (GTRP) and conservation under international conventions (like CITES).
- Forest Rights Act (FRA), 2006: Ensures tribal rights are respected and rehabilitation is done in a participatory manner.
Largest Critical Tiger Habitat in India
- Nagarjunasagar-Srisailam Tiger Reserve (NSTR) – 5,937 sq. km
Largest CTH in India
(Also asked in UPSC Prelims 2020)
🇮🇳 Relevance to Himachal Pradesh
- Himachal Pradesh has increasing wildlife-human conflict zones and can learn from STR’s rehabilitation and buffer management.
- Understanding Protected Area categories, tiger conservation models, and core-buffer strategies is essential for forest officers and civil servants.
Summary
- CTHs are notified under Wildlife Protection Act, 1972 to conserve tigers in core, disturbance-free zones.
- STR in Rajasthan is expanding its CTH by 4,500 hectares.
- STR is known for successful tiger reintroduction after extinction due to poaching.
- Buffer zones allow human-forest coexistence through regulated activities.
- Nagarjunasagar-Srisailam has the largest CTH in India.
Exam Connect – Possible Questions
Prelims :
1. Which law provides for the notification of Critical Tiger Habitats in India?
A. Forest Conservation Act, 1980
B. Environment Protection Act, 1986
C. Wildlife Protection Act, 1972
D. Biological Diversity Act, 2002
Answer: C
2. Which of the following statements about Critical Tiger Habitats (CTH) is/are correct?
- CTHs are core areas where human activities are permitted under strict regulation.
- They are notified based on scientific studies and in consultation with NTCA.
A. 1 only
B. 2 only
C. Both 1 and 2
D. Neither 1 nor 2
Answer: B
3. Which of the following Tiger Reserves has the largest Critical Tiger Habitat in India?
A. Corbett
B. Ranthambore
C. Nagarjunsagar-Srisailam
D. Sundarbans
Answer: C
Mains :
- Discuss the role of Critical Tiger Habitats in the conservation strategy for tigers in India. Examine the ecological and legal challenges involved in their expansion. (250 words)
- Sariska Tiger Reserve has been a pioneering example of tiger reintroduction after local extinction. Analyze the lessons it offers for wildlife conservation and human-wildlife conflict mitigation. (250 words)
- Examine the importance of buffer zones in India’s tiger reserves. How do they help in balancing conservation with local community livelihoods? (250 words)
5. Kuldiha Wildlife Sanctuary: Conservation Challenges Amidst Poaching Incident – Environment
Why in News?
A recent poaching incident involving an exchange of gunfire between forest guards and a poacher has brought renewed attention to the Kuldiha Wildlife Sanctuary in Odisha, highlighting ongoing challenges in wildlife conservation and protection of endangered species.
Kuldiha Wildlife Sanctuary: Key Facts
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Location | Balasore district, Odisha |
| Area | 272 sq. km |
| Biogeographic Zone | Part of the Chota Nagpur Plateau and Eastern Ghats |
| Ecological Role | Part of the larger Similipal–Kuldiha–Hadgarh Elephant Reserve |
| Hydrology | Drained by the Kuldiha stream and its tributaries |
| Connectivity | Linked to the Similipal Tiger Reserve via Nato and Sukhupada hill ranges, facilitating species migration and genetic exchange |
Flora and Vegetation
- Dominant forests:
- Peninsular Sal Forests
- Moist Mixed Deciduous Forests
- Important tree species:
- Sal (Shorea robusta)
- Jamun (Syzygium cumini)
- Piyasal (Pterocarpus marsupium)
- Bahera (Terminalia bellirica)
Fauna: Conservation Significance
| Species | Status |
|---|---|
| Asiatic Elephant | Endangered (IUCN Red List); forms part of elephant corridors |
| Leopard | Vulnerable |
| Gaur (Indian Bison) | Vulnerable |
| Avifauna | Rich bird diversity including Hornbills and Hill Mynas |
- Elephant Corridors: The sanctuary plays a crucial role in maintaining elephant migration routes within Odisha and into neighboring states, thereby reducing human-wildlife conflict.
Challenges to Conservation
| Challenge | Description |
|---|---|
| Poaching | Ongoing threat to elephants and big cats, as highlighted by the recent incident |
| Habitat Fragmentation | Due to development activities, illegal encroachment |
| Human-Wildlife Conflict | Increasing due to proximity of villages and agriculture to forest zones |
| Insufficient Resources | Forest staff often face limitations in equipment, training, and manpower |
Legal and Policy Framework
- Protected under the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972
- Part of India’s broader strategy under:
- Project Elephant
- National Wildlife Action Plan
- Eastern Ghats Biodiversity Conservation Plans
🇮🇳 Relevance to Himachal Pradesh
- Understanding models like Kuldiha is important for managing wildlife corridors in forested areas of HP (e.g., Dhauladhar, Great Himalayan National Park zones).
- HP faces growing human-leopard conflicts; insights from Kuldiha on eco-sensitive protection and anti-poaching strategies are valuable for forest officials and planners.
- Kuldiha Wildlife Sanctuary in Odisha is part of the Similipal–Kuldiha–Hadgarh Elephant Reserve.
- It covers 272 sq. km and is rich in Sal-dominated forests and mixed deciduous vegetation.
- Home to Asiatic Elephants, Leopards, Gaur, and Hornbills.
- Ecologically linked to Similipal Tiger Reserve, enhancing wildlife movement and habitat continuity.
- Faces threats from poaching, human encroachment, and resource gaps in forest management.
Summary
Exam Connect – Possible Questions
Prelims :
1. Kuldiha Wildlife Sanctuary, recently in news, is located in which Indian state?
A. Chhattisgarh
B. Jharkhand
C. Odisha
D. Andhra Pradesh
Answer: C
2. Which of the following correctly describes the flora of the Kuldiha Wildlife Sanctuary?
A. Alpine coniferous forests
B. Tropical thorn scrub forests
C. Moist mixed deciduous forests and Sal forests
D. Temperate evergreen forests
Answer: C
3. Kuldiha Wildlife Sanctuary is part of which larger conservation reserve?
A. Eastern Himalayan Biosphere Reserve
B. Satpura–Melghat Corridor
C. Similipal–Kuldiha–Hadgarh Elephant Reserve
D. Nallamala Biosphere Reserve
Answer: C
Mains :
- Discuss the ecological importance of Kuldiha Wildlife Sanctuary in the context of Eastern Ghats biodiversity conservation. What challenges does it face and how can they be addressed? (250 words)
- Human-wildlife conflict and poaching are twin threats to India’s protected areas. Using Kuldiha Wildlife Sanctuary as a case study, suggest measures to ensure better conservation outcomes. (250 words)
- Critically examine the role of wildlife corridors in conservation. How do sanctuaries like Kuldiha contribute to maintaining ecological connectivity? (250 words)
6. National Supercomputing Mission (NSM): Boosting India’s HPC Ecosystem – Science and Technology
Why in News?
The National Supercomputing Mission (NSM), launched in 2015, continues to expand India’s high-performance computing (HPC) capacity. The mission has now deployed over 34 supercomputers with a total capacity of 35 Petaflops, aiming to make India self-reliant in supercomputing and strengthen its digital and scientific infrastructure.
About the National Supercomputing Mission (NSM)
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Launch Year | 2015 |
| Implemented By | Jointly by Department of Science and Technology (DST) and Ministry of Electronics and IT (MeitY); Executed by C-DAC and IISc Bangalore |
| Objective | To develop indigenous supercomputing capabilities, reduce dependency on imports, and support sectors like weather forecasting, AI, education, healthcare, and defense |
| Target | Build and deploy 70+ supercomputers with Petascale to Exascale capabilities across academic and R&D institutions |
Key Achievements of NSM
| Achievement | Details |
|---|---|
| Supercomputing Infrastructure | 34+ supercomputers deployed with 35 Petaflops cumulative performance |
| Utilization | Supercomputers utilized at 85–95% capacity by researchers |
| Research Impact | Over 1,500 research papers published using NSM computing resources |
| Human Resource Development | 22,000+ individuals trained in HPC and AI through 5 regional centers (Pune, Chennai, Kharagpur, Goa, Palakkad) |
| Computing Output | Over 1 crore computing jobs completed |
| Indigenization | Development of “Rudra”, India’s first indigenously designed HPC server |
| AI Integration | Deployment of AIRAWAT, India’s AI-focused supercomputing infrastructure |
Strategic Importance of Supercomputing
| Sector | Application |
|---|---|
| Weather Forecasting | Accurate monsoon predictions, cyclone tracking (IMD, ISRO) |
| Drug Discovery & Genomics | Faster biomedical computations (e.g., COVID-19 modeling) |
| Defense & Space | Simulations, satellite data processing, secure communications |
| Academia & Research | Supports universities, IITs, and R&D centers for simulation-based research |
| Climate Change | Advanced climate modeling and environmental impact studies |
| AI & Machine Learning | Enables deep learning models, big data analytics, and innovation |
🇮🇳 Indigenization & Atmanirbhar Bharat Impact
- “Rudra” and other HPC servers developed to reduce import reliance.
- Promotes Make in India by using indigenous hardware, software, and system integration.
- Supports data sovereignty, essential for strategic sectors.
🇮🇳 Relevance to Himachal Pradesh
- Supercomputing centers can support climate modeling, disaster prediction, hydrology, and agricultural optimization in mountainous terrains like HP.
- Opportunities for technical upskilling and research collaboration for HP-based universities and research centers.
Summary
- National Supercomputing Mission (2015) aims to build indigenous supercomputing capability.
- Over 34 supercomputers deployed; 35 Petaflops capacity achieved.
- Supports over 10,000 researchers, produces 1,500+ papers, and enables AI innovation (AIRAWAT).
- Indigenous HPC servers like Rudra mark a step toward self-reliance in digital infrastructure.
- Mission is vital for science, defense, health, climate, and economic development.
Exam Connect – Possible Questions
Prelims :
1. Which of the following institutions is not involved in the implementation of the National Supercomputing Mission (NSM)?
A. Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology
B. Department of Science and Technology
C. NITI Aayog
D. C-DAC
Answer: C
2. “Rudra,” recently in the news, refers to:
A. India’s AI robot
B. Indigenous 5G modem
C. High-performance computing server
D. Satellite launch system
Answer: C
3. AIRAWAT, under NSM, is associated with:
A. Water purification system
B. AI supercomputing infrastructure
C. Cyber security surveillance
D. Solar energy generation
Answer: B
Mains :
- Discuss the objectives and achievements of the National Supercomputing Mission (NSM). How does it contribute to India’s digital sovereignty and technological self-reliance? (250 words)
- High-performance computing is the backbone of modern scientific research and AI innovation. Examine how India’s NSM aligns with global trends in supercomputing. (250 words)
- Evaluate the impact of the National Supercomputing Mission on research, defense, and economic sectors in India. What further steps are needed to achieve Exascale computing capability? (250 words)
7. Trends in World Military Expenditure Report 2024 – SIPRI – Defence & Security
Why in News?
The Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI) has released its 2024 edition of the “Trends in World Military Expenditure” report, highlighting a record-breaking global military spending of $2.46 trillion, driven by ongoing conflicts and rising geopolitical tensions.
Key Highlights of the 2024 Report
| Indicator | Data |
|---|---|
| Total Global Defence Spending | $2.46 trillion (2024) — up from $2.24 trillion in 2023 |
| % of Global GDP | Increased to 9% in 2024 (Possible typographical error; usually around 2%—double-check with official SIPRI) |
| Top 5 Spenders | USA, China, Russia, Germany, India — account for 60% of global spending |
| USA | $916 billion; 66% of NATO and 37% of global defence expenditure |
| China | $314 billion (+7%) — continuing 30-year trend of growth |
| India | Among top 5; military spending is 9x higher than Pakistan’s |
| Europe | $693 billion (+17%) — driven by Russia-Ukraine war |
| Middle East | Rise due to Israel-Hamas conflict and regional instability |
India vs Pakistan: Military Spending Disparity
- India’s military budget in 2023-24 is nearly nine times that of Pakistan.
- Reflects India’s expanding focus on:
- Border security (LAC, LOC)
- Maritime dominance (Indian Ocean)
- Modernization of armed forces (procurement of Rafales, S-400s, submarines)
- Pakistan’s budget remains constrained by:
- Economic crisis
- Debt obligations
- Dependency on external aid (e.g., China, Gulf nations)
Geopolitical Drivers of Rising Expenditure
| Region | Conflict / Cause |
|---|---|
| Europe | Russia’s war on Ukraine, NATO resurgence |
| Middle East | Israel-Hamas conflict, Iranian involvement |
| Asia-Pacific | US-China tensions in Taiwan, Indo-Pacific maritime concerns |
| Africa | Military coups, terrorism, and civil unrest |
| South Asia | India’s strategic response to China (LAC) and Pakistan (LOC) threats |
India’s Defence Priorities (2024)
- Indigenization & Make in India: Focus on building domestic capacity through initiatives like Defence Production Policy, Atmanirbhar Bharat, Defence Corridors (Tamil Nadu, UP).
- Modernization: Procurement of advanced equipment (Rafale M, S-400, Dhanush artillery).
- Cyber & Space Defence: Focus on AI-based warfare, satellite surveillance, DRDO research.
- Tri-service Integration: Push for joint theatre commands and interoperability.
🇮🇳 Relevance to Himachal Pradesh
- Defence-related developments impact military personnel welfare, border management, and employment in HP (which contributes significantly to Indian armed forces).
- Candidates from HP must understand India’s defence budgeting trends and regional implications for effective public administration and policy implementation.
Summary
- Global military spending in 2024 reached $2.46 trillion.
- Top 5 spenders: USA, China, Russia, Germany, India.
- India’s military budget is 9x larger than Pakistan’s—indicative of strategic asymmetry.
- Surge in military expenditure linked to conflicts (Ukraine, Israel-Hamas) and global insecurity.
- India prioritizes self-reliance, modernization, and regional security dominance.
Exam Connect – Possible Questions
Prelims :
1. Which organization publishes the annual “Trends in World Military Expenditure” report?
A. RAND Corporation
B. SIPRI
C. IISS
D. World Economic Forum
Answer: B
2. As per the 2024 SIPRI report, which country had the highest military expenditure globally?
A. China
B. India
C. Russia
D. USA
Answer: D
3. According to SIPRI 2024, the combined spending of the top 5 military powers accounts for approximately what percent of global military expenditure?
A. 45%
B. 50%
C. 60%
D. 70%
Answer: C
Mains :
- The global rise in military expenditure reflects a shifting security landscape. Examine the drivers behind increased defence spending, with special reference to India’s defence strategy. (250 words)
- Discuss the strategic implications of India’s military spending surpassing Pakistan’s by a wide margin. How does this shape South Asia’s security dynamics? (250 words)
- Critically analyze the role of institutions like SIPRI in shaping global military transparency and policy dialogue. How should India use such data in its diplomatic and defence strategies? (250 words)