8th March 2025-Current Affairs

1. Parvatmala Pariyojana (National Ropeways Development Program) – Governance

Why in News?

The Union Cabinet has approved two ropeway projects in Uttarakhand under the National Ropeways Development Programme (Parvatmala Pariyojana):

1. Govindghat to Hemkund Sahib Ji (12.4 km)
2. Sonprayag to Kedarnath (12.9 km)

These projects aim to enhance connectivity in hilly areas, particularly religious and tourist destinations.

• Parvatmala Pariyojana was introduced in the 2022-23 Union Budget.
• The programme aims to develop safe, economical, and efficient ropeway infrastructure across India’s mountainous and congested urban areas.
• Over 200 projects have been identified with an estimated cost of ₹1.25 lakh crore.
• The projects will be executed primarily through Public-Private Partnerships (PPP), with the Government of India providing up to 60% financial support.

Key Features of Parvatmala Pariyojana

Objectives of Parvatmala Pariyojana

1. First- and Last-Mile Connectivity
   • Ropeways provide seamless transport in difficult terrains.
2. Boost to Tourism
   • Facilitates access to pilgrimage sites & eco-tourism destinations.
3. Reduction in Traffic Congestion
   • Alternative to road travel in high-density areas.
4. Economic Growth & Job Creation
   • Strengthens local economies & infrastructure.
5. Eco-Friendly Transportation
   • Reduces carbon emissions compared to traditional transport.

Implementation & Collaboration

Benefits of Ropeway Projects Under Parvatmala Pariyojana

Major Ropeway Projects Under Parvatmala Pariyojana

• Himachal Pradesh stands to benefit immensely due to its mountainous terrain & high tourist inflow.

Relevance for Exam

• Geography & Infrastructure Development
  • Impact of ropeways on transportation in hilly regions.
  • Challenges of road connectivity in Himalayan states like HP.
• Economy & Tourism
  • Boost to religious & adventure tourism in India.
  • Job creation & economic benefits in the tourism sector.
• Environment & Sustainability
  • Ropeways as an eco-friendly transport solution.
  • Reduction of vehicular emissions & road congestion.
• Governance & Policy Implementation
  • Public-Private Partnerships (PPP) in infrastructure projects.
  • Role of state governments in implementing central schemes.

Possible Exam Questions (Prelims & Mains)

Prelims (MCQ) Based Questions:

1. Which ministry is responsible for implementing Parvatmala Pariyojana?
   a) Ministry of Tourism
   b) Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH)
   c) Ministry of Environment
   d) Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs
2. Which agency is the implementing authority for Parvatmala Pariyojana?
   a) Indian Railways
   b) NITI Aayog
   c) National Highways Logistics Management Limited (NHLML)
   d) Border Roads Organisation (BRO)
3. Which of the following is NOT an objective of Parvatmala Pariyojana?
   a) Improving connectivity in hilly areas
   b) Promoting eco-friendly transportation
   c) Enhancing tourism infrastructure
   d) Developing railway corridors across India
4. Which state recently received two major ropeway projects under Parvatmala Pariyojana?
   a) Himachal Pradesh
   b) Uttarakhand
   c) Arunachal Pradesh
   d) Sikkim
5. What percentage of financial support does the Government of India provide for ropeway projects under Parvatmala Pariyojana?
   a) 40%
   b) 60%
   c) 75%
   d) 100%

Mains (Descriptive) Based Questions:

1. Discuss the objectives and significance of Parvatmala Pariyojana in improving connectivity in hilly regions of India.
2. Analyze the economic and environmental benefits of ropeway projects under Parvatmala Pariyojana.
3. How can Parvatmala Pariyojana contribute to tourism and rural development in Himachal Pradesh? Suggest policy measures for its successful implementation.
4. Explain the role of Public-Private Partnerships (PPP) in the execution of ropeway projects under Parvatmala Pariyojana.
5. Evaluate the potential challenges in implementing ropeway infrastructure projects in India and suggest solutions.

Final Takeaway

The Parvatmala Pariyojana is a transformational initiative that:

• Enhances connectivity in hilly regions like Himachal Pradesh.
• Boosts tourism, economic growth, and job creation.
• Reduces road congestion and provides an eco-friendly transport solution.
• Uses the Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model for efficient execution.

With over ₹1.25 lakh crore allocated for 200+ projects, the scheme is crucial for Himachal Pradesh and other mountainous regions in India’s transport & tourism sectors.

2. Real Estate Regulatory Authority (RERA) – Governance

Why in News?

The Supreme Court has recently criticized the performance of the Real Estate Regulatory Authority (RERA), calling it “disappointing.”

• In September 2024, the court referred to RERA as a “rehabilitation centre for former bureaucrats”, indicating concerns over its ineffectiveness in fulfilling its mandate.
• RERA was established under the Real Estate (Regulation and Development) Act of 2016 to ensure transparency, accountability, and timely project completion in the real estate sector.
• Despite its intended consumer protection role, the delayed resolution of cases and bureaucratic inefficiencies have raised concerns.

Objectives of RERA

Key Provisions of the RERA Act, 2016

Issues & Challenges with RERA Implementation

Positive Impacts of RERA

Relevance for Exam

• Governance & Policy Implementation
  • State-level implementation of Central laws (Challenges in uniform application of RERA).
  • Public sector accountability & transparency (Supreme Court’s concerns about inefficiency).
• Economy & Infrastructure Development
  • Impact of real estate on economic growth.
  • FDI & investment in the housing sector.
• Consumer Rights & Social Justice
  • Legal protections for homebuyers & dispute resolution mechanisms.

Possible Exam Questions (Prelims & Mains)

Prelims (MCQ) Based Questions:

1. Which year was the Real Estate (Regulation and Development) Act passed?
   a) 2014
   b) 2016
   c) 2018
   d) 2020
2. What is the primary function of RERA?
   a) Providing housing loans
   b) Regulating real estate projects & protecting homebuyers
   c) Managing municipal housing policies
   d) Controlling urban land usage
3. Which of the following provisions is NOT part of RERA?
   a) Mandatory project registration for developments over 500 sq. meters
   b) Control over land acquisition policies
   c) 70% escrow fund requirement for developers
   d) Penalties for misleading advertisements
4. What is the purpose of the escrow account under RERA?
   a) To store funds for all real estate projects
   b) To ensure developers use funds only for the registered project
   c) To facilitate online property transactions
   d) To collect government taxes on real estate
5. Which judicial body can homebuyers approach if they are dissatisfied with RERA’s decision?
   a) Supreme Court of India
   b) National Consumer Disputes Redressal Commission (NCDRC)
   c) Real Estate Appellate Tribunal (REAT)
   d) Lok Adalat

Mains (Descriptive) Based Questions:

1. Discuss the objectives and key provisions of the RERA Act, 2016. How has it impacted the real estate sector in India?
2. Critically analyze the Supreme Court’s recent criticism of RERA’s functioning. What reforms are necessary for improving its effectiveness?
3. Explain the role of escrow accounts under RERA in ensuring financial discipline in the real estate sector.
4. Evaluate the challenges in implementing RERA at the state level and suggest measures to strengthen its effectiveness.
5. How does RERA contribute to consumer protection and transparency in India’s real estate market? Discuss with examples.

Final Takeaway

The Real Estate Regulatory Authority (RERA) was created to protect homebuyers and regulate the real estate sector by ensuring:

• Transparency in transactions
• Timely completion of projects
• Accountability of developers
• Consumer grievance redressal

However, the Supreme Court’s criticism highlights inefficiencies in RERA’s functioning, indicating the need for:

• Stronger enforcement at the state level.
• Faster dispute resolution mechanisms.
• Better monitoring of project timelines.

If implemented effectively, RERA can significantly improve India’s real estate sector and boost economic growth.

3. Biligiri Rangaswamy Temple (BRT) Tiger Reserve – Environment

Why in News?

A recent meeting of the Eco-Sensitive Zone (ESZ) Monitoring Committee decided to prohibit new commercial constructions within 1 km of the Biligiri Rangaswamy Temple (BRT) Tiger Reserve or up to the ESZ boundary, whichever is closer.

• Objective: To protect the ecological integrity of the BRT Tiger Reserve and its surrounding areas from human encroachment.
• BRT Tiger Reserve is located in Chamarajanagar district, Karnataka, and serves as a critical ecological corridor between the Western and Eastern Ghats.
• It was designated as a Tiger Reserve in 2011, covering an area of 574.82 sq. km.

Key Features of BRT Tiger Reserve

Ecological & Cultural Significance

1. Strategic Location & Biodiversity Corridor

• Acts as a bridge between the Western Ghats & Eastern Ghats, enabling species migration and genetic diversity.
• Recognized as a biodiversity hotspot, supporting diverse ecosystems.

2. Home to the Soliga Tribe

• The Soliga tribe has traditionally coexisted with wildlife, practicing sustainable agriculture & forest-based livelihoods.
• The tribe holds deep cultural and spiritual ties to the landscape.

3. Diverse Ecosystems & Vegetation

The reserve has a rich mosaic of habitats due to varying climatic conditions & elevation:

• Scrub forests
• Dry & moist deciduous forests
• Evergreen forests (Sholas)
• Riparian (riverside) vegetation
• Grasslands

4. Flora & Fauna

Conservation Challenges & Measures

Recent Conservation Measure:

• Eco-Sensitive Zone (ESZ) restrictions on commercial construction ensure minimal human disturbance.

Relevance for Exam

• Environment & Ecology
  • Role of Tiger Reserves in biodiversity conservation.
  • Importance of wildlife corridors (Western & Eastern Ghats).
• Geography & Protected Areas
  • Eco-Sensitive Zones (ESZ) & their role in conservation.
  • Forest types & ecosystems in India.
• Tribal Culture & Livelihoods
  • Traditional practices of the Soliga tribe in sustainable forest management.
• Policy & Governance
  • Wildlife Protection Act, 1972 & Tiger Reserve conservation measures.
  • Government’s role in balancing conservation & development.

Possible Exam Questions (Prelims & Mains)

Prelims (MCQ) Based Questions:

1. Where is the Biligiri Rangaswamy Temple (BRT) Tiger Reserve located?
   a) Tamil Nadu
   b) Karnataka
   c) Kerala
   d) Andhra Pradesh
2. Which two mountain ranges does the BRT Tiger Reserve connect?
   a) Aravalli & Vindhyas
   b) Himalayas & Satpuras
   c) Western Ghats & Eastern Ghats
   d) Nilgiris & Satpuras
3. Which tribal community is traditionally associated with the BRT Tiger Reserve?
   a) Todas
   b) Soligas
   c) Bhils
   d) Santhals
4. What is the significance of Eco-Sensitive Zones (ESZ) around protected areas?
   a) They allow commercial development
   b) They restrict activities that can harm the ecological balance
   c) They increase industrial investment in forests
   d) They facilitate mining operations
5. Which year was the BRT declared a Tiger Reserve?
   a) 2005
   b) 2008
   c) 2011
   d) 2015

Mains (Descriptive) Based Questions:

1. Discuss the ecological significance of Biligiri Rangaswamy Temple (BRT) Tiger Reserve in wildlife conservation.
2. Examine the role of Eco-Sensitive Zones (ESZ) in preserving biodiversity in protected areas.
3. Analyze the impact of tourism and human settlements on wildlife conservation in Tiger Reserves.
4. How do Tiger Reserves contribute to environmental sustainability? Discuss with examples from Karnataka.
5. Explain the importance of tribal communities in forest conservation with reference to the Soliga tribe in BRT Tiger Reserve.

Final Takeaway

The Biligiri Rangaswamy Temple (BRT) Tiger Reserve is a vital ecological corridor that:

• Connects the Western & Eastern Ghats, ensuring biodiversity preservation.
• Protects tigers, elephants, and other endangered species.
• Supports traditional livelihoods of the Soliga tribe.
• Implements conservation measures through Eco-Sensitive Zones (ESZs).

The recent ban on new commercial constructions around the reserve underscores the need for sustainable conservation strategies while balancing development.

4. Launch of AIKosha & IndiaAI Mission – Science and Technology

Why in News?

The Union Minister for Electronics & IT, Railways, and I&B, Shri Ashwini Vaishnaw, recently unveiled several initiatives under the IndiaAI Mission, marking a significant step in India’s Artificial Intelligence (AI) development.

• Among these, AIKosha: IndiaAI Datasets Platform is a key initiative.
• Launched by the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY), AIKosha provides access to high-quality, non-personal datasets, AI models, and development tools.
• The platform aims to accelerate AI innovation in India by offering crucial resources for developers, startups, researchers, and students.

Key Features of AIKosha

Objectives of AIKosha

1. Democratizing AI Development
   • Makes AI resources accessible to a broad range of users, from students to industry leaders.
2. India-Centric AI Solutions
   • Promotes AI models tailored for India’s diverse linguistic & cultural landscape.
3. Enhancing AI Research & Innovation
   • Provides a centralized repository of datasets for model training & research.
4. Public-Private Collaboration
   • Encourages joint efforts between government, academia, and industry.
5. Strengthening India’s AI Ecosystem
   • Aligns with the IndiaAI Mission to boost AI-powered governance & economic growth.

AI Sandbox & Secure Access in AIKosha

• These features ensure responsible AI development and protect data integrity.

AIKosha & the IndiaAI Mission

• AIKosha strengthens India’s AI capabilities and supports government-led digital transformation initiatives.

Relevance for Exam

• Science & Technology
  • AI & Machine Learning applications in governance and research.
  • India’s AI initiatives under Digital India & Make in India.
• Economy & Innovation
  • AI’s role in job creation & industrial development.
  • Public-private partnerships in AI innovation.
• Governance & Digital India
  • AI-driven e-Governance & smart policymaking.
  • Ethical considerations & data security in AI.

Possible Exam Questions (Prelims & Mains)

Prelims (MCQ) Based Questions:

1. Which ministry launched AIKosha under the IndiaAI Mission?
   a) Ministry of Science & Technology
   b) Ministry of Electronics & IT (MeitY)
   c) Ministry of Education
   d) NITI Aayog
2. What is the primary purpose of AIKosha?
   a) AI-based digital payments
   b) Providing datasets & AI models for research & development
   c) Automating e-Governance services
   d) Regulating AI ethics in India
3. Which of the following features is NOT part of AIKosha?
   a) AI Sandbox for developers
   b) Secure API access
   c) Blockchain-based transactions
   d) Dataset rating system
4. AIKosha is a part of which broader initiative?
   a) Atmanirbhar Bharat
   b) IndiaAI Mission
   c) Startup India
   d) Digital India e-Governance Scheme
5. How does AIKosha enhance AI security?
   a) Open access without regulations
   b) Data encryption & secure APIs
   c) Mandatory biometric verification
   d) Blockchain-based data storage

Mains (Descriptive) Based Questions:

1. Discuss the objectives and significance of AIKosha in India’s AI development.
2. How does AIKosha contribute to AI research and digital governance under the IndiaAI Mission?
3. Examine the role of AI-driven initiatives like AIKosha in India’s economic and technological progress.
4. What are the potential benefits and challenges of AI dataset platforms in India? Suggest policy recommendations.
5. Critically analyze India’s AI policy framework and the role of AIKosha in achieving self-reliance in AI.

🔹 Final Takeaway

The launch of AIKosha marks a major advancement in India’s AI ecosystem, providing:

• High-quality AI datasets & models for research & development.
• Secure, accessible AI resources for startups, academia, and government.
• Boost to India’s AI capabilities under the IndiaAI Mission.
• A foundation for AI-driven innovation in various sectors.

With a growing emphasis on AI & digital governance, AIKosha plays a crucial role in India’s technological self-reliance.

5. Bangus Valley: An Emerging Ecotourism Destination – Environment

Why in News?

The Jammu and Kashmir government has introduced new regulations to promote Bangus Valley as a major ecotourism destination while ensuring environmental conservation.

• Located near the Line of Control (LoC) in north Kashmir, the valley has strategic, ecological, and tourism significance.
• Altitude: ~10,000 feet above sea level.
• Area: ~300 square kilometers.
• Biome: A unique mix of mountain and grassland ecosystems.
• Aim of the initiative: Boost sustainable tourism while preserving the ecological integrity of the region.

Geographical Features of Bangus Valley

Ecological & Tourism Significance

1. Ecological Diversity
   • Unique grassland-meadow ecosystem with dense coniferous forests.
   • Rich in wildlife, including migratory birds, deer species, and rare Himalayan flora.
2. Potential for Ecotourism
   • Unexplored offbeat tourism spot with minimal human interference.
   • Opportunities for hiking, camping, bird-watching, and adventure tourism.
3. Strategic & Cultural Importance
   • Proximity to LoC makes it strategically significant.
   • Cultural integration of Kashmiri and Ladakhi traditions.
4. Climate & Natural Beauty
   • Pleasant summers, snowy winters, and panoramic landscapes.
   • Alternative to overcrowded tourist spots like Gulmarg & Pahalgam.

Wildlife & Flora in Bangus Valley

• Wildlife conservation measures are critical due to habitat sensitivity.

Conservation Challenges & Sustainable Tourism Measures

Sustainable Solutions

• Regulated tourism policies to prevent environmental damage.
• Eco-friendly infrastructure like solar-powered guest houses & waste management systems.
• Community-led tourism for local economic empowerment.
• Wildlife corridors & buffer zones for biodiversity protection.

Relevance for Exam

• Geography & Environment
  • Ecotourism & Sustainable Development in Himalayan Regions.
  • Unique ecosystems in high-altitude areas.
• Economy & Tourism
  • Government initiatives for boosting tourism in remote areas.
  • Impact of tourism on local communities & employment.
• Security & Strategic Importance
  • Significance of regions near the Line of Control (LoC).
  • Tourism as a tool for economic development in border areas.

Possible Exam Questions (Prelims & Mains)

Prelims (MCQ) Based Questions:

1. Where is Bangus Valley located?
   a) Himachal Pradesh
   b) Uttarakhand
   c) Jammu & Kashmir
   d) Arunachal Pradesh
2. Which geographical feature best describes Bangus Valley?
   a) Coastal delta
   b) Elliptical high-altitude valley
   c) Volcanic plateau
   d) Limestone cave region
3. What makes Bangus Valley significant for ecotourism?
   a) Presence of major urban settlements
   b) High-altitude meadows & diverse wildlife
   c) Large-scale commercial industries
   d) Mining activities
4. Which of the following mountain ranges surround Bangus Valley?
   a) Nilgiris & Aravallis
   b) Shamasbury, Dajlungun, Rajwar & Mawar
   c) Vindhyas & Satpuras
   d) Sivaliks & Karakoram
5. Why is the conservation of Bangus Valley important?
   a) It is an industrial hub for steel production
   b) It supports fragile Himalayan biodiversity
   c) It is a major trade corridor for India-China trade
   d) It contains India’s largest hydroelectric project

Mains (Descriptive) Based Questions:

1. Discuss the ecological and economic significance of Bangus Valley as an emerging ecotourism destination in Jammu & Kashmir.
2. Analyze the challenges of balancing tourism and environmental conservation in fragile ecosystems like Bangus Valley.
3. Explain how ecotourism in Bangus Valley can contribute to regional development while ensuring sustainable practices.
4. What role can community-led tourism play in preserving the unique ecological integrity of Bangus Valley? Suggest policy measures.
5. Critically assess the impact of proximity to the Line of Control (LoC) on tourism development in border regions like Bangus Valley.

Final Takeaway

Bangus Valley is a hidden gem in Jammu & Kashmir, offering:

• High-altitude biodiversity & unique landscapes.
• Sustainable tourism potential without harming the ecosystem.
• Strategic importance due to its proximity to the LoC.
• Opportunities for local economic growth through ecotourism.

With new regulations promoting ecotourism, Bangus Valley has the potential to become a leading example of sustainable tourism in India.

6. Populism and Good Governance – Governance

Why in News?

The Vice-President of India, Shri Jagdeep Dhankhar, recently emphasized the need for a national dialogue on the transition from democracy to “Emocracy”—where emotional appeal overrides rational governance.

• Concerns raised: Policies driven by emotion and populism can weaken democratic institutions and hinder effective governance.
• Populism and good governance are interconnected, with both positive and negative impacts.
• Understanding the balance between mass appeal and institutional integrity is crucial for sustainable governance.

Understanding Populism

Definition:

A political ideology that claims to represent the interests of ordinary people against a perceived elite.

Types of Populism

• In India: Populist policies often take the form of loan waivers, free schemes, and subsidies to appeal to voters.

Understanding Good Governance

Definition:

Governance characterized by efficiency, accountability, transparency, and citizen participation.

Key Features of Good Governance (As per UNDP)

• Example: The Right to Information (RTI) Act in India promotes transparency and accountability in governance.

Populism vs. Good Governance: A Critical Comparison

Example:

• Farm Loan Waivers (Populist Approach): Provides immediate relief but burdens state finances and discourages loan repayment culture.
• PM-KISAN (Good Governance Approach): Direct cash transfer scheme ensures targeted financial support to farmers without financial strain on the economy.

Negative Impacts of Populism on Governance

• Example: The economic crisis in Venezuela was partly due to unsustainable populist policies (excessive subsidies, oil dependence).

Positive Aspects of Populism in Governance

• Example: Mahatma Gandhi’s mass mobilization during the independence movement had populist elements but strengthened democracy and public participation.

The Need for Balance: Ensuring Responsible Governance

Solutions for Balancing Populism & Good Governance

• Institutional Checks & Balances – Judicial independence, media freedom prevent executive overreach.
• Evidence-Based Policymaking – Policies must be based on data, research, and long-term vision.
• Public Awareness & Civic Education – Citizens should be aware of realistic policies vs. populist rhetoric.
• Transparent Governance – RTI Act, Lokpal, digital platforms ensure accountability.

• Example: The Economic Reforms of 1991 in India were not populist but led to long-term economic benefits.

Relevance for Exam

• Polity & Governance
  • Role of democratic institutions in ensuring good governance.
  • Impact of populist policies on public administration.
• Economy & Fiscal Policy
  • Fiscal responsibility vs. unsustainable subsidies.
  • Economic consequences of populist spending.
• Ethics & Public Administration
  • Moral challenges in policymaking – balancing emotions & rationality.

Possible Exam Questions (Prelims & Mains)

Prelims (MCQ) Based Questions:

1. What is a key characteristic of populism?
   a) Strengthening bureaucratic institutions
   b) Direct appeal to the masses
   c) Reducing political participation
   d) Promoting technocratic governance
2. Which of the following is NOT a principle of good governance?
   a) Transparency
   b) Rule of Law
   c) Fiscal Populism
   d) Accountability
3. What is a major risk associated with populist policies?
   a) Encouraging long-term economic stability
   b) Weakening democratic institutions
   c) Strengthening judicial independence
   d) Ensuring policy continuity
4. Which organization defines good governance principles such as transparency and accountability?
   a) NITI Aayog
   b) United Nations Development Programme (UNDP)
   c) World Bank
   d) IMF
5. Which of the following is an example of fiscal populism?
   a) GST Implementation
   b) Unfunded farm loan waivers
   c) Digital India Initiative
   d) PM-KISAN Scheme

Mains (Descriptive) Based Questions:

1. Discuss the concept of populism and its impact on good governance. How can a balance be maintained between the two?
2. Analyze the role of institutional checks and balances in preventing the negative effects of populism on governance.
3. Explain the concept of fiscal populism and its long-term impact on India’s economy. Suggest measures to ensure responsible governance.
4. Compare the principles of good governance with populist leadership styles. Provide relevant examples from India and the world.
5. How does political populism influence policymaking in India? Discuss with case studies.

Final Takeaway

• Populism mobilizes the masses but can weaken institutions if unchecked.
• Good governance requires transparency, accountability, and evidence-based policies.
• Balancing emotional appeal with rational governance is key to sustainable development.
• Institutional safeguards, civic education, and responsible leadership can prevent the negative effects of populism.

7. The Academic Link Between Nepal and India – International Relations

Why in News?

A tragic incident on February 16 at Kalinga Institute of Industrial Technology (KIIT), Bhubaneswar, where a third-year female Nepali student died by suicide, led to:

1. Protests by Nepali students over alleged harassment and university inaction.
2. Forced campus eviction of Nepali students, further escalating tensions.
3. Concerns over Indo-Nepal Peace Treaty violations, especially Articles 6 & 7, which guarantee equal treatment to Nepali citizens in India.

• The incident highlights the challenges faced by Nepali students in India, particularly regarding rights, discrimination, and institutional accountability.

Key Issues Surrounding the Incident

• Students demanded justice for the deceased and an end to discrimination against Nepali students.

Indo-Nepal Academic & Educational Ties

1. Historical Influence of Indian Education on Nepal

• First college in Nepal (Tri-Chandra College, 1918) was affiliated with Indian universities.
• Early Nepali instructors were trained in India, shaping Nepal’s academic structure.
• Lack of postgraduate education in Nepal (until 1959) forced many students to pursue higher education in India.
• Colonial Curriculum Impact: Nepal’s education system was influenced by British Indian frameworks, limiting Nepal-centric discourse.
• Post-1950 Reforms: Nepal started “Nepalizing” its curriculum, but Indian academic influence remained strong.

2. Nepalese Students in India Today

• India remains a top destination for Nepali students, offering:
  • Higher education opportunities not available in Nepal.
  • Affordable education due to treaty-based privileges.
  • Cultural & linguistic similarities, making adaptation easier.

Indo-Nepal Peace Treaty of 1950: Legal Aspects

• The eviction order was a clear violation of treaty commitments, raising concerns over India’s adherence to its obligations.

Challenges Faced by Nepali Students in India

• The incident at KIIT reflects broader concerns about Nepali student welfare & Indo-Nepal educational cooperation.

Way Forward: Solutions for Stronger Educational & Diplomatic Ties

Transparent & accountable institutions are key to strengthening Indo-Nepal academic ties.

Relevance for Exam

• International Relations & Diplomacy
  • Indo-Nepal relations & challenges in treaty implementation.
  • Education as a pillar of soft diplomacy.
• Governance & Institutional Accountability
  • Role of universities in student safety.
  • Legal protection for foreign students in India.
• Social Issues & Human Rights
  • Discrimination & rights of international students.
  • Gender-based violence in educational institutions.

Possible Exam Questions (Prelims & Mains)

Prelims (MCQ) Based Questions:

1. Which treaty governs the rights of Nepali citizens in India?
   a) SAARC Treaty
   b) Indo-Nepal Peace Treaty of 1950
   c) BIMSTEC Agreement
   d) Panchsheel Agreement
2. What right is granted to Nepali citizens under Article 7 of the Indo-Nepal Peace Treaty?
   a) Free trade rights
   b) Right to reside, work, and study in India without restrictions
   c) Visa-free travel to all SAARC nations
   d) Exclusive citizenship benefits
3. Which of the following was a key issue in the KIIT incident involving Nepali students?
   a) Border dispute
   b) Harassment & university inaction
   c) Economic sanctions
   d) Climate change concerns
4. Which of the following was Nepal’s first higher education institution affiliated with Indian universities?
   a) Tribhuvan University
   b) Tri-Chandra College
   c) Kathmandu Open University
   d) Mahendra Sanskrit University
5. Which of the following is NOT a major challenge faced by Nepali students in India?
   a) Discrimination & harassment
   b) Institutional negligence
   c) Legal uncertainty
   d) Language barrier

Mains (Descriptive) Based Questions:

1. Discuss the significance of the Indo-Nepal Peace Treaty (1950) in shaping educational and diplomatic ties between India and Nepal.
2. Analyze the challenges faced by Nepali students in India and suggest measures to improve their safety and rights.
3. How does India’s higher education system impact Nepal’s academic structure? Discuss historical influences and modern developments.
4. Critically evaluate the role of institutional accountability in ensuring the safety of international students in India.
5. Examine the impact of educational collaborations on Indo-Nepal relations. Suggest ways to strengthen academic exchanges between the two nations.

Final Takeaway

• Indo-Nepal academic ties have deep historical roots, but challenges remain in student safety, equal treatment, and institutional accountability.
• KIIT incident highlights flaws in grievance redressal mechanisms and raises concerns over treaty compliance.
• Strengthening university policies, ensuring treaty enforcement, and enhancing Indo-Nepal dialogue are crucial steps forward.

A balanced approach ensuring student safety, legal protection, and diplomatic goodwill will strengthen Indo-Nepal educational cooperation.