+91 83196 18002
office@raosacademy.in
Pre Booking Open For UPSC Civil Services Coaching 2024-2025.

CURRENT AFFAIRS – 20/04/2024

CURRENT AFFAIRS - 20/04/2024

CURRENT AFFAIRS – 20/04/2024

admin
Contents
  1. CURRENT AFFAIRS – 20/04/2024

CURRENT AFFAIRS – 20/04/2024

Clash of Aspirations

(General Studies- Paper II)

Source : The Indian Express

India is currently experiencing a significant shift in its economic and geopolitical positioning.

  • After decades of economic growth rates surpassing those of the initial post-independence era, India is now being viewed by itself and parts of the Western world as a potential economic and political counterweight to China.
  • This newfound perception positions India as a key driver of the world economy in the coming decades.

Key Highlights

  • Challenges Facing India’s Ambitions
    • Despite its potential, India faces significant challenges that may hinder its ability to fully realize its economic ambitions.
    • Foremost among these challenges is the country’s employment situation.
    • With a median age of around 28 years and a low dependency ratio, India’s demographic dividend presents both opportunities and obstacles.
  • The Double-Edged Sword of Demographic Dividend
    • India’s demographic dividend, characterized by a large pool of young workers and human capital, offers a short window of opportunity for economic growth.
    • However, the challenge lies in effectively matching these workers to productive jobs.
    • This process, known as labor market matching, is particularly daunting given the massive influx of new workers into an already vast labor pool.
    • The transition of India’s economy from agrarian to non-agrarian sectors further complicates the labor market matching process.
    • As people shift from agriculture to manufacturing or services, they require not only a change in skills but also often need to relocate to urban centers.
    • However, migration comes with significant costs, both financial and social, which can impede the smooth transition of workers and act as a hindrance to economic growth.
  • Signs of Labour Market Failure
    • The Indian labour market is exhibiting signs of failure, evident in various indicators such as the overall unemployment rate, particularly concerning rates among specific demographics like graduates and individuals with secondary or higher education.
    • Unemployment Statistics
      • According to data from the Centre for Monitoring Indian Economy (CMIE), the overall unemployment rate stands at 8 per cent, indicating a concerning trend.
      • Even more alarming is the data from a recent International Labour Organization (ILO) report, revealing exceptionally high unemployment rates among graduates (29 per cent) and individuals with secondary or higher education (18 per cent).
      • Moreover, CMIE estimates an alarming overall unemployment rate of 44 per cent among individuals aged 20-24 years.
    • Factors Contributing to Labour Market Challenges
      • Several factors contribute to the challenges facing the Indian labour market, hindering its ability to effectively match job seekers with available opportunities.
      • Smallness of Firms
        • One significant problem is the size of firms in India, both in terms of employment and revenue.
        • Indian firms tend to be smaller, exhibit slower growth, and have lower productivity compared to firms in industrialized Western countries and even other emerging economies like China and Mexico.
        • This lack of size and productivity limits the demand for workers in the market.
      • Skill Deficit
        • Another major challenge is the skill deficit prevalent in India.
        • Many firms, especially in the white-collar service sector, struggle to find workers with the necessary skills.
        • This issue stems from shortcomings in the education system, as highlighted by the annual ASER reports, which have consistently indicated problems with student learning.
        • The inadequacy of skills among the workforce leads to difficulties in matching available jobs with qualified candidates, resulting in high unemployment rates among graduates and individuals with higher education qualifications.
      • Implications and Consequences
        • The inability of firms to find workers with the required skills ultimately leads to a stagnation in hiring.
        • In the white-collar segment of the labour market, this manifests as alarmingly high unemployment rates among workers with graduate and high-school degrees, exacerbating the overall challenges facing the Indian labour market.
      • Clash of Aspirations in the Labour Market
        • The labour market dynamics in India are characterized by a clash of aspirations between entrepreneurs and workers, highlighting challenges and opportunities in the economy.
        • Limited Growth Aspirations of Firms
          • Many entrepreneurs and firms in India exhibit limited aspirations for growth, opting to remain small despite the potential constraints it imposes on competitiveness.
          • While exceptions like Shahi Exports, which employs a large workforce and competes in export markets, exist, most firms choose to maintain a small scale.
          • This reluctance to scale up may stem from factors such as tax or regulatory policies, but equally significant is a lack of ambition among small entrepreneurs, who seem content with their current scale of operations.
        • High Aspirations of Educated Workers
          • On the other side of the market, there is a significant influx of educated workers, whose numbers are increasing by 10 million annually.
          • These young workers, often more educated than their parents, hold high school or college degrees and harbor lofty aspirations for the labour market.
          • Their aspirations are fueled by the narrative of India’s macroeconomic success, measured by indicators like aggregate GDP.
          • However, gig-worker jobs with their inherent insecurities are unlikely to satisfy these aspirations.
        • Need for Ambitious Growth Strategies
          • Addressing the unfolding labour market crisis requires private manufacturing firms to scale up their ambitions.
          • Encouraging exports could serve as a self-sustaining solution, as evidence suggests that exporting firms tend to be larger and more productive.
          • Conversely, firms focused solely on the domestic market tend to remain small and unproductive.
          • Shifting towards an export-oriented approach could reshape the entrepreneurial mindset and spur growth.
        • Risk of Demographic Curse
          • The clash of aspirations between workers and entrepreneurs has the potential to turn India’s demographic dividend into a curse if the country fails to provide meaningful employment opportunities that align with workers’ aspirations.
          • Addressing this issue must be a priority for the government to ensure sustainable economic growth and social stability.

Opening Up: India’s Space Race

(General Studies- Paper III0

Source : The Indian Express

The Indian government’s recent notification of liberalized foreign direct investment (FDI) rules in the space sector aligns with its broader ambition to position India as a prominent space power.

  • The policy, approved by the Union Cabinet in February, also reflects the government’s efforts to catalyze growth and innovation in the space industry.

Key Highlights

  • Key Provisions of the Liberalized FDI Policy
    • Under the new policy, significant changes have been made to FDI regulations in the space sector.
    • Notably, it permits up to 74% FDI under the automatic route for satellite manufacturing and data products, 49% for launch vehicles and spaceports, and allows up to 100% FDI for manufacturing components essential to the sector.
    • These amendments are aimed at fostering collaboration and investment in a domain characterized by high capital requirements and advanced technology.
  • India’s Evolving Space Program
    • India’s space program has traditionally focused on communication and weather-related satellites, earning global recognition.
    • Recent milestones, such as the Chandrayaan mission and the establishment of a solar laboratory, have bolstered India’s reputation as a space-faring nation.
    • Plans to launch astronauts into space further underscore the expanding capabilities of the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO).
    • Concurrently, private enterprises like Skyroot Aerospace have emerged as significant players, exemplified by the launch of India’s first privately built rocket in 2022.
  • Government’s Vision for the Space Economy
    • India aims to increase its share of the global space economy from 2-3% to over 10% by 2030, requiring an estimated investment of $22 billion over the next decade.
    • The introduction of the Space Policy in April last year, coupled with the liberalized FDI rules, reflects a concerted effort to harness private sector participation and redefine ISRO’s role in research and development.
    • The relaxation of entry barriers for FDI signals the government’s commitment to fostering a conducive ecosystem for private companies.
  • Balancing Regulatory Oversight and Market Freedom
    • While space technology remains integral to various government objectives, including agriculture and national security, the landscape is evolving beyond the dominance of ISRO.
    • The government recognizes the need for a balanced regulatory framework that promotes innovation while ensuring oversight.
    • The liberalized FDI regime is viewed as a crucial first step in achieving this balance and unlocking the full potential of India’s space economy.

About the Space Policy of India

  • The Indian Space Policy 2023 is a comprehensive document that outlines the vision, strategy, and roles of various entities involved in the country’s space sector.
  • The policy aims to enable, encourage, and develop a flourishing commercial presence in space, emphasizing civilian and peaceful applications.
  • The key provisions of the policy are as follows:
    • Vision:
      • The policy’s vision is to enable, encourage, and develop a flourishing commercial presence in space, indicating an acceptance that the private sector is a crucial player in India’s space sector.
    • Strategy:
      • The policy lays out a strategy and then spells out the roles of the Department of Space, ISRO, the Indian National Space Promotion and Authorisation Centre (IN-SPACe), and the NewSpace India Limited (NSIL).
    • ISRO’s Role:
      • ISRO will transition out of the existing practice of being present in the manufacturing of operational space systems.
      • Instead, it will focus on R&D in advanced technology, proving newer systems and realization of space objects for meeting national prerogatives.
      • ISRO will also share technologies, products, processes, and best practices with NGEs and/or Government companies.
    • IN-SPACe’s Role:
      • IN-SPACe is responsible for promoting, enabling, authorizing, and supervising NGEs to undertake space activities as an integral part of the Indian space program.
      • It will authorize space activities for all, both government and non-government entities.
    • NSIL’s Role:
      • NSIL is the commercial arm of ISRO, responsible for replacing the now-defunct Antrix Corporation.
      • It will focus on commercial exploitation of mature systems transferred from ISRO and will also undertake end-to-end activities in the space domain.
    • Non-Governmental Entities (NGEs):
      • NGEs are allowed to undertake end-to-end activities in the space sector through ground-based assets and related services, such as communication, remote sensing, navigation, etc.
      • Security agencies can task NGEs for procuring tailor-made solutions to address specific requirements.
    • Regulatory Framework:
      • The policy framework envisaged will need clear rules and regulations pertaining to FDI and licensing, government procurement, liability in case of violations, and an appellate framework for dispute settlement.
      • IN-SPACe is a regulatory body but doesn’t have legislative authority.
    • Applicability and Implementation:
      • The policy applies to all space activities within the jurisdiction of India, including those conducted by government entities, NGEs, and foreign entities operating in India.
      • The Department of Space is responsible for implementing the policy, with ISRO, IN-SPACe, NSIL, and other stakeholders playing their respective roles.

Scientists and a wish list for the incoming government

(General Studies- Paper II)

Source : The Hindu

Scientists are advocating for a significant boost in the nation’s gross domestic expenditure on research and development (R&D), which currently stands below 0.7% of GDP.

  • They emphasize the necessity of augmenting both government and private sector contributions, aiming for a substantial increase of at least 50% annually over the next five years.
  • This would entail R&D expenditure reaching approximately 4% of GDP by the end of the incoming government’s term.

Key Highlights

  • To achieve this, scientists propose avenues such as the Anusandhan National Research Foundation (ANRF), which seeks substantial private sector involvement, with a targeted contribution of ₹36,000 crore over five years.
  • While a legislative framework is envisioned to facilitate this increase, detailed implementation plans and mechanisms, akin to escrow accounts, are deemed necessary to ensure the fulfillment of funding commitments.
  • Enhancing Physical and Intellectual Infrastructure:
    • There is a pressing need to enhance the physical and intellectual infrastructure of public sector institutions, including universities and research centers.
    • This entails modernizing science laboratories across various educational institutions, from undergraduate colleges to state and central universities, as well as specialized research institutions.
    • Improving infrastructure is crucial not only for providing better facilities for students and scientists but also for fostering a conducive environment for research and innovation.
    • Achieving this goal requires not only filling existing positions for quality teachers and researchers but also effectively doubling these numbers over the next five years.
    • However, simply increasing personnel numbers will be insufficient without concurrently establishing a robust and unbiased system for talent identification and recruitment.
  • Emphasis on Merit-Based Hiring:
    • Scientists emphasize the importance of adopting globally accepted standards for hiring in educational and research institutions.
    • They advocate for a transparent, efficient, and unbiased hiring process that prioritizes merit.
    • A competent committee should be tasked with selecting candidates solely based on their qualifications and abilities, free from any external influences.
    • Additionally, the hiring process should be expedited, with appointment letters provided within a maximum timeframe of six months from the application submission.
    • Adhering to established global norms ensures the selection of the most suitable individuals for teaching and scientific roles.
  • Development of a Robust Grant Management System:
    • To facilitate research activities, a robust science grant management system is deemed essential.
    • This system should minimize bureaucratic hurdles in grant submission and ensure swift and timely disbursal of grants and student fellowships.
    • It should also transition to digital processes, eliminating the need for hard copy submissions.
    • Grant management should grant autonomy to individual scientists, allowing them flexibility in determining how to allocate funds for their research endeavors.
    • Additionally, departments within science ministries should streamline fund disbursal processes to ensure that allocated budgets are spent effectively before the end of each financial year.
  • Flexibility in Procurement and Financial Rules:
    • Enhancing spending efficiency requires providing scientists with flexibility in procurement practices and financial regulations.
    • Scientists should have the option to purchase research materials from sources beyond the government’s e-marketplace, which may offer higher quality products.
    • Moreover, scientists should be empowered to deviate from general financial rules when necessary to meet the specific needs of their research projects.
    • Accountability measures should be in place to ensure responsible spending while allowing scientists the freedom to acquire necessary resources for their work.
  • Ensuring Academic Freedom:
    • Scientists emphasize the critical need for academic freedom, which encompasses the liberty to express opinions and conduct research based on evidence without external interference.
    • They argue that a vibrant start-up ecosystem is essential for innovation to benefit society.
    • While acknowledging governmental efforts to foster innovation and entrepreneurship in Indian academia, scientists stress that true innovation will flourish only when individual scientists are granted full autonomy.
    • This autonomy includes the ability to take leave to establish companies, flexibility in hiring scientific personnel, and discretion in allocating research funds and traveling to conferences.
    • However, scientists also advocate for accountability, emphasizing the importance of ensuring the quality of research outcomes, products, and knowledge dissemination.
  • Improving Ease of Doing Science:
    • To achieve its goal of becoming the world’s second-largest economy by 2050, India must prioritize enhancing the ease of conducting scientific research.
    • The incoming government is urged to reduce bureaucratic and administrative burdens on scientists, allowing them to focus on their work without unnecessary paperwork or processes.
    • By supporting researchers in both innovation and fundamental scientific exploration, the government can drive economic growth while advancing knowledge creation.

About the Anusandhan National Research Foundation (ANRF)

  • The Anusandhan National Research Foundation (ANRF) is a newly established organization in India, created with the passing of the Anusandhan National Research Foundation Act, 2023.
  • The ANRF aims to provide strategic direction for research, innovation, and entrepreneurship in various fields, including natural sciences, engineering and technology, environmental and earth sciences, health and agriculture, and scientific and technological interfaces of humanities and social sciences.
  • The ANRF is tasked with preparing short-term, medium-term, and long-term roadmaps and formulating programs for research and development (R&D).
    • It will facilitate and finance the growth of R&D and related infrastructure in universities, colleges, and research institutions, and provide grants for research proposals.
    • The foundation also supports translation of research into capital-intensive technology, encourages international collaboration, and promotes interdisciplinary research.
  • The ANRF is financed through grants and loans from the central government, donations to the fund, income from investments of the amounts received by the Foundation, and all amounts with the Fund for Science and Engineering Research set up under the 2008 Act.
    • The Foundation will constitute several Funds for allocation purposes, including the Anusandhan National Research Foundation Fund for salaries, allowances, and administrative purposes, the Innovation Fund for funding outstanding creativity in the areas supported by the Foundation, the Science and Engineering Research Fund for the continuation of projects initiated under the 2008 Act, and one or more special purpose funds for any specific project or research.
  • The ANRF is governed by a Governing Board headed by the Prime Minister of India, with the Union Ministers of Science and Technology, Education, the Principal Scientific Advisor, and Secretaries to the Departments of Science and Technology, Biotechnology, and Scientific and Industrial Research as members.
    • The foundation also has an Executive Council to undertake implementation, with the Principal Scientific Advisor as the chairperson.
  • The ANRF aims to establish a culture of research and innovation throughout India’s educational institutions, research institutes, and R&D laboratories, and to support, develop, and promote R&D activities throughout the nation.

Forests a national asset and major contributor to financial wealth: SC

(General Studies- Paper II)

Source : The Hindu

The Supreme Court, led by Justice M.M. Sundresh, declared in a recent judgment that forests in India are a crucial national asset and a significant contributor to the country’s financial wealth.

  • This statement reflects the court’s recognition of the intrinsic value of forests beyond mere economic considerations.

Key Highlights

  • Relevance Amid Controversy Over Forest Conservation Act:
    • The timing of the judgment is significant as it coincides with the contentious Forest Conservation (Amendment) Act of 2023 (FCAA), which has faced widespread criticism.
    • The FCAA has been accused of granting states excessive authority to regularize encroachments in protected forests and determine the diversion of forest lands.
    • Critics argue that this legislation facilitates the commercial exploitation of forests and exempts infrastructure projects from environmental scrutiny.
    • The court acknowledges the interconnectedness of forests with biodiversity and ecosystem stability, emphasizing the threat of mass extinction resulting from forest loss.
  • Recognition of Environmental Valuation Concepts:
    • Furthermore, the court acknowledges the emergence of concepts like carbon credits and green accounting as tools to assess a nation’s wealth.
    • The Supreme Court’s judgment underscores the financial significance of forests, noting that countries with excess forest cover can leverage their carbon credits for financial gain. This highlights the economic value of forests beyond their ecological benefits.
    • Forest’s Role as Carbon Sink:
      • The court emphasizes India’s forests as a crucial carbon sink, with a conservative value of $5 per tonne of CO2 locked in forests.
      • The significant carbon sequestration capacity of Indian forests, estimated at about 24,000 million tonnes of CO2, equates to a substantial economic value of $120 billion or ₹6 lakh crores.
      • Referring to a 2009 report by the Ministry of Environment and Forests, the judgment notes a steady increase in carbon stocks in Indian forests from 1995 to 2005.
      • This highlights forests’ role in mitigating climate change by sequestering carbon dioxide from the atmosphere.
    • Protective Role Against Climate Change:
      • Justice Sundreshalso underscored forests’ protective function against climate change, citing a Reserve Bank of India report on the macroeconomic impacts of climate change.
      • The report predicts potential GDP losses of up to 3% to 10% annually by 2100 due to climate change, with adverse effects on living standards and employment across various sectors.
    • The judgment emphasizes humanity’s responsibility to act as trustees of the Earth, protecting habitats and species from further peril.
    • It emphasizes the moral duty to safeguard the environment and mitigate anthropogenic threats to biodiversity and ecological stability.

About the Forest Conservation (Amendment) Act of 2023 (FCAA)

  • The Forest Conservation (Amendment) Act of 2023 (FCAA) introduces several major changes to the Forest (Conservation) Act of 1980.
  • These changes include:
    • Expanded Scope: The FCAA expands the scope of the Act to include land notified as a forest under the Indian Forest Act of 1927 or in government records after the 1980 Act came into effect.
    • Exemptions: The FCAA exempts certain types of land from the purview of the Act, such as land within 100 km of India’s border needed for national security projects, small roadside amenities, and public roads leading to a habitation.
    • Assignment of Forest Land: The FCAA allows the assignment of forest land to all entities, not just private entities, on terms and conditions specified by the central government.
    • Additional Activities: The FCAA permits activities like running zoos, safaris, and eco-tourism facilities in forests.
    • Exclusions: The FCAA excludes two categories of land from the purview of the Act: land recorded as a forest before October 25, 1980, but not notified as a forest, and land which changed from forest-use to non-forest-use before December 12, 1996.
  • Impact on Forest Cover and Wildlife: Exempting land near border areas for national security projects and allowing blanket exemptions for projects like zoos, eco-tourism facilities, and reconnaissance surveys may adversely affect forest land and wildlife.

India delivers first batch of BrahMos supersonic missiles to Philippines

(General Studies- Paper II and III)

Source : The Hindu

India has delivered the first batch of BrahMos supersonic cruise missiles to the Philippines, marking a significant milestone in their defense cooperation.

  • This delivery follows a $375-million deal concluded in January 2022, wherein the Philippines became the first export customer for the shore-based, anti-ship variant of the BrahMos missile, developed jointly by India and Russia.

Key Highlights

  • Logistics of the Delivery:
    • The initial batch of BrahMos missiles was transported to the Philippines via Indian Air Force transport aircraft.
    • Although specifics regarding the delivery were not immediately disclosed, it is part of the Philippines’ acquisition under the Horizon 2 of the Revised Armed Forces of the Philippines Modernization Programme.
  • Strategic Significance:
    • The delivery of BrahMos missiles comes amidst escalating tensions between the Philippines and China in the South China Sea.
    • Once operationalized, these missile systems are expected to significantly enhance the defensive capabilities of the Philippines’ armed forces, bolstering their posture in the region.
    • The BrahMos missiles, known as the world’s fastest supersonic cruise missiles, are expected to serve as a deterrence against any threats to the Philippines’ sovereignty and sovereign rights, particularly in the West Philippine Sea.
    • Commitment to Indo-Pacific Security:
      • The delivery underscores India’s commitment to upholding a rules-based international order and promoting peace and security in the Indo-Pacific region.
    • Scope of the Contract:
      • The contract between India and the Philippines includes the delivery of three missile batteries, comprehensive training for operators and maintainers, and the provision of an Integrated Logistics Support package.
      • The Philippine Marines’ coastal defense regiment will be the primary user of these missile systems, highlighting their strategic importance for maritime defense.
      • Training Program and Certification:
        • From January 23 to February 11, 2023, 21 personnel from the Philippine Navy underwent rigorous training in Nagpur, focusing on the operation and maintenance of the BrahMos missile systems.
        • Upon completion of the training program, they were awarded interim missile badges by Indian Navy Chief Admiral R. Hari Kumar, underscoring the successful collaboration between the two nations in building operational capacity.
      • Interest from Other Countries:
        • The BrahMos missile system has garnered interest from several other countries, with discussions underway with Indonesia and Thailand, among others.
        • This indicates the growing international recognition of the BrahMos system’s effectiveness and versatility in addressing diverse defense needs.

About BrahMos missile system

  • The BrahMos missile system is a medium-range ramjet supersonic cruise missile developed as a joint venture between the Indian Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and the Russian Federation’s NPO Mashinostroyeniya, forming BrahMos Aerospace.
  • The missile is named after the Brahmaputra and Moskva rivers, symbolizing the collaboration between India and Russia.
  • The BrahMos missile system is a two-stage supersonic cruise missile that can be launched from submarines, ships, fighter aircraft, or land-based platforms.
  • It is based on the P-800 Oniks family of cruise missiles and has undergone several tests since late 2004 from various platforms, including land-based tests and sea-based launches.
  • It has been inducted into service by the Indian armed forces for an extended period, underscoring its reliability and combat effectiveness.
  • Range Extension Efforts:
    • Originally capped at 290km in compliance with the Missile Technology Control Regime (MTCR), the missile’s range has been extended to 450km following India’s entry into the regime in June 2016.
    • Ongoing efforts are aimed at further extending its range to 600km and beyond, enhancing its operational reach and flexibility in addressing diverse operational scenarios.

Fossils of huge pre historic snake found in Kutch mine

(General Studies- Paper I)

Source : The Hindu

Researchers at the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Roorkee have uncovered fossils of one of the largest snakes ever discovered, named Vasuki Indicus, believed to have lived around 47 million years ago during the Middle Eocene period.

  • The fossils were found in Kutch, Gujarat, shedding light on the ancient ecosystems of India and the evolutionary history of snakes on the Indian subcontinent.

Key Highlights

  • Description of Vasuki Indicus:
    • Vasuki Indicus belonged to the extinct Madtsoiidae snake family and is estimated to have been between 10 to 15 meters long, comparable in size to a modern-day school bus.
    • The reptile likely possessed a broad and cylindrical body, indicative of a robust and powerful build similar to the massive Titanoboa, one of the longest snakes ever known.
  • Significance of the Discovery:
    • The discovery of Vasuki Indicus offers insights into the evolution of large-bodied snakes and the environmental factors that influenced their size.
    • The researchers suggest that high temperatures in the tropical climate of the Middle Eocene period may have contributed to the development of large-bodied snakes like Vasuki Indicus.
    • Evolutionary Context:
      • The reptile existed during a time when the Earth’s geography was vastly different, with Africa, India, and South America forming a single landmass.
      • This finding underscores the importance of understanding ancient ecosystems and the evolutionary history of species in unraveling the mysteries of the past.
    • Cultural and Mythological Reference:
      • The name “Vasuki” references the mythical snake often depicted around the neck of the Hindu god Shiva, adding a cultural and historical dimension to the discovery.

Shompen cast their vote for the first time

(General Studies- Paper I)

Source : The Hindu

For the first time, members of the Shompen tribe, classified as one of the Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups (PVTGs) in India, actively participated in the electoral process by exercising their voting rights.

  • The Shompen people inhabit the dense tropical rainforests of Great Nicobar Island, making their engagement in the Andaman and Nicobar Lok Sabha constituency elections a significant milestone.

Key Highlights

  • Voter Turnout and Participation:
    • Seven members of the Shompen tribe cast their votes in the election, marking a historic moment for the community.
    • The Chief Electoral Officer of Andaman and Nicobar Islands, B.S. Jaglan, confirmed the participation of these tribal members in the electoral process.
    • The Shompen population is estimated to be 229 individuals based on the 2011 Census data.
    • Voter Turnout Statistics:
      • The provisional voter turnout for the election stood at 63.99%, slightly lower than the turnout recorded in 2019, which was 65.09%.
      • Despite this minor decrease, the inclusion of the Shompen tribe in the electoral process highlights strides towards greater inclusivity and representation in democratic processes.

About Tribes in Andaman and Nicobar Islands

  • The Andaman and Nicobar Islands are home to several indigenous tribes, each with unique cultures, traditions, and ways of life.
  • Great Andamanese Tribe:
    • The Great Andamanese Tribe is one of the original inhabitants of the Andaman Islands, with a history dating back thousands of years.
    • They are considered living relics of ancient civilizations, carrying traditions that are deeply rooted in history.
    • The population of the Great Andamanese Tribe has significantly declined over the years, facing challenges such as diseases and loss of territory.
  • Onge Tribe:
    • The Onge Tribe is another indigenous group in the Andaman Islands, known for their unique lifestyle and cultural practices.
    • They have traditionally lived a hunter-gatherer lifestyle, relying on hunting, fishing, and gathering for sustenance.
    • The Onge Tribe has faced challenges due to external influences and changes in their environment.
  • Jarawa Tribe:
    • The Jarawa Tribe is an indigenous group residing primarily in the inner parts of South and Middle Andaman.
    • Known for their nomadic hunter-gatherer lifestyle, the Jarawa Tribe has a deep connection with the natural environment.
    • They have maintained their independence and have been resistant to outside contact, preserving their traditional way of life.
  • Sentinelese Tribe:
    • The Sentinelese Tribe lives on North Sentinel Island and is known for their hostility towards outsiders.
    • Entry to their territory is prohibited without special permission to protect them from external influences and diseases.
    • The Sentinelese Tribe remains isolated and has limited contact with the outside world.
  • Shompen Tribe:
    • The Shompen Tribe resides in the Great Nicobar Island and is one of the least known and isolated tribes in the world.
    • They are primarily hunter-gatherers, practicing a bit of horticulture and pig rearing.
  • Nicobarese Tribe:
    • The Nicobarese Tribe is the largest in terms of population among the tribes of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands.
    • They are known for their amicable nature and interactions with outsiders, distinguishing them from other tribes in the region.

About the Andaman and Nicobar Islands

  • The Andaman and Nicobar Islands are a union territory of India, consisting of 836 islands grouped into two island groups, the northern Andaman Islands and the southern Nicobar Islands, separated by a 150 km (93 mi) wide channel.
  • Only 31 of these islands are inhabited.
  • The capital and largest city of the territory is Port Blair, located about 1,190 km (740 mi) from Chennai and 1,255 km (780 mi) from Kolkata in mainland India.
  • The islands are sandwiched between the Bay of Bengal to the west and the Andaman Sea to the east, with the northern-most point Indira Point at 6°45’10″N and 93°49’36″E at the southern tip of Great Nicobar being the southernmost point of India.
  • The Andaman and Nicobar Islands share maritime borders with Indonesia, Myanmar, and Thailand.
  • The islands occupy a total land area of approximately 8,249 km 2 (3,185 sq mi) with a population of 380,581 as per the 2011 census.
  • The territory is divided into three districts: Nicobar, South Andaman, and North and Middle Andaman with the capitals at Car Nicobar, Port Blair, and Mayabunder, respectively.