GS Analyst: Daily Current Affairs

Context:

Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has proposed a major overhaul in the academic framework for secondary and higher secondary education.

CBSE's Academic Overhaul

• Language Diversity Push: CBSE proposes a shift to three languages till Class X, aiming to enhance language proficiency and cultural understanding.
• Holistic Learning Focus: Increased subjects for secondary-level students intend to bridge the gap between academic and extracurricular streams, fostering well-rounded education.
• Credit Bank System: Introduction of a credit bank system encourages holistic learning, allowing students to earn credits for skills obtained outside the traditional classroom.

The Three-Language Formula Dilemma

• Political Sensitivities: The significance of studying at least two native Indian languages raises political tensions, especially in states like Tamil Nadu with a history of language-based sub-nationalism.
• Hindi Imposition Fears: Opposition stems from concerns that the three-language formula may lead to Hindi imposition due to a scarcity of teachers for other languages.
• Historical Perspectives: Historical perspectives on the three-language formula prompt discussions on accommodating linguistic diversity in national education policies.

Implementation Challenges and Considerations

• Unspecified Timeframe: CBSE's proposal lacks a specified timeframe, necessitating wide consultations with educators, linguists, and policymakers to address concerns and gather diverse perspectives.
• Sensitivity and Inclusivity: Sensitivity is crucial in avoiding the reopening of old faultlines related to language politics and regional sentiments.
• Stakeholder Involvement: The agency must ensure that all stakeholders, including linguistic activists and state governments, are involved to foster a more inclusive and acceptable educational framework.

Context:

The Interim Budget 2024 has set the stage for a transformative fiscal year.

Boosting Local Tourism and Entrepreneurship

• Interest-Free Tourism Loans: States receive interest-free loans for iconic tourist centers, emphasizing branding and marketing to stimulate employment and support local businesses.
• Quality-Based Rating Framework: Establishment of a rating system based on facilities and services quality, encouraging states to develop tourism infrastructure and enhance their attractiveness.
• Economic Stimulus for Local Businesses: Loans distributed on a matching basis to boost local businesses like hotels and restaurants, fostering economic growth and job creation.

Attracting Foreign Investment through Bilateral Treaties

• Bilateral Investment Treaties: The Ministry negotiates treaties ensuring fair treatment for foreign investors, attracting foreign direct investment and stabilizing inflation through minimum guarantees.
• Smooth Repatriation of Funds: Agreements facilitate the smooth repatriation of funds, enhancing India's appeal as a stable and lucrative investment destination.
• Economic Stability and Growth: Attracting foreign direct investment contributes to economic growth, stability, and development through bilateral investment treaties with global partners.

Sustainable Energy Initiatives and Connectivity

• Rooftop Solarization Scheme: A scheme providing free electricity for one crore households, promoting savings, surplus energy sale, and encouraging electric vehicle adoption.
• Enhanced Infrastructure and Connectivity: Allocation of 3.4% of GDP for infrastructure development, focusing on economic railway corridors, airport expansions, and transit-oriented development.
• Green Energy Promotion: Initiatives like mandatory blending of compressed biogas and bio-manufacturing schemes promote sustainable practices, aiming for a greener and more connected India.

Context:

Mains Question

1. Evaluate the role of schemes targeting oil seeds, dairy farmers, and aquaculture in strengthening agri and allied sectors towards self-reliance.

India’s economic strategy of fiscal prudence and capital expenditure-led growth has received global acclaim.

Fiscal Prudence and Economic Resilience

• Deficit Achievement: India surpasses its fiscal target with a 5.8% deficit for 2023-24, showcasing fiscal prudence amid global uncertainties.
• Strategic Target: The 2025-26 fiscal deficit goal of 5.1% reinforces economic resilience, crucial in a geopolitically charged world.
• Capex Momentum: A substantial Rs 11.11 lakh crore capex outlay emphasizes continued support, propelling sustained economic growth.

Inclusive Growth and Sectoral Boosts

• Agri and Allied Focus: Initiatives promote public-private investment, aiming to elevate post-harvest activities and increase farmers' income and job creation.
• Self-Reliance Drive: Schemes for oil seeds, comprehensive dairy farmer support, and aquaculture promotion aim at strengthening agri and allied sectors.
• Welfare Measures: Additional housing, middle-class schemes, and revised Lakhpati Didi targets contribute to inclusive growth, addressing diverse economic needs.

Sustainable Development and Industry Boost

• Green Economy Priorities: Attention to offshore wind energy, e-vehicle ecosystem, and coal capacity aligns with India's clean and green economic aspirations.
• Financial Catalyst: A `1-lakh-crore corpus supports low-interest financing, fostering industry R&D and technology adoption for global competitiveness.
• Atmanirbharta Commitment: Access to credit for MSMEs, deep-tech defense schemes, and financial sector re-invigoration underpin India's commitment to self-reliance.