We’re about to spill the beans on how the whole country is levelling up – buckle up future leaders!! This isn’t just an essay; it’s your exclusive backstage pass to witness firsthand how government initiatives are sculpting a future defined by unity, equality, and zero discrimination. The heartbeat of change echoing through educational reforms, navigating the intricate dynamics of Manipur’s ethnic tensions, and the extended reach of the Pradhan Mantri Garib Kalyan Anna Yojana (PMGKAY). Your missed ticket means skipping the front-row view of India’s evolution—don’t let this opportunity pass you by. Dive into the pulse of progress, and become part of the narrative that’s shaping the nation’s destiny.
After introducing the broader context of national developments, our attention turns towards the nuanced intricacies of Manipur, emphasising the crucial involvement of government initiatives in addressing and managing the ethnic tensions.
Manipur, like many states in Northeast India, is characterised by its diverse ethnic communities, each with its distinct cultural and historical background. The conflict between Kuki tribal groups and the majority Meitei community is likely rooted in the historical grievances, territorial disputes, and competition for resources. Here are some general factors that may contribute to such conflicts:
1. Land and Resource Disputes:
- Ethnic groups in Northeast India often have competing claims over land and resources, leading to territorial disputes.
- The struggle for control over fertile land, water bodies, and forests can exacerbate tensions between communities.
2. Identity and Autonomy:
- Many communities in the region have unique identities and historical backgrounds, leading to demands for autonomy and recognition.
- Issues related to identity and autonomy often manifest in conflicts over political power, representation, and the protection of cultural heritage.
3. Historical Animosities:
- Historical events and animosities can contribute to present-day conflicts. Past incidents, real or perceived, may fuel distrust and hostility between communities.
4. Economic Disparities:
- Socioeconomic disparities can contribute to tensions, especially if certain communities feel marginalised or excluded from the benefits of development.
5. Political Factors:
- Political decisions, policies, and governance issues can play a significant role in exacerbating or mitigating ethnic tensions.
- Dissatisfaction with political leadership and governance can contribute to public dissatisfaction and unrest.
Recently, Manipur has been grappling with ethnic violence for over two months, primarily between Kuki tribal groups and the Meitei community, resulting in over 100 lives lost and tens of thousands displaced. The recent disturbing incident of a Meitei mob humiliating two Kuki women prompted a delayed but strong response from India’s ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and Prime Minister Narendra Modi. This article will delve into the government’s efforts and challenges in supporting the people of Manipur during this crisis.
Government Response and Legal Measures:
Prime Minister Modi’s unequivocal condemnation of the incident underscored the government’s commitment to addressing the situation. BJP’s chief minister in Manipur, N. Biren Singh, announced arrests and defended the delayed response, citing the prevalence of similar cases. The Supreme Court’s intervention to provide options for affected students reflects a legal approach to ensure the well-being of those impacted by the violence.
Security Measures and Curfew:
Faced with the potential for escalating violence, the Manipur government implemented stringent security measures in troubled districts, cancelling daytime curfew relaxation and imposing late-night curfew orders. The government’s focus on maintaining law and order signals a commitment to protecting the safety and security of the people.
Women Activists’ Response:
While challenges persist, the government’s handling of released “village protection volunteers” reflects a commitment to justice. The arrest of one volunteer, Moirangthem Anand, sparked protests, indicating a vocal response from the community. Despite the unrest, the government’s insistence on maintaining law and order through legal processes highlights a balanced approach in the face of challenges.
The ethnic violence in Manipur has tested the government’s ability to maintain peace and security. While challenges exist, the government’s responses, both legal and security-oriented, demonstrate a commitment to supporting the people of Manipur during this crisis. As the situation evolves, a collaborative approach involving political stakeholders, activists, and the public will be crucial in ensuring the well-being and harmony of the communities affected by the ongoing tensions.
As we navigate through the complex landscape of ethnic tensions in Manipur, our lens now shifts to a nationwide initiative that addresses a fundamental need – sustenance.
The United Nations has recognized the goal of eliminating hunger as 1 of its 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). In India, the common aspirations of the people often revolve around the basic necessities encapsulated in the phrase “roti, kapda, aur makan” (food, clothing, and shelter).
The COVID-19 pandemic intensified the challenges faced by households in meeting their basic needs. The widespread implementation of lockdowns, constraints on movement, and disruptions to economic operations led to a substantial increase in unemployment and the closure of businesses across the entire nation.
As the cruel grip of the pandemic tightened, families faced heart-wrenching struggles with job losses and business failures. In a moment of profound empathy, the government emerged as a true “Praja Palak” (Guardian of the People), unveiling the Pradhan Mantri Garib Kalyan Anna Yojana (PMGKAY) in April 2020. This compassionate initiative, under the National Food Security Act (NFSA), became a beacon of hope, rescuing families from the dire need for sustenance.
The following key points underscore the significance and impact of this noteworthy program:
- In response to pressing concerns, beneficiaries were granted a monthly allocation of 5 kg of free food grain, including rice, wheat, and coarse grains/millets, per person.
- PMGKAY emerged as one of the world’s largest social welfare schemes, ensuring food and nutrition security for around 81.35 crore individuals over a five-year period, with an estimated cost of Rs. 11.80 lakh crore.
- Within the framework of PMGKAY, families enrolled in the program receive substantial monthly relief, obtaining a total of 35 kg of rice and 35 kg of wheat completely free of charge.
This initiative not only addressed immediate nutritional needs but also alleviated the financial burden on individuals and families.
Originally slated to conclude by December 2023, the program has just been granted a significant extension, now set to run until the close of 2028. The extension entails an ongoing provision of food grains under PMGKAY for a substantial five-year period, commencing from January 1, 2024, benefiting a multitude of recipients.
Moreover, the nationwide dissemination of free food grains to all States/UTs is assured through a comprehensive network of over 5 lakh Fair Price Shops, all unified under a common logo.
Furthermore, the ONORC initiative empowers beneficiaries, allowing them to procure free food grains from any fair price shop across the country. This groundbreaking feature facilitates both intra and inter-State portability of entitlements, offering a seamless and accessible support system for beneficiaries, regardless of their location.
This prolonged duration reaffirms an unyielding commitment to tackling food insecurity and offering vital financial relief to millions of beneficiaries throughout India.
As we turn our attention from the essential sustenance provided by the Pradhan Mantri Garib Kalyan Anna Yojana (PMGKAY), our journey now leads us to the core of societal advancement – education. Beyond addressing immediate needs, the Indian government has set its sights on transformative educational reforms, crafting a blueprint for a just and progressive society.
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A country’s success is largely dependent on its education system, which both empowers people and propels societal advancement. It is very important for a country to implement a number of revolutionary changes in education with the goal of building a strong system that can meet the demands of the twenty-first century. The Indian government has launched a number of ground-breaking programs to improve the educational system and promote all-encompassing growth in a number of industries. These programs are intended to meet the various needs and goals of the country in an effort to build a society that is more wealthy, inclusive, and equitable.
The significant educational reforms taken by the government in the last few years that made a huge difference and improved the quality of education in India are:-
- National Education Policy (NEP) 2020: The NEP 2020 is a historic effort that represents a paradigm shift in the Indian education system by introducing a new 5+3+3+4 curricular structure in place of the previous 10+2 system. It aims to create a comprehensive, interdisciplinary educational system that fosters students’ critical thinking, creativity, and invention.
- Samagra Shiksha: Ensuring Universal Access and Quality Education: The primary objectives of the Samagra Shiksha scheme include enhancing learning outcomes, supplying professional development and teacher training, and strengthening infrastructure. To guarantee comprehensive and inclusive schooling, this flagship programme combines three earlier initiatives: Rashtriya Madhyamik Shiksha Abhiyan, Sarva Shiksha Abhiyan, and Teacher Education. Strengthening teacher education, improving quality, and ensuring universal access are its main objectives.
- Beti Bachao Beti Padhao And The Kasturba Gandhi Balika Vidyalayas: The government has launched a number of programmes to support girls’ and women’s equitable access to high-quality education, realising the transformative potential of education. The goal of the Beti Bachao Beti Padhao (BBBP) campaign is to empower girls via education and address gender inequality. Girls from marginalised communities can attend residential schools run by the Kasturba Gandhi Balika Vidyalayas (KGBVs), which offer them a good education and a nurturing environment. In an effort to encourage girls to pursue higher education, the government also offers incentives and scholarships.
- Mid-Day Meal Scheme: The Mid-Day Meal Scheme (MDMS), presently recognised as Pradhan Mantri Poshan Shakti Nirman Yojna (PMPSNY), is a premier government initiative in India that offers complimentary lunches to kids enrolled in government and government-aided schools nationwide. The programme attempts to alleviate undernourishment and hunger in children, increase academic performance, and improve cognitive development.
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Apart from these significant educational reforms, a multifaceted strategy has been adopted by the Current Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) government to advance equality, unity, and anti-discrimination in India. These programmes seek to strengthen the social fabric of the country, promote inclusive development, and address various forms of social injustice. To ensure equality for all citizens, the government has upheld the fundamental rights and values enshrined in the Indian Constitution.
To safeguard vulnerable communities, it has reinforced anti-discrimination laws, including the Scheduled Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Act, 1989 and the Scheduled Castes Act, 1989. To further improve judicial accessibility for underrepresented groups, the government has streamlined legal procedures and increased the availability of legal aid services.
The government has launched programmes like Beti Bachao Beti Padhao, Reservation Policy, Skill Development and Entrepreneurship, Financial Inclusion and Microfinance etc. To empower women, promote gender equality, and combat gender-based discrimination in order to address societal issues and discrimination.
In order to combat discrimination based on caste, it has strengthened the application of anti-discrimination laws and supported social awareness campaigns. Furthermore, in order to guarantee that everyone in society, even the most marginalised groups, benefits from economic growth, the government has taken an inclusive approach to development.
This narrative acknowledges challenges and emphasises the need for continuous efforts in combating ingrained social prejudices. As India strides towards a more just and equitable society, the collaborative synergy of government initiatives, public engagement, and ongoing reforms becomes indispensable. The story is one of resilience, progress, and a collective commitment to crafting a future where every citizen plays a vital role in shaping the nation’s destiny. In publishing this narrative, we invite readers to delve into the nuanced layers of India’s story, where crisis metamorphoses into kindness, and the journey towards unity and equality is both an inspiration and a call to action.
Citations:
Gyanendra Keshri, & Gyanendra Keshri. (2023, November 29). Free grain distribution to
81.35 cr poor under PMGKAY scheme extended for 5 years, says I&B minister Thakur.
Deccan Herald.
https://www.deccanherald.com/india/modi-govt-extends-pmgkay-scheme-for-another-5-years- from-jan-1-2024-2789220
Free Foodgrains for 81.35 crore beneficiaries for five years: Cabinet Decision. (n.d.). https://pib.gov.in/PressReleaseIframePage.aspx?PRID=1980689