Which Chief Minister was arrested in India?

The Enforcement Directorate arrested the former Jharkhand Chief Minister Hemant Soren on January 31 in connection with a land scam case. The arrest came as soon as he resigned as the Chief Minister. Following his arrest, which has been challenged in the court of law, tribal bodies announced protests across the State.

Meanwhile, Champai Soren took over as the new Chief Minister. He also underwent a floor test to prove his party's majority in the House. "At present we have 43 MLAs and four are in hospital. We have the support of 47 MLAs. The Governor is yet to give the time to form the government," Champai Soren told the media ahead of the trust vote last week. To form the government, the ruling alliance needs only 41 MLAs.

The newly formed government passed the confidence motion in the State Assembly. The Jharkhand Mukti CM Champai Soren (left) with Hemant Soren.

Morcha with 29 seats and its ally Congress with 17 were confident of easily sailing through the trust vote. Hemant Soren was also present in the Assembly to attend the floor test. A special court in Ranchi allowed Soren to participate in the trust-vote.

What is a trust vote?

A trust vote, also known as a confidence motion or vote of confidence, is a parliamentary procedure where members of the Legislative Assembly or Parliament vote to express their confidence or lack of confidence in the government. When a government is formed, it needs to prove that it has the support of the majority of the members of the legislative body. If the government loses a trust vote, it typically means that it no longer enjoys the majority support and is expected to resign, leading to either the formation of a new government or fresh elections.

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What is the status of new parliament in India?

The new Parliament building inaugurated in New Delhi recently is high on symbolism and reflects the aspirations of "new India"

If you have been following the news, you must be aware of the recent inauguration of the new Parliament building in New Delhi. Now let's look at some fascinating features of the new structure.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi dedicated the new Parliament building in New Delhi to the citizens on May 28, 2023. After installing the historic "Sengol" (a sceptre signifying the transfer of power from the British in 1947) in the Lok Sabha chamber, he delivered a speech in which the PM said the new Parliament reflected the aspirations and resolve of the "new India" to work towards achieving greater heights and that it would be a testament to the dawn of Aatmanirbhar Bharat (self-reliant India). He lauded the use of material from different parts of the country in the building to symbolise "Ek Bharat, Shreshtha Bharat".

In the shape of a triangle

The new Parliament building is part of the Central Vista redevelopment project. A beautiful blend of traditional motifs and modern technology, the new building reflects India's diversity in its architecture. Constructed by Tata Projects Ltd, it was completed in about two-and-a-half years at an estimated cost of nearly Rs 1,200 crore. The triangular-shaped four-storeyed building has a built-up area of 64,500 sq. m. The building has three main gates - Gyan Dwar, Shakti Dwar, and Karma Dwar. It also has a Constitution Hall on the ground floor to showcase India's democratic heritage, a lounge for MPs, a library, multiple committee rooms, dining areas, and ample parking space.

State-of-the-art facilities

The new building has been designed keeping in view the future increase in the number of members. The Lok Sabha Chamber has 888 seats and the Rajya Sabha chamber has 384 seats. The LS can accommodate 1,272 members during a joint session of the Houses. The new Parliament building is equipped with state-of-the-art facilities and high-tech gadgets to enable members to perform their functions in a better way. The Houses will be paperless with Wi-Fi enabled tablets provided to members. The new building also has six new committee rooms and 92 rooms for use as offices of Ministers.

The public entrances lead to three galleries - the Sangeet Gallery which exhibits dance, song, and musical traditions of India, the Sthapthya Gallery depicts the architectural heritage of the country, and the Shilp Gallery showcases distinct handicraft traditions of different States.

High on symbolism

The new parliament building is home to nearly 5,000 artwork, including paintings, wall panels, stone sculptures, and metal murals. While the interior in the Lok Sabha has motifs and colours of the national bird peacock (on carpets, ceiling and lattice work of windows), a lotus theme runs through the Rajya Sabha chamber. The "Sengol" in the Lok Sabha symbolises India's freedom, sovereignty, and fair governance. A Foucault's Pendulum hanging from the roof of the Constitution Hall is meant to symbolise "the integration of the idea of India with that of the universe". The national emblem made of bronze sits atop the building.

With carpets from Mirzapur in Uttar Pradesh, bamboo flooring from Tripura and stone carvings from Rajasthan, the new Parliament reflects India's diverse culture. The teakwood used in the building was sourced from Nagpur in Maharashtra, while the red and white sandstone was procured from Sirmathura in Rajasthan. The Kesharia green stone was from Udaipur, and the red granite from Lakha near Ajmer. The steel structure for the false ceilings in the LS and RS chambers was sourced from the Union Territory of Daman and Diu, while the furniture in the new building was crafted in Mumbai.

Besides, the building used manufactured sand or M-sand from Charkhi Dadri in Haryana for preparing concrete mix for the construction. M-sand is considered environment friendly as it is manufactured by crushing large hard stones or granite and not by dredging of river beds.

It is said that the construction of the new Parliament building gave employment to 60,000 workers and a digital gallery dedicated to them forms part of the complex.

Picture Credit : Google 

How border wall affect wildlife?

Barriers of any kind affect movement and migration of animals. For instance, the wall could come in the way of an animal’s search for water and food nearby. It could also stop animals on their long-distance migratory paths.

When he was the U.S. President, Donald Trump set off the expansion of the border wall between the U.S. and its neighbouring country Mexico. While he's not the country's President any longer, the incomplete construction stretching miles on end stands today, silently bearing testimony to human prejudice. It divided people on both sides physically and emotionally. But it appears to have affected more than just humans as with barriers anywhere globally, it has affected wildlife too.

Wildlife has no concrete borders, created singularly by and for humans. When humans introduce these barriers, wildlife struggle, to put it mildly. It has come to light that the case is no different with the U.S.-Mexico barrier. According to Cuenca Los Ojos (CLO), a transfrontier wildlife organisation, "camera trap photos and the conservationists own observations have revealed deer, mountain lions and black bears pacing along the border wall, confused and unable to access their former ranges". "One family of boars spent five hours trying to get past the wall in search of water, according to CLO. Barriers of any kind affect movement and migration of animals. For instance, the wall could come in the way of an animal's search for water and food nearby. It could also stop animals on their long-distance migratory paths.

Apart from animals, such walls can harm birds too. When these barriers are lit up at night, it can disorient both nocturnal birds and those on their long migratory journeys. While it is easy to presume that birds can effortlessly cross such barriers in daylight, the reality is different. A few birds are low-fliers, and different types of interferences in a natural landscape can leave them trapped in one place due to their inability to fly from it. According to research conducted a few years ago on the U.S.-Mexico border, "not only large roadways but also big agricultural fields and other types of landscape disturbance and segregation" affected the movement of ferruginous pygmy owl, a low-flying bird.

Erecting walls or barriers is not new. However, with the natural world already under threat from climate change, these human structures, especially in places rich in biodiversity, are likely to put further pressure on wildlife.

Picture Credit : Google 

What are some ways a citizen can participate in the political process?

Children demonstrate an interest, but stay away from engaging in socio-political affairs. Here's how they can address the gaps, become active citizens and prepare to participate in future democratic processes...

Knowledge of politics

Education is the building block of a progressive society. Besides shaping your personality, it helps you bring about change in society. Wondering how? If you become aware of your rights and responsibilities, you will be better equipped to face society and take an active part in shaping it. Continue to follow politics in your state and country from a young age. An early awareness of politics is essential to awaken your sense of social responsibility in a democracy. To start with, familiarise yourself with local governance and democratic values. Get to know about political developments, leaders and their accomplishments. Are they good at their work? Are the policies framed by them effective? Find out from the newspapers and other media. Discuss themes ranging from fundamental rights to voting and elections. This will help you make informed choices when you turn 18, the age to exercise your right to franchise. What's more, if you are cut out for politics, you too can enter the field at the right time and make a difference.

Start small

Are you indifferent towards the pot holed road in your locality? Or uncleared dustbins in the neighbourhood? Have you ignored the govemment's call to end the use of certain plastic items? Well, if your answer is ‘Yes’, it's time to act. Change starts with you! You can be the change you would like to see in society. Find out how you can contribute to change in your community. You can start by volunteering with organisations working for civic issues during the weekends. As you commit yourself to such work, you will inspire others too to follow suit. Start small, start local, and then expand your areas of work.

Read autobiographies and biographies of leaders

Every leader had to overcome great obstacles during their lifetime. Today we may not even have an idea of the struggles they had to undergo to attain freedom for our country. Read up on the history of India and world, the wars, the biographies of great leaders and the works written by them. You will get to know about their qualities, what made them stand out, their credibility, statesmanship and their effective policies towards disadvantages sections of society. You will also learn about the futility of war. Books serve as great teachers and reading biographies will shape you into a better leader.

 

Care for the environment

With a warming world staring us in the face, what can we do to minimise its impact on us and the future generations? Remember the 3Rs - Reduce, Recycle and Reuse. Conserve energy by unplugging appliances when not in use. Conserve water by fixing the leaky taps in the kitchen and around your house. Plant saplings, and remember to water them regularly. They will surely provide the much-needed green cover in a few years' time. Cycle or walk to places in the vicinity instead of taking out your fuel-guzzling two-wheelers to buy things needed for home or to visit friends. In this way, you can reduce greenhouse gas emissions and thereby cut your carbon footprint. Instead of going on accumulating new things, try recycling what you already have and reuse. Cardboards can be converted into penholders and made attractive with a coat of vibrant paint, CD discs can be converted into adornments, and doormats can be fashioned out of old clothes. The options are many, if you only put your heart to it.

Be a responsible citizen

Do not wait for something big to happen. Start where you are with whatever you have, said People's President A.PJ. Abdul Kalam. He believed in the power of the young minds to bring about change. Youngsters are a dynamic force. These days they are often exposed to issues such as economic inequities, religious discrimination and environmental challenges. If young people aged below 20, who constitute over 40% of the country's population, develop skills such as empathy, teamwork, leadership, and problem-solving, it will not only enable them to take responsibility for their actions but also help build a better future along with others.

Develop a mindset that will push you to question what is undesirable around you and resolve the problems efficiently and amicably. By being a responsible citizen, you can play an active part in society, be the changemaker and also inspire others to bring about change in various walks of life.

Think positive

A positive perception towards politics is essential as today's children are going to be tomorrow's leaders and policy makers. Many youngsters tend to get cynical about politics when they come across or read about corrupt leaders and those with criminal antecedents. But instead of losing heart, they can try to set good examples. Knowledge of and early exposure to politics lead to increased interest in politics. Try to participate in democratic processes such as elections in schools and colleges. This will eventually help evolve an avid interest in the country's electoral process, governance, development, etc. Gaining knowledge about economy, healthcare, social justice and the Constitution is essential. When you are well informed about the situations prevalent in the country and other countries, you will be able to bring about systemic change that will benefit society.

Picture Credit : Google 

What are some ways a citizen can participate in the political process?

Children demonstrate an interest, but stay away from engaging in socio-political affairs. Here's how they can address the gaps, become active citizens and prepare to participate in future democratic processes...

Knowledge of politics

Education is the building block of a progressive society. Besides shaping your personality, it helps you bring about change in society. Wondering how? If you become aware of your rights and responsibilities, you will be better equipped to face society and take an active part in shaping it. Continue to follow politics in your state and country from a young age. An early awareness of politics is essential to awaken your sense of social responsibility in a democracy. To start with, familiarise yourself with local governance and democratic values. Get to know about political developments, leaders and their accomplishments. Are they good at their work? Are the policies framed by them effective? Find out from the newspapers and other media. Discuss themes ranging from fundamental rights to voting and elections. This will help you make informed choices when you turn 18, the age to exercise your right to franchise. What's more, if you are cut out for politics, you too can enter the field at the right time and make a difference.

Start small

Are you indifferent towards the pot holed road in your locality? Or uncleared dustbins in the neighbourhood? Have you ignored the govemment's call to end the use of certain plastic items? Well, if your answer is ‘Yes’, it's time to act. Change starts with you! You can be the change you would like to see in society. Find out how you can contribute to change in your community. You can start by volunteering with organisations working for civic issues during the weekends. As you commit yourself to such work, you will inspire others too to follow suit. Start small, start local, and then expand your areas of work.

Read autobiographies and biographies of leaders

Every leader had to overcome great obstacles during their lifetime. Today we may not even have an idea of the struggles they had to undergo to attain freedom for our country. Read up on the history of India and world, the wars, the biographies of great leaders and the works written by them. You will get to know about their qualities, what made them stand out, their credibility, statesmanship and their effective policies towards disadvantages sections of society. You will also learn about the futility of war. Books serve as great teachers and reading biographies will shape you into a better leader.

 

Care for the environment

With a warming world staring us in the face, what can we do to minimise its impact on us and the future generations? Remember the 3Rs - Reduce, Recycle and Reuse. Conserve energy by unplugging appliances when not in use. Conserve water by fixing the leaky taps in the kitchen and around your house. Plant saplings, and remember to water them regularly. They will surely provide the much-needed green cover in a few years' time. Cycle or walk to places in the vicinity instead of taking out your fuel-guzzling two-wheelers to buy things needed for home or to visit friends. In this way, you can reduce greenhouse gas emissions and thereby cut your carbon footprint. Instead of going on accumulating new things, try recycling what you already have and reuse. Cardboards can be converted into penholders and made attractive with a coat of vibrant paint, CD discs can be converted into adornments, and doormats can be fashioned out of old clothes. The options are many, if you only put your heart to it.

Be a responsible citizen

Do not wait for something big to happen. Start where you are with whatever you have, said People's President A.PJ. Abdul Kalam. He believed in the power of the young minds to bring about change. Youngsters are a dynamic force. These days they are often exposed to issues such as economic inequities, religious discrimination and environmental challenges. If young people aged below 20, who constitute over 40% of the country's population, develop skills such as empathy, teamwork, leadership, and problem-solving, it will not only enable them to take responsibility for their actions but also help build a better future along with others.

Develop a mindset that will push you to question what is undesirable around you and resolve the problems efficiently and amicably. By being a responsible citizen, you can play an active part in society, be the changemaker and also inspire others to bring about change in various walks of life.

Think positive

A positive perception towards politics is essential as today's children are going to be tomorrow's leaders and policy makers. Many youngsters tend to get cynical about politics when they come across or read about corrupt leaders and those with criminal antecedents. But instead of losing heart, they can try to set good examples. Knowledge of and early exposure to politics lead to increased interest in politics. Try to participate in democratic processes such as elections in schools and colleges. This will eventually help evolve an avid interest in the country's electoral process, governance, development, etc. Gaining knowledge about economy, healthcare, social justice and the Constitution is essential. When you are well informed about the situations prevalent in the country and other countries, you will be able to bring about systemic change that will benefit society.

Picture Credit : Google 

Who was Kamaladevi Chattopadhyay ?

Kamaladevi Chattopadhyay was the first woman in India to run for political office, when she competed for a seat in the Madras Legislative Assembly in 1926, losing by a mere 55 votes. A freedom fighter, actor, writer and social reformer, she was the driving force behind the renaissance of Indian theatre, handicrafts and handlooms in independent India. She is known as "Hathkargha Maa' for her work in the handloom sector to uplift the socio economic status of Indian women. Making it fashionable to wear handspun sarees and adorn homes with traditional handicrafts, the Padma Bhushan and Padma Vibhushan awardee set up iconic institutions like the National School of Drama, Sangeet Natak Akademi, Central Cottage Industries Emporium and the Crafts Council of India.

Kamaladevi was also a key figure in the international socialist feminist movement. From the late 1920s to the 1940s and beyond, Kamaladevi became an emissary for Indian women and political independence. She also advocated transnational causes – such as racism and political and economic equity between nations. She also attended the International Alliance of Women in Berlin in 1929.

Born in a Saraswat Brahmin community of Mangalore, Kamaladevi was greatly inspired by Gandhian ideas and the concept of non-violence. Much of it can be attributed to her upbringing. Her parents were progressive thinkers and involved in the freedom struggle of the era. Her mother was chiefly responsible for her scholarly upbringing after Kamaladevi lost her father at an early age. Her grandmother was known to have challenged the limitations placed on widows and continued her pursuit of knowledge and independent living.

Her first chance with politics came at the home of her maternal uncle. A notable social reformer, his house was throged by eminent lawyers, political luminaries, and public figures, among them Gopalkrishna Gokhale, Srinivasa Sastri, Pandita Ramabai, and Sir Tej Bahadur Sapru. By 1923, Kamaladevi, following the footsteps of Gandhi, enrolled herself in the nationalist struggle as a member of the Congress party. Three years later, she had the unique distinction of being the first woman in India to run for political office. Kamaladevi competed for a seat in the Madras Legislative Assembly and lost by a mere 55 votes.

Even though she was a strong advocate of Salt Satyagraha, she differed with Gandhi’s decision to exclude women in the march. Though Kamaladevi was charged with violation of the salt laws and sentenced to a prison term, she captured the nation’s attention when, in a scuffle over the Congress flag, she clung to it tenaciously. At the same time, Kamaladevi was establishing political links outside India too. In 1926, she met the Irish-Indian suffragette Margaret Cousins, who founded the All India Women’s Conference and remained its president until Kamaladevi assumed that role in 1936. She was a great author too and her first writings on the rights of women in India date to 1929. One of her last books, Indian Women’s Battle for Freedom, was published in 1982.

An interesting fact that many are unaware of is the role Kamaladevi played in giving birth to present Faridabad. As the founding leader of the Indian Cooperative Union (ICU), she took upon the job to resettle nearly 50,000 Pathans from the North West Frontier Province (NWFP) in the wake of the post-Partition migrations. Apart from her contribution in handicrafts, she also set up the Indian National Theatre (INT) in 1944, what we today know as National School of Drama. It was a movement to recognise and celebrate indigenous modes of performance like dance, folklore, and mushairas and help the freedom struggle.

Credit : Indian express

Picture Credit : Google 

A HARBINGER OF CHANGE

Dr BR Ambedkar is one of the most luminous figures of modern Indian history and the principal architect of our constitution. He endeavoured to build a new social order based on the democratic ideals of liberty, equality and fraternity. Let us look back at one of his most iconic speeches at the Constituent Assembly.

On November 24, 1949, B. R. Ambedkar presented his concluding remarks on the adoption of the Constitution in the Constituent Assembly. His address recalled the detailed discussions and deliberations on fundamental rights, union powers, and upliftment of minorities that laid the foundation of our Constitution's legal framework. But what makes this speech significant in present-day's political environment is its orators prophetic predictions of the factors that threaten India's political identity as a socialist democracy.

The quest of the hour Even at the helm of liberty, what crippled Ambedkars mind with anxiety was the thought of the stronghold ideals of caste and creed had on the average citizen. Recalling past incidents like the invasion of Sind by Mahommed-Bin-Kasim, he elaborated on how India had once before lost its independence to the treachery of its people and the rise of new political parties that possess diverse and opposing political standing can cause history to repeat itself.

He declared that the day politicians choose creed over the country, the purpose of democracy will be defeated.

Therefore, the quest of the hour was to ensure that proper measures are taken to enforce and safeguard equality, liberty and fraternity as a nascent nation moved forward

Abandon the grammar of anarchy

In his address to the constituent assembly, Ambedkar implored to hold fast to constitutional methods of achieving social and economic objectives and abandon methods of rebellion like civil disobedience, non-cooperation and satyagraha. According to him, in a society that is built on good well and justice and is governed by leaders elected by the people there is no valid justification to employ unsanctioned methods of rebellion.

Dangers of hero-worship Calling Bhakti culture or Hero-worship a sure road to degradation and eventual dictatorship, he said "There is nothing wrong in being grateful to great men who have rendered lifelong services to the country. But there are limits to gratefulness... With independence, we have lost the excuse of blaming the British for anything going wrong. If hereafter things go wrong, we will have nobody to blame. Except ourselves...If we wish to preserve the Constitution...let us resolve not to be tardy in the recognition of the evils that lie across our path...nor to be weak in our initiative to remove them. That is the only way to serve the country. I know of no better." (excerpt from the speech)

Key takeaways from the speech

1. Equality, liberty and fraternity are the foundations of our constitution.

2. Blind faith in any entity or individual is an enemy of the truth.

3. A good citizen understands the responsibility that comes with freedom.

DID YOU KNOW?

  1. Dr Ambedkar was the first law minister of Independent India
  2. Ambedkar's 20-page autobiography titled "Waiting for a Visa" is part of Columbia University's curriculum.
  3. Ambedkar was the first member of the backward classes to become a lawyer.
  4. Ambedkar was the first and only Satyagrahi to conduct "Satyagraha for drinking water”. Ambedkar had master's degrees in around 64 subjects and was the first Indian to obtain a doctorate in Economics from a foreign university.

Picture Credit : Google 

WHAT IS THE MAIN IDEA OF ‘FREEDOM OR DEATH’ SPEECH?

Emmeline Pankhurst was an English political activist and a leading figure in the suffrage movement in Great Britain. Her tireless campaigning in the face of police brutality and failing personal health made her an icon of British politics. Let us look at one of her most influential public addresses titled, "Freedom or Death"

On November 13, 1913, British activist Emmeline Pankhurst gave one of the most influential speeches of the suffragette movement titled, Freedom or Death" at a meeting of the Connecticut Woman Suffrage Association in Hartford, Connecticut. U.S.

On this day, the founder of the Women's Social and Political Union (WSPU) took the stage to argue that women's liberation could only be achieved by civil war.

Sign of the times

One of the greatest political changes of the 20th Century was obtaining the vote for women; but behind this accomplishment lay decades of refusals by successive governments.

The long-standing campaign for women's suffrage began in 1865 but when years of peaceful protest and innumerable petitions failed to translate into political change, women took to the streets to rally for their right to vote. It was during this time that Emmeline Pankhurst. along with her daughters Christabel and Sylvia, came up with a public campaign of engagement and spectacle to gain media attention change public opinion, and influence the Parliament through (their motto) deeds and not words.

Freedom or Death

In her 1913 speech, Pankhurst addressed herself as a soldier on leave from the battle, since she was temporarily relieved from her prison sentence on account of what was popularly called the "cat and mouse act"

But her failing health could not derail her from utilising this occasion to speak on the need to fight against the injustices perpetrated on women by society. At the time working women she explained, were earning a meagre amount of two dollars a week: wives had no right on their husband's property and no legal say in the upbringing of their children. Girls were seen as marriageable at the age of 12 and divorce was considered to be an act against God: violence and assault on women rarely received any significant penalty, and above all, there was no legal framework that represented their gender in the constitutional setup. In this political environment, the right to vote, she insisted, was the first step towards getting political equality and attaining full citizenship.

The path to militancy Justifying the rise of the self-proclaimed militant suffragettes, she proclaimed "you cannot make omelettes without breaking eggs" The double standard of the society that reveres men as the harbinger of change and women as creatures to be domesticated has forced us down this road. The history of politics is a testament to the fact that one has to be more noisy" and disruptive to gain the media's attention and see their grievances addressed.

Prisoners (Temporary Discharge for Ill Health) Act 1913

 This 1913 law, also known as the cat and mouse act, was especially passed to suppress the women's movement and allowed for the early release of prisoners who were so weakened by partaking in hunger strikes that they were on the verge of dying. Addressing this legislative move by the Government, she said "There are women lying at death's door... who have not given in and won't give in... they are being carried from their sick beds on stretchers into meetings. They are too weak to speak, but they go amongst their fellow workers just to show that their spirits are unquenched and that their spirit is alive, and they mean to go on as long as life lasts...either women are to be killed or women are to have the vote." (excerpt from Freedom or Death)

World War-l

Less than a year after this speech World War I broke out. The government released all imprisoned suffragists to join the workforce and support the war effort. It was only after the Representation of the People Act was passed in 1918 that property-owning British women over 30 were granted the right to vote.

Key takeaways from the speech

  1. One must never hesitate to fight for social good.
  2.  Women's rights are human rights.
  3.  Equality is the soul of liberty.
  4. It takes courage to challenge the familiar and resilience to succeed.
  5.  Actions hold more meaning than words.

DID YOU KNOW?

  • The colour scheme for the Suffragette movement was purple, white and green which stood for dignity purity and fertility.
  • Pank-a-Squith was a pro women's suffrage board game created by WSPU in the early 1900s. The game's goal was to avoid all the pitfalls of suffragette life and get the right to vote.
  • The Museum of London holds the diary entries, letters and sketchbooks written on toilet paper, passed between imprisoned suffragettes and eventually smuggled out of the prison building.

Picture Credit : Google 

WHAT WAS THEODORE ROOSEVELT'S FAMOUS SPEECH?

On April 23, 1910, former U.S. President Theodore Roosevelt delivered what would become one of the most quoted speeches of his career, titled ‘Citizenship in a Republic’ at The Sorbonne for the University of Paris.

Theodore Roosevelt is remembered as one of the most robust Presidents in US history. His journey to become a symbol of America's strength and vitality is an inspiration for many. Let's revisit his monumental 1910 address in Paris, titled Citizenship in a Republic.

According to historian Edmund Morris's biography Colonel Roosevelt, the audience for this address included ministers in court dress, army and navy officers in full uniform, nine hundred students, and an audience of two thousand ticket holders.

This speech, which is also popularly known as The Man in the Arena, went on to become so influential that it was printed for tens and thousands of French school children. It was translated across Europe and turned into a pocketbook that sold 5.000 copies in just five days.

Roosevelt's America

History records that growing up, the 26th President of the U.S. found himself standing at the hinge of history. He was the leader of a new generation, one that had not witnessed the civil war first-hand. His presidency marked a beginning of a progressive era in politics that re-evaluated the moral conundrums and choices of the past.

Roosevelt's America was wrestling with profound challenges. Industrialisation and immigration meant that the cities were overcrowded and the working conditions at the factories were deteriorating by the day, and in the South. African-Americans were losing many of their voting rights, whereas women were still fighting to get the right to vote in the first place, business was booming and consolidating into various Trusts and monopolies. But in spite of all this, people were optimistic that the tools, technology, voices, and ideas of this time could solve all these problems.

Leadership distilled into action

Few men have had as much action in their life as Theodore Roosevelt. For average American citizens, his name conjures up images of Big game hunting, the Panama canal, glasses, his iconic grin, and moments that make him seem larger than life.

He was called by many the first media-conscious President the nation has ever seen. His pictures were everywhere, his likeness appeared in countless cartoons, his quotes passed from citizen to citizen and a record of his public life filmed for posterity flickered on every screen. He used the Oval office to preach the virtues of action and social reform. His rebellion against corporate greed and crooked politicians gave him the name and reputation of being a loose cannon that seldom missed a shot. One of history's supreme examples of leadership distilled into action. Roosevelt preached that the most effective way to learn was to do so by observation and true to these words, he led by example.

The Man in the Arena In his 1910 speech at The Sorbonne, he declared "Today I shall speak to you on the subject of individual citizenship... The average citizen must be a good citizen if our republics are to succeed... the main source of national power and national greatness is found in the average citizenship of the nation. Therefore it behoves us to do our best to see that the standard of the average citizen is kept high" (excerpt from Citizenship in a Republic)

He further points out that the biggest problem with the system of higher education was that it made one a cynic and even took pride in it. Such an education (which was a privilege in itself) strips us of emotions and beliefs and reduces us to mere commentators who only know how to criticise "the way others do what they themselves dare not even attempt".

He explains, "It is not the critic who counts: not the man who points out how the strong man stumbles or where the doer of deeds could have done them better. The credit belongs to the man who is actually in the arena, whose face is marred by dust and sweat and blood: who strives valiantly: who errs, who comes short again and again, because there is no effort without error and shortcoming; but who does actually strive to do the deeds; who knows the great enthusiasms, the great devotions; who spends himself in a worthy cause; who at the best knows, in the end, the triumph of high achievement, and who at the worst, if he fails, at least fails while daring greatly..." (excerpt from Citizenship in a Republic) His entire understanding of leadership came down to the fact that actions speak louder than words. And his political career is a testament to his devotion to his country and his belief in this philosophy.

The combination of his manic energy, wide-ranging interests, and his extraordinary intellect at the turn of the 20th Century made him one of the most remarkable leaders the country has ever seen.

DID YOU KNOW?

1. Roosevelt was the first President to win a Nobel Peace Prize. He received this honour for having negotiated peace in the Russo-Japanese war in 1904-05.

2. Roosevelt is to date the youngest man to have served as the President of the U.S.

3. Roosevelt sparked a scandal when he invited the African-American educator Booker T. Washington to dine with him and his family; he was the first President ever to entertain a black man in the White House.

4. During his presidency he created the United States Forest Service (USFS) to preserve wildlife and established 150 national forests, 51 federal bird reserves, and five national parks.

Picture Credit : Google

WHAT IS UNIFORM CIVIL CODE?

The uniform civil code has sparked a debate yet again in the country, with some calling it "essential" and others condemning it as "unconstitutional". But what is a Uniform Civil Code? Let's find out

What's a Uniform Civil Code?

India is a country with its people professing different religions, following diverse traditions and celebrating varied festivals - a fine example of unity in diversity A Uniform Civil Code refers to a common set of laws governing personal matters such as marriage, divorce, adoption. succession, inheritance and such other things.

The UCC comes under Article 44 of the Constitution of India, which states that "The State shall endeavour to secure for the citizens a uniform civil code throughout the territory of India". This was envisaged by Dr. B. R. Ambedkar, the father of the Indian Constitution. The UCC proposes a uniform personal law that would be applicable to personal matters of all citizens irrespective of their religion, caste, or gender. Personal laws are different from public laws, and currently, personal laws of different communities are governed by their respective religions, following customs and practices prescribed in their religious texts.

The primary objective of UCC is to treat all citizens equally irrespective of their religion and provide protection to vulnerable people. The draft of the UCC is yet to be finalised. Here it's significant to note that India's criminal laws are uniform and apply to everyone equally irrespective of their religious beliefs.

What's the need for a UCC?

There is no uniformity because of the differences that exist within the present personal laws of different communities. For example, there are different succession laws. In some communities. the rights of women are limited. They cannot get an equal share in the property of their deceased parents as only male heirs are entitled to a bigger share in the property.

In some cases, women do not have a say in issues such as divorce, maintenance, etc. These practices governed by religion are at odds with the fundamental rights guaranteed in the Constitution. Such things are seen as depriving women of their rights and being unfair to them, hence the need for a UCC is deeply felt. With women becoming more independent due to rise in literacy rates and social awareness, many laws have been and are being amended to protect their interests.

The UCC, if enacted, is expected to simplify the laws that now remain segregated on the basis of religious beliefs, ensure uniformity and promote unity. However, concerns have been expressessed that in the urge for bringing in uniformity the secular and cultural fabric of the country is not threatened.

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Who is the longest-reigning british monarch in world history?

Queen Elizabeth II was the first British sovereign to celebrate the Platinum Jubilee (70 years of service) recently. She is currently the world's longest reigning monarch, having ascended the throne on February 6, 1952. However, the Queen still has some way to go to achieve the longest recorded reign-that of Louis XIV of France, also known as Louis the Great. Louis XIV was King of France for 72 years and 110 days, from 1643 to until his demise in 1715.

Elizabeth I - the last Tudor monarch - was born at Greenwich on 7 September 1533, the daughter of Henry VIII and his second wife, Anne Boleyn. Her early life was full of uncertainties, and her chances of succeeding to the throne seemed very slight once her half-brother Edward was born in 1537. She was then third in line behind her Roman Catholic half-sister, Princess Mary. Roman Catholics, indeed, always considered her illegitimate and she only narrowly escaped execution in the wake of a failed rebellion against Queen Mary in 1554.

Elizabeth succeeded to the throne on her half-sister's death in November 1558. She was very well-educated (fluent in five languages), and had inherited intelligence, determination and shrewdness from both parents. Her 45-year reign is generally considered one of the most glorious in English history. During it a secure Church of England was established. Its doctrines were laid down in the 39 Articles of 1563, a compromise between Roman Catholicism and Protestantism. Elizabeth herself refused to 'make windows into men's souls ... there is only one Jesus Christ and all the rest is a dispute over trifles'; she asked for outward uniformity. Most of her subjects accepted the compromise as the basis of their faith, and her church settlement probably saved England from religious wars like those which France suffered in the second half of the 16th century.

Although autocratic and capricious, Elizabeth had astute political judgement and chose her ministers well; these included William Cecil, later Lord Burghley (Secretary of State), Sir Christopher Hatton (Lord Chancellor) and Sir Francis Walsingham (in charge of intelligence and also a Secretary of State).

Overall, Elizabeth's administration consisted of some 600 officials administering the great offices of state, and a similar number dealing with the Crown lands (which funded the administrative costs). Social and economic regulation and law and order remained in the hands of the sheriffs at local level, supported by unpaid justices of the peace.

 Elizabeth's reign was one of considerable danger and difficulty for many, with threats of invasion from Spain through Ireland, and from France through Scotland. Much of northern England was in rebellion in 1569-70. A papal bull of 1570 specifically released Elizabeth's subjects from their allegiance, and she passed harsh laws against Roman Catholics after plots against her life were discovered.

As a likely successor to Elizabeth, Mary spent 19 years as Elizabeth's prisoner because Mary was the focus for rebellion and possible assassination plots, such as the Babington Plot of 1586.

During Elizabeth's long reign, the nation also suffered from high prices and severe economic depression, especially in the countryside, during the 1590s. The war against Spain was not very successful after the Armada had been beaten and, together with other campaigns, it was very costly.

Despite the combination of financial strains and prolonged war after 1588, Parliament was not summoned more often. There were only 16 sittings of the Commons during Elizabeth's reign, five of which were in the period 1588-1601. Although Elizabeth freely used her power to veto legislation, she avoided confrontation and did not attempt to define Parliament's constitutional position and rights.

Overall, Elizabeth's always shrewd and, when necessary, decisive leadership brought successes during a period of great danger both at home and abroad. She died at Richmond Palace on 24 March 1603, having become a legend in her lifetime. The date of her accession was a national holiday for two hundred years.

Credit : ROYAL.UK

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Which has become the world first 100% paperless government?

Dubai is the world's first government to turn 100% paperless. The move is said to have saved 336 million papers, 14 million hours of labour and 1.3 billion Dirham (US$350 million). The need for paper documents and transactions will be removed for all employees or customers of the Dubai Government. Its DubaiNow app will connect users to more than 130 "smart" services of the city in a bid to make the city 100 per cent digital.

Earlier, the US, UK, Europe and Canada have already been expressive of their plans to digitize government operation on a larger scale, which encompass government procedures and citizen identifications. However, sceptics have always argued about such a step's vulnerability to cyber-attacks.

The Dubai Crown Prince stated that the government plans to implement advanced strategies to create and enhance digital life in Dubai over the next five decades.

He added that the new phase of Dubai's digital journey will enable and empower future governments to meet the expectations of the residents of a thriving smart city and provide them with renewed opportunities for prosperity, sustainable development, and happiness.

Credit : India Times 

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What is a coalition government?

After 12 years under the rule of Benjamin Netanyahu, Israelis woke up to a new government and a new prime minister on June 14. PM Naftali Bennett leads an unprecedented coalition of parties, which got together with a single aim to oust Netanyahu. The coalition comprises eight parties with deep ideological differences. What does a coalition government mean? Who are the new leaders?

What happened?

Legislative elections were held in Israel in March 2021 to elect the 120 members of the 24th Knesset (Israeli parliament). It was the fourth election since 2019. Yair Lapid, leader of Yesh Atid party, and Naftali Bennett, leader of Yamina, announced they formed a rotation government on June 2, which was approved on June 13 in Knesset.

The coalition in Israel has a razor-thin majority of 60 to 59. However, it put an end to two-year period of political paralysis. The coalition spans the far-left to the far-right and includes for the first time a small Islamist faction representing Israel's Arab minority. The government is expected to focus mostly on economic and social issues rather than risk exposing internal rifts by trying to address major diplomatic issues such as the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

Under the coalition deal, Bennett will serve as prime minister for two years and will be replaced by Yair Lapid. It was Lapid who made a series of agreements with parties across the political spectrum to form the new coalition and his party won the most votes in the anti-Netanyahu camp.

What is a coalition government?

When two or more parties come together to form a government, it is called a coalition government. The alliance could happen pre or post poll. In the post poll alliance, parties come together to form a government when no single party enjoys absolute majority. Before agreeing to an alliance, the parties in the coalition negotiate on seat sharing, roles and responsibilities. Members of the parties in the coalition decide who among them will run the government as the head of the state.

Who is Benjamin Netanyahu?

  • Netanyahu is Israel's longest-serving leader, who won a record four elections and held office five times more than any other prime minister in the country's 73-year history.
  • Netanyahu earned bachelor's and master's degrees at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology in the United States. He was appointed Israel's permanent representative at the UN in New York in 1984. In 1988, Netanyahu returned to Israel and entered Israeli politics. Winning a seat for the Likud Party in the Knesset, he became the deputy foreign minister. He later became party chairman and the prime minister in 1996. In 2009, he returned to power as the prime minister and retained the office till 2020. In 2019, he was charged with bribery, fraud and breach of trust. He now serves as the opposition leader.
  • Benjamin Netanyahu strengthened Israel's ties with world nations: held a harder line towards the Palestinians; criticised Iran's nuclear programme and highlighted its threat and managed to make peace with four Arab countries - the United Arab Emirates, Sudan, Morocco, and Bahrain, on the back of shared fears of Iran.
  • To his supporters, Netanyahu is a global statesman uniquely capable of leading the country through its many security challenges. But to his critics, he has become a polarising and autocratic leader who used divide-and-rule tactics to aggravate the many rifts in Israeli society. Those include tensions between Jews and Arabs, and within the Jewish majority between his religious and nationalist base and his more secular opponents.

How is the fragile coalition government expected to address conflicts?

With little in common, the patchwork coalition of right-wing, centrist, left wing and Arab parties largely plans to avoid sweeping moves on hot button issues such as policy towards the Palestinians, and to focus instead on domestic reforms

Israel-Palestinian issue: Bennett is an ultranationalist who supports settlement expansion and is opposed to a Palestinian state. But he risks losing his job if he alienates his coalition partners. That will likely mean a continuation of Netanyahu's approach of managing the decades-old Israel -Palestinian conflict without trying to end it. Annexing the occupied West Bank and invading Gaza are probably off the table, but so are any major concessions to the Palestinians.

On Iran nuclear deal: The new government is expected to maintain Netanyahu's hard-line stance on Iran and oppose U.S. President Joe Biden's efforts to revive its international nuclear deal. The new government will also likely work with Biden to strengthen ties with Arab states.

Domestic issues: The biggest change will likely be felt domestically, as the government struggles to heal the divisions in Israeli society that opened up during the Netanyahu years, between Jews and Arabs and between ultra-Orthodox and secular Israelis.

The United Arab List, a small party with Islamist roots led by Mansour Abbas, is the first Arab party to sit in a coalition. In return for helping to oust Netanyahu, he is expected to secure large budgets for housing, infrastructure and law enforcement in Arab communities.

Israel's Arab citizens' make up 20 % of the population and face widespread discrimination. They have close familial ties to the Palestinians and largely identify with their cause, leading many Jewish Israelis to view them with suspicion.

The new government already faces hostility from Israel's ultra-Orthodox community - staunch supporters of Netanyahu.

Who are Naftali Bennett and Yair Lapid?

Naftali Bennett is a former ally of Netanyahu. His ultranationalist Yamina party won just seven seats in the Knesset in the March elections. But by refusing to commit to Netanyahu, Bennett positioned himself as kingmaker.

He is opposed to Palestinian independence and strongly supports Jewish settlements in the occupied West Bank and east Jerusalem, which the Palestinians and much of the international community see as a major obstacle to peace.

He briefly served as head of the West Bank settlers council, Yesha, before entering the Knesset in 2013. Bennett served as Cabinet minister of diaspora affairs, education and defence in various Netanyahu-led governments.

Yair Lapid heads the centrist Yesh Atid party and was the architect behind the new government. His party is the biggest in the coalition but he agreed share power with Bennett to secure a parliamentary majority. He quit his job as a TV anchor in 2012 and formed his own party, running on the promise to ease financial pressures on the middle-class.

What is the Israel-Palestine issue?

The Israel-Palestine issue dates back to the 1910s when Jews and Arabs in Palestine laid claim to the British-controlled Palestine. Facing persecution, the Jews wanted to establish their state in their ancient homeland. They bought lands and started settling down there. However, with the rising influx of Jews from Europe and Russia, the native Palestine Arabs felt threatened which led to violent skirmishes between the two. When this issue was referred to the U.N. in 1947, it voted to split Palestine into two - a Jewish State and an Arab State. Following this, Israel declared independence in May 1948. The same year saw some Arab countries declare war on Israel. Israel emerged victorious and started expanding its territory. A large number of Palestine people fled Israel to settle down in refugee camps bordering the region. Again in 1967, Israel launched a pre-emptive strike on Syria, Jordan and Egypt which led to its seizure of key territories such as the West Bank and the Gaza Strip - these came to be referred to as occupied territories. Despite several accords signed to restore peace in the region, the Palestine issue remains unresolved. Palestinians have been seeking an independent state in the occupied territories of the West Bank and Gaza.

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What is NOTA?

It was reported that the NOTA option had very few takers in the recent assembly polls in Tamil Nadu, Kerala, West Bengal, Assam, and Puducherry. But what is NOTA? Let’s find out.

NOTA stands for “None of the above”. It is a ballot option in direct elections that allows the voter to indicate disapproval of all the candidates in the electoral fray. It enables the voter to cast a negative vote without compromising the secrecy of their decision. In other words, it encourages voters to express their dissent against all contestants in a democratic way, rather than boycotting elections altogether. It is based on the principle that when the citizens have the right to vote, they also have the right to reject. If a voter presses the NOTA button on the EVM, it means the individual has not voted for any party/candidate. Though NOTA votes are counted, they are considered invalid, and hence will not impact the results of an election. This, experts feel, renders and NOTA meaningless.

When was NOTA introduced?

The ‘NOTA’ option on the Electronic Voting Machine (EVM) was introduced in our electoral system in the year 2013 on the directions of the Supreme Court which hoped that NOTA would force political parties to choose better candidates. NOTA has its own symbol - a ballot paper with a black cross across it. After the Supreme Court order in September 2013 the Election Commission of India, responsible for holding free and fair elections in the country, added the NOTA button on the EVMs as the last option on the voting panel.

What was the practice earlier?

Earlier when ballot papers were in use, voters had the choice of dropping the ballot box without marking their choice of candidate or marking against multiple options, indicating their rejection of all fielded candidates. These were regarded as null votes. Before the introduction of the NOTA option, those not inclined to vote for any candidate had the option of filling what is popularly called ‘Form 49–O’. But filling the form at the polling booth violated the secrecy of the ballot.

What happens if NOTA wins?

In India, if NOTA gets maximum votes in an election, the election is not cancelled; the next highest scorer wins. The Election Commission does not hold free polls if the majority of the electorate exercises the NOTA option.

Fact file

  • The NOTA option on the EVM has its own symbol - a ballot paper with a black cross across it.
  • The NOTA option was first used in the 2013 Assembly elections held in the states of Chhattisgarh, Mizoram, Rajasthan, and Madhya Pradesh, and the former Union Territory of Delhi.
  • Negative voting is in practice in countries such as France, Belgium, Brazil, Greece, Ukraine, Chile, Bangladesh, Finland, Colombia, Spain, and Sweden. India, by introducing NOTA in 2013, became the 14th country to adopt this practice.

 

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What is Central Vista Project?

Since March, Delhi, among other parts of India, has been reeling under the second wave of the COVID-19 pandemic. Shortage of oxygen beds and Intensive Care Units led to a huge surge in Covid deaths. Amidst the crisis, the Chief Minister of Delhi, Arvind Kejriwal, announced a lockdown, allowing only essential work to be continued. Meanwhile, the Government has brought the construction work for the Central Vista project under the ambit of “essential services”, a move that flayed by the opposition.

On May 12, in an open letter addressed to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, a group of 76 public intellectuals and scholars from India and abroad called for a halt and reconsideration of the Central Vista Redevelopment Project.

The same day, leaders of 12 opposition parties, wrote to the Prime Minister seeking the suspension of the project and they divert the money to aid the fight against coronavirus. Environmentalists and conservationists too have expressed concern over the redevelopment of the power corridor.

What is the Central Vista Project all about? Why does the Central government want to construct the project in the first place?

What does the Central Vista Project envision?

The Central Vista Redevelopment Project is a construction plan to go give India’s power corridor, also known as the Lutyen’s Delhi, a new look and identity. The landmark project, which was announced in 2019, involves constructing a Parliament building, a common central secretariat and revamping of the 3 km long stretch from the Rashtrapati Bhavan to India Gate known as the Central Vista. It will replace various offices of the central government, the residence of the prime minister and also the vice president‘s house. The entire project is estimated to cost Rs.20,000 crore and is expected to be completed before the general elections in 2024.

What is the plan for a new parliament?

A new parliament building will be constructed close to the existing Parliament building in the Parliament House Estate, under the Central Vista Redevelopment Project. It is expected to be completed by 2022 in time for the commemoration of the 75th year of India’s Independence. The triangular-shaped Parliament will have four storeys and will come up in an area of 64,500 m² at an estimated cost of Rs.971 crore.

In the new building, the Lok Sabha chamber will have a seating capacity for 1,224 members, while the Rajya Sabha will have 384 seats. At present, the Lok Sabha has a strength of 543 members and the Rajya Sabha 245. It all will also have a Central Constitution Hall to showcase the country‘s democratic heritage, a library, committee rooms and dining areas. The existing circular Parliament House building will be refurbished for use along with the new one. The North and South blocks will be converted into museums.

Why is the revamp needed?

According to the Government, the existing Parliament building built by the British in the 1920s is structurally unsafe. Most of the buildings along the Central Vista have outlived their structural lives. Inadequate infrastructure, lack of safety features and offices spread over different locations are also cited as the reasons for the revamp. It is said that the proposed Secretariat buildings will bring all offices in one place.

When did the construction start?

The construction of the new Parliament building started in January 2021. The Central Government allocated Rs.20,000 crore to the project in March 2021 when the country was in the grip of the pandemic.

Proposed deadlines: The construction of the prime minister’s residence under the ambitious Central Vista project will be completed by December 2022, the Central Public Works Development (CPWD), which is overseeing the project has informed the government-appointed expert panel recently. The new residential complex will have 10 four-storey buildings and will be built on a 15-acre plot. The common Central Secretariat is likely to be built by 2024 under the project.

Why is the project being opposed?

The Central Vista Redevelopment Project is criticised for being pursued by the Government when the country is reeling under the coronavirus pandemic. Opposition leaders, intellectuals, several civil society groups and environmental organisations have urged the government to scrap the project and divert the funds to effects dealing with the coronavirus crisis.

Some experts have raised concerns about the projects environmental impact, while conservationists are concerned about the revamp of the historically significant power buildings in the poor corridor. The Shram Shakti Bhavan, Transport Bhavan, Udyog Bhavan, Nirman Bhavan and Krishi Bhavan or some of the buildings likely to be demolished in Lutyens Delhi to pave way for the project.

How has the Centre reacted to criticism?

The Centre had argued that the project would “save money” which is paid as rent for housing central government ministers in the national capital. It had submitted that the decision to have a new parliament building has not been taken in haste and no law or norms have been violated in any manner for the project.

The Centre dismissed a PIL seeking stay on the construction of Central Vista amid the pandemic, saying that it was just another attempt to stall the project. The Centre claimed that the construction workers at the site were following Covid protocols.

 

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