S-400 Missile System and Project Kusha    
Unmasking Left-Wing Extremism (LWE) in India    
Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO)    
Critical Minerals Explainer    
India-Italy Relations    
Caste-Based Discrimination in Indian Prisons
Monkeypox (Mpox)    
Honey Badger
Garba Dance    
China Probes U.S. Group Over ‘Boycott’ of Xinjiang Cotton    
    
 

1.    S-400 Missile System and Project Kusha
S-400 Triumf Missile System:
•    Origin: Developed by Russia, the S-400 Triumf is a highly advanced mobile, surface-to-air missile (SAM) system.
•    Capabilities:
o    Targets: Can intercept and destroy various aerial threats, including aircraft, drones, cruise missiles, and ballistic missiles.
o    Range: Capable of targeting threats up to 400 km away and at an altitude of 30 km.
o    Multi-target Engagement: Can simultaneously engage up to 36 targets using four types of missiles.
o    Comparison: Regarded as the most advanced long-range SAM in the world, even ahead of the US THAAD system.
•    India's Procurement:
o    India signed a contract with Russia in 2018-19 for the delivery of five S-400 squadrons. While three squadrons have been deployed along India's

Project Kusha:
•    Objective: Aimed at developing an indigenous long-range surface-to-air missile (LRSAM) system, Project Kusha is led by India's DRDO.
•    Expected Timeline: The system is projected to be ready by 2028-29.
•    Specifications:
o    Interceptor missiles with ranges of
150 km, 250 km, and 350 km.
o    Equipped with long-range surveillance and fire control radars.
o    Designed to rival existing systems like
Russia’s S-400 and Israel's Iron Dome.
Iron Dome System of Israel:
•    Function: A ground-to-air defense system, the Iron Dome intercepts rockets, artillery, and mortars.
•    Components: Includes Detection and Tracking Radar, Battle Management and Weapons Control, and Missile Launcher.
•    Range: Operates within a 70 km radius and is highly effective in neutralizing threats before they reach their target.

Prelims-Style MCQ:
Q. With reference to the S-400 Triumf Missile System, consider the following statements:
1.    The S-400 can target both aircraft and ballistic missiles.
2.    It is currently the most advanced long-range SAM in the world.
3.    India is the only country to procure the S-400 from Russia.

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Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
•    A) 1 only
•    B) 1 and 2 only
•    C) 1 and 3 only
•    D) 1, 2, and 3
Answer: B) 1 and 2 only
Mains-Style Question:
Q. Discuss the significance of India's acquisition of the S-400 Triumf missile system in strengthening its defense capabilities. How does the indigenous development under Project Kusha aim to enhance India's strategic autonomy in missile defense?

2.    Unmasking Left-Wing Extremism (LWE) in India
Context:
•    Chhattisgarh Elections:
o    The Chhattisgarh Assembly elections highlighted the importance of tribal votes, constituting 34% of the state’s electorate.
o    The tribal regions, particularly Bastar, are heavily affected by the Maoist insurgency, which uses these areas as its base. Elections in Maoist- dominated Schedule Five areas are frequently disrupted by violence, driven by Maoist boycott calls.
Left-Wing Extremism (LWE):
•    Definition: LWE refers to political ideologies that seek radical changes in society and politics through revolutionary violence.
o    Target: LWE groups often target government institutions, law enforcement, and private property to push their agenda.
Strategies to Address LWE:
1.    Empowering Tribal Leadership:
o    Increase representation of tribals in local governance and political processes.
o    Acknowledge and accommodate the aspirations of tribal communities in policy-making.
2.    Development Programs:
o    Implement programs to address
socio-economic issues like

infrastructure, healthcare, education, and employment.
o    Ensure these initiatives are participatory, involving local communities in decision-making.
3.    Countering Maoist Propaganda:
o    Launch campaigns to counter Maoist narratives and expose inconsistencies between their rhetoric and actions.
o    Collaborate with media and community leaders to spread accurate information.
4.    Negotiation and Conflict Resolution:
o    Explore avenues for peaceful negotiation with moderate Maoist factions.
o    Involve neutral mediators and civil society in peacebuilding efforts.
5.    Human Rights Protection:
o    Ensure human rights protection in conflict zones. Security operations should minimize collateral damage and adhere to the rule of law.
6.    Long-Term Strategic Planning:
o    Develop a long-term strategy focusing on sustainable development, social justice, and inclusive governance to address the root causes of the insurgency.

Prelims-Style MCQ:
Q. With reference to Left-Wing Extremism (LWE) in India, consider the following statements:
1.    LWE groups often target government institutions and law enforcement agencies.
2.    Tribal regions in Chhattisgarh, especially Bastar, are unaffected by Maoist insurgency.
3.    LWE advocates for radical political change through peaceful means.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
A)    1 only
B)    1 and 3 only
C)    2 only
D)    1, 2, and 3
Answer: A) 1 only
Mains-Style Question:
Q. Discuss the role of socio-economic factors in fueling Left-Wing Extremism (LWE) in tribal regions of

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India. Propose strategies that can be adopted to curb this insurgency while ensuring development and social justice for the affected communities.

3.    Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO)
Origins:
•    The SCO originated from the "Shanghai Five" in 1996, which included China, Russia, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, and Tajikistan.
•    It was formed to address concerns about extremist religious groups and ethnic tensions after the dissolution of the USSR in 1991.
Establishment:
•    The SCO was officially established on 15th June 2001 in Shanghai when Uzbekistan was added as a sixth member.
•    Before the inclusion of Belarus, the SCO had nine members: India, Iran, Kazakhstan, China, Kyrgyzstan, Pakistan, Russia, Tajikistan, and Uzbekistan.
•    Afghanistan and Mongolia hold Observer Status.
Significance:
•    The SCO primarily focuses on security issues
in Asia, involving Asian members.
•    It is seen as an alternative to the Western- dominated international order, especially by Russia and China, to counterbalance US influence.
•    The SCO represents 40% of the world's population, with member countries contributing over USD 23 trillion to global GDP.
Relevance of SCO for India:
1.    Regional Cooperation:
o    India uses SCO membership to enhance cooperation with Central Asian countries, improving ties since their independence in 1991.
o    Provides a platform for dialogue on common security issues with regional powers.
2.    Counter-Terrorism Efforts:
o    The RATS (Regional Anti-Terrorist Structure) is a key SCO institution,

assisting India in counter-terrorism exercises, intelligence analysis, and combating drug trafficking.
Challenges for India:
•    Bilateral Ties: India faces difficulties managing relations with China and Pakistan within the SCO framework, influencing its participation in key initiatives like the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI).
•    Regional Security: Balancing ties with Russia and China while addressing broader regional security concerns remains a complex issue.
•    Economic Engagement: Ensuring economic benefits and expanding bilateral trade with SCO countries is a key concern for India, given the diverse interests of member nations.
•    Strategic Autonomy: India must maintain its strategic autonomy while navigating its role within the SCO, ensuring that its sovereignty is respected.

Prelims-Style MCQ:
Q. With reference to the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO), consider the following statements:
1.    The SCO was initially established by the Shanghai Five in 1996.
2.    Afghanistan holds full membership in the SCO.
3.    The SCO focuses on security issues in Asia. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
A)    1 and 3 only
B)    1 and 2 only
C)    2 and 3 only
D)    1, 2, and 3
Answer: A) 1 and 3 only
Mains-Style Question:
Q. Discuss the significance of India's membership in the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) in strengthening its regional security and economic cooperation. What challenges does India face within the SCO framework, and how can it balance its strategic interests?

4.    Critical Minerals Explainer
What are Critical Minerals?
•    Definition: Critical minerals are essential for economic development and national

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security. The availability of these minerals is crucial, and their concentration in a few countries can lead to supply chain vulnerabilities.
•    Dynamic Process: The identification of critical minerals is not fixed and varies over time due to technological changes, market dynamics, and geopolitical factors.
Declaration of Critical Minerals:
•    Global Context: Different countries have their own lists of critical minerals based on their priorities:
o    US: 50 minerals
o    Japan: 31 minerals
o    UK: 18 minerals
o    EU: 34 minerals
o    Canada: 31 minerals
Critical Minerals for India:
•    India’s List: The Ministry of Mines has identified 30 critical minerals that are vital for India, such as Lithium, Cobalt, Nickel, Graphite, Rare Earth Elements (REEs), etc.
•    Geographical Distribution: These minerals are concentrated in states like Bihar, Jharkhand, Odisha, Gujarat, Tamil Nadu, Chhattisgarh, and Jammu & Kashmir.
•    Centre of Excellence for Critical Minerals (CECM): India plans to establish the CECM to update the list of critical minerals and manage the country’s critical mineral strategy.
Global Scenario:
•    Rising Demand: Between 2017 and 2022, demand surged for key minerals like Lithium (tripled), Cobalt (up 70%), and Nickel (up 40%), mainly driven by the energy sector.
•    IEA Estimates: To meet the Paris Agreement targets, critical minerals like Copper, Nickel, Cobalt, and Lithium will be essential for clean energy technologies, with mineral demand expected to rise four times by 2040.
Geopolitical and Supply Issues:
•    Concentration: Critical minerals are concentrated in a few countries:
o    Lithium: 55% in Australia
o    Rare Earths: 60% in China
o    Cobalt: 75% in DR Congo
•    Geopolitical Tensions: Events like the US- China trade war and the Russia-Ukraine

conflict have disrupted supply chains. Resource nationalism (e.g., export restrictions in Indonesia and Zimbabwe) exacerbates supply uncertainties.
Significance of Critical Minerals:
1.    Economic Development: Critical for industries like telecommunications, defence, electric vehicles, and clean energy (e.g., solar panels, wind turbines, batteries).
2.    National Security: Used in defence, aerospace, and nuclear applications, critical minerals ensure self-reliance and defence preparedness.
3.    Environmental Sustainability: Essential for India's goal to achieve 500 GW of non-fossil fuel capacity by 2030 and net-zero by 2070. Minerals like Lithium are key to manufacturing batteries for electric vehicles (EVs).
International Cooperation:
•    US-led Minerals Security Partnership (MSP): India has joined the MSP, which includes countries like Australia, Canada, Japan, and South Korea. The partnership aims to diversify the supply chain and reduce dependence on China.
Challenges for India:
1.    Limited Domestic Reserves: India heavily relies on imports for minerals like Lithium and Cobalt, leading to supply vulnerability.
2.    Increasing Demand: India's push for renewable energy and electric vehicles requires an immense supply of critical minerals.
3.    Dependence on China: China dominates global processing capacity for minerals like Rare Earths, Nickel, and Lithium, posing a challenge for India’s mineral security.
4.    Lack of Processing Capabilities: Even when India secures mineral resources, it lacks the necessary processing technologies and manufacturing infrastructure to produce final products.
Steps to Boost Critical Minerals Availability:
1.    Resource Availability: Assess and develop domestic reserves of critical minerals and explore sustainable extraction.

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2.    Financial Investments: Invest in infrastructure, R&D, and policy support to boost the domestic production of critical minerals.
3.    Technology Development: Focus on domestic technological capabilities and innovation in clean energy technologies.
4.    Specialised Body: Establish a National Institute or Centre of Excellence for critical minerals to manage exploration, research, and strategy updates.

Prelims-Style MCQ:
Q. With reference to critical minerals, consider the following statements:
1.    India relies 100% on imports for minerals like Lithium and Nickel.
2.    The majority of global cobalt reserves are located in China.
3.    Critical minerals are essential for sectors like defence, energy, and telecommunications.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
A)    1 and 3 only
B)    1 and 2 only
C)    3 only
D)    1, 2, and 3
Answer: A) 1 and 3 only
Mains-Style Question:
Q. Discuss the significance of critical minerals in India's economic and environmental goals. How can India overcome its dependency on imports for these minerals while ensuring sustainable development and national security?

5.    India-Italy Relations
Historical Ties:
•    Ancient Civilizations: Both India and Italy are ancient civilizations with rich histories, but they are relatively young nation-states.
•    Trading Routes: Italian port cities were important trading posts on the spice route, facilitating trade between the East and West.
•    Marco Polo: The Venetian merchant Marco Polo traveled to India in the 13th century and documented his experiences, highlighting early exchanges between the two regions.
Political Relations:

•    Diplomatic Relations: India and Italy established formal political relations in 1947, soon after India’s independence.
•    Strategic Partnership: In March 2023, the relationship was elevated to a Strategic Partnership, reflecting deeper cooperation in multiple sectors.
Economic Relations:
•    Bilateral Trade: In 2022-23, bilateral trade between India and Italy amounted to USD
14.25 billion.
•    Top 5 EU Trading Partner: Italy is among India’s top 5 trading partners within the European Union.
•    Indian Exports: Key exports from India to Italy include ready-made garments, leather, iron ore, motor vehicles, textiles, chemicals, and gems & jewelry.
•    Italian Imports: Main imports from Italy to India include machinery, machine tools, metallurgical products, and engineering items.
Security Cooperation:
•    Military Cooperation Group (MCG): India and Italy have established the India-Italy Military Cooperation Group, which serves as a forum for boosting defense collaboration between the two nations.
Key Initiatives Involving India and Italy:
•    India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC): A critical project enhancing connectivity between India and Europe through the Middle East.
•    Global Biofuel Alliance: Both countries are working towards clean energy and sustainable fuel options.
•    Blue-Raman Project: A collaboration for building a high-speed submarine cable system that connects India to Italy through the Middle East.
Facts About Italy:
•    Geography: Italy is a boot-shaped peninsula in southern Europe, surrounded by the Adriatic Sea, Tyrrhenian Sea, and Mediterranean Sea.
•    Bordering Countries: Italy shares borders with Austria, France, Slovenia, Switzerland, the Holy See (Vatican City), and San Marino.

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•    Maritime Borders: Italy has maritime borders with Albania, Algeria, Croatia, Greece, Libya, Malta, Montenegro, Spain, and Tunisia.
•    Form of Government: Republic
•    Capital: Rome
•    Currency: Euro (€)
•    Major Mountains: Alps, Apennines
•    Major Rivers: Po, Adige, Arno, Tiber Prelims-Style MCQ:
Q. With reference to India-Italy relations, consider the following statements:
1.    India and Italy established diplomatic relations in 1947.
2.    Italy is India's top trading partner in the European Union.
3.    The India-Italy Military Cooperation Group (MCG) is a forum for enhancing economic cooperation.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
A)    1 and 2 only
B)    1 and 3 only
C)    1 only
D)    1, 2, and 3
Answer: C) 1 only
Mains-Style Question:
Q. Discuss the significance of the Strategic Partnership between India and Italy. How can this partnership help address global challenges like energy security, economic connectivity, and defense cooperation?

6.    Caste-Based Discrimination in Indian Prisons
•    The PIL brings attention to instances in Madhya Pradesh, Delhi, and Tamil Nadu prisons where cooking is reserved for dominant castes, while lower castes are assigned menial tasks such as sweeping and cleaning toilets.
•    Caste hierarchy influences labour distribution and segregation of barracks within prisons, perpetuating discriminatory practices rooted in colonial-era policies.
•    Such practices are deemed humiliating, violating the right to life with dignity of prisoners.
State Prison Manual Sanctions:

•    Prison manuals in several states sanction caste-based discrimination.
•    Rajasthan Prison Rules 1951: Assign Mehtars (lower castes) to latrine duties and Brahmins to kitchen work.
•    Tamil Nadu: In Palayamkottai Central Jail, prisoners are segregated by caste (Thevars, Nadars, Pallars).
•    West Bengal Jail Code: Directs menial tasks like sweeping to lower castes such as Mether and Hari caste.
2003 Model Prison Manual Guidelines:
•    The 2003 Model Prison Manual emphasizes classification based on security and discipline, arguing against classifications based on socio- economic status, caste, or class.
•    It calls for the repeal of discriminatory provisions in state prison manuals to protect prisoners' fundamental rights.
Fundamental Rights and Caste Discrimination:
•    The PIL refers to the Supreme Court's Sunil Batra v. Delhi Administration (1978) judgment, asserting that prisoners do not lose their fundamental rights and must be treated with dignity.
Supreme Court's Observations on Caste Discrimination in Prisons:
•    A three-judge Bench noted that prison manuals in over 10 states (including Uttar Pradesh, Odisha, Jharkhand, Tamil Nadu, and others) support caste-based discrimination.
•    The Supreme Court has emphasized the need for a comprehensive review to address these issues promptly and issued notices to states, asking for responses within four weeks.
Legacy of Colonial Policies and the Laws that Allow Caste Discrimination:
•    Colonial legacy under the Prisons Act of 1894 continues to shape India's prison system, focusing on punishment rather than reformation.
•    State prison manuals often maintain caste- based labour divisions, emphasizing notions of purity and impurity.
•    West Bengal’s manual (Section 741) ensures savarna Hindus (upper castes) monopolize kitchen duties, reflecting entrenched caste discrimination.

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Model Prisons Act, 2023:
•    The Ministry of Home Affairs reviewed outdated laws, including the Prisons Act, 1894, and drafted the Model Prisons Act, 2023 to ensure reform and rehabilitation.
•    This new act, finalized in May 2023, is expected to address issues like human rights, prison conditions, and administration.
Way Forward:
•    Adoption of Model Prison Manual (2016): States should adopt the 2016 Model Prison Manual (based on the Nelson Mandela Rules) to ensure non-discrimination and dignity for all prisoners.
•    Judicial Intervention: Courts should intervene to strike down discriminatory provisions and uphold the fundamental rights of prisoners.
•    Monitoring Mechanisms: Establish mechanisms to track reforms and ensure accountability in creating a more equitable prison system.

Prelims-Style MCQ:
Q. With reference to caste-based discrimination in Indian prisons, consider the following statements:
1.    The Prisons Act of 1894 emphasizes reformation and rehabilitation of prisoners.
2.    The Sunil Batra v. Delhi Administration (1978) case upheld the fundamental rights of prisoners.
3.    The West Bengal Jail Code mandates upper castes perform all menial tasks in prisons.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
A)    1 and 3 only
B)    2 only
C)    2 and 3 only
D)    1, 2, and 3
Answer: B) 2 only
Mains-Style Question:
Q. Caste-based discrimination within Indian prisons reflects deeper systemic issues rooted in colonial-era policies. Discuss the extent of this discrimination and suggest reforms needed to ensure the protection of fundamental rights of prisoners.

•    The World Health Organisation (WHO) recently held an emergency meeting due to a surge in Monkeypox (Mpox) cases, especially from the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC).
About Monkeypox (Mpox):
•    Viral Zoonotic Disease: Caused by the monkeypox virus, which belongs to the same family as the smallpox virus.
•    First Case: The first human case was recorded in 1970 in the DRC.
•    Unknown Source: Despite its name, the actual source of monkeypox remains unknown.
•    Types (Clades):
o    Clade I: Originated in Central Africa.
o    Clade II: Originated in West Africa.
•    Global Occurrence: While mostly found in Africa, monkeypox has been seen in other regions globally.
Symptoms:
•    Common symptoms include:
o    Skin rash or mucosal lesions (lasting 2–4 weeks).
o    Fever, headache, muscle aches, back pain, low energy, and swollen lymph nodes.
•    Mortality Rate: Varies between 0-11%, with young children being particularly vulnerable.
Transmission:
•    Mpox spreads through:
o    Direct contact with infected animals or people.
o    Human-to-human transmission through body fluids, lesions, prolonged face-to-face contact, including sexual contact.
o    Indirect contact via contaminated materials.
Treatment:
•    Currently, there are no specific treatments
for mpox.
•    Early supportive care is crucial for managing symptoms and preventing complications.
 

7.    Monkeypox (Mpox)
Why in News?

Prelims-Style MCQ:
Q. With reference to Monkeypox (Mpox), consider the following statements:

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1.    The first human case of mpox was recorded in 1970 in the Democratic Republic of the Congo.
2.    Mpox is caused by the same virus as smallpox.
3.    Human-to-human transmission of mpox can occur through prolonged face-to-face contact.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
A)    1 and 3 only
B)    1 only
C)    2 and 3 only
D)    1, 2, and 3
Answer: A) 1 and 3 only
Mains-Style Question:
Q. Discuss the global concerns surrounding the resurgence of Monkeypox (Mpox) and highlight the

•    Predatory Role: Help control populations of smaller animals and pests, thus protecting crops.
•    Nutrient Cycling: Contribute to soil enrichment through their diet and waste, aiding in nutrient cycling.
•    Ecosystem Health: Serve as important indicators of ecosystem health, ensuring a diverse and thriving environment for other species.
Conservation Status:
•    IUCN Status: Least Concern
•    Indian Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972: Listed under Schedule I, providing the highest level of protection.

key strategies that can be employed to manage its        

spread, especially in vulnerable regions.

8.    Honey Badger
The News:
•    For the first time, a honey badger was captured on camera in the Terai East Forest Division (TEFD) of Uttarakhand.
About Honey Badger:
•    Also Known As: The honey badger, also called the Ratel, is related to skunks, otters, ferrets, and other badgers.
•    Diet and Behavior:
o    Omnivorous and nocturnal mammals belonging to the weasel family.
o    They have a diverse diet, consuming
small animals, fruit, and honey.
o    Known for their solitary nature and their powerful, curved claws used to dig burrows for shelter.
o    Famous for their ability to twist and

Prelims-Style MCQ:
Q. With reference to the honey badger, consider the following statements:
1.    Honey badgers are omnivorous and nocturnal mammals.
2.    They are exclusively found in Africa.
3.    In India, honey badgers are listed under Schedule I of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
A)    1 and 3 only
B)    1 and 2 only
C)    2 only
D)    1, 2, and 3
Answer: A) 1 and 3 only
Mains-Style Question:
Q. Discuss the ecological significance of the honey badger in maintaining ecosystem health and biodiversity. Why is it important to protect this species despite its Least Concern status?
 

Distribution:

turn to escape predators.

9.    Garba Dance

•    Global Range: Found in parts of Africa and
Asia.
•    In India: Recorded in locations such as:
o    Bannerghatta National Park,
Karnataka
o    Chilika Lagoon, Odisha
o    Tadoba-Andhari Tiger Reserve, Maharashtra
Ecological Significance:

About Garba:
•    Origin: Garba is a traditional dance form from the Indian state of Gujarat, performed in October to honor Goddess Durga, the Hindu Deity of Divinity.
•    Joyful Dance: Known for its circular pattern, Garba is characterized by sweeping movements from side to side, symbolizing the cyclical nature of life.

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Music and Instruments:
•    Musical Accompaniment: Garba performances are accompanied by singing and instruments like:
o    Dhol: A double-headed drum.
o    Dholak: A smaller version of the dhol.
o    Cymbals and other metallic idiophones are also commonly used.
o    Hand clapping is integral to the rhythm of the dance.
Cultural Significance:
•    Celebration of Fertility: Garba honors womanhood and pays respect to various mother goddesses.
•    Life Milestones: In Gujarat, Garba marks significant events like a girl’s first menstrual cycle and later, her imminent marriage.
•    Navratri Festival: Garba is most famously performed during the nine-day Navratri festival, celebrating the divine feminine energy.

Prelims-Style MCQ:
Q. With reference to the Garba dance, consider the following statements:
1.    Garba is traditionally performed to honor
Goddess Durga.
2.    It involves a circular dance pattern with sweeping side-to-side movements.
3.    Garba is performed exclusively during the
Diwali festival in Gujarat.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
A)    1 and 2 only
B)    1 only
C)    2 and 3 only
D)    1, 2, and 3
Answer: A) 1 and 2 only
Mains-Style Question:
Q. Garba is not only a dance form but also a cultural expression that celebrates the feminine divine. Discuss the cultural and religious significance of Garba in the context of Gujarat and Navratri celebrations.

10.    China Probes U.S. Group Over ‘Boycott’ of Xinjiang Cotton
The News:
•    China is investigating PVH Corp., a U.S. fashion group that owns brands like Tommy Hilfiger and Calvin Klein, for allegedly boycotting Xinjiang cotton due to human rights concerns.
•    China's Accusation: The Chinese government claims the company is violating trade principles without any factual basis.
Background:
•    Global Boycotts: Several countries, including the U.S., have implemented boycotts and restrictions on products from Xinjiang due to allegations of human rights abuses against the Uyghur Muslims and other ethnic minorities.
•    Uyghur Forced Labour Prevention Act (2021): The U.S. passed this law to prohibit imports from Xinjiang unless exporters can prove their products were not made with forced labour.
Accusations Against China:
•    Detention Camps: China is accused of detaining over a million Uyghurs and other minorities in what it calls "re-education centres" aimed at combating extremism.
•    Surveillance: Xinjiang is heavily monitored with the widespread use of surveillance technologies.
•    Forced Labour: Allegations suggest that forced labour is widespread in Xinjiang, raising concerns about unethical sourcing in global supply chains.
•    Cultural Suppression: China's policies are said to restrict religious practices and promote assimilation of the Uyghur people.
China's Reaction:
•    Rejection of Allegations: China denies the accusations, arguing that its policies in Xinjiang have helped root out terrorism and extremism, while promoting regional development.
About Xinjiang:
 

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•    Location: Xinjiang is an autonomous region in northwest China, officially called the Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region (XUAR).
•    Borders: Xinjiang shares borders with eight countries, including Kazakhstan, Pakistan, and India.
•    Resources: The region is rich in minerals, oil, and natural gas.
Who are the Uyghurs?
•    Ethnic Group: The Uyghurs are a predominantly Muslim Turkic ethnic group living primarily in Xinjiang.
•    Official Recognition: They are one of 55 ethnic minority groups officially recognized by China but are considered a regional minority, not an indigenous group.
•    Historical Presence: The Uyghurs have historically inhabited the Xinjiang region for centuries.

Prelims-Style MCQ:
Q. With reference to the Uyghur Forced Labour Prevention Act enacted by the U.S., consider the following statements:
1.    It prohibits imports from Xinjiang unless proven free of forced labour.
2.    It applies exclusively to cotton products from the region.
3.    The Act was passed in response to concerns over Uyghur cultural suppression.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
A)    1 only
B)    1 and 2 only
C)    1 and 3 only
D)    2 and 3 only Answer: A) 1 only Mains-Style Question:
Q. Discuss the global implications of the Xinjiang cotton boycotts and China's response to accusations of forced labour and human rights violations in the region. How do these allegations impact international trade and geopolitics?