Power of words

  The   London Conference 2023   focused on   strategic cooperation   and the principles and priorities for a modern multilateralism. Held on   29 June 2023 , this special event addressed critical global challenges: Uncertain Global Picture : The world faces ongoing challenges, including  Russia’s invasion of Ukraine ,  geopolitical competition between China and the West , and the aftermath of the  COVID-19 pandemic . The international system of rules, laws, and pacts appears to be foundering. Renewing Cooperation and Consensus : Despite geopolitical tensions, many global problems require cooperation between allies and strategic competitors. The conference explored how to renew the ideals, principles, and incentives that lead to consensus. Key Sessions and Conversations : Multilateralism Matters : Bronwen Maddox and UK Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs James Cleverly discussed why multilateralism matters. Dangers of Quick Fixes : Orysia Lutsevych, Gar

  India and the United States engage in several joint military exercises to enhance their defense cooperation and interoperability. These exercises strengthen strategic ties and promote mutual understanding. Here are some notable India-US military exercises: Yudh Abhyas : Nature : Bilateral exercise. Objective : Enhance cooperation and interoperability between the Indian and US armies. Focus Areas : Counterterrorism, humanitarian assistance, and disaster relief. Locations : Alternates between India and the United States. Cope India : Nature : Bilateral air exercise. Objective : Enhance combat readiness and tactical coordination between the Indian Air Force and the US Air Force. Focus Areas : Aerial combat, air superiority, and joint operations. Locations : Alternates between India and the United States. Vajra Prahar : Nature : Special Forces exercise. Objective : Strengthen counterterrorism capabilities and share best practices. Focus Areas : Special operations, urban warfare, and host

  A   semiconductor   is a material that lies between conductors (such as copper) and insulators (such as glass) in terms of electrical conductivity. Here are some key points about semiconductors: Conductivity Range : Semiconductors have intermediate electrical conductivity. Their resistivity generally decreases as temperature rises, unlike metals. Examples include silicon, germanium, and gallium arsenide. Doping and Impurities : Semiconductors can be modified by introducing impurities (doping) into their crystal structure. Doping creates differently conducting regions within the same crystal, forming semiconductor junctions. These junctions are the basis for diodes, transistors, and modern electronics. Applications : Semiconductors are used for amplification, switching, and energy conversion. They exhibit properties like variable resistance, sensitivity to light, and heat responsiveness. Silicon, the most common semiconductor, is critical for electronic circuits. Quantum Physics and C

  IMAGE SOURCE - GOOGLE The   Provisions of the Panchayats (Extension to the Scheduled Areas) Act, 1996 , abbreviated as the   PESA Act , is a significant law enacted by the Government of India.   Its purpose is to ensure self-governance through traditional  Gram Sabhas  for people residing in the  Scheduled Areas  of India 1 2 3 . Here are some key points about the PESA Act: Objective : The PESA Act aims to empower local communities in Scheduled Areas by recognizing their right to govern themselves through their own systems of self-government.  It also acknowledges their traditional rights over natural resources 4 . Extension of Part IX of the Constitution : The provisions of  Part IX of the Constitution , which relate to  Panchayats , are extended to the Scheduled Areas subject to certain exceptions and modifications 1 . Features and Modifications : Customary Law and Practices : State legislation on Panchayats in Scheduled Areas must be in consonance with the customary law, social an

  Despite being constitutionally recognized and protected by the   73rd Amendment Act (1992) , the performance of   Panchayati Raj Institutions (PRIs)   has fallen short of expectations. Let’s delve into the challenges faced by PRIs and explore potential reforms: Issues Related to Functionaries : Human Resource Accountability : Personnel at the  Gram Panchayat  level play critical roles in delivering services like education, health, and livelihood generation. However, they often lack accountability to the Gram Panchayat and the Gram Sabha. Lack of Convergence : Horizontal and vertical convergence of actions within Gram Panchayats remains a concern. Different departments and schemes appoint personnel with specific mandates, hindering effective integration. Oversight and Violations : Poor oversight allows rule violations. Dependence on employees can lead to exploitation or collusion between elected functionaries and officials. Financial Challenges : Revenue Generation : Despite constitut

  some   successful examples of Panchayati Raj Institutions (PRIs)   in India. These model PRIs have effectively implemented innovative initiatives, becoming beacons of local governance: Panchayat of Hiwara, Uttarakhand : Population Served : Approximately 10,000 people. Initiatives Implemented : Infrastructure Development : The Panchayat has focused on improving basic infrastructure such as roads, water supply, and sanitation facilities. Education : Initiatives to enhance access to quality education, including building and maintaining schools, promoting adult literacy, and organizing vocational training programs. Healthcare : Ensuring better healthcare services by establishing health centers, organizing health camps, and promoting preventive health practices. Natural Resource Management : The Panchayat has actively engaged in soil and water conservation, afforestation, and sustainable agricultural practices. Women Empowerment : Encouraging women’s participation in decision-making proce

  The   Eleventh Schedule   of the   Indian Constitution   outlines the powers, responsibilities, and authority of   Panchayats   (both rural and urban local bodies). These provisions empower Panchayats to effectively govern and manage various aspects of local administration. Let’s explore the items covered under this schedule: Agriculture and Agricultural Extension Land Improvement, Implementation of Land Reforms, Land Consolidation, and Soil Conservation Minor Irrigation, Water Management, and Watershed Development Animal Husbandry, Dairying, and Poultry Fisheries Social Forestry and Farm Forestry Minor Forest Produce Small-Scale Industries, including Food Processing Industries Khadi, Village, and Cottage Industries Rural Housing Drinking Water Fuel and Fodder Roads, Culverts, Bridges, Ferries, Waterways, and Other Means of Communication Rural Electrification, including Distribution of Electricity Non-Conventional Energy Sources Poverty Alleviation Programs Education, including Prima