22 March 2024 : PIB Summary for UPSC

Topic: GS2 – International Relations – Important International institutions, agencies and fora

The topic showcases India’s global leadership in ICT, crucial for understanding diplomacy, innovation, and technological cooperation, relevant for UPSC.

Context

●     The news highlights Dr. Neeraj Mittal leading India’s delegation to ITU, where India assumes leadership in the Digital Innovation Board and fosters collaborations with Japan and Bahrain in ICT sectors.

 International Telecommunication Union:

●     The International Telecommunication Union (ITU) is a specialized agency of the United Nations responsible for issues related to information and communication technologies (ICTs).

●     Established in 1865, it is the oldest international organization in its field.

●     ITU coordinates the shared global use of the radio spectrum, promotes international cooperation in assigning satellite orbits, works to improve telecommunication infrastructure in the developing world, and establishes global standards for technologies and services.

●     Its membership includes 193 Member States and over 900 private-sector entities and academic institutions.

●     ITU’s work encompasses a wide range of areas, including telecommunications policy, cybersecurity, digital inclusion, broadband development, and emergency communications.

●     The ITU organizes conferences, forums, and workshops to address emerging ICT issues and foster collaboration among stakeholders.

●     It also publishes research reports, guidelines, and recommendations to assist countries in leveraging ICTs for socio-economic development.

●     Through its efforts, ITU aims to ensure that ICTs contribute to sustainable development and global connectivity.

Practice Question:  Discuss India’s strategic initiatives in global ICT leadership and its implications for diplomatic relations and technological advancement. (150 Words /10 marks)

Topic: GS2 – International Relations – Important International institutions, agencies and fora

The SCO Startup Forum signifies India’s role in fostering regional innovation and economic cooperation, relevant for UPSC aspirants.

Context

●     The news highlights India’s hosting of the fourth Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Startup Forum, focusing on fostering innovation and collaboration among SCO Member States’ startup ecosystems.

Shanghai Coperation Organisation:

●     The Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) is a Eurasian political, economic, and security alliance founded in 2001 in Shanghai, China.

●     Member states include China, Russia, India, Pakistan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, and Uzbekistan.

●     Observer states and dialogue partners include Afghanistan, Belarus, Iran, and Mongolia, among others.

●     The primary goals of the SCO are to enhance cooperation on security-related issues such as counter-terrorism, separatism, and extremism.

●     Economic cooperation within the SCO aims to promote trade, investment, and infrastructure development among member states.

●     The SCO holds regular summits, ministerial meetings, and joint military exercises to strengthen collaboration among member states.

●     The organization operates through various mechanisms, including the Council of Heads of State, the Council of Heads of Government, and the Council of Ministers of Foreign Affairs.

●     China and Russia are influential members, with the SCO serving as a platform for their cooperation in regional affairs.

●     The SCO’s influence extends beyond its member states, playing a significant role in shaping regional security and economic dynamics in Central Asia and beyond.

●     The organization provides a forum for member states to address common challenges and pursue shared interests in the Eurasian region.

PYQ: Critically examine the aims and objectives of SCO. What importance does it hold for India? (250 words/15m) (UPSC CSE (M) GS-2 2021)

Practice Question:  Discuss the significance of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) in shaping regional security dynamics and promoting economic cooperation among its member states. Also, analyze the role of China and Russia within the SCO framework and its implications for global geopolitics. (150 Words /10 marks)