20 February 2025: PIB Summary For UPSC

1. Prime Minister pays homage to Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj on his Jayanti

(Source – https://pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=2104547 )

Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj:

Early Life and Background

• Born on 19th February 1630 at Shivneri Fort, Maharashtra.
• Son of Shahaji Bhosale, a general in the Deccan Sultanates, and Jijabai, a deeply religious and strong-willed mother.
• Grew up learning administration, warfare, and statecraft under the guidance of his mother and mentor, Dadaji Kondadev.

Establishment of Swarajya

• Laid the foundation of Hindavi Swarajya (self-rule) against the Mughal and Sultanate rule.
• Captured Torna Fort in 1646, marking the beginning of his conquests.
• Adopted guerrilla warfare tactics, using the terrain of the Western Ghats to his advantage.

Military Prowess and Naval Strength

• Built a strong Maratha navy, establishing naval bases at Sindhudurg and Vijaydurg to protect against foreign invasions.
• Successfully defended his kingdom against Aurangzeb’s Mughals, the Adilshahi of Bijapur, and foreign invaders.
• Fought and won several key battles, including the Battle of Pratapgad (1659) against Afzal Khan.

Coronation and Administration

• Crowned as Chhatrapati on 6th June 1674 at Raigad Fort.
• Established a well-organized administrative system with Ashta Pradhan (Council of Eight Ministers).
• Introduced progressive tax policies and ensured welfare-oriented governance.

Religious Tolerance and Social Reforms

• Promoted secular governance, respecting all religions and ensuring protection of places of worship.
• Opposed caste discrimination and empowered lower castes to serve in the military.

Legacy and Influence

• Passed away on 3rd April 1680, leaving behind a vast and strong Maratha Empire.
• His ideals of Swarajya, good governance, and military strategy continue to inspire generations.
• Revered as a symbol of valor, patriotism, and just rule in India.

2. India and Argentina Strengthen Cooperation in Lithium Exploration and Mining with a MoU

(Source – https://pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=2104761 )

India-Argentina Cooperation in Lithium Exploration

• A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed between an Indian PSU under the Ministry of Mines and the Provincial Government of Catamarca, Argentina.
• Argentina, part of the ‘Lithium Triangle,’ holds significant lithium reserves crucial for electric vehicle batteries and renewable energy storage.
• Indian companies are already involved in lithium exploration projects in Catamarca, with efforts underway to expand participation.
• Both sides discussed investment opportunities, long-term supply agreements, and joint ventures to strengthen India’s access to critical minerals.
• Talks included policy frameworks, regulatory aspects, and sustainable mining practices to ensure responsible resource development.
• The agreement is expected to accelerate lithium exploration projects and improve resource security for India.

3. India elected to Vice Presidency of International Organization of Aids to Marine Navigation (IALA)

(Source – https://pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=2104773 )

Association of Marine Aids to Navigation and Lighthouse Authorities (IALA):

• Established in 1957, IALA is an intergovernmental organization focused on marine navigation safety.
• IALA transitioned into an intergovernmental organization (IGO) on August 22, 2024.
• It sets global standards for Aids to Navigation (AtoN), including lighthouses, buoys, and electronic systems.
• The organization promotes harmonization of navigation practices to ensure safe and efficient maritime transport.
• IALA works with coastal nations, maritime authorities, and industry stakeholders to improve navigation safety.
• It supports new technologies, such as e-Navigation and digital aids.
• IALA provides training, technical guidelines, and capacity-building programs for member states.

4. World Day of Social Justice – 20th February

(Source – https://pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=2104798 )

Introduction

• World Day of Social Justice is observed on February 20th by the United Nations to address poverty, exclusion, and unemployment and promote equality and solidarity.
• India’s Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment (MoSJE) works towards bridging socio-economic gaps through legislation, grassroots initiatives, and global partnerships.

Background & Global Context

• The United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) established this day in 2007, with annual observances since 2009.
• The focus is on social development, justice, and peace.
• The International Labour Organization (ILO) adopted the Declaration on Social Justice for a Fair Globalization (2008), emphasizing Decent Work Agenda.
• The Social Protection Floor (2009) initiative by the United Nations ensures basic social guarantees for all.

Social Justice in India

• The Indian Constitution upholds social justice through various rights and policies.
• Key constitutional provisions include:
  • Preamble: Ensures justice, equality, and dignity.
  • Fundamental Rights: Prohibits human trafficking (Article 23) and child labor (Article 24).
  • Directive Principles of State Policy (DPSP): Promote equality, fair wages, and legal aid.
• The Ministry of Social Justice & Empowerment (MoSJE), established in 1998, promotes inclusive growth for marginalized groups.

Government Initiatives for Social Justice

1. PM-AJAY (2021-22): Uplifts Scheduled Castes (SCs) through skill development, income generation, and infrastructure support.
2. SRESHTA: Supports SC students by funding high-quality residential schools.
3. Purple Fests: Events promoting inclusion and accessibility for persons with disabilities.
4. NAMASTE (2023-24): Ensures dignity and safety for sanitation workers in urban areas.
5. SMILE: Aims for a begging-free India, rehabilitating transgender persons and individuals engaged in begging.
6. PM-DAKSH (2021-26): Provides free skill training to marginalized groups for employment opportunities.
7. Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyan (2020): Targets 272 high-risk districts to combat substance abuse.

Conclusion

• The World Day of Social Justice highlights the importance of equity and inclusion.
• Increased budget allocations and inclusive platforms reaffirm India’s commitment to justice and equal opportunities for all.