3 September 2024 : Indian Express Editorial Analysis

1. It takes a forest

(Source: Indian Express; Section: The Ideas Page; Page: 11)

Topic: GS3– Environment – Conservation

Context:

The article discusses the importance of thriving ecosystems, particularly forests, for survival and ecological balance.

Choosing Between a Thriving Forest and a Desert

• When faced with the choice of living in a thriving forest full of organisms, including apex predators, or in a barren desert with minimal life, the logical choice for survival would likely be the forest.
• The forest provides ideal conditions for life, offering shade from the sun, access to water, and a diverse food supply.
• However, living in such a rich ecosystem would require overcoming fears, particularly those related to the presence of predators.

The Complexity of Forest Ecosystems

• Forests are intricate ecosystems where diverse organisms coexist and interact in a delicate balance.
• Each organism, from the smallest insect to the largest predator, plays a crucial role in maintaining this balance.
• This interdependence is essential for the health of the ecosystem. The reintroduction of grey wolves to Yellowstone National Park in the early 20th century exemplifies how the presence of apex predators can restore ecological balance, preventing overgrazing by herbivores and allowing plant life to flourish once again.

Interdependence in Nature

• The survival of many species in a forest is interconnected. For instance, more than 75% of flowering plants rely on insects and animals for pollination.
• Additionally, fungi form an underground network, often referred to as the “wood wide web,” that connects trees and plants, allowing them to communicate and respond to threats.
• This complex web of interactions demonstrates the intelligence inherent in natural ecosystems, often referred to as “Natural Intelligence.”

Understanding Natural Intelligence

• Natural Intelligence is evident in the way ecosystems function and organisms interact.
• Just as we are beginning to understand Artificial Intelligence, our grasp of Natural Intelligence is still in its infancy.
• For example, the process by which plants convert sunlight into energy using chlorophyll or the unique genetic code of each human being reflects a level of complexity that we are only starting to comprehend.
• The resilience of a thriving forest ecosystem lies in its diversity, which enables it to provide clean air, water, and food, and to mitigate the effects of natural disasters, diseases, and climate change.

Enhancing Biodiversity in Urban Areas

• The importance of biodiversity extends beyond natural forests into urban areas.
• Cities like Mumbai, which hosts the Sanjay Gandhi National Park, are home to significant biodiversity. However, urbanization poses a threat to these ecosystems.
• To counter this, efforts must be made to protect and enhance biodiversity. For instance, planting native species, protecting mangroves, and creating green corridors can help expand and connect ecosystems, thereby contributing to climate mitigation and enhancing the quality of life in urban areas.

The Role of Urban Planning in Biodiversity

• Urban planning plays a crucial role in preserving and enhancing biodiversity. By integrating green corridors and planting native species, cities can create networks of biodiversity that contribute to cleaner air and lower temperatures, as demonstrated by Medellin in Colombia.
• The development of the Mumbai Coastal Road presents an opportunity to create a biodiverse green corridor that connects the Sanjay Gandhi National Park with the rest of the city.
• Such initiatives, if implemented across the country, could significantly address the climate challenges we face today.

What is the Significance of Forests for India?

Ecosystem Services: Forests in India provide a range of important ecosystem services, such as water regulation, soil conservation, and carbon sequestration. For example, forests in the Western Ghats help to regulate the water cycle of southern states and protect against soil erosion. Hub of Biodiversity: India is home to a wide variety of plant and animal species, many of which are found only in the country’s forests. For example, the Sundarbans mangrove forests in the Bay of Bengal are home to the Royal Bengal tiger. Economic Value: Forests in India provide a range of economic benefits, including timber, non-timber forest products, and tourism. For example, the bamboo forests of the Northeast are a major source of livelihood for local communities, while the country’s national parks and wildlife sanctuaries attract millions of tourists each year. Cultural value: Forests in India also have significant cultural and spiritual value for many communities, who depend on them for their livelihoods and cultural practices. For example, Gond tribes of Madhya Pradesh.

PYQ: A particular State in India has the following characteristics: (2012) It is located on the same latitude which passes through northern Rajasthan.It has over 80% of its area under forest cover.Over 12% of forest cover constitutes the Protected Area Network in this State. Which one among the following States has all the above characteristics? (a) Arunachal Pradesh (b) Assam  (c) Himachal Pradesh (d) Uttarakhand Ans: (a)

Practice Question:  Discuss the role of apex predators in maintaining ecological balance within forest ecosystems. How can urban areas integrate biodiversity conservation into their planning to address climate change and environmental degradation? (250 words/15 m)

2. Ten half-truths of caste census

(Source: Indian Express; Section: The Ideas Page; Page: 11)

Topic: GS2– Governance

Context:

The article critically examines the debate surrounding the caste census in India, highlighting the resistance from certain sections of society, particularly the upper caste. It discusses common arguments against the caste census.

The Debate on Caste Census in India

• The caste census debate in India reveals a significant divide in perspectives, particularly among the educated and upper-caste segments of society.
• Despite being otherwise liberal or progressive, many individuals in this demographic display a notable resistance to the caste census, often rooted in ignorance, prejudice, and a vested interest in maintaining the status quo.
• This resistance manifests through several common arguments, which, while containing elements of truth, tend to obscure the broader social realities and needs.

Common Arguments Against the Caste Census

• Historical Precedent: One argument is that India has not conducted a caste census since 1931. While true, this ignores the fact that the census has consistently recorded caste-related information for Scheduled Castes (SCs) and Scheduled Tribes (STs) since independence, providing detailed data on their socio-economic conditions.
• Political Motives: Some claim that the push for a caste census is a recent political move, particularly by Rahul Gandhi. However, the demand for a caste census has been longstanding, supported by various governments and statutory bodies, including during the tenure of the Atal Bihari Vajpayee government.
• Practical Challenges: There are concerns that including caste in the census would be a massive logistical exercise. However, the required modifications to the census form are minimal, and existing frameworks can be easily adapted to include caste data.
• Inadequate Lists: Critics argue that there is no comprehensive list of all castes, making the task impossible. Yet, detailed lists exist for SCs, STs, and Other Backward Classes (OBCs), which cover a significant portion of the population. The census would simply need to record the caste information as provided by respondents.
• Focus on Population Size: The argument that the caste census is merely about counting population sizes misses the broader purpose of collecting socio-economic data on caste groups, which is essential for informed policy-making.

Broader Implications of the Caste Census

• The arguments against the caste census often neglect its potential benefits. For instance, while some fear that it will intensify caste-based politics, it is important to recognize that caste identities are already a significant factor in Indian society. Moreover, the data collected could be invaluable for addressing issues such as the distribution of resources, the need for sub-classifications within quotas, and understanding social inequalities across caste groups.

The Need for Comprehensive Data Collection

• The caste census should not be limited to the decennial census. For a thorough understanding of caste dynamics, caste-related questions need to be included in various other surveys and data collection exercises, such as the Economic Census, Agriculture Census, and surveys on education and employment.
• This comprehensive approach would provide a clearer picture of social inequalities and help inform policies aimed at achieving social justice and equality.

What is the Significance of Caste Census?

To Address Social Inequality: Caste-based discrimination is still prevalent in many parts of India. A caste census can help identify the disadvantaged groups and bring them to the forefront of policy making. By understanding the distribution of different caste groups, targeted policies can be implemented to address social inequality and uplift marginalized communities. To Ensure Equitable Distribution of Resources: Without accurate data on the population of OBCs and other groups, it is difficult to ensure equitable distribution of resources. A caste census can help in this regard by providing insights into the socio-economic conditions and needs of different caste groups. It can guide policymakers in formulating policies that cater to the specific requirements of each group, thereby promoting inclusive development. To Monitor the Effectiveness of Affirmative Action Policies: Affirmative action policies such as reservations for OBCs and other groups are aimed at promoting social justice. However, without proper data on the population, it becomes challenging to evaluate the impact and effectiveness of these policies. A caste census can help monitor the implementation and outcomes of such policies, enabling policymakers to make informed decisions regarding their continuation and modification. To Provide a Comprehensive Picture of Indian Society: Caste is an integral part of Indian society, influencing social relationships, economic opportunities, and political dynamics. A caste census can provide a comprehensive picture of the diversity of Indian society, shedding light on the social fabric and interplay between different caste groups. This data can contribute to a better understanding of social dynamics. Constitutional Mandate: Our Constitution too favours conducting a caste census.  Article 340 mandates the appointment of a commission to investigate the conditions of socially and educationally backward classes and make recommendations as to the steps that should be taken by governments.

PYQ: Consider the following statements: (2009) Between Census 1951 and Census 2001, the density of the population of India has increased more than three times.Between Census 1951 and Census 2001, the annual growth rate (exponential) of the population of India has doubled. Which of the statements given above is/are correct? (a) 1 only (b) 2 only (c) Both 1 and 2 (d) Neither 1 nor 2 Ans: (d)

Practice Question:  Examine the significance of conducting a caste census in India. What are the key arguments for and against it, and how can comprehensive caste data contribute to achieving social justice and policy reform? (250 words/15 m)