Envisioning India as a Global Skill Supplier
Source: The Hindu
Syllabus: GS III Science and Technology
Introduction
In a landmark address in August, Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed optimism about India’s skilled workforce becoming a key player in the global job market. Global mega-trends such as demographic transitions, globalization, technological advancements, and climate change are reshaping the demand for international migrant workers. Among these shifts, the emphasis on worker skills has gained prominence in public policy discourse. Analyzing immigration policies of major destinations like the U.S., U.K., Canada, Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries, and emerging destinations such as Germany, South Korea, and Japan reveals an increased focus on skill-intensive immigration. These nations, grappling with aging populations, digitalization, declining fertility rates, and economic diversification, see skilled migration as vital to sustaining their economies.
The critical question arises: Can India seize this opportunity to bridge the global skills gap and establish itself as the world’s skill capital?
The Current Scenario: Policy Gaps
India faces significant challenges in aligning its potential with global skill demands due to fragmented and inadequate policy frameworks for international labour mobility. Current policy initiatives are characterized by the following:
- Data Limitations: The only available data source on migrant labour outflows pertains to emigration clearances for low-skilled workers in 18 countries. This excludes skilled and semi-skilled migration, creating a policy blind spot.
- Bilateral Agreements: India’s international labour mobility efforts primarily rely on bilateral agreements covering areas like social security, skill development, and welfare. However, these agreements are sporadic and lack a unified policy framework, limiting their efficacy.
- Lack of Evaluation Mechanisms: There is minimal analysis of the outcomes of such agreements, preventing the extraction of valuable insights for future initiatives.
To transition into a global skill hub, India requires a comprehensive national policy on international labour migration, with skill-centric migration as its cornerstone.
A Roadmap for Global Skill Leadership
- Anticipating Global Skill Demands
India must identify and forecast the evolving skill requirements of major destination countries. Leveraging methodologies employed by organizations like the European Centre for the Development of Vocational Training, along with real-time data analytics of job vacancies in key markets such as the U.S., U.K., and Canada, can offer actionable insights into emerging skill gaps. - Aligning Domestic Capacity with Global Standards
Systematic mapping of India’s skill development ecosystem is essential to align with global requirements. Key steps include:
- Introducing globally relevant skills and competencies in curricula.
- Reorienting skill development programmes at International Skill Centres.
- Designing customized short-term training programs targeting specific destinations.
- Enhancing Quality and Standardization
Raising the quality of India’s skill development initiatives to meet international standards is crucial. This requires:
- Harmonizing India’s National Skills Qualification Framework with the qualification systems of destination countries.
- Collaborating with global institutions to ensure mutual recognition of certifications.
- Reintegrating Return Migrants
Return migration is an increasingly prominent feature of global labour mobility. India must establish mechanisms to utilize the skills of return migrants effectively. This includes:
- Accrediting skills acquired abroad through recognized certification institutions.
- Facilitating seamless reintegration into the domestic labour market.
- Building a Skill-Centred Migration Information System
Developing a comprehensive information system that tracks key indicators of skills and migration is imperative. This platform should:
- Provide real-time data on skill trends and migration flows.
- Serve as a foundation for evidence-based policymaking.
- Strengthen India’s ability to negotiate skill partnerships with major destination countries.
Conclusion
India stands at the cusp of a transformative opportunity to establish itself as a global skill supplier. Achieving this vision requires a cohesive, forward-looking policy framework that integrates skill development with international labour mobility. By anticipating global needs, enhancing domestic capabilities, and leveraging the potential of its workforce, India can address global skill shortages while fostering inclusive economic growth. This paradigm shift will not only bolster India’s position on the world stage but also contribute to national development through remittances, knowledge transfer, and the optimal utilization of human capital.
India’s Reliance on China for Critical Minerals
Source: The Hindu
Syllabus: GS III Energy security
Introduction
The Ministry of Mines, in its 2023 report, identified 30 critical minerals essential for India’s economic development and national security. The report highlighted India’s complete import dependency for 10 of these minerals, raising concerns over the country’s heavy reliance on China, a dominant player in the global critical minerals ecosystem. Addressing this dependency is crucial for India’s aspirations in sectors like renewable energy, semiconductors, and high-tech manufacturing.
China’s Dominance in Critical Minerals
China’s unparalleled supremacy in the critical minerals sector is attributed to:
- Vast Resource Base: As the world’s largest mining nation, China has identified 173 minerals, including significant reserves of copper, lithium, nickel, cobalt, and rare earth elements. Strategic exploration investments of $19.4 billion in 2023 led to the discovery of 132 new mineral deposits, including 34 large ones.
- Processing and Refining Capabilities: China controls:
- 87% of global rare earth processing
- 58% of lithium refining
- 68% of silicon processing
- These midstream capabilities make China indispensable in the global supply chain for high-tech industries.
- Strategic Overseas Investments: China has invested heavily in overseas mining projects, securing control over critical mineral resources globally.
- Export Controls: China leverages its dominance strategically. Recent measures include:
- The 2010 rare earth embargo on Japan.
- Restrictions on exports of gallium, germanium, and antimony.
- The December 2023 ban on rare earth processing technology exports.
India’s Dependency on China
An analysis of India’s critical mineral imports between 2019 and 2024 reveals acute reliance on China, particularly for six minerals:
- Bismuth (85.6%): Crucial for pharmaceuticals and chemicals, with China producing 80% of global output.
- Lithium (82%): Essential for EV batteries and energy storage; China controls 58% of global refining.
- Silicon (76%): Vital for semiconductors and solar panels, requiring sophisticated processing technologies.
- Titanium (50.6%): Used in aerospace and defence, with high switching costs for alternative sources.
- Tellurium (48.8%): Important for solar power and thermoelectric devices, dominated by China’s 60% global production share.
- Graphite (42.4%): Indispensable for EV batteries and steel production, with China controlling 67.2% of global output.
Challenges in India’s Critical Minerals Sector
- Limited Exploration and Mining:
- Many critical minerals in India are deep-seated, requiring advanced exploration technologies and high-risk investments.
- The absence of private sector participation due to inadequate policy support exacerbates the problem.
- Processing Constraints:
- India lacks midstream capabilities for processing and refining critical minerals.
- Example: Despite having 5.9 million tonnes of lithium resources in Jammu and Kashmir, India does not possess the technology to extract lithium from clay deposits.
- Policy and Incentive Gaps:
- Insufficient incentives for private investment in mining and processing.
- Lack of a comprehensive strategy to develop domestic capabilities.
India’s Efforts to Address Dependency
To mitigate its reliance on China, India has adopted a multi-pronged approach:
- Overseas Resource Acquisition:
- The establishment of KABIL (Khanij Bidesh India Limited) to secure overseas mineral assets.
- Participation in global initiatives like the Minerals Security Partnership and the Critical Raw Materials Club.
- Strengthening Research and Development:
- Collaboration with the Geological Survey of India (GSI) and the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR).
- Investments in technologies for deep-seated mineral exploration and processing.
- Promoting Recycling and Circular Economy:
- Production-linked incentives for recycling critical minerals to reduce dependency on virgin resources.
- Building Processing Capabilities:
- Enhancing domestic processing infrastructure to bridge the technological gap in refining and processing.
- Policy Support:
- Formulating a comprehensive critical minerals policy to attract private investment and foster innovation.
Conclusion
India’s dependency on China for critical minerals underscores the urgency of diversifying supply chains and enhancing domestic capabilities. A long-term strategy involving exploration, processing, recycling, and strategic global partnerships is imperative. By addressing structural challenges and leveraging its resources, India can reduce its vulnerability, secure critical mineral supplies, and drive its economic and technological aspirations forward. This will not only bolster national security but also align with India’s vision of self-reliance (Atmanirbhar Bharat) in high-tech and renewable energy sectors.
Reimposition of Protected Area Regime in Northeast States
Source: The Hindu
Syllabus: GS II Governance
Context
On December 17, 2023, the Union Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) reimposed the Protected Area Regime (PAR) in Manipur, Nagaland, and Mizoram. This decision aims to regulate and monitor the movement of foreigners in these States. The relaxation of restrictions granted earlier under the Foreigners (Protected Areas) Order, 1958, was withdrawn due to growing security concerns in border areas.
What is the Protected Area Regime (PAR)?
The PAR restricts the entry and movement of foreigners in specific areas deemed sensitive due to strategic, security, or cultural reasons. Under the Foreigners (Protected Areas) Order, 1958, the following provisions apply:
- Restrictions: No foreigner can enter or remain in a protected area without a permit issued by the Central Government or its authorized offices.
- Details in the Permit: The permit specifies the place of entry, residence, and the duration of stay.
- Geographical Coverage:
- Protected areas include regions between the inner line and international borders of several States and Union Territories, including Manipur, Nagaland, Mizoram, parts of Himachal Pradesh, Jammu & Kashmir, Ladakh, Rajasthan, Uttarakhand, and Sikkim.
- Entire Andaman & Nicobar Islands and parts of Sikkim are designated as restricted areas under a separate order from 1963.
Relaxation of the PAR and Subsequent Withdrawal
- Initial Relaxation:
In December 2010, the PAR was relaxed for Manipur, Nagaland, and Mizoram to improve tourism and encourage socio-economic development in these States. This relaxation was periodically extended and was set to last until December 31, 2027. - Reimposition of Restrictions:
On December 17, 2023, the MHA withdrew the relaxation citing security concerns. A circular noted that the decision was prompted by developments in the border regions and the ongoing ethnic violence in Manipur.
Why Were Restrictions Reimposed?
- Ethnic Violence in Manipur:
- Since May 3, 2023, Manipur has witnessed ethnic clashes between the tribal Kuki-Zo community and the Meitei people.
- Chief Minister N. Biren Singh attributed the unrest to “foreign hands” and “outsiders,” raising security alarms.
- Influx of Undocumented Migrants:
- The 2021 military coup in Myanmar triggered a refugee crisis, with over 40,000 migrants entering Mizoram and around 4,000 in Manipur, mostly from the Kuki-Chin-Zo ethnic group, who share ties with communities in India.
- Border Vulnerabilities:
- India shares a 1,643-km border with Myanmar, cutting through Arunachal Pradesh, Nagaland, Manipur, and Mizoram.
- The Free Movement Regime (FMR), which allowed unrestricted movement within 16 km of the international border, was suspended in January 2023.
- Growing Security Concerns:
- The circular emphasized the need to enhance surveillance in border regions, citing the risk of infiltration, trafficking, and smuggling.
Procedure for Obtaining Protected Area Permits (PAP)
- Issuing Authorities:
PAPs can be obtained from:
- Indian Missions abroad
- Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA)
- District Magistrates, Resident Commissioners, or Home Commissioners of the concerned States
- Foreigners Regional Registration Offices (FRROs)
- Special Requirements:
- Citizens of Afghanistan, China, and Pakistan, and those of these origins, require prior approval from the MHA.
- All foreigners must register with the FRRO within 24 hours of their arrival in the State or district.
- Myanmar nationals, earlier exempted from PAP if holding valid visas, must now mandatorily register.
Implications
- Security:
Reimposing PAR strengthens oversight and ensures better monitoring of foreign nationals in strategically sensitive regions. - Tourism and Economic Impact:
While restrictions may limit foreign tourist influx, they aim to strike a balance between security and regional development. - Border Management:
Enhanced monitoring mechanisms are critical to managing vulnerabilities along the Indo-Myanmar border.
Conclusion
The reimposition of the Protected Area Regime in Manipur, Nagaland, and Mizoram underscores the MHA’s focus on national security amidst growing regional instability. While it introduces new checks on foreign mobility, it remains a critical tool for addressing border challenges and safeguarding the sovereignty and integrity of the nation.
Kashmiri Artisans Revive the Memory of the Dodo Through Papier Mâché Craft
Source: The Hindu
Syllabus: GS I Art and Culture
Context
This Christmas season, the papier mâché artisans of Kashmir have creatively revived the image of the dodo, a bird that went extinct in 1681, by crafting and exporting thousands of papier mâché models to Europe and Mauritius. This effort not only showcases the unique artistry of Kashmiri craftsmen but also highlights the global demand for this centuries-old craft.
Artistic Representation of the Dodo
The artisans, working in karkhanas (workshops) in Srinagar’s Zadibal area, have meticulously crafted papier mâché models of the dodo based on visual references. Reyaz Jan, a veteran artisan, noted how he fell in love with the bird’s form upon seeing its pictures.
- Design and Symbolism:
- Traditionally grey or brown in plumage, the papier mâché dodos are adorned with vibrant floral and forest prints.
- The floral motifs symbolize the loss of forest cover, which contributed to the bird’s extinction.
- Crafting Process:
- Creating a large papier mâché dodo takes 5 to 10 days.
- Artisans use local materials and techniques perfected over 600 years of papier mâché tradition in Kashmir.
Exports and Global Demand
This year, more than 50,000 papier mâché dodo models were exported to markets in Europe and Mauritius, especially ahead of Christmas.
- Mauritius Connection:
- The dodo holds special significance in Mauritius, where it was last seen and is now the national emblem.
- Kashmiri artisans cater to this demand with models in varying sizes and designs.
- Businesses like Mir Arts in Srinagar have been at the forefront of exporting these products, with some karkhanas producing over 3,000 dodos for the season.
Introduction of the Dodo in Kashmiri Craft
- The dodo is a relatively recent addition to Kashmiri papier mâché art.
- Artisans believe it was introduced about two decades ago by tourists from Mauritius.
- Despite the absence of written records, the bird has become a significant motif, blending seamlessly into Kashmir’s artistic traditions.
Preserving Heritage and History
The initiative to craft dodo models reflects the ability of Kashmiri artisans to adapt traditional crafts to contemporary demands while preserving cultural and natural history.
- Role of Artisans:
By creating these models, artisans not only sustain their livelihoods but also contribute to keeping the memory of the dodo alive. - Significance of Papier Mâché:
The craft, with a history spanning over 600 years, remains a vital cultural and economic activity in the Valley.
Conclusion
The revival of the dodo through papier mâché exemplifies the intersection of art, history, and commerce. It underscores the resilience and creativity of Kashmiri artisans in adapting their traditional craft to meet global demands, thereby contributing to the preservation of both cultural heritage and the memory of extinct species.
