• UGI USER
  • May 12, 2024
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“EMBRACING DIVERSITY: A CLOSER LOOK AT POPULATION TRENDS AND MINORITY DYNAMICS IN INDIA”

Syllabus:

  • GS-2 :Various sections of society and minority specific, different plans and programs for their upliftment .

Focus :

  • The article examines the implications of the PMEAC report on population trends and minority dynamics in India, amidst global concerns about changing demographics.
  • It analyzes the growth of minority populations in India and assesses the country’s conducive environment for fostering diversity. Additionally, it explores debates surrounding minority population growth and evaluates future population patterns based on current trends.
Source - TH

Introduction

  • Overview of the debate sparked by Sam Pitroda’s remarks on inheritance tax and wealth redistribution.
    • Introduction of the PMEAC report on population trends and its implications.
    • Description of Vlaardingerbroek’s speech and YouTube’s decision to remove it.
    • Explanation of the “Great Replacement Theory” and its historical roots.
    • Impact of the theory on public perception in France, the US, and Europe.

PMEAC Report Findings:

  • Summary of the PMEAC report by Shamika Ravi, Abraham Jose, and Apurv Mishra.
  • Analysis of the decline in majority religious denominations in OECD countries.
  • Insights into changing religious demographics in India and its states.

Examination of Minority Dynamics in India:

  • Interpretation of the 7.81% increase in minority populations in India.
  • Comparison of population growth rates among different religious groups.
  • Evaluation of the societal implications of minority population growth.

India’s Conducive Environment for Diversity:

  • Argument for India’s success in fostering diversity and protecting minorities.
  • Comparison with neighboring countries experiencing demographic shifts.
  • Importance of nurturing a supportive environment for diversity in society.

Minority population :

Debates and Challenges:

  • Discussion of the media and social media debates following the publication of the PMEAC report.
  • Critique of the focus on minority population growth and its implications.
  • Reference to previous studies and debates on minority population growth in India.
Schemes for minority upliftment in India :

1.   Prime Minister’s New 15 Point Programme (PMP):

  • Launched in 2006, this program aims to provide focused attention to the welfare of minorities in areas such as education, employment, and housing.
  • It includes initiatives like scholarship programs, skill development training, and infrastructure development in minority-concentrated areas.

2.   Multi-sectoral Development Programme (MsDP):

  • Introduced in 2008, the MsDP focuses on improving infrastructure and basic amenities in minority-concentrated areas.
  • It aims to bridge development gaps and reduce disparities by funding projects related to education, healthcare, water supply, and sanitation.

3.   Seekho Aur Kamao (Learn and Earn) Scheme:

  • This skill development program targets minority youth, providing them with vocational training to enhance employability.
  • It offers courses in various sectors such as information technology, hospitality, healthcare, and construction.

4.   Nai Manzil Scheme:

  • Launched in 2015, Nai Manzil aims to empower minority youth who have not completed school education.
  •  It provides them with formal education and skill development training, enabling them to secure better employment opportunities.

5.   Ustad Scheme:

  • This scheme focuses on promoting traditional arts and crafts among minority artisans.
  • It provides financial assistance, training, and market support to artisans engaged in activities like handloom weaving, embroidery, pottery, and woodcraft.

6.   Naya Savera Scheme:

  • Introduced by the Ministry of Minority Affairs, this scheme targets minority women from economically disadvantaged backgrounds.
  • It offers support for skill development, entrepreneurship training, and access to microfinance for starting small businesses.

7.   Pre-Matric and Post-Matric Scholarships:

  • These scholarship schemes aim to encourage minority students to pursue education by providing financial assistance.
  • Scholarships cover expenses such as tuition fees, books, and hostel accommodation for students from minority communities at both pre-matric and post-matric levels.

8.   Free Coaching and Allied Scheme:

  • This scheme provides free coaching to minority students preparing for competitive exams such as civil services, banking, and engineering.
  • Coaching centers are set up in minority-concentrated areas, offering guidance, study materials, and mock tests to aspirants.

Population Trends and Future Outlook:

  • Analysis of the declining Total Fertility Rate (TFR) in India.
  • Examination of TFR trends among different religious groups.
  • Projection of future population patterns based on current trends.

Conclusion:

  • Recap of key findings from the PMEAC report and population trends in India.
  • Reflection on the significance of embracing diversity in society.
  • Call for a nuanced understanding of population dynamics and minority issues in India.

Source:Indian Express

Mains Practice Question :

GS-3

“Discuss the findings of the PMEAC report on population trends and minority dynamics in India. How does the report contribute to the understanding of demographic shifts and societal diversity in the country?” (250 words)