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INDIA’S BHAGAVAD GITA AND NATYASHASTRA ADDED TO UNESCO’S MEMORY OF THE WORLD REGISTER

TOPIC: (GS2) POLITY: INDIAN EXPRESS

In 2024, UNESCO added two ancient Indian manuscripts — the Bhagavad Gita and Natyashastra — to its Memory of the World (MoW) Register, recognizing their global cultural and philosophical significance. This move has been celebrated in India as a moment of pride, reflecting the country’s deep-rooted intellectual and literary legacy.

UNESCO’s Memory of the World Programme

  • Launched in 1992 by UNESCO to safeguard valuable documents, archives, manuscripts, and audiovisual materials.
  • Aims to prevent the loss of documentary heritage, often referred to as “collective amnesia.”
  • Promotes universal access and long-term preservation of historical records across cultures.

The Memory of the World Register

  • A curated list of documents of global historical importance.
  • Includes diverse formats: written texts, audio recordings, oral traditions, and photographs.
  • Updated every two years since 1997, with exceptions from 2017–2023.
  • As of 2024, the Register has 570 entries.

India’s Presence in the MoW Register

  • India has made 13 submissions, including two joint entries.
  • Notable entries:
  • Rig Veda (2005)
  • Abhinavagupta’s works (2023)
  • NAM Summit Archives (joint with Algeria, Egypt, Serbia, etc.)
  • Dutch East India Company archives (joint with multiple nations)
  • The latest entries in 2024:
  • Manuscripts of the Bhagavad Gita
  • Text of the Natyashastra

Bhagavad Gita: Spiritual and Philosophical Classic

  • Part of the Mahabharata, this text is a dialogue between Arjuna and Lord Krishna.
  • Traditionally attributed to sage Vyasa.
  • Contains 700 Sanskrit verses divided into 18 chapters.
  • Estimated to be composed between 1st century BCE and 2nd century CE.
  • Blends Vedic, Buddhist, Jain, and Charvaka ideas into a coherent philosophy.

Core Teachings:

  • Dharma (duty) and moral responsibility.
  • The path of selfless action (karma yoga).
  • Importance of devotion (bhakti) and inner realization.
  • Teaches detachment and performing one’s duty without selfish motives.

UNESCO’s View:

  • The Gita is praised as a cornerstone of India’s intellectual and ethical tradition.
  • Its message continues to inspire individuals worldwide.

Natyashastra: Foundation of Indian Performing Arts

  • Attributed to sage Bharata, the Natyashastra is a detailed treatise on drama, music, and dance.
  • Believed to be compiled around the 2nd century BCE.
  • Comprises 36,000 verses, covering:
  • Performance techniques (abhinaya)
  • Music (sangita)
  • Emotions (bhava)
  • Aesthetic theory (rasa)

Concept of Rasa:

  • Central to the text is the idea of rasa — the emotional essence of performance.
  • Enables audiences to experience art as a refined emotional and spiritual journey.
  • Western scholars like Wallace Dace and Susan Schwartz highlight its transformative power.

UNESCO’s Perspective:

  • Recognizes the Natyashastra as a major contribution to global aesthetic and performance theory.

Conclusion

The inclusion of the Bhagavad Gita and Natyashastra in UNESCO’s Memory of the World Register reflects India’s lasting impact on global culture, spirituality, and the arts. These texts are not just historical treasures but continue to shape human thought and creativity even today.

Prelims Question:

  1. Which of the following statements is/are correct regarding India’s recent entries into UNESCO’s Memory of the World Register in 2024?
  1. The Bhagavad Gita is a philosophical dialogue found in the Rig Veda.
  2. The Natyashastra is a foundational text on Indian performing arts attributed to sage Bharata.
  3. UNESCO’s Memory of the World Programme aims to promote traditional art performances across the world.

Select the correct answer using the code below:

  1. 1 and 2 only
  2. 2 only
  3. 2 and 3 only
  4. 1, 2 and 3

Answer: B

Explanation:

  • Statement 1 is incorrect: Bhagavad Gita is part of the Mahabharata, not the Rig Veda.
  • Statement 2 is correct: Natyashastra, attributed to Bharata, is a classical treatise on drama, dance, and music.
  • Statement 3 is incorrect: The UNESCO Memory of the World Programme focuses on preserving documentary heritage, not on promoting live traditional performances.

ANDHRA PRADESH APPROVES SC SUB-CATEGORISATION ORDINANCE

TOPIC: (GS2) POLITY: THE HINDU

The Andhra Pradesh government has approved a draft ordinance to implement sub-categorisation among Scheduled Castes (SCs). This move aims to introduce “reservation within reservation” to ensure fair distribution of benefits among all SC sub-castes, especially the most backward ones. It reflects a growing effort to make reservations more inclusive and just.

What is SC Sub-Categorisation?

  • Sub-categorisation refers to dividing the SC category into smaller groups based on levels of backwardness.
  • It helps in allocating reservation quotas proportionally so that benefits don’t get cornered by a few dominant communities.
  • This policy aims to ensure that marginalised sub-castes receive their rightful share in education, employment, and welfare schemes.

Background of the Initiative

  • The Supreme Court permitted sub-classification within SCs, giving states the legal backing to implement this.
  • In November 2024, Andhra Pradesh formed a one-man commission headed by retired IAS officer Rajeev Ranjan Mishra.
  • The commission held public consultations across all districts (now reorganised into 26) to gather inputs from stakeholders.
  • In March 2025, the commission submitted its report, which was unanimously passed in the state legislature.

Purpose of the Sub-Categorisation

  • To promote fair distribution of reservation benefits among all SC sub-castes.
  • To reduce concentration of benefits among relatively better-off groups like the Mala community.
  • To support poorer and underrepresented sub-castes such as the Madigas and Relli communities.
  • To make reservation policy more data-driven and equitable, based on social and economic indicators.

Commission’s Key Recommendations

The commission proposed dividing SCs into three categories based on their level of backwardness. A total of 59 SC sub-castes were grouped:

Group 1: Most Backward (Relli Sub-Group) – 1% Quota

Includes 12 extremely disadvantaged castes such as:

  • Bavuri, Chachati, Dandasi, Dom, Ghasi, Godagali, Mehtar, Pamidi, Relli, etc.

Group 2: Backward (Madiga Sub-Group) – 6.5% Quota

Comprises 18 backward castes, slightly better than Group 1:

  • Madiga, Mang, Arundhatiya, Chambhar, Godari, Samagara, Matangi, etc.

Group 3: Less Backward (Mala Sub-Group) – 7.5% Quota

Includes 29 castes considered relatively better-off:

  • Mala, Adi Andhra, Mahar, Chalavadi, Holeya, Masti, Yatala, etc.

Demands from Marginalised Groups

  • Communities like the Madigas have long demanded sub-categorisation, alleging that dominant groups like Malas monopolize reservation benefits.
  • Leaders from SC, ST, and BC categories argue that representation should be based on population and backwardness, not just blanket categories.
  • There is increasing support for criteria-based reservation focused on socio-economic status.

Expected Impact of the Ordinance

  • Will promote inclusive development within the SC category.
  • Helps in correcting historical injustices and improving access to opportunities.
  • Could serve as a model for other states considering similar reforms.

Conclusion

Andhra Pradesh’s move to implement SC sub-categorisation marks a major step towards social justice and balanced welfare delivery. By recognising the internal inequalities among SC sub-castes, the ordinance seeks to ensure that no community is left behind in the journey of progress and empowerment.

KAILASH MANSAROVAR YATRA TO RESUME IN 2025

TOPIC: (GS1) HISTORY & GEOGRAPHY: INDIAN EXPRESS

After a gap of four years, the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra is set to restart in 2025. This sacred pilgrimage, organized by India’s Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), was suspended in 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic and rising tensions with China. The decision to resume the yatra signals both a spiritual renewal and an improvement in India-China diplomatic relations.

Why Was the Yatra Suspended?

  • The yatra was halted in 2020 due to the pandemic.
  • The Galwan Valley clash between Indian and Chinese troops worsened the situation, causing further delays.
  • Improved relations in 2024, including disengagement at border friction points like Demchok and Depsang, paved the way for resumption.
  • Meetings between India’s NSA Ajit Doval and Chinese officials, followed by high-level visits, helped finalize the decision.

Religious Significance

  • Mount Kailash (6,638 m) and Lake Mansarovar are located in Tibet and are holy for Hindus, Buddhists, Jains, and followers of the Bon tradition.
  • Hindus believe Mount Kailash is the home of Lord Shiva.
  • The pilgrimage includes the parikrama (circumambulation) of Mount Kailash, considered spiritually purifying.
  • The trek is demanding, lasting 23–25 days, and requires good health and physical fitness.

Yatra Routes

Lipulekh Pass (Uttarakhand)

  • Oldest and most direct route
  • Involves nearly 200 km of trekking
  • Suitable for fit individuals
  • Managed by Kumaon Mandal Vikas Nigam

Nathu La Pass (Sikkim)

  • Motorable route up to the border
  • Only the Kailash parikrama requires walking
  • Easier for elderly pilgrims
  • Handled by Sikkim Tourism Development Corporation

Nepal Route (Private)

  • Operated by private tour operators
  • Includes charter flights from Nepalgunj
  • Costly and lacks public infrastructure
  • Offers a direct viewing (darshan) of Kailash

Eligibility and Registration

  • Only Indian passport holders (18–70 years) can apply.
  • Registration is online via the MEA portal, usually in April–May.
  • Pilgrims are selected through a computerized draw.
  • Cost per person exceeds ₹2 lakh.
  • Medical fitness is mandatory due to the high-altitude conditions.

Conclusion

The revival of the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra is a significant religious and diplomatic milestone. It reflects India’s cultural resilience and improving ties with China. With preparations underway, the MEA will soon release official details, ensuring a safe and meaningful journey for the pilgrims.

Prelims Question

  1. With reference to the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra set to resume in 2025, which of the following statements are correct?
  1. The pilgrimage was suspended in 2020 due to the COVID‑19 pandemic and India‑China border tensions.
  2. The Lipulekh Pass route is managed by the Sikkim Tourism Development Corporation.
  3. The Nathu La Pass route is motorable up to the border, requiring walking only for the parikrama of Mount Kailash.
  4. Only Indian passport holders aged between 18 and 70 years are eligible to register.

 Select the correct answer using the code below:

  1. 1 and 3 only
  2. 1, 3 and 4 only
  3. 2 and 3 only
  4. 1, 2 and 4 only

Answer: B

Explanation:

  • Statement 1 is correct. The yatra was halted in 2020 on account of the COVID‑19 outbreak and subsequent military standoff at places like Galwan Valley.
  • Statement 2 is incorrect. The Lipulekh Pass route is managed by the Kumaon Mandal Vikas Nigam, not the Sikkim Tourism Development Corporation.
  • Statement 3 is correct. The Nathu La Pass route is fully motorable until the Tibet border; pilgrims walk only the Kailash parikrama.
  • Statement 4 is correct. Registration is open to Indian passport holders aged 18–70, subject to a health check and selection by computerised draw.

RESURRECTING EXTINCT SPECIES: DIRE WOLF AND DE-EXTINCTION TECHNOLOGY

TOPIC: (GS3) ENVIRONMENT: THE HINDU

In April 2025, Colossal Biosciences, a biotech firm based in Texas, USA, announced a breakthrough – it had brought back a dire wolf, a predator that disappeared over 12,000 years ago. This achievement was made possible through advanced biotechnological tools like gene editing and genome reconstruction. The move reignited global debates about de-extinction, a process aiming to revive species lost to history.

What is De-Extinction?

  • Also called resurrection biology, it is the use of science to bring back extinct species.
  • Scientists use genetic techniques such as:
  • Gene editing (e.g., CRISPR)
  • Cloning
  • Back-breeding (selective breeding of close relatives)
  • It works by rebuilding the DNA of extinct animals using closely related living species.

How Was the Dire Wolf Revived?

  • Dire wolves (Aenocyon dirus) lived in regions of North America and vanished around the end of the Ice Age.
  • They resembled today’s grey wolves but were bigger and had white coats.
  • DNA analysis showed a 99.94% match between dire wolves and grey wolves.
  • Scientists edited the genome of a grey wolf to match that of a dire wolf.
  • The altered embryos were placed into surrogate domestic dogs, resulting in live pups with dire wolf traits.

Significance of the Project

  • Highlights the progress in genetic science and biotechnology.
  • Demonstrates how gene editing can be used for more than disease treatment — even to reverse extinction.

Benefits of De-Extinction

  • Restoring damaged ecosystems by reintroducing important species.
  • Balancing ecosystems by adding lost predators or herbivores.
  • In projects like the woolly mammoth revival, scientists aim to:
  • Restore Arctic grasslands
  • Reduce methane release from melting permafrost
  • Tackle climate change
  • Enhances biodiversity and can make ecosystems more resilient.
  • Offers scientific insights into evolution, genetics, and extinct species.
  • Some believe it’s a moral duty to bring back species lost due to human actions.

Concerns and Challenges

  • Ecological risks: Revived species might not fit in today’s environment or may disturb current ecosystems.
  • Competition: New species could outcompete existing animals for food and space.
  • Environmental mismatch: Modern habitats and climates may not support species that lived thousands of years ago.
  • Not authentic revival: The recreated dire wolves are genetically engineered grey wolves, not exact copies of the originals.
  • Biological dangers:
  • Revived species could bring back ancient viruses or bacteria.
  • They may lack immunity to modern-day diseases.
  • May divert attention and funding from ongoing conservation of endangered species.
  • Raises ethical issues about altering nature and reviving animals that evolution phased out.

CDSCO BANS 35 FDC DRUGS: KEY POINTS

TOPIC: (GS3) SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY: THE HINDU

Recently, the Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO) banned the manufacture, sale, and distribution of 35 Fixed-Dose Combination (FDC) drugs approved by State regulators, due to lack of prior safety and efficacy data.

What are FDCs?

  • FDCs are medicines that combine two or more active ingredients in fixed proportions.
  • Commonly used to treat tuberculosis, diabetes, pain, and nutritional deficiencies.

Advantages of FDCs

  • Better patient compliance
  • Simplified treatment management
  • Lower misuse and resistance risks

Regulation in India

  • CDSCO regulates FDCs under the Drugs and Cosmetics Act, 1940 and New Drugs and Clinical Trials Rules, 2019.

FDCs are treated as new drugs when combined for the first time, requiring CDSCO approval.

About CDSCO

  • India’s main drug regulator under the Health Ministry, headed by the Drugs Controller General of India (DCGI).
  • Approves drugs, monitors trials, and ensures drug safety nationwide.

DISCOVERY OF ROCK ART SITES IN MIZORAM BY ASI

TOPIC: (GS1) HISTORY: INDIAN EXPRESS

The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) has found four ancient rock art sites in Mizoram, dating back to the 16th to 19th centuries.

These findings highlight the rich cultural legacy and artistic traditions of the region’s early communities.

Surveyed Areas

  • The discoveries were made in the districts of Champhai, Khawzawl, Saitual, and Serchhip.

Key Findings

  • In Maite village (Champhai): Rock cliff with a large human figure, smaller humans, animals, gongs, mithun heads, and unidentified symbols.
  • In Lianpui (Champhai): Art includes humans, animals, fish, spears, hornbills, and rectangular carvings.
  • In Tualte (Khawzawl): Mithun heads, human figures, and unique grooved designs on large rock surfaces.
  • In Chhawrtu (Khawzawl): Complex carvings of mithun heads, human lines, circular motifs with tendrils, and fish.

About Mithun

  • Mithun (Bos frontalis): A semi-domesticated animal important in local tribal culture.

Vangchhia Site Significance

  • Near the new discoveries, Vangchhia is considered a key archaeological site.
  • Identified in 2016 as possibly linked to a Neolithic civilization.
  • Contains pictographs, menhirs, a burial site, and ancient structures.
  • Water harvesting techniques used natural rock formations and strategically drilled holes.
  • These may have been for collecting rainwater, denying enemy access to water, or used in rituals.

DAWOODI BOHRA COMMUNITY

TOPIC: (GS2) SOCIETY: INDIAN EXPRESS

A delegation from the Dawoodi Bohra community recently met Prime Minister Narendra Modi to thank him for the Waqf (Amendment) Act, 2025.

The community is known for its strong identity and deep-rooted faith practices.

About the Dawoodi Bohra Community

  • A sub-sect of the Ismaili branch of Shia Islam.
  • Mostly found in Western India with global presence in over 40 countries.
  • Followers of the Fatimi Ismaili Tayyibi school of Islamic thought.
  • Their spiritual head is the al-Dai al-Mutlaq; the current leader is Syedna Mufaddal Saifuddin.
  • Community members are usually entrepreneurs, traders, and well-educated.
  • Speak Lisan al-Dawat, a unique language of the community.
  • Faith is based on peace, compassion, and devotion to Allah and the Prophet’s successors.
  • They accept their leader’s right to excommunicate members, which restricts access to mosques and burial grounds.

Female Genital Mutilation (FGM)

  • FGM involves the harmful cutting of female genitalia for non-medical reasons.
  • Practiced within the Bohra community in India.
  • Leads to serious health issues and violates the human rights of girls and women.
  • UNICEF and UNFPA work globally to eliminate FGM through awareness and social change.

REGISTRATION OF BIRTHS AND DEATHS & NPR

TOPIC: (GS2) POLITY: THE HINDU

The Registrar General of India (RGI) recently directed both government and private hospitals to report all births and deaths within 21 days.

This move strengthens India’s Civil Registration System (CRS).

Key Points

  • CRS is responsible for recording births, deaths, and stillbirths (death after 28 weeks of pregnancy).
  • Governed by the Registration of Birth and Death Act, 1969.
  • Falls under the Concurrent List of the Constitution.
  • Hospitals act as registrars; private ones must report events to the local registrar.
  • Section 23(2) of the RBD Act penalizes negligence in registration.
  • 2023 amendment made digital registration mandatory via the CRS portal.
  • Despite progress, 10% of events remain unregistered.

National Population Register (NPR)

  • NPR is a database of all residents, aiding in identity management.
  • Linked to the National Register of Citizens (NRC).
  • Created in 2010, updated in 2015, covering 119 crore people.
  • NPR update is delayed as the Census 2021 remains postponed.