07-October-2024-Daily-Current-Affairs

CIVIL WAR IN SUDAN

TOPIC: (GS2) INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS: INDIAN EXPRESS

Sudan has been embroiled in a devastating civil war since April 2023, involving two major factions: the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF).

This conflict has caused widespread suffering and displacement, with millions affected.

Origins of the Conflict

Power Struggle:

• The civil war stems from a rivalry between General Abdel Fattah al-Burhan, leader of the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF), and General Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo, head of the Rapid Support Forces (RSF).
• This power struggle began after Sudan’s military coup in 2021, which derailed a transition towards civilian rule.

Background of RSF:

• The RSF was formed from the notorious Janjaweed militia, which was responsible for mass atrocities during the Darfur conflict in the early 2000s.
• Despite efforts to integrate the RSF into Sudan’s military structure, tensions remained between the SAF and RSF leadership.

Outbreak of War (April 2023):

• The conflict began in April 2023, initially focused on Sudan’s capital, Khartoum. Since then, it has spread to other regions such as Darfur, Kordofan, and parts of eastern Sudan.
• The fighting has disrupted civilian life across the country, with both sides vying for territorial control.

Key Actors in the Conflict

Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF):

• Led by General Abdel Fattah al-Burhan, the SAF claims to be Sudan’s legitimate authority.
• The military has international recognition, despite coming to power through the 2021 coup, and has engaged in airstrikes and ground attacks against the RSF.

Rapid Support Forces (RSF):

• The RSF, under General Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo (Hemedti), initially controlled several areas in Sudan, including parts of Khartoum.
• Although officially part of Sudan’s military structure, the RSF operates independently and has extensive resources, including military equipment.

External Actors:

• Both sides have garnered external support. The SAF reportedly receives weapons from countries like Russia, while the RSF has alleged backing from the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and other Arab nations. The involvement of foreign actors has exacerbated the conflict.

Ethnic Tensions and Widening Conflict

Ethnic Divisions:

• Sudan’s complex ethnic landscape has fueled the war. The RSF, predominantly made up of Arab militias, has targeted non-Arab groups such as the Masalit in the Darfur region.
• This violence has revived the ethnic hostilities that marked earlier conflicts in Sudan, particularly in Darfur.

Spread of Violence:

• The conflict, initially centered in Khartoum, has spread to multiple regions, including Omdurman, Bahri, and Darfur.
• Ethnic militias have taken sides, complicating the conflict further. Rebel groups like the Sudan People’s Liberation Movement (SPLM) have also joined the fighting.

Humanitarian Crisis

Casualties and Displacement:

• As of October 2024, over 20,000 people have been killed, and nearly 11 million have been displaced, according to the UN.
• These figures highlight the severe human toll of the conflict. Large swaths of the population are living as refugees or internally displaced persons (IDPs).

Food Insecurity and Famine:

• The war has severely disrupted Sudan’s agriculture, leaving more than half the population—approximately 25.6 million people—in crisis or worse levels of food insecurity.
• The UN has declared famine in regions like the Zamzam camp in North Darfur, with many other areas facing similar conditions.

Health Crisis:

• The destruction of health infrastructure has led to the spread of diseases such as cholera, worsened by heavy rains and flooding.
• The lack of access to medical care and humanitarian aid has left millions vulnerable to preventable diseases and hunger.

Sources of Arms and Weaponry

Arms Embargo and Violations:

• Despite being under a UN arms embargo since the Darfur crisis in 2004, Sudan continues to acquire weapons.
• Both the SAF and RSF have reportedly sourced arms from countries like China, Russia, Iran, and Serbia. These weapons include drones, missiles, and rocket launchers.

Alleged Support from the Wagner Group:

• The RSF is alleged to have received support from Russia’s Wagner Group, including facilitation of weapons supplies from the UAE through the Central African Republic. However, both Wagner and the RSF deny direct military involvement.

Peace Efforts and Ceasefire Failures

Failed Ceasefire Talks:

• Since the start of the war, there have been nine rounds of ceasefire negotiations led by international actors such as the U.S. and Saudi Arabia.
• However, all these efforts have failed, largely due to mutual distrust and the desire of both parties to gain military advantage during ceasefires.

Role of International Mediators:

• The U.S., the UN, the African Union, and the European Union have all attempted to broker peace between the warring sides.
• However, the absence of credible mechanisms to enforce ceasefires and limited understanding of the conflict’s ground realities have hindered these efforts.

Regional Impact

Refugee Crisis:

• More than two million Sudanese have fled to neighboring countries, including Chad, South Sudan, and Ethiopia.
• Refugee camps in these countries are overwhelmed, raising concerns about a potential migrant crisis extending into Europe.

Ethnic Clashes in Border Regions:

• Ethnic violence has spilled over into border areas like the Abiey region, disputed between Sudan and South Sudan, and the El Fashaga region on the Sudan-Ethiopia border.
• These clashes have resulted in hundreds of casualties and further instability.

Impact on Oil and Trade:

• The war has jeopardized the flow of oil from South Sudan to international markets through Sudan, threatening economic stability in the region.

Conclusion:

The war in Sudan shows no signs of ending soon. Both the SAF and RSF are entrenched in their positions, with foreign support enabling the conflict to continue. Multiple failed ceasefire attempts suggest that a resolution is unlikely in the near future, raising fears of a protracted conflict similar to Libya’s. The international community must reconsider its approach to Sudan to prevent further destabilization.

Multiple Choice Question:

1. Consider the following statements regarding Sudan and its neighbouring countries:

1. Sudan shares its longest border with South Sudan.
2. Sudan is bordered by the Red Sea to the east.
3. Chad, Ethiopia, and Uganda are among the countries that share a land border with Sudan.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

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

Answer: A

Explanation:

Sudan shares its longest border with South Sudan, which gained independence from Sudan in 2011.

Sudan is bordered by the Red Sea to the east.

While Chad and Ethiopia do share borders with Sudan, Uganda does not.

A YEAR OF WAR IN WEST ASIA

TOPIC: (GS2) INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS: THE HINDU

On October 7, 2023, Hamas launched a large-scale assault on Israel, triggering a year of intense conflict in West Asia. Israel’s subsequent retaliatory strikes have extended beyond Gaza to Lebanon, escalating tensions in the region.

With the situation evolving rapidly, key perspectives from Israel, Arab nations, the U.S., and India help in understanding the broader implications of this conflict.

The Situation in Israel

Hamas Attacks and Israel’s Response:

• The conflict began with Hamas launching a coordinated assault on Israel from Gaza on October 7, 2023. Over 1,400 Israelis were killed, with more than 250 people taken hostage by Hamas.
• Israel, under the leadership of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, has vowed to eliminate Hamas, claiming the group cannot exist on “the face of the Earth.”
• Israel has carried out airstrikes across Gaza, particularly targeting Hamas leadership and infrastructure, but the humanitarian situation in Gaza has worsened.

Focus on Retaliation Beyond Gaza:

• Israel’s response is not limited to Gaza. Hezbollah, the Lebanon-based group, has also been involved, with Israel carrying out operations in southern Lebanon.
• This widening of the conflict indicates Israel’s intent to neutralize all militant threats from its neighbors, marking a shift from a singular focus on Gaza.

India’s Stance on the Conflict

India’s Diplomatic Approach:

• India has expressed deep concern over the loss of civilian life and reaffirmed its support for the two-state solution between Israel and Palestine.
• Prime Minister Narendra Modi conveyed India’s solidarity with Israel, emphasizing the need to fight terrorism, while also reaffirming support for a peaceful resolution of the Israel-Palestine conflict.
• India has refrained from taking a strong stance in support of either side, maintaining a balanced position. External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar has stressed the importance of de-escalation and resolving the conflict diplomatically.

Strategic Considerations for India:

• India’s relationship with Israel is strong, especially in defense and technology sectors, but it also has long-standing ties with Arab nations. This complex balancing act influences India’s response to the conflict.
• India has participated in diplomatic engagements like the India-Middle East-Europe Corridor talks, emphasizing regional connectivity and cooperation.
• The humanitarian aspect, particularly concerning the plight of Palestinians, remains a sensitive issue for India, as it maintains ties with both Israel and Palestine.

Arab Nations’ Reactions

Saudi Arabia and UAE’s Role:

• Major Arab nations, including Saudi Arabia and the UAE, have expressed concern over the conflict but have avoided direct involvement.
• While some Arab states, like Saudi Arabia, were on the verge of normalizing relations with Israel before the conflict, the escalation has hindered those diplomatic efforts.

Palestinian Solidarity:

• Across the Arab world, there is strong public support for Palestinians, complicating government policies towards Israel.
• The conflict threatens to revive old tensions in the region, with calls for Arab unity against Israeli military actions, especially in Gaza.

U.S. and Western Involvement

U.S. Support for Israel:

• The U.S. has reaffirmed its unwavering support for Israel, providing military aid and backing Israel’s right to defend itself.
• Secretary of State Antony Blinken has engaged in diplomatic efforts with both Israeli and Palestinian leaders, calling for the protection of civilians.

Western Policy Dynamics:

• The U.S. and Europe have faced challenges in balancing support for Israel with concerns over the humanitarian crisis in Gaza. Western nations, while backing Israel’s fight against terrorism, have also called for restraint to prevent further escalation.
• International diplomatic efforts, however, have largely been ineffective in bringing an end to the conflict.

Broader Geopolitical Implications

Impact on Regional Stability:

• The conflict has destabilized the entire region, with fears of a broader war involving Hezbollah in Lebanon and Iran-backed groups across West Asia.
• The Arab street’s strong sentiments against Israel’s actions have the potential to ignite protests and political instability in several Middle Eastern countries.

Energy and Economic Repercussions:

• Given that West Asia is a significant energy hub, any prolonged conflict could disrupt oil supplies, potentially impacting global energy markets.
• Nations dependent on West Asian oil, including India, are closely monitoring the situation, as the conflict threatens to disrupt supply chains

Conclusion:

With the conflict showing no signs of a resolution, there are concerns that the war could continue for an extended period. The involvement of multiple state and non-state actors, combined with complex historical grievances, makes this conflict one of the most challenging in recent times. The international community, while calling for peace, has so far been unable to facilitate meaningful negotiations between the warring parties.

Multiple choice questions:

1. With reference to India’s foreign policy, consider the following statements:

1. West Asia plays a vital role in India’s energy security.
2. The Indian diaspora in West Asia contributes significantly to India’s remittances.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

1. 1 only
2. 2 only
3. Both 1 and 2
4. Neither 1 nor 2

Answer: C

Explanation:

West Asia, particularly countries like Saudi Arabia, UAE, and Iran, are key suppliers of oil to India, making the region crucial for India’s energy security.

A significant portion of remittances to India comes from Indian workers in West Asia, making the diaspora in the region important for the Indian economy.

IMPACT OF EASING INTEREST RATES

TOPIC: (GS3) ECONOMY: THE HINDU

Interest rates are expected to ease in the coming months, with central banks around the world already reducing rates. In India, while the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has not yet officially announced a rate cut, there are strong expectations of one happening soon.

This shift in interest rates will impact various financial instruments, including loans, deposits, and mutual funds. Understanding these effects is crucial for both borrowers and savers.

Reasons for Interest Rate Easing:

• Inflation Control: Inflation in India has reduced compared to previous levels, which is one of the key factors encouraging the possibility of rate cuts.
• Global Trends: Central banks such as the U.S. Federal Reserve and the European Central Bank have already started reducing interest rates, influencing India’s decision-making.
• Currency Stability: India’s currency exchange rate has been relatively stable, which supports the conditions for reducing interest rates.

The decision on when to reduce rates rests with the RBI, and there is speculation that a rate cut may happen in December or early next year.

Impact on Loan Rates:

• Floating-Rate Loans: Most loans in India are linked to external benchmarks like the RBI’s repo rate or Treasury Bill yields. If the RBI reduces its repo rate, floating-rate loans (such as home loans) will become cheaper. Borrowers will then have two options:
  • Option 1: Keep the Equated Monthly Installment (EMI) constant and reduce the loan tenure.
  • Option 2: Reduce the EMI and keep the tenure unchanged.

Financially, the first option is usually better, as reducing the loan tenure helps to save on the total interest paid overtime. Though reducing the EMI may seem easier, it prolongs the loan period and increases the total interest burden.

• Interest Rate Cycles: Interest rates move in cycles. Borrowers must understand that while they may take a loan at low rates initially, rates can rise over time, affecting their EMI or loan tenure. When rates decrease, like in the upcoming scenario, it’s essential to plan and commit to manageable loan terms, keeping in mind that rates may rise again in the future.

Impact on Deposit Rates:

• Reduction in Deposit Rates: A reduction in the RBI’s repo rate will also impact deposit rates. For example, if the repo rate is cut by 0.5% or 0.75%, banks are likely to lower deposit rates by a similar margin. Depositors should consider locking in current high deposit rates before they drop.
• Other Investment Instruments:
  • Small savings schemes like Post Office deposits, RBI Floating Rate Bonds, government-sponsored retirement schemes, and bonds issued by corporates or Non-Banking Financial Companies (NBFCs) will also see a decline in rates, though the timing and extent of these reductions may vary.

Impact on Mutual Funds:

• Debt Mutual Funds (MFs): In the case of debt MFs, falling interest rates are generally beneficial. When interest rates fall, bond prices rise, and this is reflected in the higher Net Asset Value (NAV) of debt mutual funds. This means debt MFs may offer better returns when interest rates ease.
• Anticipation in Markets: Unlike loans or deposits, where the reaction happens after RBI decisions, the mutual fund market often anticipates rate cuts. Some easing in the bond market has already occurred, with yields on government bonds declining from 7.38% a year ago to around 6.75% now.

Factors Influencing the Bank Rate Set by the RBI

The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) is responsible for determining the bank rate. This rate plays a crucial role in regulating the economy. Here are some key factors the RBI considers when setting the bank rate:

• Inflation: If inflation is high, the RBI may increase the bank rate to discourage borrowing and spending, thereby reducing demand and curbing price increases.
• Economic Growth: If the economy is slowing down, the RBI may lower the bank rate to encourage borrowing and investment, stimulating economic activity.
• Money Supply: The RBI monitors the money supply in the economy. If it’s excessive, leading to inflation, it may raise the bank rate to tighten liquidity.
• Exchange Rate: The bank rate can influence the exchange rate. A higher bank rate may attract foreign investment, strengthening the domestic currency.
• Global Economic Conditions: The RBI also considers global economic trends and interest rate policies of other major central banks.

Easy Money Policy and Dear Money Policy

Easy Money Policy

• Definition: An economic policy where the central bank lowers interest rates to make borrowing cheaper and encourage spending and investment.
• Goal: To stimulate economic growth, especially during recessions.
• Example: During the COVID-19 pandemic, many central banks around the world implemented easy money policies to support economies that were struggling. This meant lower interest rates on loans, making it easier for businesses and individuals to borrow money.

Dear Money Policy

• Definition: An economic policy where the central bank raises interest rates to make borrowing more expensive and discourage spending.
• Goal: To control inflation and prevent the economy from overheating.
• Example: If inflation is rising rapidly, the central bank might implement a dear money policy. This means raising interest rates on loans, making it more expensive to borrow. This can help to slow down economic activity and reduce demand for goods and services, which can help to bring inflation back under control.

Conclusion:

The effect of easing interest rates depends on whether you are a borrower or a saver. Borrowers benefit from lower interest rates, while savers may see reduced returns on deposits. However, the RBI typically reduces interest rates only when inflation is low, meaning the real return for savers (adjusted for inflation) may remain stable. Thus, the overall economic environment becomes more favorable with lower inflation and reduced borrowing costs, benefiting certain sections of the economy more than others.

Multiple choice question:

1. Consider the following statements:

1. The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) sets the bank rate to regulate the economy.
2. A higher bank rate can discourage borrowing and spending, thereby reducing demand and curbing price increases.
3. An easy money policy involves raising interest rates to control inflation.

Which of the above statements is/are correct?

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

Answer: C

Explanation:

The RBI is indeed responsible for setting the bank rate, which plays a crucial role in regulating the economy.

A higher bank rate makes borrowing more expensive, which can discourage spending and investment, thereby reducing demand and helping to control inflation.

An easy money policy involves lowering interest rates, not raising them. Raising interest rates is typically associated with a dear money policy.

GROUNDBREAKING ULTRASOUND TECHNIQUE FOR CANCER DETECTION

TOPIC: (GS3) SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY: TIMES OF INDIA

Researchers from the University of Alberta have developed an innovative ultrasound-based method to detect cancer.

This new approach uses sound waves to release cancerous tissue into the bloodstream, allowing for less invasive diagnosis through blood tests. This method has the potential to replace traditional biopsies, which are more painful and invasive.

Key Features of the Ultrasound Technique:

Use of Ultrasound Technology:

• High-energy ultrasound waves are directed at tumors.
• These waves break off small droplets of cancerous tissue, releasing biomolecules into the blood.
• Biomolecules include genetic material like RNA and DNA, crucial for cancer detection.

Biomarker Detection:

• The droplets released into the bloodstream contain cancer-specific biomarkers.
• These biomarkers help identify the presence of certain cancers and mutations.

Improved Sensitivity:

• The method boosts the concentration of biomarkers in blood samples by over 100 times.
• This higher concentration increases the chances of detecting cancer early.

Non-Invasive:

• Unlike traditional biopsies, this technique reduces pain and discomfort for patients.
• It provides essential diagnostic information without needing invasive surgery.

Challenges:

Low Circulating Cancer Cells:

• Cancer cells in the bloodstream are often in very low numbers, making detection challenging.
• Highly sensitive tools are required for accurate identification.

Cost and Accessibility:

• Current cancer tests, such as the CellSearch test, are expensive and not widely accessible.
• Making the technology affordable is crucial for widespread use.

Need for Clinical Trials:

• Comprehensive trials on diverse populations are needed to confirm the technique’s effectiveness across various cancer types.

Recent Advances:

Single-Cell Detection:

• Researchers have successfully detected single prostate cancer cells in blood, showing the method’s effectiveness.

Affordability:

• The ultrasound method is expected to lower testing costs to around $100, making it more accessible to patients.

Wider Applications:

• Efforts are ongoing to apply this technique to other cancers, such as breast cancer and melanoma.

DEVELOPMENTS IN INDIA’S SPACE SECTOR AND PRIVATE SECTOR INVOLVEMENT

TOPIC: (GS3) SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY: THE HINDU

The Indian government has taken significant steps to enhance the country’s space sector by encouraging private sector participation and supporting startup growth.

These efforts aim to position India as a global leader in space technology and exploration.

The government has introduced new policies, attracted foreign investment, and supported innovation in the sector.

Government Initiatives:

Opening the Space Sector to Private Companies:

• Initiated four years ago to allow private sector involvement in space activities.
• Led to the formation of New India Space Limited (NISL) and IN-SPACe India, acting as regulatory bodies for private companies.

100% Foreign Direct Investment (FDI):

• The government allows full FDI in the space sector.
• This policy has attracted international investments, boosting entrepreneurship in India’s space industry.

Venture Fund for Startups:

• A dedicated fund of ₹1,000 crore has been allocated to support space startups.
• This encourages innovation, research, and technological advancements in space-related activities.

Gaganyaan Mission:

• The Gaganyaan mission, India’s first human spaceflight, is scheduled for 2025.
• A final test flight with Vyom Mitra (robotic astronaut) is planned for late 2024.

Results and Impacts:

Growth in Space Startups:

• The number of space-related startups has increased dramatically, growing from just one to over 200 in recent years.

Startup Ecosystem Expansion:

• India’s startup ecosystem has expanded from 350 startups in 2014 to more than 150,000, making India the third-largest startup ecosystem globally.

Technological Achievements:

• The successful Chandrayaan-3 mission to the Moon’s South Pole has reinforced India’s leadership in space exploration.

Economic Contributions:

• Space startups are expected to contribute significantly to India’s economic growth.
• These developments are helping India transition from being part of the “fragile five” economies to potentially being among the top five economies globally.

Applications of Space Technology:

• Beyond space exploration, space technology is being applied in various sectors such as agriculture, healthcare, urban development, and infrastructure, improving the quality of life for citizens.

Conclusion:

India’s space sector is rapidly advancing, thanks to government initiatives, private sector participation, and innovation from startups. These efforts not only strengthen India’s role in global space exploration but also contribute to economic growth and societal development.

TRAGIC CAPSIZING IN LAKE KIVU

TOPIC: (GS3) ENVIRONMENT: THE HINDU

Recently, a tragic boat accident occurred on Lake Kivu in eastern Congo, resulting in the death of at least 78 people.

The boat was carrying 278 passengers when it capsized, highlighting the risks associated with overcrowded and unsafe water transport in the region. This incident brings attention to the geographical and ecological significance of Lake Kivu.

About Lake Kivu:

Location and Geographical Features:

• Lake Kivu is one of East Africa’s Great Lakes, situated between the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) to the west and Rwanda to the east.
• It is the largest lake in Rwanda and the sixth largest in Africa.
• The lake lies within the Albertine Rift, part of the East African Rift system.

Size and Dimensions:

• Lake Kivu sits at an elevation of 1,460 meters above sea level.
• It spans an area of 1,040 square miles (2,700 sq. km), with 58% of its waters in the DRC and the rest in Rwanda.
• The lake stretches 90 km in length and 50 km in width, with a maximum depth of 475 meters and an average depth of 220 meters.

Unique Features:

• The lake’s irregular shoreline forms many inlets, peninsulas, and waterfalls.
• Lake Kivu empties into the Rusizi River, which flows into Lake Tanganyika.
• Idjwi Island, the tenth largest inland island in the world, is located within the lake.

Conclusion:

Lake Kivu is not only significant for its geographical features but also plays an important role in the lives of the surrounding communities. The recent capsizing emphasizes the need for improved safety measures for those relying on the lake for transportation.

NEW HAMMERHEAD SHARK SPECIES

TOPIC: (GS3) ENVIRONMENT: DOWN TO EARTH

Scientists recently identified a new species of hammerhead shark, Sphyrna alleni, from the Caribbean and Southwest Atlantic.

Hammerhead sharks are known for their unique, hammer-shaped heads, which aid in hunting and vision. The discovery adds to the rich diversity of marine life in the region.

About Hammerhead Sharks:

Distinctive Head Shape:

• Belong to the family Sphyrnidae.
• Their flattened, hammer-like head is called a cephalofoil.
• This head shape provides 360-degree vision and improves hunting capabilities.

Species Diversity:

• There are nine species of hammerhead sharks, varying in size.
• The great hammerhead is the largest, growing up to 20 feet in length.

Distribution and Habitat:

Global Distribution:

• Found in tropical and temperate waters near coasts and continental shelves.
• Known to migrate seasonally, moving towards the equator in winter and poles in summer.

Migration Patterns:

• During El Niño years, hammerhead sharks may travel hundreds of kilometers beyond their usual range.

Features and Behavior:

Physical Characteristics:

• Upper body color ranges from greyish-brown to olive-green with white undersides.
• Equipped with serrated triangular teeth, making them formidable hunters.

Unique Adaptations:

• Special sensors on their heads help locate prey in the ocean.
• Viviparous species, giving birth to live young after retaining fertilized eggs.

Lifespan and Temperature Regulation:

• Hammerheads can live for 20-30 years.
• They are exothermic, meaning they rely on external temperatures to regulate body heat.

Conservation Status:

• Hammerhead sharks are among the most threatened shark species.
• Due to overfishing, most species, except Sphyrna gilberti, are listed as Vulnerable, Endangered, or Critically Endangered by the IUCN.

MEMORIAL FOR RANI DURGAVATI

TOPIC: (GS1) HISTORY: THE HINDU

The Madhya Pradesh cabinet recently approved the creation of a memorial and garden dedicated to Gond queen Rani Durgavati, with a budget of Rs 100 crore. Rani Durgavati was a notable historical figure known for her courage and leadership, especially in defending her kingdom against the Mughals.

About Rani Durgavati:

Early Life:

• Rani Durgavati (1524-1564) was born into the Chandela dynasty, famous for its rulers like Vidyadhar and for the temples of Khajuraho.
• She was born on 5th October 1524 in Kalinjar Fort, located in modern-day Uttar Pradesh.

Marriage and Rise to Power:

• In 1542, she married Dalpatshah, the eldest son of Gond king Sangramshah.
• After Dalpatshah’s death in 1550, Rani Durgavati assumed control of the Gond kingdom as her son Vir Narayan was too young to rule.

Rule and Military Prowess:

• Rani Durgavati shifted her capital to Chauragarh, a strategically important fort in the Satpura hill range.
• She expanded and politically unified Gondwana, also called Garha-Katanga, ensuring prosperity during her reign.
• She successfully defended her kingdom against Baz Bahadur, the Sultan of Malwa.

Defiance Against the Mughals:

• In 1562, Akbar annexed Malwa, bringing the Mughal Empire closer to Gondwana.
• Rani Durgavati resisted Mughal forces with great bravery but was ultimately defeated.
• Despite the loss, she is remembered for her valor and unwavering spirit in the face of Mughal dominance.

Conclusion:

Rani Durgavati’s legacy as a warrior queen and protector of Gondwana remains a source of inspiration. The memorial will honor her bravery and significant contributions to Indian history.