What’s in today’s article?

• Overview
• Key Findings of the Report
• Significance for India
• Importance of Front-of-Pack Labelling
• Recommendations by the Report
• What is the Indian Nutritional Rating System?
• About FSSAI
• Role/Functions of FSSAI
• Composition of FSSAI

Overview

• A report by the Access to Nutrition Initiative (ATNi) highlights the disparities in the healthiness of food and beverage (F&B) products sold in low-and-middle-income countries (LMICs) compared to high-income countries (HICs).
• This brings attention to the importance of labelling packaged food to guide consumers toward healthier choices.

Key Findings of the Report

• Health Star Rating System:
  • The report analysed over 52,000 products from major brands like Nestlé, PepsiCo, Unilever, and others.
  • Products were rated out of 5 stars, with scores above 3.5 considered healthy.
  • Average scores:
    • LMICs: 1.8
    • HICs: 2.3
• Disparities in Nutrition:
  • Fewer affordable healthy options in LMICs.
  • Micronutrient information was less frequently provided for products in LMICs.
• Historical Patterns:
  • Previous reports revealed similar issues. For instance, Nestlé's baby food in India and African markets contained higher sugar levels compared to European versions, sparking government scrutiny.

Significance for India

• Health Crisis:
  • Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs): India faces a significant burden, with over 10 crore people suffering from diabetes and high obesity rates.
  • Undernutrition and Micronutrient Deficiencies: Coexisting challenges due to unhealthy diets and economic disparities.
• Dietary Patterns:
  • Rising consumption of processed foods rich in sugar and fat.
  • Over 56% of India’s disease burden is linked to unhealthy diets (ICMR, 2023).
• Affordability Gap:
  • Over half of Indians cannot afford a healthy diet.
  • Household spending on processed foods is increasing.

Importance of Front-of-Pack Labelling

• Global Standards:
  • Countries like Chile and Mexico successfully reduced consumption of sugary beverages after mandatory front-of-pack labelling (FOPL).
• India’s Current Efforts:
  • India is part of World Health Assembly resolutions advocating for protecting children from junk food marketing.
  • Policies like the National Multisectoral Action Plan (2017-2022) aimed at tackling NCDs have seen limited success in implementing labeling regulations.
• Challenges:
  • The 2022 Draft Notification for FOPL is yet to make progress.
  • Voluntary efforts by F&B companies have been insufficient.

Recommendations by the Report

• Mandatory Regulations:
  • Stronger policies for clear labelling of sugar, salt, and fat content on packaging.
• Public Awareness:
  • Campaigns to educate consumers on interpreting nutritional labels.
• Affordable Healthy Options:
  • Incentivizing companies to offer nutritious products at accessible prices for low-income groups.
• Government Action:
  • Strengthening enforcement and adopting global best practices for food labelling.

What is the Indian Nutritional Rating System?

• The INR system rates the overall nutritional profile for packaged food by assigning it a rating from ½ star (least healthy) to 5 stars (healthiest).
• More stars indicate the food product is better positioned to provide for daily human need of nutrients.
• As per the notification, solid food with a score of more than 25 will be given 0.5 stars, and those with a score less than – (minus)11 will get 5 stars.
• To generate the star-rating logo for the product, food businesses have to submit nutritional profiles of the products concerned on FSSAI’s portal.

About FSSAI

• The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India is a statutory body under the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006.
• Objectives:
  • To lay down science-based standards for articles of food
  • To regulate manufacture, storage, distribution, import and sale of food
  • To facilitate safety of food

Role/Functions of FSSAI

• Framing of Regulations to lay down the standards/guidelines in relation to articles of food.
• Laying down mechanisms/guidelines for accreditation of certification bodies engaged in certification of food safety management system.
• Collect and collate data regarding food consumption, incidence and prevalence of biological risk, contaminants in food, etc.
• Creating an information network across the country so that public receive reliable and objective information about food safety and issues of concern.
• Provide training programmes for persons who are involved or intend to get involved in food businesses.
• Contribute to the development of international technical standards for food, sanitary and phytol-sanitary standards.

Composition of FSSAI

• The FSSAI comprises of a Chairperson and twenty-two members out of which one – third are to be women.
• The Chairperson of FSSAI is appointed by the Central Government.
• The Food Authority is assisted by Scientific Committees and Panels in setting standards and the Central Advisory Committee in coordinating with enforcement agencies.
• Concerned Ministry: Ministry of Health and Family Welfare
• The FSSAI appoints food safety authorities at the state level.
• The primary responsibility for enforcement is largely with the State Food Safety Commissioners.

Q1. What is Food Adulteration?

Food adulteration is the intentional act of changing the quality of food by adding or removing substances, or by replacing them with inferior ingredients. This is done to gain economic advantage or to modify the food's appearance, taste, weight, volume, or shelf life.

Q2. What are Carbohydrates?

Carbohydrates, or carbs, are sugar molecules. Along with proteins and fats, carbohydrates are one of three main nutrients found in foods and drinks. Your body breaks down carbohydrates into glucose. Glucose, or blood sugar, is the main source of energy for your body's cells, tissues, and organs.

News: Should packaged food content be labelled? | Explained

World Fisheries Day, observed annually on November 21, underscores the importance of sustainable fisheries, the preservation of aquatic ecosystems, and the well-being of fishing communities. It aims to raise awareness about critical issues like overfishing, habitat destruction, and illegal fishing while emphasizing the need to empower small-scale fishers, who often belong to marginalized communities worldwide.

The day traces its roots to 1997, when the World Forum of Fish Harvesters & Fish Workers was founded in New Delhi, India. Delegates from 18 countries came together to establish the World Fisheries Forum, advocating for sustainable fishing practices and policies on a global scale.

Importance of Fisheries in India

India holds a key position in the global fisheries sector, ranking as the 3rd largest fish producer and the 2nd largest in aquaculture after China. As the world’s leading shrimp producer, India plays a vital role in ensuring domestic food security while contributing significantly to the global seafood market. The sector provides livelihoods to nearly 30 million people, primarily in coastal and rural areas.

India’s fisheries industry has undergone a notable transformation, shifting from marine-based fisheries to a focus on inland fisheries. This transition, coupled with the move from capture fisheries to culture-based aquaculture, has been instrumental in driving the nation’s blue economy, fostering both sustainability and economic growth.

World Fisheries Day Theme for 2024

The theme for this year’s celebration, “India’s Blue Transformation: Strengthening Small-Scale and Sustainable Fisheries,” highlights India’s dedication to promoting inclusive growth and sustainable practices within the fisheries sector. It underscores the importance of empowering small-scale fishers while ensuring environmental sustainability and the long-term viability of aquatic ecosystems.

World Fisheries Day 2024 Celebrations and Initiatives

The Department of Fisheries (DoF), under the Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry, and Dairying (MoFAH&D), will spearhead the celebrations on November 21, 2024, at Sushma Swaraj Bhawan, New Delhi. The event will be presided over by the Union Minister Shri Rajiv Ranjan Singh, alias Lalan Singh.

A series of groundbreaking initiatives will be launched to drive advancements in fisheries and ensure sustainable development:

1. 5th Marine Fisheries Census: This initiative aims to gather comprehensive data on marine resources, providing a solid foundation for evidence-based policymaking.
2. National Plan of Action (NPOA) on Sharks: Focused on conserving shark species, the plan seeks to address overexploitation and ensure their ecological balance.
3. Bay of Bengal-Regional Plan of Action (BoB-RPOA): A strategic framework to combat illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) fishing in the Bay of Bengal region, fostering regional cooperation.
4. IMO-FAO GloLitter Partnership Project: This project aims to tackle marine plastic pollution, contributing to cleaner oceans and healthier marine biodiversity.
5. Retrofitted LPG Kits: Energy-efficient LPG kits will be introduced for fishing vessels, promoting eco-friendly practices while reducing operational costs.
6. Single Window System for Coastal Aquaculture: A streamlined online registration process will simplify administrative procedures for coastal aquaculture farms, encouraging more participation.
7. Voluntary Carbon Market Framework: This innovative mechanism will integrate carbon trading into the fisheries sector, offering incentives for sustainable practices while addressing climate change.

Technical Sessions

The event will feature in-depth technical sessions on pressing topics:

• South-South and Triangular Cooperation: Discussions will center on strengthening international partnerships for sustainable fisheries and global food security.
• Climate Change Challenges in Fisheries: Experts will explore mitigation strategies and emerging opportunities like carbon credit mechanisms, marine plastic management, and advanced traceability systems to enhance the sustainability of fisheries.

World Fisheries Day 2024 Awards and Recognition

To celebrate excellence in the fisheries sector, awards will be presented to progressive states/UTs, visionary individuals, and innovative entrepreneurs for their contributions to the growth and sustainability of Indian fisheries and aquaculture. These recognitions aim to inspire further efforts in transforming the sector and achieving India’s blue economy goals.

This year’s World Fisheries Day highlights India’s proactive steps towards ensuring that its fisheries sector thrives sustainably while empowering small-scale fishers and contributing to global ecological and economic well-being.

India’s Global Leadership in Fisheries

India has emerged as a global leader in fisheries, with the sector recognized as a “sunrise industry” that plays a vital role in the global food system. The country holds the distinction of being the 3rd largest fish producer in the world, the 2nd largest aquaculture nation, and the largest shrimp producer globally. These achievements underscore India’s significant contributions to global seafood markets and domestic food security, cementing its position as a key player in the fisheries sector.

Growth in Fish Production

India’s fisheries industry has witnessed remarkable growth, transitioning from being marine-dominated to deriving 70% of total fish production from inland fisheries. This shift has been driven by:

• Aquaculture Productivity: A growing emphasis on culture-based practices has significantly enhanced aquaculture yields.
• Brackish and Saline Aquaculture: India has seen substantial growth in shrimp farming while exploring the untapped potential of saline aquaculture zones to further diversify production.

Major Government Schemes and Policies for Fisheries 

India’s fisheries sector has been bolstered by several key government schemes aimed at enhancing productivity, exports, and sustainability:

1. Blue Revolution Integrated Development and Management Fisheries Scheme (2015-16): Focused on marine and inland fisheries, this scheme sought to increase fish production and productivity across the country.
2. Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY): Launched in 2020, PMMSY aims to double fisheries exports to ₹1 lakh crore and create 55 lakh jobs. The scheme targets increasing aquaculture productivity from 3 tonnes/ha to 5 tonnes/ha, ensuring sustainable growth in the sector.
3. Fisheries and Aquaculture Infrastructure Development Fund (FIDF): Established in 2018-19, this fund provides financial assistance for fisheries infrastructure projects, offering up to 3% interest subvention to promote development.
4. ICAR-Central Institute of Fisheries Education (CIFE): A Centre of Excellence since 1961, CIFE has trained over 4,000 fisheries professionals, focusing on research and capacity building to foster sustainable aquaculture practices.

Promoting Sustainable Fishing in India

India’s commitment to sustainability in fisheries is reflected in several regulatory and conservation measures:

• National Policy on Marine Fisheries (NPMF, 2017): A framework to ensure the sustainability of marine fisheries through balanced exploitation and conservation.
• Fishing Ban: A 61-day monsoon ban is enforced to allow fish stocks to replenish, ensuring long-term ecological balance.
• Prohibition of Destructive Practices: Practices like pair trawling, LED lights, and bull trawling are banned to prevent overexploitation and habitat destruction.
• Sea Ranching and Artificial Reefs: These initiatives promote sustainable fishing practices while enhancing marine biodiversity.

Climate Resilience in Fisheries

India is actively addressing the challenges posed by climate change in the fisheries sector through innovative strategies:

• Developing cold-water fisheries in Himalayan regions to diversify production.
• Promoting high-value products such as omega-rich trout to boost export potential.
• Implementing mitigation strategies to combat climate change impacts, including investments in resilient infrastructure and resource management.

Investments in the Sector

The fisheries sector has received unprecedented financial support, with the Department of Fisheries allocating ₹2,584.50 crore for FY 2024-25, marking a 15% increase over the previous year. This funding supports:

• Expanding inland fisheries and diversifying aquaculture practices.
• Infrastructure development under PMMSY and FIDF to enhance capacity and efficiency.
• Research and technology advancements to ensure sustainable aquaculture and address emerging challenges.

India’s fisheries sector continues to exemplify a balance between growth, sustainability, and inclusivity, reinforcing its position as a global leader in fisheries and aquaculture.

World Fisheries Day 2024 FAQs

Q1. What is the theme of the 2024 Fisheries Day?
Ans. “India’s Blue Transformation: Strengthening Small-Scale and Sustainable Fisheries.”

Q2. Why is World Fisheries Day celebrated?
Ans. It is celebrated to highlight the importance of sustainable fisheries and support for fishing communities globally.

Q3. What is the theme of National Fish Farmers Day 2024?
Ans. The theme for National Fish Farmers Day 2024 has not been officially announced yet.

Q4. What is World Fisheries Day?
Ans. World Fisheries Day is an annual event to raise awareness about sustainable fishing practices, aquatic ecosystem protection, and the livelihoods of fishers.

Q5. When is World Fisheries Day celebrated?
Ans. World Fisheries Day is celebrated on November 21 every year.

India's urban unemployment rate fell to 6.4% in the July-September 2024 quarter, the lowest in recent years. This marks a decline from 6.6% in the previous quarter and matches the rate from the same period last year. The reduction highlights positive employment trends in urban areas, reflecting advancements in job creation and increased labor force participation.

Urban Unemployment Rate in India

The urban unemployment rate in India declined to 6.4% in the July-September 2024 quarter, marking the lowest level recorded in recent years. This reflects a steady improvement compared to the previous quarter, where the rate stood at 6.6%. It also aligns with the rate observed during the same period last year (July-September 2023). This consistent reduction highlights positive trends in employment generation within urban areas and signifies progress in addressing joblessness.

Unemployment Rate in India among Men and Women

A gender-specific breakdown shows a decline in unemployment for both men and women. The unemployment rate for men decreased to 5.7% in the July-September 2024 quarter, compared to 5.8% in the preceding quarter. Similarly, women’s unemployment rate fell significantly, dropping to 8.4% from 9% in April-June 2024. This reduction underscores advancements in workforce engagement, particularly among women, though disparities between genders remain.

Labour Force Participation Rate (LFPR)

The Labour Force Participation Rate (LFPR), which measures the proportion of the working-age population either employed or actively seeking work, rose to 50.4% in the July-September 2024 quarter from 50.1% in the previous quarter. Women’s LFPR experienced a modest increase, reaching 25.5% compared to 25.2% in April-June 2024. While the overall rise is encouraging, the persistent gap between male and female participation highlights the need for targeted efforts to enhance women’s involvement in the workforce.

Worker Population Rate (WPR) in Urban Areas

The Worker Population Rate (WPR) for individuals aged 15 and above stood at 47.2% in the July-September 2024 quarter. For men, the WPR was notably higher at 70.7%, while for women, it was significantly lower at 23.4%. This stark gender disparity underscores the unequal distribution of employment opportunities and highlights the need for gender-specific policy interventions to boost women's workforce representation.

Unemployment Rate in India Key Terms 

Following are the key terms discussed while discussing unemployment Rate in India: 

• Unemployment Rate: The percentage of unemployed individuals within the labor force.
• Labour Force Participation Rate (LFPR): The proportion of the working-age population that is either employed or actively seeking employment.
• Worker Population Rate (WPR): The percentage of individuals aged 15 and above who are employed or actively seeking work.

Conclusion

The decline in the urban unemployment rate and the steady increase in labor force participation signal positive employment trends in India. However, the persistent gender disparity in both LFPR and WPR indicates areas that require focused attention. Women’s participation remains significantly lower than men’s, highlighting the need for labor market reforms, skill development initiatives, and policies aimed at fostering a more inclusive and equitable workforce. These measures can support sustained employment growth and improve the overall economic landscape.

India’s Unemployment Rate FAQs

Q1. What is the current unemployment rate in India?

Ans. Current unemployment rate in India is 6.4%.

Q2. Why is India's unemployment rate high?

Ans. India’s unemployment rate is high due to slow economic growth, large population and lack of job opportunities.

Q3. What is the unemployment rate in Nsso 2024?

Ans. Unemployment rate in NSSO 2024 is 6.4% in urban areas.

Q4. What is the unemployment percentage in India in 2024? 

Ans. Unemployment percentage in India in 2024 is 7.8% (as of September 2024).

Q5. Which state has the highest unemployment rate in 2024?

Ans. State with highest unemployment rate in 2024 is Jammu & Kashmir (32%)

What’s in today’s article?

• Why in News?
• Key Features of Section 479 of BNSS
• Steps Taken by the Supreme Court to Ensure the Implementation of Section 479 of BNSS
• India’s Undertrial Population
• Conclusion

Why in News?

• Union Home Minister recently emphasised the need to release undertrial prisoners who have spent more than one-third of the maximum prescribed sentence for their accused crimes before Constitution Day (November 26).
• This directive aligns with the newly introduced provisions under the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita, 2023 (BNSS).

Key Features of Section 479 of BNSS:

• About Section 479 of the BNSS: It revises bail norms to address the prolonged detention of undertrial prisoners, particularly first-time offenders.
• General rule for bail:
  • Undertrials accused of non-capital offences (not punishable by death or life imprisonment) are eligible for bail if they have served half of the maximum sentence for the offence.
  • The provision builds on Section 436A of the CrPC, which allowed release after serving half the sentence.
• Relaxed standard for first-time offenders: First-time offenders, defined as individuals without prior convictions, must be released on bond after serving one-third of the maximum prescribed sentence.
• Exceptions: The relaxed provisions are not applicable to cases involving multiple offences or pending investigations for other crimes.

Steps Taken by the Supreme Court to Ensure the Implementation of Section 479 of BNSS:

• Retrospective application: In August 2024, the Court ordered that Section 479 applies retrospectively to cases before the BNSS came into effect on July 1, 2024.
• Implementation measures:
  • Jail superintendents are required to identify eligible prisoners and report to courts for their release.
  • State governments and Union Territories (UTs) were directed to submit detailed affidavits (within two months) on eligible undertrials and their release status.
• Recent developments:
  • As of October 2024, only 19 of the 36 states and UTs complied with the Court’s directives.
  • On November 19, the Court reiterated its directive, prioritising the identification of women undertrials for bail eligibility.

India’s Undertrial Population:

• NCRB’s report: The National Crime Records Bureau’s (NCRB) Prison Statistics India 2022 report highlights the staggering proportion of undertrials in Indian prisons.
• Overall numbers: Out of 5,73,220 inmates, 4,34,302 (75.8%) are undertrials. Women undertrials constitute 18,146 out of 23,772 (76.33%) of incarcerated women.
• Long-term detentions: Around 8.6% of undertrials have been in prison for more than three years as of December 31, 2022.
• Challenges: The report does not detail how many undertrials are first-time offenders, which is crucial for the effective implementation of Section 479.

Conclusion:

• The BNSS and the Supreme Court’s proactive stance underscore a critical attempt to decongest prisons and expedite justice for undertrial prisoners.
• However, consistent implementation and thorough reporting by state governments and jail authorities remain imperative for meaningful reform.

Q.1. What is the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita, 2023 (BNSS)?

The BNSS is an Act that consolidates and amends the criminal procedure law in India. It replaced the Criminal Procedure Code (CrPC) of 1973. It aims to simplify the criminal procedure, reduce trial duration, and ensure timely justice.

Q.2. What is the National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB)?

NCRB is an Indian government agency responsible for collecting and analysing crime data as defined by the Indian Penal Code (IPC). NCRB is headquartered in New Delhi and is part of the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) under the Government of India.

News: India’s undertrial prisoners | HT

What’s in today’s article?

• Why in News?
• What is PM Vidyalaxmi?
• How it is different from past schemes?
• Challenges faced by PM Vidyalaxmi

Why in News?

Recently, the Union Cabinet chaired by PM Modi approved a new Central Sector Scheme, PM Vidyalaxmi, which seeks to provide financial support to meritorious students applying for higher education. 

Students will now be eligible to get collateral-free, guarantor-free loans from banks and financial institutions to cover the full amount of tuition fees and other expenses related to the course.

What is PM Vidyalaxmi?

• About
  • It is a new Central Sector initiative aimed at supporting meritorious students financially so they can pursue higher education without economic constraints. 
  • This scheme is rooted in the National Education Policy, 2020, which advocates for financial assistance to deserving students across both public and private Higher Education Institutions (HEIs).
• Objectives
  • Ensure Financial Inclusion in Education: Enable meritorious students to pursue higher education without financial hurdles.
  • Support Top Educational Institutions: Applicable only to top-quality HEIs as per the National Institutional Ranking Framework (NIRF).
  • Provide Transparent and Digital Access: Use a fully digital, transparent, and student-friendly platform for loan processing and management.
• Features
  • Loan Availability:
    • Eligibility: Any student who secures admission to a Quality Higher Education Institution is eligible.
    • Loan Terms: Collateral-free and guarantor-free loans will be offered through banks and financial institutions, covering the full amount of tuition and other course-related expenses.
    • Institutional Coverage: Applies to institutions ranked in the NIRF top 100 (both government and private) and state government HEIs ranked in the 101-200 bracket, as well as all central government institutions.
    • Coverage Scope: In the initial phase, 860 QHEIs qualify, potentially benefiting over 22 lakh students.
• Credit Guarantee Support:
  • For loans up to ₹7.5 lakhs, a 75% credit guarantee on the outstanding amount is provided, encouraging banks to make education loans accessible to more students.
• Interest Subsidy:
  • Eligibility: Students with an annual family income of up to ₹8 lakhs and not benefiting from other government scholarships or interest subvention schemes.
  • Subsidy Terms: A 3% interest subvention on loans up to ₹10 lakhs during the moratorium period.
  • Beneficiary Priority: Preference is given to students in government institutions and technical/professional courses.

How it is different from past schemes?

• Expanded Eligibility
  • PM Vidyalaxmi covers middle-income families, unlike previous schemes which were limited to low-income groups, and offers benefits regardless of caste.
  • Simplified Loan Process
    • Students can apply through the Vidyalaxmi portal, which links to major public and private banks, simplifies the application process, and facilitates loan tracking.
• Focus on NIRF Rankings
  • Eligibility is restricted to institutions ranked in the top 100 of the NIRF overall, category-specific, or domain-specific lists.
    • For earlier schemes, the eligible institutions needed to be accredited with the National Assessment and Accreditation Council (NAAC) and the National Board of Accreditation (NBA). 
    • With 820 universities of NAAC and 15,501 colleges, along with 3,348 NBA institutions, the total was about 20,000 institutions.

Challenges faced by PM Vidyalaxmi

• Reduced Institution Coverage
  • Only institutions ranked in NIRF are eligible, significantly lowering the number of qualifying institutions compared to past schemes.
• Performance Stakes
  • With eligibility tied to rankings, students must perform exceptionally well in entrance tests to access loans.
• Exclusion Risks
  • Students in non-NIRF ranked institutions face higher interest rates or loan rejection.
• Institutional Competition
  • Rankings become crucial, incentivizing institutions to seek higher NIRF standings to attract students benefiting from the scheme.

Q.1. How does the PM Vidyalaxmi scheme differ from past education loan schemes?

PM Vidyalaxmi expands eligibility to middle-income families and simplifies the loan process through a digital portal. It focuses on institutions ranked under NIRF, unlike earlier schemes based on NAAC and NBA accreditation.

Q.2. What are the challenges associated with PM Vidyalaxmi?

The scheme reduces institutional coverage by limiting eligibility to NIRF-ranked institutions. This raises stakes for students and institutions to perform well, while others face higher interest rates or loan rejection risks.

News: Vidyalaxmi education loan scheme: List of eligible institutions, comparison with other schemes | Press Reader | Times of India

What’s in today’s article?

• Why in News?
• What is CARICOM?
• Why PM Modi visited Guyana?
• Key Highlights of the visit

Why in News?

Prime Minister Narendra Modi paid a visit to the small Caribbean country of Guyana, the first visit by an Indian PM in 56 years. He received a warm welcome in Guyana as President Irfan Ali broke the protocol to receive PM Modi at the airport.

During this visit, PM Modi also co-chaired the second India-CARICOM Summit alongside Grenada's PM (who is the current Chair of CARICOM) and other CARICOM leaders.

What is Caribbean Community (CARICOM)?

• About
  • CARICOM is a regional organization established in 1973 under the Treaty of Chaguaramas. 
  • It aims to promote economic integration, shared foreign policy, and functional cooperation among member states while ensuring the sustainable development of the region.
  • Stretching from The Bahamas in the north to Suriname and Guyana in South America, CARICOM comprises states that are considered developing countries.
  • Except for Belize, in Central America and Guyana and Suriname in South America, all Members and Associate Members are island states.
• Members
  • It is a is a grouping of twenty-one countries: fifteen Member States and six Associate Members. 
• Pillars of Integration:
  • Economic Integration: Focuses on creating a single market and economy through the Caribbean Single Market and Economy (CSME).
  • Foreign Policy Coordination: Ensures member states speak with one voice on international issues.
  • Human and Social Development: Promotes education, health, youth development, and gender equality across the region.
  • Security Cooperation: Aims to address common challenges like crime, border security, and disaster management.

Why PM Modi visited Guyana?

• Strengthening Historical and Cultural Ties
  • Guyana, home to one of the oldest Indian diasporas, has a population of approximately 3,20,000 people of Indian origin, constituting 43.5% of the country's total population.
• Energy Security and Hydrocarbon Cooperation
  • Guyana is emerging as a global oil hub, expected to surpass Venezuela in oil production by 2026. 
  • With massive reserves and rapid GDP growth driven by oil discoveries, Guyana offers India a crucial opportunity to diversify its crude oil imports. 
• Expanding Defence Partnerships
  • India has strengthened Guyana’s defence capabilities by supplying Dornier 228 planes and offering a Line of Credit for the purchase of patrol vehicles, radars etc. 
    • This marks India’s first-ever defence Line of Credit with a Caribbean nation. 
  • Guyana’s growing defence market aligns with India’s strategic and economic interests.
• Enhancing Trade and Economic Cooperation
  • India is partnering with Guyana in diverse sectors, including agriculture, biofuels, IT, and pharmaceuticals. Key contributions include:
    • Building critical infrastructure like the National Cricket Stadium and solar traffic lights.
    • Supporting projects such as regional hospital upgrades, road linkages, and ocean-going vessels.
    • Promoting bilateral trade, which remains low but shows positive growth potential.
• Competing with China’s Influence
  • Guyana’s strategic location and rich resources have attracted significant Chinese investments in infrastructure under the Belt and Road Initiative. 
  • India is countering this influence by committing to infrastructure projects such as a $100 million road project in Georgetown. 
  • Unlike China, India’s approach focuses on local engagement and long-term partnerships, which are better received by Guyana's population.
• Global South and Strategic Alliances
  • PM Modi’s visit reflects India’s broader strategy to enhance ties with smaller countries as part of its Global South agenda. 
  • Guyana’s economic potential, driven by oil wealth, makes it a pivotal partner in this vision. 

Key highlights of the visit

• PM Modi conferred with The Order of Excellence of Guyana
  • President of Guyana conferred upon PM Modi the highest national award of Guyana, "The Order of Excellence”.
    • He became only the fourth foreign leader to be conferred with the highest National award of Guyana.
• Agreements Across Key Sectors
  • India and Guyana signed 10 Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) to deepen cooperation in various sectors. These include:
    • Health and Pharmaceuticals: Collaboration on regulation and supply of affordable medicines, including to CARICOM countries.
      • India agreed to establish a Jan Ausadhi Kendra in Guyana to improve access to affordable medicines..
  • Hydrocarbons: Cooperation in crude sourcing, natural gas, infrastructure development, and the entire hydrocarbon value chain.
  • Agriculture: Joint activities, R&D, exchange of information and personnel, and food security initiatives.
    • Cooperation in agriculture was also expanded, with India contributing millet seeds to support Guyana’s food security.
  • Digital Transformation: Capacity building, training, exchange of best practices, and public official collaborations.
  • Banking and Payments: Deployment of India’s UPI-like real-time payment system in Guyana.
• Defence and Capacity Building
  • India committed to skill development and capacity building in Guyana, especially in defence. 
    • Earlier this year, India had gifted two Dornier aircraft to Guyana.
  • PM Modi emphasized cooperation in infrastructure, energy, and food security, highlighting India’s ongoing support for Guyana’s growth.
• Collaboration in New Areas
  • The leaders identified new areas of cooperation, including:
    • Education and Human Capital Development
    • Technology Transfer and Food Processing
    • Ayurvedic Medicine and Vaccine Manufacturing
• Symbolic Initiatives
  • PM participated in the symbolic planting of a sapling under the Ek Ped Ma Ke Naam initiative.

Q.1. Why is PM Modi’s visit to Guyana significant?

PM Modi’s visit to Guyana is historic, being the first by an Indian Prime Minister in 56 years. It strengthens India’s ties with the Caribbean, focusing on cultural connections, energy security, defence, and trade collaborations while countering China’s influence in the region.

Q.2. What were the key outcomes of PM Modi’s visit to Guyana?

The visit saw 10 agreements in areas like hydrocarbons, agriculture, and defence. PM Modi was conferred Guyana’s highest national award and co-chaired the India-CARICOM Summit, emphasizing cooperation in infrastructure, education, and digital transformation.

News: Modi first Indian PM to visit Guyana in 56 years, signs 10 pacts to expand ties | MEA | CARICOM | Economic Times | Hindustan Times