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513: EXAMINING THE EXAMINATION SYSTEM IN INDIA

 

 

My Article published on the Indus International Research Foundation (IIRF) website on 03 Oct 24.

 

The recent controversies surrounding UPSC (Union Public Service Commission) and NEET (National Eligibility cum Entrance Test) have thrust the examination system of India into the spotlight. These exams, which serve as gateways to prestigious public service and medical education, are under scrutiny for exam malpractices, accessibility, language barriers, and mental health impacts on candidates. The need for immediate policy improvements in conducting examinations in India is paramount to maintaining transparency, fairness, and efficiency.

 

Controversies

 

Recent Controversy: NEET. The recent controversy surrounding the NEET 2024 results has sparked significant concern among medical aspirants and the general public. The controversy primarily revolves around unusually high scores and allegations of discrepancies in the examination process. This year, an exceptionally high number of students (67) achieved a perfect score of 720/720, leading to multiple students sharing the top rank. There were also concerns about candidates scoring 718 and 719, which some considered implausible under the exam’s marking scheme. The National Testing Agency (NTA) attributed these high scores to revisions in the answer key and compensatory marks awarded for loss of time during the examination. The NTA formed a committee to address grievances related to time loss at certain exam centers. This resulted in 1,563 candidates receiving compensatory marks ranging from -20 to 720. Two candidates scored 718 and 719 due to these adjustments. There were also allegations of paper leaks and inflated cut-offs. Despite these accusations, the NTA maintained that the integrity of the examination was not compromised and denied any instances of a paper leak. They also clarified that the high number of top scorers was partly due to changes in the NCERT textbooks, which affected the answer key. The controversy has led to petitions in multiple high courts and widespread calls for re-evaluating or re-examining NEET 2024.

 

Recent Controversy: UPSC. Two recent controversies have surrounded the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) in 2024.   The first one regards fraudulent enrolment. The UPSC filed a case against a probationary IAS officer for allegedly forging disability certificates and using multiple identities to clear the civil services exam. Reportedly, an investigation revealed that she had manipulated personal details like name and photographs to avail of attempts beyond the permissible limit. The UPSC initiated action to cancel her candidature and filed an FIR with police authorities. The second one relates to the issue of lateral entry into civil services. The government asked the UPSC to withdraw its August 2024 advertisement for lateral entry posts due to concerns over the lack of adherence to reservation norms. The controversy revolves around allegations that the lateral entry process did not follow proper constitutional guidelines, particularly regarding reservations for marginalised communities. The issue has sparked a debate over the transparency and fairness of these recruitment practices.

 

Hyderabad NEET Scam (2023). This refers to a case of fraudulent activities and cheating, wherein some candidates used impersonators to appear for the exam. There were reports of using electronic devices like Bluetooth earphones and micro-cameras to communicate with outsiders who provided the answers. The police arrested several people, including candidates, their parents, and those running the operation. Investigations revealed that significant sums of money were exchanged to facilitate these fraudulent activities. This scam raised concerns about the integrity of the examination process, prompting authorities to reassess security measures and the validity of the results. It also led to a broader debate on preventing such malpractices in highly competitive exams like NEET.

 

These incidents have brought to light the vulnerabilities in the examination system and underscore the need for stricter security protocols. These protocols are crucial to maintaining the fairness and integrity of such important competitive exams, and their implementation is a key step towards improving the examination system in India.

 

Key Issues and Concerns

 

 

Malpractices and Cheating. These and other state-level and central exams are plagued with technological malpractices, cheating, impersonation, and exam paper leaks. Even digital tools such as AI-based cheating devices are being used, making traditional monitoring methods inadequate.

 

Exam Structure and Syllabus Overload. The UPSC exam’s extensive syllabus and multiple stages (Prelims, Mains, and Interview) present challenges regarding preparation time, which often spans over 2-3 years. NEET aspirants have criticised the heavily theoretical syllabus, arguing that it does not align well with the practical skills required in medical training.

 

Accessibility and Inclusivity. The criticism of UPSC and NEET examinations for being heavily skewed towards urban English-speaking candidates, thereby marginalising students from rural and non-English speaking backgrounds, underscores the need for inclusivity in the examination system. Overcoming the language barrier for NEET in regional areas, where students have difficulty understanding medical terminologies in their native languages, is a crucial step towards providing equal opportunities for all candidates.

 

Reservation and Quota Policies. Recent debates around reservation policies, particularly for NEET, have created further tension. Controversies over OBC, EWS, and state quotas have sparked legal and social debates. The merit vs. reservation debate continues to be a contentious issue.

 

Mental Health and High Stakes Pressure. These exams are highly competitive, with lakhs of aspirants competing for a limited number of seats or positions, leading to significant mental health stress and, in some tragic cases, suicides, especially among NEET aspirants. The high failure rates in these exams exacerbate stress, mainly because many aspirants invest years in preparation, only to face disappointment.

 

Recommendations for Improvement

 

 

Technology Solutions for Technology Malpractices. Incorporating AI-based proctoring systems, blockchain technology for securing question papers, and advanced biometric verification can mitigate the risk of exam fraud and impersonation. Exams can adopt digital forensics tools that monitor suspicious behaviour, unusual answer patterns, or high-speed internet access during examinations.

 

Decentralisation and Multiple Examination Windows. Conducting exams like NEET and UPSC at multiple windows throughout the year would reduce the burden of a single high-stakes examination and provide aspirants with more opportunities. This approach has been successfully implemented in exams like GRE and GMAT, which allow candidates flexibility and time to recover from and deal with failures.

 

Innovative Exam Formats. Introducing continuous assessment models or competency-based evaluations would shift focus away from a single high-stakes exam. In medical entrance exams, practical aptitude and problem-solving skills should play a bigger role. For UPSC, reforming the personality test (interview) to a more skills-oriented evaluation rather than subjective judgment would enhance the fairness of the selection process.

 

Regional Language Inclusion and Support. Expanding language options with robust translation services is crucial to making exams like NEET more inclusive. Additionally, ensuring medical terminologies are standardised across languages can help students from rural backgrounds perform better. Similarly, UPSC exams should provide high-quality material in regional languages, ensuring parity regarding preparation resources.

 

Syllabus Reforms. For UPSC, a syllabus revision committee should be established to periodically assess whether the content and structure align with the skills required in public service today. NEET should focus on balancing theoretical knowledge and practical skills, emphasising clinical reasoning and real-world medical scenarios rather than rote memorisation.

 

Better and Equal Opportunities. Policy improvements should address the urban-rural divide in access to quality coaching. Government-sponsored or subsidised coaching centers should be established for NEET and UPSC aspirants, especially in rural and underprivileged regions. Expanding the reach of digital education platforms (with government support) for nationwide aspirants would democratise exam preparation and offer a more level playing field.

 

Maintaining the Balance. A clear and consistent approach to quota and reservation policies should be maintained to ensure that neither merit nor social justice is compromised. This could include affirmative action support programs that offer extra coaching or preparatory resources to underprivileged candidates rather than a simplistic quota system. Conduct public consultations with stakeholders (aspirants, teachers, and policymakers) to refine the implementation of reservations, especially for NEET, where rural students face challenges in competitive environments.

 

Exam Transparency and Post-Examination Review. Establishing review committees and ensuring the public release of detailed exam performance metrics, cut-offs, and candidate reviews (for both NEET and UPSC) would increase transparency. Introducing a grievance redressal mechanism for candidates to appeal against examination issues (errors in question papers, disputes over answer keys) would ensure fair processes and reduce legal challenges.

 

Mental Health Support and Counselling. Policy frameworks must prioritise mental health initiatives for students preparing for these high-stakes exams. Counselling services, stress management workshops, and mental health helplines should be integrated into examination preparation processes. Mandating institutions to offer psychological support services to aspirants preparing for prolonged periods would prevent mental health crises.

 

Conclusion

 

Reforming the policies surrounding the conduct of NEET and UPSC examinations requires a holistic approach, balancing technological advancements, mental health awareness, inclusivity, and transparency. With improved security mechanisms, mental health support, and greater language and rural access inclusivity, these exams can better serve India’s diverse and dynamic aspirant population. Ensuring fair and equitable opportunities, especially for underrepresented communities, will enhance the legitimacy and efficiency of these highly competitive examinations.

 

Link to the article on website:-

Examining the Examination System in India – by Air Marshal Anil Khosla

 

Suggestions and value additions are most welcome.

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References and credits

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Disclaimer:

Information and data included in the blog are for educational & non-commercial purposes only and have been carefully adapted, excerpted, or edited from reliable and accurate sources. All copyrighted material belongs to respective owners and is provided only for wider dissemination.

 

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512: PEACE AND SECURITY IN SOUTH ASIA: BANGLADESH AND MYANMAR

 

 

My Article published on IIRF (Indus International Research Foundation) site

 

South Asia is one of the world’s most populous and geopolitically significant regions. A complex web of ethnic, religious, political, and territorial disputes makes maintaining peace and security in the region a big challenge. Bangladesh and Myanmar, two key countries in this region, face specific regional stability challenges. These include ethnic conflicts, refugee crises, political instability, and militant threats. Both nations’ security dynamics also have wider implications for neighbouring countries, especially India, China, and Southeast Asia.

 

Critical Issues

 

Ethnic Conflicts and the Rohingya Crisis. Myanmar’s Rohingya Crisis has been one of the most significant security challenges in recent years. The Rohingya Muslim minority in Myanmar’s Rakhine State has faced decades of persecution, which culminated in a military crackdown in 2017 that was widely condemned as ethnic cleansing. Over 700,000 Rohingya fled to neighbouring Bangladesh, creating one of the largest refugee crises in recent history. Bangladesh provided temporary refuge in the Cox’s Bazar area. The strain on its resources, coupled with fears of radicalisation and the Rohingya population’s vulnerability, raised concerns over the long-term security and stability of the region. The inability to repatriate the Rohingya to Myanmar due to Myanmar’s refusal to guarantee safety, citizenship, or basic rights continues to fuel tensions.

 

Myanmar’s Political Instability and Civil War. Myanmar’s political situation worsened after the military coup in February 2021, which ousted the civilian government led by Aung San Suu Kyi and re-imposed military rule. The coup triggered widespread civil disobedience movements, violent military crackdowns, and growing armed resistance by ethnic militias and the newly formed People’s Defense Forces (PDF). The country is now in the grips of a low-intensity civil war, where several ethnic armed groups (Kachin, Karen, Shan, etc.) have intensified their fight for autonomy. The instability in Myanmar has made it a hotspot for human rights violations, arms smuggling, and cross-border tensions. The situation has created refugee flows into neighbouring countries, particularly Thailand and India, and has raised fears that Myanmar could become a haven for terrorist networks and drug trafficking.

 

Islamic Extremism and Terrorist Threats. Bangladesh has faced sporadic issues with Islamic extremism, with groups like Jamaat-ul-Mujahideen Bangladesh (JMB) and other more minor factions trying to radicalise youths. These groups have been responsible for attacks on secularists, bloggers, and foreigners, raising concerns about the growth of extremism in a relatively moderate Muslim-majority country. Although the Bangladeshi government had taken steps to curb militancy, the risk of radicalisation within specific sectors of society, particularly in refugee camps (housing the Rohingya), poses a long-term threat to regional security.

 

Border Management and Illegal Activities. Bangladesh-Myanmar border areas have been hotspots for illegal activities, including arms trafficking, human trafficking, and drug smuggling. The porous borders and the lack of effective governance in these areas complicate efforts to maintain peace and security. The spread of narcotics such as methamphetamines from Myanmar into Bangladesh and other neighbouring countries has become a severe issue, contributing to organised crime and funding insurgent groups.

 

Geopolitical Competition and Influence. South Asia is an arena for geopolitical competition between major powers like China, India, and the United States. All of these powers have interests in maintaining stability in the region but also pursue policies driven by strategic competition. China’s growing influence in Bangladesh and Myanmar complicates regional dynamics. Myanmar’s military regime has long had close ties with China, which provides diplomatic support and economic investments. Meanwhile, Bangladesh has also seen increased Chinese investment, primarily through the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). India, which has historical and strategic ties with Bangladesh and shares a long border with both countries, seeks to counterbalance Chinese influence. India supports the return of democracy in Myanmar, but its ability to directly influence the political outcomes in either country remains limited. The United States has also increased its attention on South Asia as part of its Indo-Pacific strategy, which aims to contain China and promote democratic governance. Washington has imposed sanctions on Myanmar’s military leaders post-coup, but it is also seeking to strengthen ties with Bangladesh, particularly in areas of security cooperation and economic development.

 

Enhancing Peace and Security

 

 

Regional Cooperation and Multilateral Engagement. Addressing the interconnected security challenges in Bangladesh and Myanmar requires robust regional cooperation. Organisations like SAARC (South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation) and ASEAN (Association of Southeast Asian Nations) can play a role in conflict resolution, refugee management, and addressing cross-border threats such as terrorism and trafficking. ASEAN, of which Myanmar is a member, has struggled to mediate the crisis post-coup. However, ASEAN’s efforts to establish dialogue with Myanmar’s military and other stakeholders must be enhanced to prevent the country’s further isolation and encourage a peaceful resolution. Bangladesh can benefit from broader multilateral forums like BIMSTEC (Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation), which includes Myanmar, to promote economic cooperation and discuss transnational security threats.

 

Resolving the Rohingya Crisis. The Rohingya refugee crisis is central to the peace and security dynamics between Bangladesh and Myanmar. Bangladesh’s diplomatic efforts to resolve the crisis should focus on resolving the issue through the United Nations, ASEAN, and bilateral talks with Myanmar. More significant international pressure on Myanmar is needed to ensure a safe and dignified repatriation process for the Rohingya. However, this will require Myanmar’s willingness to provide citizenship rights and security guarantees.

 

Combating Extremism and Transnational Terrorism. Bangladesh must continue its successful counter-terrorism initiatives, such as intelligence sharing, policing reform, and de-radicalisation programs, to mitigate the threat of extremism. Regional cooperation on counter-terrorism between Bangladesh, Myanmar, India, and other neighbouring states is crucial, especially in curbing cross-border terrorist movements and dismantling terrorist financing networks.

 

Political Stability and Democratic Transitions. Supporting democratic transitions in Myanmar is critical to long-term stability. Diplomatic efforts should bring various ethnic groups and political stakeholders, including the military and opposition groups, to the negotiating table for a political settlement. Bangladesh’s democratic institutions must be supported in maintaining the rule of law, good governance, and political inclusivity, as these are critical factors in preventing the growth of extremism and unrest.

 

Peace and security in Bangladesh and Myanmar remain precarious, influenced by internal political strife, ethnic conflicts, and cross-border security threats. The Rohingya crisis stands as a pivotal issue that affects both countries and needs a coordinated international response. Moreover, Myanmar’s internal conflict following the military coup has destabilised the region, raising fears of spillover effects, including refugee flows, terrorism, and illegal trafficking. Enhanced regional cooperation, international engagement, and sustained humanitarian support are essential in promoting stability in this part of South Asia. Bangladesh’s efforts in combating terrorism and maintaining political stability should be supported, while Myanmar requires a long-term strategy to achieve peace and move towards democratic governance. Without sustained international pressure and multilateral diplomacy, these challenges may continue to undermine the security of the entire region.

 

Suggestions and value additions are most welcome.

 

Link to the article:-

https://indusresearch.in/peace-and-security-in-south-asia-bangladesh-and-myanmar/

 

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References and credits

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References:

  1. “Khandakar Tahmid Rejwan”, Myanmar’s Civil War: Security Implications for Bangladesh, Stimson, 26 jun 24.

 

  1. Sreeparna Banerjee, “The Rohingya Crisis and its Impact on Bangladesh-Myanmar Relations, Issue Brief, Observer Research Foundation, 10 May 23.

 

  1. Sagarika Dutt, “Peace and Development in South Asia: Problems and Prospects”, Sage Journals. 02 Jan 24.

 

  1. Jubaida Auhana Faruque, “A Civil War in Myanmar, a Regional Threat to South Asia”, BIPSS, Jul 21.

 

  1. Prothom Alo, “Myanmar’s conflict and implications for Bangladesh and the region”, BIPSS Policy Circle, 22 Feb 24.

Disclaimer:

Information and data included in the blog are for educational & non-commercial purposes only and have been carefully adapted, excerpted, or edited from reliable and accurate sources. All copyrighted material belongs to respective owners and is provided only for wider dissemination.

 

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511: WOMEN AIR WARRIORS IN INDIAN AIR FORCE

 

 

 

My Article published in the Air Force Association Journal 2024

 

“Valour knows no gender.”

 – Barack Obama

 

Women’s participation in the armed forces has evolved significantly over the years worldwide, with a growing recognition of their valuable contributions to the defence and security of the country. Many countries now allow women to serve in the armed forces in numerous roles. The extent of participation and roles vary from country to country, depending on cultural norms, legal frameworks, and military policies. Traditionally, the Indian armed forces have also been predominantly male-dominated; however, changes in societal norms and perceptions made the inclusion of women inevitable. Over the years, women’s roles and opportunities have expanded, with women now serving as pilots, engineers, and administrators, among other roles.

 

The history of women in the Indian defence services is a story of gradual progress and increasing participation from support services and roles to combat and command roles. The Indian Air Force, for instance, has implemented various initiatives to promote gender equality and equal opportunities for women. These include recruitment drives, training programs, and policy changes. However, it is essential to note that the journey hasn’t been without its challenges. The IAF has had to overcome societal norms, cultural barriers, and even some resistance within its ranks to pave the way for women’s inclusion. Despite these hurdles, the IAF has been relatively more progressive than the three services in gender mainstreaming, with significant strides made in recent years towards achieving gender equality and providing equal opportunities for women in the workforce.

 

Last year, the Minister of State for Defence shared information in the Lok Sabha about the number of women serving in the armed forces. According to the information shared, the total number includes officers, other ranks, and those in medical, dental, and nursing services. The number of women personnel employed in the three services, excluding those in medical, dental, and nursing, comes to 4,948. The exact numbers in each service vary; reports in the open domain suggest that percentage-wise, the women’s strength in the Army is approximately 3.8% compared to 13% of the Air Force and 6% of the Navy. The IAF employs the most significant percentage of women officers among the three armed forces. The strength of women officers in the IAF (excluding Medical and Dental branches) is 1,636.

 

 

The Indian Air Force has been at the forefront of gender integration, with women being inducted into the force since 1992. In IAF, Women serve in various roles, including flying (fighter jets, transport aircraft, and helicopters), and also hold influential positions in other ground duty branches like administration, logistics, air traffic control, engineering, meteorology,  accounts, and judge advocate general along with their male counterparts. IAF follows a gender-neutral approach to the employment of women. They are considered at par with their male counterparts, with no differentiation in type and quantum of work. The rules provide equal opportunities, even empowering them to hold key appointments, including that of Commanding Officers in Combat Units of various field units. For the first time in the IAF’s history, a woman officer has commanded a frontline combat unit (missile squadron), shattering the proverbial glass ceiling. Indian Air Force started employing women as transport and helicopter pilots in 1994. The women officers proved their mettle and performed well in these roles (including missions related to disaster management). They were found to be at par in performance with their male counterparts. Modern air combat in the digital age involves the management of aircraft systems and weapons. In present-day air combat with beyond-visual-range missiles, one may not even see the enemy in the air. Fighter flying needs a high level of physical and mental fitness. These requirements are gender-neutral. In 2015, a decision was taken to induct women into the fighter stream. In 2016, the first batch of women officers was commissioned in the fighter stream. These women pilots now fly MiG-21s, Sukhoi-30s, MiG-29, and the latest Rafale jets. The experimental scheme to induct women officers into all combat roles, initiated by the IAF in 2015, has now been regularised into a permanent scheme. The IAF remains a favourite among the three services for women because it offers them a thrilling environment, flying opportunities, and the chance to be part of combat operations.

 

Recently, the Indian government has taken significant steps to increase the percentage ratio of women (officers and other ranks) and towards their empowerment. Women have started enlisting in the military under the Agnipath program as well. The policies and rules regarding their career progression, employment, and promotional aspects are becoming gender-neutral to provide them equal opportunities. All branches of the Indian Armed Forces now have women in combat roles and are allowed command appointments on par with males. To ensure greater inclusiveness, gender parity, and participation of women in the forces, women are being inducted into Sainik schools and defence academies. Women’s entry started in the National Defence Academy from July 2022 onwards.

 

 

Including women in the armed forces has several military and societal benefits. It broadens the selection pool, improves the intake quality, and offsets the falling recruitment and retention rates. More importantly, it leads to diverse yet balanced perspectives, enhanced problem-solving, and a more inclusive and representative military force. A mixed-gender force strengthens the military by combining various skills, experiences, and viewpoints. Beyond the military, women joining the armed forces profoundly impact society. Their service generates tremendous respect for women and their abilities, breaking down gender stereotyping and promoting gender equality. Women who have served in the services develop a high degree of self-confidence, becoming self-reliant and better equipped to cope with or face difficult situations in life.

 

While including women in the armed forces brings several benefits, specific challenges and barriers still exist. These include aspects related to cultural and societal norms, such as traditional gender roles and expectations, which can hinder women’s acceptance and integration into the armed forces. Career opportunities and progression, physical and psychological suitability for combat roles and leadership positions, gender integration, gender equality, gender bias, and gender discrimination are some of the critical challenges. Although the number of occurrences may be rare, a few women in the armed forces at times may face challenges such as stereotypes, lack of acceptance from male colleagues or subordinates, unequal opportunities, harassment, and discrimination. Unfortunately, such incidents get wide publicity, influencing public opinion adversely. Like other branches, the Indian Air Force has been working to address these issues, but there is still work to be done. Harassment prevention, redress mechanisms, fitness norms, etc., must be reviewed periodically for mid-course corrections.

 

Women have become a part of the defence services in India. Most of the teething problems have been addressed to a large extent; however, their integration is an evolutionary process. The related policy changes need to consider the changing nature of warfare and the role of technology. Input from serving personnel, veterans (with decades of experience), and foreign-friendly militaries would be valuable for policy formulation and review. It must be an evolutionary process while balancing personal and organisational aspirations, growth, necessities, and concerns.

 

Suggestions and value additions are most welcome.

 

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References and credits

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 References

  1. “Women in Defence Services”, Press Release by Press Information Bureau, Ministry of Defence India, and 17 MAR 2023.
  1. Gp Capt Kishore Khera (Retd), “COMBAT AVIATION: Flight Path” 1968-2018.
  1. Manishsiq, “ Women in Armed Forces”, Studyiq, 08 May 23.
  1. “Women and the Military, Civilsdaily, 18 Jan 22.
  1. Rajat Pandit, “No woman has yet qualified for military Special Forces, though some volunteered”, The Times of India, 28 Jul 23.
  1. “Women in Armed Forces”, Clear IAS, 10 Mar 23.
  1. “Role of women in armed forces”, OHeraldo, 07 Mar 22.

Disclaimer:

Information and data included in the blog are for educational & non-commercial purposes only and have been carefully adapted, excerpted, or edited from reliable and accurate sources. All copyrighted material belongs to respective owners and is provided only for wider dissemination.