Tag: India

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547: Antariksha Abhyas 2024: A New Era for India’s Space Security

 

Pic courtesy Net

 

My Article published on the Chanakya Forum Website

on 04 Dec 24.

 

India conducted its first comprehensive space defence exercise, “Antariksha Abhyas 2024”, from November 11 to 13, 2024. It was spearheaded by the Defence Space Agency (DSA) and sought to simulate and tackle the evolving threats posed to space-based assets critical for national security.  The exercise strengthened coordination among India’s tri-services—Army, Navy, and Air Force—while integrating strategic assets within space operations. A primary objective was to assess vulnerabilities in space operations, enhance operational readiness, and develop strategies to withstand potential disruptions or denials of service. The exercise was a drill and a significant milestone in India’s defence strategy. The lessons learned from this exercise are expected to shape future military doctrines and enhance policy frameworks for space security.

 

Space Warfare. Space warfare refers to using space-based technologies and assets for military purposes, focusing on gaining strategic advantage through control of the space domain. It involves defending space infrastructure (like satellites and communication systems) and the potential to disable or destroy enemy satellites and other space-based assets during conflicts. The critical aspects of space warfare include anti-satellite weapons (ASAT), orbital warfare tactics, and strategies to control or interfere with satellite operations, such as space-based surveillance and reconnaissance and cyber-attacks. Many countries, including India, are establishing space forces and creating specialised units that handle operations in space. In recent years, nations like the U.S., China, Russia, and India have invested heavily in developing space defence capabilities, preparing for the possibility of conflict extending into space. Space warfare is seen as the next frontier in military strategy, where securing space assets will become crucial for the success of both conventional and unconventional military operations.

 

India and Space Warfare. India has made significant strides in developing its space warfare capabilities, primarily through its defence and space agencies like the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) and the Indian Armed Forces. In recent years, India’s space capabilities have increasingly been integrated into its national defence strategy, and the country has made efforts to ensure the security of its space assets while also developing the capacity to counter space-based threats. India has recognised the importance of space security and is actively working towards setting up a specialised force to handle space-related defence operations. The Indian Air Force (IAF), currently tasked with most space defence-related activities, is being augmented with space warfare-focused units. India established the Integrated Space Cell (ISC) in 2010 to integrate space capabilities into its defence strategy. India’s Defence Space Agency (DSA) was established in 2019 under the Ministry of Defence (MoD) to enhance India’s capabilities in space for defence purposes. The agency coordinates with other agencies, including the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), which handles civilian space exploration and satellite development. In future, the Indian Space Defence Command (ISDC) is expected to be formed to provide a more cohesive and focused defence approach for space assets. India demonstrated its anti-satellite (ASAT) capabilities in March 2019 when it successfully tested Mission Shakti, an ASAT weapon that destroyed one of its satellites in low Earth orbit (LEO). This test marked India as the fourth country after the United States, Russia, and China to develop and demonstrate such a capability. India has invested heavily in developing space-based surveillance and reconnaissance systems to monitor activities on Earth and space. India has been actively developing its space situational awareness (SSA) capabilities to track objects in space, detect potential threats, and predict collisions or other hazards to its satellites. This includes tracking space debris, monitoring the orbits of satellites, and identifying potential risks from enemy or hostile space activities. India is making significant advancements in its space warfare capabilities, focusing on both offensive and defensive measures to safeguard its space assets and ensure dominance in the space domain in future conflicts.

 

Exercise Antariksha Abhyas 2024

 

​The Structure and Conduct of the Exercise. Antariksha Abhyas was a highly structured event involving a mix of simulation-based war games, technical briefings, and strategic discussions. The exercise spanned three days and engaged military personnel from the Defence Space Agency and its allied units, as well as representatives from ISRO and DRDO. Each participant played a specific role, ensuring that the exercise was comprehensive and reflective of the real-world challenges India faces in space. The exercise included both tabletop simulations and live operations, with wargame scenarios designed to test the capabilities of India’s space assets in various conflict situations. These simulations included situations where space assets were compromised, such as jamming, cyber-attacks, or physical destruction through anti-satellite missiles. The exercises were not limited to offensive strategies; defensive measures such as securing satellites, countering space-based threats, and recovering lost capabilities were also explored.​

 

Aim and Objectives. Antariksha Abhyas 2024, India’s first-ever dedicated military space exercise, marks a pivotal moment in its defence strategy.  It was conceived as a ground-breaking exercise to simulate the defence of India’s space assets against emerging threats.  The exercise aimed to test and enhance the operational readiness of India’s space assets, assess vulnerabilities, and improve integration between the various branches of the armed forces and civilian space organisations like ISRO (Indian Space Research Organisation). The key objectives of Antariksha Abhyas 2024 were multi-faceted, focusing on operational readiness and strategic foresight in space defence.

 

Assessing Vulnerabilities in Space Operations. One of the primary objectives was to evaluate the vulnerabilities of India’s space-based assets. Space is becoming increasingly congested, contested, and competitive, with potential adversaries looking to disrupt or deny access to space-based services. The exercise focused on identifying the weaknesses in operational capacity that might arise if these assets were targeted or disrupted, allowing for a more robust and agile defence strategy.​

 

Enhancing Inter-Agency Coordination. The exercise aimed to strengthen the integration of space capabilities with the Indian military’s overall defence strategy. This involved collaboration among the Army, Navy, and Air Force and several specialised agencies such as the Defence Cyber Agency, the Defence Intelligence Agency, and the Strategic Forces Command. These agencies and civilian bodies like ISRO and DRDO (Defence Research & Development Organisation) participated to ensure a holistic approach to space defence.​

 

Testing Operational Dependencies. Another critical aspect of the exercise was understanding how different military operations depend on space-based assets. Many military activities, from satellite communications to surveys, rely heavily on space infrastructure. The exercise sought to simulate how various military sectors could function with or without these vital services, identifying gaps in operational dependency.​

 

Fostering Innovation in Space Technologies. Given the fast-paced advancements in space technology, the exercise encouraged innovation and collaboration between the military and civilian sectors. This was particularly crucial in addressing emerging challenges such as anti-satellite warfare, space debris management, and the protection of critical satellites.​

 

Implications for India’s Space Security.

 

Antariksha Abhyas is significant not only for its technical achievements but also for its broader geopolitical implications. India has long maintained a robust space exploration program, with notable milestones such as the Mars Orbiter Mission (Mangalyaan) and the Chandrayaan missions to the Moon. However, with the growing militarisation of space by other countries, such as the U.S., China, and Russia, India has recognised the need to integrate space into its national security framework.

 

The exercise reflects India’s growing ambition to become a significant space security player. While the U.S. and China have already developed sophisticated space defence capabilities, India has traditionally lagged in this domain. However, initiatives like Antariksha Abhyas indicate that India is catching up, with a clear focus on developing both offensive and defensive space operations.

 

Furthermore, the exercise highlights the critical role of civilian-military collaboration. ISRO, with its cutting-edge satellite capabilities, plays a central role in supporting India’s military operations in space. By engaging ISRO in defence exercises, India ensures its military can leverage the latest technologies and research to enhance its space capabilities. This collaboration is crucial in ensuring that India’s space assets are efficient and secure against potential threats.

 

As India expands its space capabilities, exercises like Antariksha Abhyas will be critical in shaping its future defence strategies. The exercise is a significant milestone in India’s defence and space policy. It signals India’s recognition of space as a vital component of its national security infrastructure. It reflects the growing urgency to protect space assets from conventional and non-conventional threats. The exercise has helped bolster India’s defence capabilities by providing valuable insights into space vulnerabilities, fostering inter-agency collaboration, and enhancing the nation’s readiness for potential space conflicts. Antariksha Abhyas 2024 is more than just a military exercise; it is a symbol of India’s growing space capabilities and its determination to secure its interests in space for the future.

 

Your valuable comments are most welcome.

 

Link to the article:

https://chanakyaforum.com/antariksha-abhyas-2024-a-new-era-for-indias-space-security/

 

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References and credits

To all the online sites and channels.

References:

  1. “Antariksha Abhyas: India’s New Space Security Initiative”, Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), 2024.
  1. “India’s Space Security Strategy”, Ministry of Defence, Government of India, 2024.
  1. Nair, S. “Antariksha Abhyas: India’s New Space Security Doctrine.” The Economic Times,
  2. Pandit, R. “India’s Space Defense Strategy: Antariksha Abhyas and Beyond.” The Times of India,
  1. Krishna, A. & Sharma, “The Future of Space Warfare: India’s Response to Emerging Threats”. New Delhi: Oxford University Press.
  1. “India’s Space Diplomacy: Strengthening Security in Outer Space”, Indian Ministry of External Affairs;
  1. Chandran, A, “How Antariksha Abhyas Elevates India’s Strategic Position in Space.” Global Times, 2024.
  1. Raghuvanshi, S, “Space as the New Frontier in India’s Defense Strategy.” Indian Defence Review, 2024
  1. Gulati, V, “China, Pakistan, and the Strategic Implications of India’s Space Security Programs.” The Diplomat, 2024.
  1. “The Evolution of India’s Space Security Strategy”, Space and Defence Research Center, 2024.
  1. “Space Security: Trends and Future Prospects”, UN Office for Disarmament Affairs, 2024.
  1. Sarma, N, “Antariksha Abhyas and Its Role in Strengthening India’s Space Command.” Journal of Strategic Studies, 2024.

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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516: CASTE-BASED RESERVATIONS

 

 

Caste-based reservations, a response to centuries of historical inequalities and discrimination, are affirmative action policies implemented in India and a few other South Asian countries. These policies aim to uplift marginalised communities by providing them with reserved quotas in education, government jobs, and political representation. The goal is to promote social justice, equal opportunity, and access to resources for those systematically excluded due to their caste.

 

Background on the Caste System. The caste system has been a hierarchical social stratification in South Asia for thousands of years, particularly in Hindu society. It divides people into rigid categories based on occupation and family lineage. The four main varnas (Brahmins, Kshatriyas, Vaishyas, and Shudras) form the broader structure, with “Dalits” (formerly referred to as “Untouchables”) and Adivasis (Indigenous tribes) falling outside the formal varna system, facing extreme discrimination and exclusion. Despite the legal abolishment of caste-based discrimination in India, these social structures continue to influence access to resources, social mobility, and opportunities to a large extent.

 

 

Objectives of Caste-Based Reservations

 

    • Social Justice. Caste-based reservations aim to correct centuries of oppression and discrimination against lower castes, especially Scheduled Castes (SC), Scheduled Tribes (ST), and Other Backward Classes (OBCs). By providing them with reserved quotas in education, government jobs, and political representation, these policies not only strive to bring about a more just and equitable society in the present but also pave the way for a more optimistic future.

 

    • Equal Opportunity. Caste-based reservations are a crucial step towards providing historically marginalised communities with access to education and employment opportunities they were denied due to their caste. These policies aim to rectify past injustices and create a more inclusive society by ensuring equal opportunities.

 

    • Political Representation. To ensure that marginalised communities have a voice in governance by reserving seats for them in political institutions such as state legislatures and Parliament.

 

    • Economic Upliftment. Another important objective of caste-based reservations is contributing to society’s economic upliftment. These policies aim to help bridge the socioeconomic gap between the upper castes and the historically disadvantaged groups by offering reservations in jobs and educational institutions.

 

Key Features of Caste-Based Reservations

 

    • Educational Quotas. Some seats are reserved in public educational institutions for SC, ST, and OBC students. This is meant to increase access to higher education for marginalised communities who may not have had the same opportunities.

 

    • Government Job Quotas. Reservations also exist in government jobs, where a proportion of positions are reserved for SCs, STs, and OBCs. This has been crucial in enabling economic mobility and representation of lower-caste individuals in the public sector.

 

    • Political Reservations. In Parliament, state legislative assemblies, and local bodies like Panchayats, a proportion of seats are reserved for SC and ST candidates, ensuring their participation in the political process.

 

Legal Framework.

 

    • The Constitution of India (1950). The Indian Constitution, under Articles 15 and 16, provides for affirmative action and explicitly allows caste-based reservations to promote social and educational advancement for Scheduled Castes, Scheduled Tribes, and Other Backward Classes.

 

    • Mandal Commission (1980). One of the most significant legal steps towards caste-based reservations was the Mandal Commission’s recommendation of a 27% reservation for OBCs in government jobs and educational institutions, which was later implemented in the 1990s. This was in addition to the existing reservations for SCs (15%) and STs (7.5%).

 

Controversies and Criticisms of Caste-Based Reservations

 

    • Merit vs. Social Justice. One of the primary arguments against caste-based reservations is that they undermine meritocracy by reserving seats for individuals based on caste rather than merit or ability. Critics argue that this can lower overall standards in education and employment.

 

    • Perpetuation of Caste Identity. Opponents claim that caste-based reservations reinforce caste identities rather than diminishing them, as the system incentivises individuals to retain their caste identity for social and economic benefits.

 

    • Economic Inequality Overlooked. Critics argue that reservations based solely on caste ignore economic inequalities within castes. Upper-caste individuals in poverty may be just as disadvantaged as lower-caste individuals but lack access to the same benefits.

 

    • Exclusion of Forward Castes. Many from the so-called “upper castes” or “forward castes” believe that they are being unfairly disadvantaged, notably economically weaker sections (EWS) among them. The Indian government responded to this criticism by introducing a 10% quota for EWS (Economically Weaker Sections) in 2019, which applies to those who do not benefit from existing reservations.

 

    • Intra-Caste Inequality. Significant socioeconomic status variations within the reserved categories (SCs, STs, and OBCs) exist. Some argue that the benefits of reservations are disproportionately enjoyed by a small segment of these communities, referred to as the “creamy layer,” while the most disadvantaged remain excluded.

 

Justifications and Support for Caste-Based Reservations

 

    • Corrective Action: Proponents argue that reservations correct the historical injustices and discrimination faced by SCs, STs, and OBCs. They help level the playing field in a society where social mobility has traditionally been constrained by caste.

 

    • Breaking the Cycle of Poverty: Reservations have helped create a middle class among Dalits, Adivasis, and OBCs, who have benefitted from better access to education and jobs. This breaks the cycle of generational poverty and promotes upward mobility.

 

    • Social Inclusion: Caste-based reservations promote social inclusion and ensure that all sections of society have a voice in the political process and access to economic opportunities.

 

    • Empowerment of Marginalised Groups: Political and economic empowerment through reservations is crucial for developing marginalised communities historically excluded from power structures.

 

Alternatives and Proposals for Reform

 

    • Economic Criteria for Reservations. Some have proposed shifting from a caste-based to an income-based reservation system to address concerns about economic inequality across all castes. However, this is controversial as caste discrimination persists irrespective of financial status.

 

    • Reducing Caste Quotas over Time. Others have suggested a phased reduction in reservations as more marginalised communities attain socioeconomic parity with forward castes. This approach sees reservations as a temporary corrective rather than a permanent feature.

 

    • Focusing on Education at Primary Levels. Many argue that addressing inequality through better access to primary and secondary education, rather than reservations at higher levels, would better prepare marginalised communities for competition in a merit-based system.

 

Caste-based reservations are an intensely debated but integral part of India’s affirmative action framework, which aims to redress historical injustices and provide opportunities for marginalised groups. While these policies have successfully promoted social mobility and political representation, they continue to generate controversy over merit, economic inequality, and the persistence of caste identity in public life. Whether or not reforms or alternatives emerge, caste-based reservations remain central to discussions on equality, justice, and social transformation in India.

 

Suggestions and value additions are most welcome.

 

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Disclaimer:

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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.