Why in the News? The Indian Chamber of Commerce has launched the All India Initiative on Creative Economy (AIICE) to harness the potential of India's creative industries.

Creative Economy or Orange Economy

• Definition: The creative economy encompasses knowledge-based economic activities that generate growth and development through creative assets.
• Creative Industries: These involve the cycles of creation, production, and distribution of goods and services that primarily utilize creativity and intellectual capital.

Characteristics of Creative Economy

• Knowledge-Based Activities: Relies on knowledge that can be formally acquired (through education) or informally passed down (skills learned through generations).
• Originality and Imagination: Focuses on generating and exploiting intellectual property.
• Adaptability: Creative industries are non-repetitive and adjust to technological changes, crucial in light of the anticipated automation of 69% of jobs by 2040 in India.
• Cultural Value Chain: Transforms original ideas into cultural products through production and distribution.

Significance of Creative Economy

• Economic Impact:
• Creates linkages and spill-over effects, boosting demand in sectors like hospitality and tourism.
• The creative economy generates over $2 trillion in annual revenue and provides nearly 50 million jobs globally (UN estimates).
• Social Benefits:
• 23% of those employed in creative industries are aged 15-29, with women occupying 45% of creative roles worldwide.
• Skill Development: The rise of edutainment in India blends education and entertainment, enhancing traditional learning.
• Diplomacy and Soft Power: Cultural exchanges foster mutual understanding and diplomatic engagement, with Indian cuisine exemplifying India’s soft power.
• Sustainable Development: Creative industries often use creativity as a primary input, making them environmentally friendly compared to resource-intensive sectors.

Status of Creative Economy in India

India has a rich legacy of creativity, deeply rooted in its communities, manifesting through various forms such as architecture, dance, festivals, handicrafts, literature, and music. This cultural contribution has significantly influenced the nation’s creative economy, which is currently characterized by several key aspects:

• Employment Contribution:
• Approximately 8% of India's employment is in creative occupations, which is significantly higher than countries like Turkey (1%), Mexico (1.5%), South Korea (1.9%), and Australia (2.1%).
• Economic Contribution:
• The creative economy contributes about 20% to the nation’s overall Gross Value Added (GVA), showcasing its importance in the broader economic landscape.
• Income Levels:
• Creative occupations tend to be more lucrative, offering salaries that are on average 88% higher than those in non-creative fields. This highlights the economic viability of pursuing careers in the creative sector.
• Spatial Concentration:
• Employment in the creative workforce is predominantly urban-centric, with major concentrations in cities such as Tirupur, Mumbai Suburban, Bangalore, New Delhi, and Gurgaon. These cities serve as hubs for creative industries, attracting talent and resources.
• Industrial Concentration:
• The creative workforce is heavily concentrated in specific industries, including:
• Media, Entertainment, and Recreation
• Computer Programming and Software Publishing
• Architecture, Design, and Engineering
• Fashion
• Education and Research & Development (R&D)
• Demographic Insights:
• The creative workforce is generally younger, more urban-centric, and exhibits less gender bias compared to non-creative occupations. This demographic advantage can contribute to innovation and dynamism within the sector.

India has recognized the immense potential of its creative economy and has undertaken several initiatives to support its growth across various domains. Here are some of the key initiatives:

1. National Creators Award

• This award acknowledges digital innovators and content creators for their significant contributions across different sectors, promoting excellence in creativity.

2. Zonal Cultural Centers (ZCCs)

• Established by the Ministry of Culture, these centers promote, protect, and preserve various forms of folk art and culture. They implement numerous schemes, including:
• Award to Young Talented Artists
• Guru Shishya Parampara
• Theatre Rejuvenation
• Research & Documentation
• Shilpgram
• OCTAVE
• National Cultural Exchange Programme

3. National Handicrafts Development Programme (NHDP) and Comprehensive Handicrafts Cluster Development Scheme (CHCDS)

• Implemented by the Ministry of Textiles, these programs focus on the development, promotion, and preservation of handicrafts while providing sustainable livelihood opportunities for artisans.

4. National Policy on Intellectual Property Rights (IPR) (2016)

• This policy addresses the administration and enforcement of IPRs in India, aiming to foster creativity and protect the rights of creators.

5. Global Engagement Scheme

• This initiative promotes Indian culture internationally by organizing “Festivals of India” and providing financial support to cultural societies promoting Indian culture abroad.

6. UNESCO Creative Cities Network

• India has joined this network to foster cooperation across seven cultural domains: design, film, crafts and folk art, gastronomy, media arts, literature, and music. Notable recognitions include Mumbai as a Creative City of Films and Hyderabad as a Creative City of Gastronomy.

7. Scheme for Promotion of Indian Classical Music and Dance (SPIC MACAY)

• A voluntary movement that organizes programs in schools, colleges, and institutions to promote classical music, dance, folk arts, crafts, yoga, and cinema, enhancing awareness of India's cultural heritage.

8. Startup India Scheme

• This initiative catalyzes startup culture, building a strong ecosystem for innovation and entrepreneurship. It organizes workshops, camps, exhibitions, and seminars focused on cultural and creative industries.

9. Guidelines for Transparency Over Social Media

• Under the Consumer Protection Act, 2019, the government mandates social media influencers, including virtual influencers, to disclose promotional content, enhancing transparency in the creative space.

Hurdles Hindering Growth of Creative Economy

• Digitalization Challenges: Issues like the digital divide and cybersecurity hinder access to online platforms essential for the creative industry.
• Rural-Urban Divide: Approximately 67.07% of creative workers are located in urban areas, limiting opportunities for rural talent.
• IPR Regime Issues: India’s intellectual property rights processes are slow, with patent applications taking an average of 58 months to process, compared to 20 months in China.
• Sector Fragmentation: The creative sector faces challenges such as ineffective market access and transparency issues.
• Lack of Recognition: There is inadequate awareness of local culture and arts, compounded by societal pressure favoring traditional career paths.

Way Forward

• Promote Indian Culture: Organize events and international festivals to showcase Indian cultural goods and services.
• Access to Finance: Introduce credit guarantee schemes and crowdfunding initiatives for entrepreneurs in the creative sector, emulating models like the “Crowdfunding4Culture” portal.
• Reform IPR Framework: Improve the intellectual property rights system to protect creators' interests effectively.
• Establish Creative Districts: Develop creative hubs similar to those in Thailand to foster collaboration and innovation.
• Integrated Policymaking: Create a specialized institution for creative industries, akin to the UK's Creative Industries Council.
• Human Capital Development: Equip young workers with digital skills and promote creative entrepreneurship through pilot projects focused on education.
• AI Governance: Develop policies that address digital divides and promote equitable access to knowledge and resources.

By leveraging these strategies, India can unlock the full potential of its creative economy, fostering innovation and driving sustainable economic growth

The Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2024, aims to amend the Waqf Act of 1995 and has been referred to a Joint Committee of Parliament (JCP) amidst criticism from opposition parties who label it as “unconstitutional,” “anti-minority,” and “divisive.”

Understanding Waqf

Waqf refers to a property dedicated to God for religious and charitable purposes, enabling Muslims to extend their charitable deeds beyond their lifetime. The Waqf Board in India is a significant landholder, following the Railways and Defence Department.

• Inclusivity: Non-Muslims can also establish a waqf if it aligns with Islamic principles.
• Historical Context: During Muslim rule, waqf administration was decentralized, managed by various officials and departments dedicated to religious endowments.
• Establishment: A waqf can be created through a formal deed, orally, or through long-term use for religious or charitable purposes. Once established, the property cannot be reversed or transferred through inheritance or sale.

Types of Waqf

• Waqf Al-Khairi (Charitable Waqf): Benefits the broader Muslim community (e.g., schools, hospitals, mosques).
• Waqf Al-Ahli (Family Waqf): Initially benefits the founder’s family, later shifting to charitable purposes.

Legal Framework Governing Waqf in India

• Historical Legislation:
• The Mussalman Waqf Validating Act, 1913: Initially addressed family waqfs without retrospective effect.
• The Mussalman Wakf Validating Act, 1930: Granted retrospective validity to family waqfs across India.
• Waqf Act, 1954: The first major legislation post-independence.
• Waqf Act, 1995: Replaced the 1954 Act, granting more powers to waqf boards and addressing issues of property encroachment and illegal leases.

Key Provisions of the Waqf Act, 1995

• Survey Commissioner: Appointed to maintain a list of all waqf properties through investigations and public documentation.
• Property Recording: Once identified, waqf properties are recorded in the State's official gazette.
• Management: Each waqf is managed by a mutawalli (custodian), akin to trust management under the Indian Trusts Act, 1882.
• Waqf Tribunal: Disputes are resolved by a Waqf Tribunal comprising a chairperson (judicial officer), a state civil services officer, and a Muslim law expert.
• Waqf Boards: The Act provides for the constitution of Waqf Boards, Councils, and Chief Executive Officers.

Recent Developments and Concerns

The proposed amendments have sparked significant debate over their implications for minority rights and the administrative structure of waqf properties. Critics argue that the amendments may undermine the protections for waqf properties and disproportionately affect minority communities.

Waqf Boards

Role: Waqf Boards are established in each state to oversee the administration of waqf properties. Most prominent mosques in India are categorized as waqf properties and fall under the jurisdiction of these boards. In many states, there are separate Waqf Boards for Shia and Sunni communities.

Composition

• Chairperson: Each Waqf Board is headed by a chairperson.
• Members: The board typically includes:
• One or two nominees from the state government.
• Muslim legislators and parliamentarians.
• Muslim members of the state Bar Council.
• Recognized scholars of Islamic theology.
• Mutawallis of waqfs with an annual income of ₹1 lakh and above.
• Chief Executive Officer (CEO): Each board must appoint a full-time CEO, who must be a Muslim and at least of Deputy Secretary rank in the state government.

Functions

• Management: Responsible for the management of waqf properties and the recovery of lost assets.
• Property Transfers: Can sanction the transfer of immovable waqf property (through sale, gift, mortgage, exchange, or lease) with the approval of at least two-thirds of the board members.

Central Waqf Council

Role: The Central Waqf Council serves as a national advisory body under the Ministry of Minority Affairs, ensuring uniform administration of waqf properties across India.

Composition

• Chairperson: Headed by the Union Minister of Minority Affairs.
• Members: Other members are appointed by the government, comprising all Muslims, with at least two women included.

Functions

• Advisory Role: Provides advice to the Union government on waqf-related issues.
• Policy Development: Involves in the formulation and implementation of policies related to waqf laws.
• Dispute Resolution: Assists in resolving inter-state disputes regarding waqf properties.

The Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2024 aims to significantly reform the governance and management of Waqf properties in India, amending the existing 1995 Waqf Act.

Objectives

• Enhanced Efficiency: To address shortcomings in the current Waqf management system and improve the administration of Waqf properties.
• Rename the Act: It will be renamed to the “United Waqf Management, Empowerment, Efficiency and Development Act, 1995.”

Key Amendments

• Formation of Waqf: Only lawful property owners who have practiced Islam for at least five years can create Waqf properties through formal deeds, abolishing the previous "waqf by use" concept. Beneficiaries will now include widows, divorced women, and orphans.
• Government Property: Any government property declared as Waqf property before or after the enactment will cease to be classified as such.
• District Collector's Authority: District collectors will determine if a property is Waqf or government property, with the requirement to update revenue records and report to the state government.
• Survey of Waqf Properties: Responsibility for surveying Waqf properties shifts to district collectors or equivalent officers, as per state revenue laws.
• Centralized Registration System: A new system will be established to upload all Waqf property information within six months, with future registrations submitted exclusively through this portal.
• Inclusion of Non-Muslim Members:
• Central Waqf Council will have two non-Muslim members, alongside Muslim representatives, with specific inclusion of women.
• State Waqf Boards must include two non-Muslims and two women members.
• Waqf Tribunals: The composition is reduced to two members (a district judge and a joint secretary officer), with a mandate to resolve disputes within six months, extendable by six months.
• Judicial Review: Parties can appeal Waqf tribunal decisions directly to the High Court within 90 days, a shift from the previous prohibition against such appeals.
• Powers of the Central Government: Central authorities will have the power to set rules for registration, auditing, and publicizing Waqf accounts.
• Separate Waqf Boards: Separate boards can be established for different sects if certain thresholds of Waqf properties or income are met.
• Annual Contribution: The annual contribution to the Waqf Board from mutawallis (managers of waqf properties) has been reduced from 7% to 5% for those with a net annual income of at least ₹5,000.

Criticism of the Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2024

• Undermining Autonomy: The Bill is criticized for diminishing the autonomy of Waqf Boards by shifting authority to the central government. This increased intervention may lead to inefficiencies and a lack of accountability at the local level.
• Infringement on Religious Rights: Critics argue that the Bill infringes upon the right to freedom of religion as guaranteed by Article 25 of the Constitution. The historical rights associated with Waqf properties cannot be revoked without a fair judicial process.
• Procedural Concerns: The introduction of the Bill faced criticism for lacking adequate consultation with stakeholders, including minority community representatives, civil society organizations, and legal experts. This raises concerns about the inclusivity and fairness of the legislative process.
• Reduced Local Control: By centralizing power, the Bill risks ignoring the specific needs and priorities of local communities. This could lead to resistance from local boards and community leaders, who may feel disconnected from decision-making processes.
• Increased Bureaucratic Interference: The shift towards more bureaucratic oversight may slow down decision-making processes and add administrative burdens for Waqf Boards, potentially hampering effective management.

Potential Benefits

• Streamlined Administration: The Bill aims to enhance transparency and accountability in Waqf property management through rigorous oversight mechanisms, which could help prevent misuse and ensure effective utilization.
• Revenue Generation: Improved management of Waqf assets could lead to better utilization and increased revenues, which could then be reinvested into community charitable and religious initiatives.
• Legal Clarity: The Bill addresses ambiguities in existing laws regarding Waqf properties, potentially reducing disputes and litigation.
• Improved Dispute Resolution: Enhanced mechanisms for resolving conflicts related to Waqf properties could lead to quicker resolutions, benefiting both Waqf Boards and the communities they serve.

Conclusion

While the amendments proposed in the Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2024 aim to promote social justice and gender equity—especially through the inclusion of women and marginalized groups—they also raise significant concerns. It is essential to ensure that the voices of all stakeholders are considered, and measures are implemented to protect the integrity of Waqf properties while enhancing transparency and accountability in their management. Balancing government oversight with local autonomy will be crucial for the Bill's successful implementation

Date of Visit:

• PM Modi visited Warsaw from August 21 to August 23, 2023, marking the first visit by an Indian Prime Minister to Poland in 45 years.

Significance:

• The visit coincided with the 70th anniversary of diplomatic relations between India and Poland, aiming to revitalize and elevate bilateral ties.

Key Highlights of the Visit

• Tributes to Memorials:
• PM Modi laid a wreath at the Dobry Maharaja Memorial in Warsaw.
• He paid tribute at memorials for the Valivade-Kolhapur camp and the Monument to the Battle of Monte Cassino, honoring the soldiers who fought together in World War II.
• Upgrade to Strategic Partnership:
• India and Poland elevated their relationship to a "strategic partnership."
• A five-year Action Plan (2024-2028) was unveiled, focusing on sectors like defense, trade, energy, and green technologies. The plan includes:
• Supporting the early conclusion of India-EU trade negotiations.
• Operationalizing the India-EU Trade and Technology Council (TTC).
• Implementing the India-EU Connectivity partnership.
• Social Security Agreement:
• A Social Security Agreement was signed to enhance the mobility and welfare of skilled workers between the two nations.
• Enhanced Defense Cooperation:
• Poland expressed interest in partnering with India on defense modernization.
• Both nations agreed to strengthen defense ties and utilize existing mechanisms like the Joint Working Group for Defense Cooperation.
• Economic and Trade Cooperation:
• Efforts will be made to connect the private sectors of both countries, especially in food processing, urban infrastructure, and clean technologies.
• Polish companies were invited to participate in India's "Make in India" and "Make for the World" initiatives.
• Bilateral Connectivity:
• The commencement of direct flight connections between India and Poland was welcomed, with plans to increase flights to new destinations.
• EU-India Relations:
• Both leaders reaffirmed their commitment to deepening the India-EU strategic partnership.
• Emphasis was placed on peace, a rules-based international order, and counter-terrorism efforts.
• Poland's Upcoming EU Presidency:
• Poland’s upcoming presidency of the European Union in January 2025 was highlighted as an opportunity to strengthen India-EU relations.

India – Poland Relations:

Background

• Diplomatic Relations: Established in 1954, with the Indian Embassy in Warsaw opening in 1957.
• Historical Ties: During WWII, over 6,000 Polish women and children found refuge in princely states in India, particularly Jamnagar and Kolhapur. The Jam Saheb of Nawanagar sheltered many Polish children, highlighting historical solidarity between the nations.

Economic & Commercial Relations

• Trading Partner: Poland is India’s largest trading partner in Central and Eastern Europe.
• Bilateral Trade Growth: From $1.95 billion in 2013 to $5.72 billion in 2023, representing a 192% increase. Trade balance remains favorable for India.

Investment

• Indian Investment in Poland: Estimated at over $3 billion, reflecting growing business ties.
• Polish Investment in India: Approximately $685 million, contributing to economic cooperation.

Sectoral Collaboration

• Clean Coal Technologies: Poland is recognized for its advancements in clean coal technologies, with Polish companies involved in India’s mining and power sectors.
• Training Programs: Indian engineers from Coal India Limited have received training in Polish mines specializing in intelligent mining.
• Chemical Industry: Poland is a net importer of chemicals, with Indian organic chemicals among the top exports to Poland.
• Textiles: Remain a key export from India to Poland, with imports growing to $645 million in 2023.

Cultural Relations

• Commemoration: A monument honoring Jam Saheb Digvijaysinhji Ranjitsinhji Jadeja was unveiled in 2014 at the Square of the Good Maharaja in Warsaw, symbolizing historical ties.

Conclusion

The relationship between India and Poland has evolved significantly, characterized by strong economic ties, historical connections, and cultural exchanges. Recent high-level visits and agreements aim to further deepen this partnership in various sectors, including trade, investment, and defense.

The Gobi Desert is a vast arid region that stretches across northern China and southern Mongolia.

Geographic Features

• Location: The Gobi Desert spans several provinces in northern China, including Inner Mongolia, and extends into southern Mongolia.
• Topography: The desert is characterized by a diverse landscape that includes:
• Sand dunes: Shifting sands create dynamic landscapes.
• Mountains: The Gobi is bordered by mountain ranges, including the Altai Mountains to the northwest and the Yin Shan range to the south.
• Plateaus and valleys: The terrain features plateaus and various valleys, contributing to its varied geography.

Climate

• Cold Desert Climate: The Gobi Desert experiences extreme temperature variations:
• Hot Summers: Temperatures can soar above 40°C (104°F) during the summer months.
• Very Cold Winters: In contrast, winter temperatures can drop to -40°C (-40°F), making it one of the harshest climates in the world.
• Rainfall: Precipitation is scarce, averaging around 194 mm (7.6 inches) annually, contributing to the desert's arid conditions.

Ecological Significance

• Biodiversity: Despite its harsh climate, the Gobi Desert is home to unique wildlife and plant species, including:
• Snow Leopards: A top predator in the region, these elusive big cats are well adapted to the cold.
• Bactrian Camels: These two-humped camels are adapted to the extreme conditions and are well-known symbols of the Gobi.
• Flora: Vegetation is sparse but includes hardy shrubs and grasses that can withstand the arid conditions.

Nuclear Power Development

• Thorium Molten Salt Reactor: In a significant move toward innovative energy solutions, China plans to build the world’s first nuclear power plant using molten thorium salt technology in the Gobi Desert. This represents a major advancement in nuclear energy, offering several potential benefits:
• Safety: Thorium reactors are considered safer than traditional uranium reactors, with lower risks of meltdowns and radioactive waste.
• Efficiency: The use of thorium can lead to more efficient fuel use and reduced nuclear waste production.
• Sustainability: Thorium is more abundant and has the potential to provide a long-term, sustainable energy source.

Conclusion

The Gobi Desert is not only a geographical and ecological wonder but also a site for groundbreaking developments in energy technology. With China’s initiative to construct a thorium molten salt nuclear power plant, the Gobi is poised to become a key player in the future of sustainable energy solutions. This project underscores the potential for harnessing advanced technology to meet global energy needs while considering safety and environmental impact.