Q. Elucidate the relationship between globalization and new technology in a world of scarce resources, with special reference to India. (250 words, 15 Marks) 2022

 

 Q. Elucidate the relationship between globalization and new technology in a world of scarce resources, with special reference to India. (250 words, 15 Marks)

 2022 

Answer: 

Approach: Introduction Define globalization. Body Mention the positive and negative aspects of relation between scarce resources and globalization. Conclusion Conclude about how technology is going to be the mainstay of the future but the negative aspects must be controlled for a better future for all.

Introduction:

Globalization means growing interdependence and integration of economies, societies and cultures from across the world. It is brought about by cross border trade of goods, services and technology and flow of investment and people.

In the human world ‘resource’ is anything that can be used to fulfill our needs and wants. Often some resources are abundant while others scarce in every nation.

The relations between globalization and new technology in the world of scarce resources have varied facets. The positive aspects can be seen as follows:

• Globalization has made it possible to access scarce resources: Globalization has led to easier access to new technologies to all the regions of the world.
• Example: Lithium is present only at certain places, but it is extracted and sent to far away places and is being used in electronic gadgets globally. India is one of the biggest users of electronic items.
• Globalization has made it possible for nations to move beyond one’s resource restrictions: The technologies of the developed countries are being transferred & used in the developing & least developed countries.
• Example: Technology is the reason why water-scarce countries in West Asia are able to satisfy their needs. Globalization allows for this technology to be shared with other countries facing water-scarcity like India.
• Easier to extract maximum potential of scarce resources and reduce the demand for certain resources: Globalization can help to increase the efficiency of resource use by allowing countries to specialize in the production of certain resources and trade them with other countries. This can help to reduce the overall demand for resources.
• Example: New technologies such as renewable energy sources can help to reduce the reliance on non-renewable resources, such as fossil fuels.
• More power to consumers: Globalization has allowed for greater competitive markets which ultimately benefits the customer with respect to improved quality of goods and services and reduction in cost.
• Example: Internet has become the mainstay of today’s society as it has become cheap and India is one of the biggest internet users.
• Uniform standards: Development of technology along with globalization has made it possible to develop uniform standards that allow for greater interoperability and wider reach of products.
• Example: Mobile phone technology has uniform standards that allows for phones manufactured anywhere to be used anywhere globally. Similarly, solar panels, pharmaceutical products, etc are produced in India for the world because of uniform standards.

There are some negative aspects as well:

• Resource curse: Globalization has made scarce resources captive to the market forces. The poorer third world nations sitting on huge resource wealth are being exploited for feeding the extravagant life of the developed world.
• Example: African nations feed resources to the Western world. Within India, areas in poorer States feed the resources needed to run industries based in cities.
• Inequality widens: Most of the benefits of globalization are reaped by the rich who are the owners of technology. The rich become richer while the poor are unable to access the new technology or its benefits. This may also lead to conflicts. The Oxfam report highlights the rising inequalities in the countries and within the countries.
• Environmental degradation: Increased demand for certain resources, such as water and land, can lead to resource depletion and environmental degradation. Growing resource scarcity can trigger zero-sum competition between countries. Various climate change reports highlight the destruction.
• Techno-nationalism: The rise of new technologies in the globalized world is leading to techno nationalism wherein advanced countries dominate third world countries through AI, IoT etc.

 Conclusion:

Technology will continue to play an integral role in supporting globalization. The scarcity challenges need to be understood as an integrated whole, not as separate issues. Thus, India needs to swiftly embrace emerging technologies and should be more ambitious in developing cutting edge technology to escape techno-colonialism of advanced countries and to address its socio-economic problems. India needs to adopt policies and practices that will maximize the benefits from and reduce the negative impacts of globalization and adoption of new technologies.

 

Norms Relaxed to Boost India’s Semiconductor and Electronics Manufacturing

 

         Norms Relaxed to Boost India’s Semiconductor and Electronics Manufacturing

The Central government has relaxed key rules related to Special Economic Zones (SEZs) to further encourage the domestic manufacture of semiconductors and electronics.

Introduction

In a strategic push to localise high-tech manufacturing, India has amended key provisions of its Special Economic Zones (SEZ) Rules, 2006. 

These reforms primarily target the semiconductor and electronics component manufacturing sectors, which are crucial for India’s ambitions of technological self-reliance and reduced import dependence.

Notified by the Ministry of Commerce and Industry in June 2025, the new rules mark a significant shift in India’s industrial policy approach, particularly given post-pandemic supply chain disruptions and rising global digital demand.

Significance of Semiconductors and Electronics Manufacturing

Semiconductors are the foundational technology powering modern electronics, from smartphones and laptops to electric vehicles and smart appliances. 

With increasing digitisation and the rise of technologies like Artificial Intelligence (AI) and the Internet of Things (IoT), semiconductors have become central to economic and national security.

India, like many other countries, became acutely aware of its import vulnerability during the COVID-19 pandemic when semiconductor shortages disrupted key industries. 

Given that China accounted for around 35% of global semiconductor manufacturing in 2021, countries including India have sought to de-risk their supply chains through domestic production.

Key Changes in SEZ Rules

The recent amendments in the SEZ framework aim to reduce regulatory burdens and attract capital-intensive, technology-oriented investments.

Reduction in Land Requirement (Rule 5 Amendment):

The minimum land requirement for SEZs focused on semiconductors or electronic components has been slashed from 50 hectares to just 10 hectares.

This reform facilitates smaller yet high-value investments by allowing firms to avail SEZ benefits such as duty-free imports and tax exemptions without the need for large land parcels.

Easing of Encumbrance Norms (Rule 7 Amendment):

SEZs no longer need to have “encumbrance-free” land if the land is mortgaged or leased to Central/State governments or their agencies.

This is especially significant in India, where legal land records and title clearances often delay industrial development.

Domestic Sales Permitted (Rule 18 Amendment):

Units in semiconductor and electronics SEZs are now allowed to sell in the Domestic Tariff Area (DTA) after paying applicable duties.

Earlier, SEZs were exclusively export-oriented. The new rule provides flexibility amid global trade uncertainties and boosts domestic supply chains.

Revised Net Foreign Exchange (NFE) Calculations (Rule 53 Amendment):

Goods received and supplied on a free-of-cost basis can now be included in NFE calculations and assessed using customs valuation rules.

This is particularly helpful for industries like semiconductor manufacturing that often involve high-cost prototypes and design iterations.

Early Impact and Industry Response

The reforms have already started to bear fruit. The Board of Approval for SEZs has cleared two major proposals:

Micron Semiconductor Technology India Pvt. Ltd. will establish a semiconductor manufacturing SEZ over 37.64 hectares in Sanand, Gujarat, with an investment of Rs. 13,000 crore.

Hubballi Durable Goods Cluster Pvt. Ltd. (Aequs Group) will set up an electronics component SEZ in Dharwad, Karnataka, spanning 11.55 hectares, with an investment of Rs. 100 crore.

These investments signal a shift in India’s manufacturing landscape and align with larger initiatives like the Semicon India Programme (Rs. 76,000 crore outlay), aimed at building a complete semiconductor ecosystem.

Challenges in Execution

Skilled Workforce: Semiconductor manufacturing requires highly trained professionals, which India is still developing at scale.

Infrastructure Readiness: High-tech units need stable power, clean rooms, and water-intensive facilities, logistics that require substantial state support.

Global Competition: Other countries, including the U.S., Taiwan, and South Korea, are also rolling out incentives. India must ensure competitiveness in its policy offerings.

Strategic Importance and Future Outlook

India’s SEZ reforms are not isolated but part of a broader national effort to position the country as a trusted global hub for electronics manufacturing. 

The flexibility offered through SEZs, coupled with Production Linked Incentives (PLI), reflects a strategic understanding that manufacturing capability in semiconductors and electronics is essential for both economic growth and national resilience.

By reducing regulatory friction, allowing domestic sales, and facilitating faster approvals, India is making itself a more attractive destination for global investors looking to diversify from traditional supply chains.

MGNREGS Spending Cap: Centre’s Rationale and the Legal Backlash

 

MGNREGS Spending Cap: Centre’s Rationale and the Legal Backlash

MGNREGS Spending Cap Latest News

The Union Finance Ministry has, for the first time, capped MGNREGS spending at 60% of its annual budget for the first half of FY 2025-26. 

Previously exempt due to its demand-driven nature, the scheme has now been brought under the Monthly/Quarterly Expenditure Plan (MEP/QEP), a spending control mechanism introduced in 2017.

MEP/QEP is a financial tool used by government ministries and departments to track and manage their spending against allocated budgets. 

It helps in forecasting cash flow, monitoring expenditure, and ensuring that spending aligns with budgetary provisions.

Finance Ministry’s Rationale Behind MGNREGS Spending Cap

Chronic Budget Overruns

Historically, over 70% of the MGNREGS budget gets exhausted by September, prompting supplementary allocations in December, which are usually depleted by January.

Mounting Pending Dues

In the past five years, year-end pending dues have ranged between ₹15,000 crore and ₹25,000 crore. 

On average, 20% of the next year’s budget goes toward clearing these dues.

Objective of the Spending Cap

The Finance Ministry aims to regulate cash flow through the MEP/QEP mechanism to prevent early exhaustion of funds and avoid mid-year supplementary allocations.

Current Financial Snapshot (FY 2025-26)

Budget: ₹86,000 crore

Released so far: 28%

Pending dues from FY 25: ₹19,200 crore

Pending dues from FY 26 (as on June 12): ₹3,262 crore

Nearly 50% of the budget may go toward clearing past dues alone.

Key Issues with MGNREGS Spending Cap

Fluctuating Rural Work Demand Ignored

MGNREGS demand varies due to agricultural cycles and weather. Work peaks in April–June and post-Kharif in September. 

However, climate anomalies—like delayed rains or droughts—can increase demand unpredictably.

Example: In 2023, low rainfall caused a 20% spike in demand in July–August. 

Karnataka spent over 70% of its budget within six months due to severe drought.

The fixed expenditure cap fails to account for such contingencies, undermining the scheme’s role as a rural safety net.

Legal Concerns over Statutory Rights

MGNREGS is not a discretionary welfare scheme; it is backed by law (MGNREG Act, 2005) and guarantees employment as a legal right.

Unlike schemes such as PM-KISAN, which can be altered by governments, rights-based programmes limit executive discretion.

Capping expenditure limits the state's ability to honour a legal guarantee of work on demand, violating the core mandate of the Act.

Constitutional and Judicial Safeguards

Courts have consistently held that financial constraints cannot be used to justify non-fulfilment of statutory or constitutional obligations.

Key judgments

Swaraj Abhiyan v Union of India (2016)

Municipal Council, Ratlam v Vardhichand (1980)

Paschim Banga Khet Mazdoor Samity v State of W.B. (1996)

These rulings reinforce the principle that the government cannot evade its duties—especially in welfare laws—on the grounds of budgetary limitations.

Lack of Clarity and Legal Risks in MGNREGS Spending Cap

 

No Clarity Post-Spending Cap

The government has not specified what will happen once the 60% ceiling is reached. This creates two problematic possibilities:

States may deny employment despite genuine demand.

Workers may continue working but face indefinite wage delays.

Both scenarios risk violating statutory provisions of the MGNREG Act.

Violation of Legal Entitlements

The cap risks breaching key rights under the law:

Section 3: Right to employment within 15 days of demand.

Schedule II, Para 29: Right to receive wages within 15 days of work completion.

Ongoing Issues Already Exist

Wage delays, non-payment of unemployment allowance, and inadequate compensation for delays are already common in MGNREGS.

The Supreme Court has noted these systemic failures.

The spending cap may worsen these problems rather than resolve them.

Undermining the Act’s Purpose

While aiming to manage fiscal pressure, the Finance Ministry’s move weakens the core intent of the MGNREG Act — to provide timely, legally guaranteed employment and payment during rural distress.

DNA Analysis in Air India Crash: How Victims Are Identified

 

DNA Analysis in Air India Crash: How Victims Are Identified

DNA Identification in Disaster Latest News

Following the Air India Boeing 787 crash in Ahmedabad, authorities are using DNA analysis to identify victims’ remains. 

Family members' DNA samples have been collected, and some matches have been made. 

Since each person’s DNA is unique (except in identical twins), it serves as the most reliable method for identifying bodies, especially in mass fatality incidents where visual or physical identification is difficult.

About DNA 

Deoxyribonucleic Acid (DNA) is the hereditary material in almost all living organisms. 

It carries the genetic instructions used in growth, development, functioning, and reproduction.

Structure

DNA is composed of two long strands forming a double helix, made up of repeating units called nucleotides. 

Each nucleotide contains a sugar, a phosphate group, and one of four nitrogenous bases — Adenine (A), Thymine (T), Cytosine (C), or Guanine (G). The specific sequence of these bases encodes genetic information.

Location

DNA is primarily located in the nucleus of cells (nuclear DNA), while a small amount is also found in mitochondria (mitochondrial DNA or mtDNA). 

Nuclear DNA is unique to each individual (except identical twins), whereas mtDNA is inherited maternally and found in multiple copies per cell.

Function

DNA controls cellular functions by coding for proteins, and it passes genetic traits from one generation to the next.

Role of DNA in Identifying Crash/Disaster Victims

In mass fatality events like plane crashes or natural disasters, physical features may be unrecognizable. 

DNA becomes the most reliable method of identification in such cases.

Challenges

Decomposition and Damage: Disasters can severely damage or decompose remains, making DNA extraction and profiling challenging. 

Contamination: Contamination of samples from other sources can complicate the process. 

Time and Resources: The process can be time-consuming and require significant resources, especially for large-scale disasters. 

DNA Collection and Storage After a Plane Crash

Ideal Storage Conditions

DNA survives best in cold, dry environments.

Samples should be frozen at -20°C or stored in 95% ethanol (for soft tissues).

Soft tissues degrade faster than hard tissues like bones and teeth, which are more resistant to decomposition.

Forensic teams prefer bones and teeth as DNA sources due to their protection from environmental damage and decomposition.

Timeline for Sample Collection

Post-crash recovery and collection can take weeks.

Example: It took 10 months to collect DNA from victims of the 9/11 attacks due to the scale of destruction.

Importance of Reference Samples

To match unidentified remains, DNA from biological relatives—especially parents or children—is collected, as they share 50% of their DNA with the victim.

DNA Analysis Methods in Identifying Human Remains

 

Once samples are collected, DNA is extracted. The quality and condition of the DNA determine which analysis method is used.

Short Tandem Repeat (STR) Analysis

STR analysis examines repeating DNA sequences that vary between individuals. 

It is highly accurate for identification and family matching when at least 15 STR regions are analyzed. 

Since STRs are found in nuclear DNA, this method requires non-degraded nuclear DNA for effective results.

Mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) Analysis

Used when nuclear DNA is degraded, mtDNA is easier to recover as it exists in many copies per cell. 

Since it’s passed unchanged from mother to all children, identification is done by matching remains with maternal relatives like the mother, siblings, maternal grandmother, or maternal uncles/aunts.

Y Chromosome Analysis

This method examines STRs on the Y chromosome, which is passed from father to son. 

It helps identify male victims by matching their DNA with male relatives in the paternal line—such as brothers, paternal uncles, or male cousins. 

It is especially useful when close relatives are unavailable for comparison.

Single Nucleotide Polymorphisms (SNPs) Analysis

SNP analysis is used when DNA is highly degraded. It identifies variations at single base points (A, C, G, or T) in the DNA sequence. 

Though less accurate than STR analysis, it can still aid identification using reference samples from personal items like toothbrushes or hairbrushes.

Q. Discuss the impact of post-liberal economy on ethnic identity and communalism. (250 words, 15 Marks) 2023

 Q. Discuss the impact of post-liberal economy on ethnic identity and communalism. (250 words, 15 Marks)  2023 

Answer: 

Approach:  Introduction Write about the ethnic identity and communalism briefly Body Write the impact of post-liberal economy on ethnic identity Write the impact of post-liberal economy on communalism Conclusion: Give appropriate conclusion in this regard

Introduction

While ethnic identity refers to a shared sense of belonging based on cultural, linguistic, or ancestral ties, communalism is often seen as an exaggerated allegiance to one’s own community, sometimes at the expense of others. The post-liberalized economy, initiated in India in 1991 has also impacted ethnic identity and communalism in India.

Impact of Post-Liberal Economy on Ethnic Identity

Positive Impacts:

• Enhanced Representation: It allowed regions such as the Northeast to find better representation in the mainstream narrative. Eg: Mary Kom, a renowned boxer from Manipur, has become a household name, showcasing the talents from diverse ethnic backgrounds.
• Cultural Renaissance: Industries like fashion and cinema have experienced a renaissance, drawing extensively from India’s rich ethnic traditions. They are exploring stories from diverse backgrounds. Eg: movie “Village Rockstars” set in Assam, showcasing regional narratives.
• Education: Educational opportunities for various ethnic groups have significantly improved, with policies promoting inclusivity and diversity. IITs and IIMs, for example, have reservation policies that aim to uplift traditionally marginalized ethnic groups.
• Technological Connectivity: YouTube channels, blogs, and other platforms have brought forward the cultures and languages of communities like the Toda tribe of the Nilgiris, helping in the preservation of their culture and language.
• Tourism Boost: The liberal policies have provided a boost to tourism, aiding in the promotion of diverse ethnic cultures. Places like Leh-Ladakh have seen a surge in tourism, helping the local economy and promoting Ladakhi culture.

Negative Impacts

• Widening Disparities: Despite the positive impacts, economic liberalization has exacerbated disparities among different ethnic groups. Eg: the tribal belts in central India have not seen as much economic growth compared to urban areas, leading to an increased divide.
• Cultural Erosion: The flood of western products and cultures has sometimes overshadowed traditional practices. Eg: western festivals like Valentine’s Day have overshadowed traditional Indian festivals, impacting the younger generation’s connection to their ethnic roots.
• Displacement: Large-scale projects like dam constructions have led to the displacement of tribal and ethnic communities, such as the issues witnessed during the Sardar Sarovar Dam project on the Narmada river which displaced numerous tribal communities.
• Language Extinction: The growing predominance of English has posed a threat to regional languages. Languages such as Koro Aka, spoken in Arunachal Pradesh, are now highly endangered due to the decreasing number of speakers.
• Resource Conflicts: Liberalization has led to escalated resource conflicts among different ethnic groups. The fight for resources in states like Jharkhand, where mining projects often collide with the interests of the tribal population.

Impact of Post-Liberal Economy on Communalism

Positive Impacts

• Inter-Community Dialogues: Various NGOs and civil society organizations have initiated dialogues between communities to foster economic partnerships, such as those seen in riot-affected areas like Muzaffarnagar to rebuild trust through economic cooperation.
• Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR): These CSR activities has indirectly facilitated community development projects which foster harmony. Eg: the Tata group has been involved in several community upliftment projects irrespective of the community distinctions.
• Employment Opportunities: Increased job opportunities in various sectors such as IT have brought people from diverse communities under one roof. It is visible in multicultural corporate environments in cities like Bengaluru and Hyderabad.
• Urbanization: The influx of different communities in urban landscapes like Mumbai and Delhi fosters a more secular and inclusive outlook, breaking communal barriers and encouraging cosmopolitanism.
• Education: The emphasis on education post-liberalization has fostered a more rational and unified perspective, reducing space for communal viewpoints. Universities promoting exchange programs have brought students of diverse backgrounds closer.

Negative Impacts

• Economic Disparities: The economic disparities fostered by liberalization have sometimes fueled communal tensions. Eg: economic competition and resentment have sometimes led to communal riots, a scenario seen in the Godhra riots where economic disparities played a part.
• Commercialization of Religion: Post-liberalization, there has been an increase in the commercialization of religious symbols and practices. Eg: the commercial exploitation of religious symbols in various advertisements has occasionally sparked controversies and communal tensions.
• Ghettos: For example, in cities like Mumbai, there have been instances where communities have been isolated in specific areas, which has fostered a lack of understanding and increased communal tensions.
• Exploitative Politics: Politicians sometimes exploit communal sentiments for economic gains. During various electoral campaigns, divisive strategies have been used to consolidate vote banks, a strategy that hinges on exploiting economic insecurities along communal lines.

Conclusion

Adopting these innovative strategies can steer India towards a harmonious future, bridging communal divides and fostering a society rooted in mutual respect and understanding. It is pivotal that the blueprint for the future is drawn with careful consideration to nurture a society that stands united in its diversity.

  

Q. Why is caste identity in India both fluid and static? (250 words, 15 Marks) 2023

 

Q. Why is caste identity in India both fluid and static? (250 words, 15 Marks) 2023 

Answer: 

Approach Introduction: Write about fluid and static nature of caste identity briefly Body Write about the Fluid Nature of Caste Identity Write about the Static Nature of Caste Identity Conclusion: Give appropriate conclusion in this regard

Introduction

In the context of caste identity in India, “fluid” refers to the evolving, adaptable nature of caste distinctions, influenced by socio-economic changes, while “static” points to the fixed, immovable aspects deeply rooted in ancient texts and historical contexts. Understanding this dual character of caste identity offers a nuanced view of the current socio-economic landscape.

Understanding the Fluid Nature of Caste Identity

• Historical Fluidity: The Mauryan Emperor Ashoka showcased a considerable degree of tolerance and inclusivity during his reign, demonstrating a period where caste rigidities were softened, allowing individuals to be appreciated for their merits rather than their caste.
• Social Mobility: For example, B.R. Ambedkar rising from a marginalized community to become the principal architect of the Indian constitution. His life journey epitomizes the potential for social mobility and the transcending of caste barriers through perseverance, education, and Brilliance.
• Inter-Caste Marriages: Many public figures and celebrities, including politicians and actors, have opted for inter-caste marriages, thereby signaling a transition towards a society that is gradually moving beyond rigid caste structures and encouraging a fluid identity.
• Corporate Sector: The modern corporate sector in India has started prioritizing merit over one’s caste background. Companies are fostering environments that value individual skills and competencies over their caste identities, representing a shift towards a fluid caste landscape.
• Sports: In sports, talent has been a great leveller, with individuals from diverse caste backgrounds getting equal opportunities. Eg: Milkha Singh belonging to a low caste, he managed to carve out a space for himself on the international athletic stage due to his talent and hard work.
• Urban Living: Cities like Mumbai and Bangalore are characterized by anonymity and a fast-paced lifestyle, often overshadowing caste-based identities. The dynamism of urban living spaces allows for more fluid interactions and relationships, reducing the imprint of caste identities.

Understanding the Static Nature of Caste Identity

• Roots in Religious Texts: The Manusmriti delineated stringent rules governing the caste system, assigning roles and duties based on one’s caste determined by birth. It formed the foundation for a deeply entrenched and hierarchical caste system that envisaged a rigid societal structure.
• Reservations: Mandal Commission (1979) recommended positive discrimination to address caste discrimination for uplifting the marginalized communities. However, it also fostered a stronger acknowledgment and reinforcement of caste identities, unintentionally emphasizing its static nature.
• State Policies: Across different states, policies have sometimes reinforced caste identities to assemble vote banks around caste lines, reflecting a tendency to capitalize on caste identities for political gains. Eg: Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) focusing on Dalit votes
• Khap Panchayats: In many rural areas, they uphold strict caste norms in matters related to caste and marriage. Eg: Cases like the Manoj-Babli honour killing case of 2007 brought to light the deep-rooted caste rigidities upheld by Khap Panchayats.
• Caste-Based Organizations: They operate firmly on caste lines, working to uphold the interests of specific castes. These organizations signify the continued relevance and the static nature of caste identity in the current political framework. Example: Jat Mahasabha.

Conclusion

Understanding the fluid and static nature of caste identity in India is a complex task, deeply rooted in a rich history of traditions, norms, and socio-political intricacies. With conscientious efforts, a future where the fluidity overtakes static rigidities is conceivable, painting a canvas of a harmonious and inclusive India.

Q. Child cuddling is now being replaced by mobile phones. Discuss its impact on the socialization of children. (150 words, 10 Marks) 2023

 

Q. Child cuddling is now being replaced by mobile phones. Discuss its impact on the socialization of children. (150 words, 10 Marks) 2023 

Answer: 

Approach Introduction: Write “child cuddling” and its traditional role in child socialisation briefly Body Write why child cuddling is now being replaced by mobile phones Write its impact on the socialization of children Conclusion Give appropriate conclusion in this regard

Introduction        

Child cuddling, traditionally encompassing physical affection and close, nurturing interactions between caregivers and children, has played a pivotal role in child socialization, aiding in emotional and psychological development. However, the upsurge in mobile phone usage in recent years is presenting both challenges and opportunities in child socialization.

Reasons why child cuddling is now being replaced by mobile phones

• Technological Advancements: The advent of platforms such as YouTube has notably influenced children’s early learning experiences. Channels like “ChuChu TV” offer a wide array of educational content, thereby reducing the time traditionally devoted to physical bonding.
• Changing Family Dynamics: Due to hectic work schedules, a significant number of parents find it convenient to engage children with mobile phones. This shift potentially compromises the qualitative aspects of parental bonding achieved through child cuddling.
• Digital Classrooms: The pandemic accelerated the transition to digital learning platforms like BYJU’s, making them household names in India. Despite the educational enrichment, the nurturing environment of physical learning spaces is missing, which were a site for child cuddling opportunities.
• Distance Family Interaction: While mobile phones have bridged distances through virtual interactions, they inadvertently lack the warmth and security that physical affection brings to young children, thereby altering their understanding and experience of familial bonds.

Impact on Child Socialization

Negative Impacts

• Delayed Emotional Development: A concerning consequence is a potential delay in emotional development. The diminished physical interaction can restrain the natural growth of empathy and understanding in children.
• Peer Interaction: The reliance on virtual platforms has fostered isolation, with children often preferring online games like Roblox to physical play, limiting their real-world experiences and social skills.
• Increased Vulnerability to Mental Health Issues: While showcasing talent at a young age has its merits, the emerging trend of child influencers can induce undue pressure, amplifying the risk of anxiety and other mental health disorders.
• Obesity: As per a WHO report, there has been a spike in childhood obesity, partially linked to increased screen time reducing physical activity, and by extension, opportunities for child cuddling, nurturing a healthy emotional and physical growth.

Positive Impacts

• Early Familiarity with Technology: Innovations in educational technology such as WhiteHat Jr have been pivotal in grooming children to become tech-savvy from a young age. Through coding courses, children can now build a foundational understanding of the digital world.
• Diverse Learning: Digital platforms like Khan Academy have democratized learning by providing a plethora of educational resources. This facilitates a rich and diverse learning environment for children, nurturing their intellectual growth and preparing them for a competitive world.
• Cultural Understanding: The internet acts as a window to the world, offering children insights into different cultures and global events. This early exposure fosters a broader understanding and acceptance of diversity, encouraging a more inclusive mindset from a young age.
• Creative Outlets: The digital space, including platforms like YouTube, empowers children by providing avenues to explore and showcase their talents, thereby aiding in personal development and fostering creativity.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while the technological revolution has brought a paradigm shift in child-rearing practices, it is imperative to strike a harmonious balance between leveraging technological advancements and preserving the essence of child cuddling by taking conscious steps learning from the Global best practices.