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1. Break the cycle
Ragging in higher education institutions remains a serious concern in India, often leading to severe psychological distress and, in extreme cases, death. Despite legal measures and institutional frameworks, cases of ragging persist, disproportionately affecting students from marginalized backgrounds. Addressing this issue requires a cultural shift beyond just legal enforcement.
The Reality of Campus Ragging
Ragging is not merely an act of initiation but a means of asserting power and control, often targeting vulnerable students such as first-generation learners or those from historically oppressed communities. Between January 2012 and October 2023, 78 deaths have been reported due to ragging, highlighting the grave consequences of unchecked harassment. Victims frequently face physical abuse, mental trauma, and, in many cases, are pushed to the brink of suicide.
Legal Framework and Institutional Apathy
In 2009, the Supreme Court mandated strict anti-ragging guidelines, including the establishment of monitoring committees and dedicated helplines. The University Grants Commission (UGC) also set up mechanisms to address complaints. However, enforcement remains weak. Institutional indifference, fear of retaliation, and reluctance from families to pursue justice allow the cycle to continue.
Way Forward: A Cultural Shift
Mere tightening of regulations is insufficient to end ragging. The focus must be on fostering an environment of inclusivity and empathy through:
- Unlearning Prejudices: Encouraging respect for diversity and eliminating social biases within campuses.
- Mental Health Support: Establishing confidential and accessible counseling services to help students cope with psychological distress.
- Zero Tolerance Policy: Ensuring strict action against perpetrators to break the cycle where today’s victims become tomorrow’s offenders.
Conclusion
Educational institutions must go beyond reactive measures and work towards creating safe learning spaces. Breaking the cycle of ragging requires a collective effort—from authorities, faculty, students, and society—to uphold the true spirit of education: equality, dignity, and safety for all.
2. Pulses need priority
The Indian government’s decision to reconsider duty-free imports of yellow peas (matar) aligns with its broader goal of self-reliance in pulses. While India has made significant progress in boosting domestic production, challenges persist, especially for crops like tur (pigeon pea) and urad (black gram). Achieving self-sufficiency in pulses requires targeted financial and scientific support, similar to what has benefited chana (chickpea) and moong (green gram).
Current Scenario
India’s pulses imports have surged, reaching $3.28 billion in November 2024 and projected to exceed $5 billion in 2024-25. This spike was driven by drought-induced crop failures in Maharashtra and Karnataka, leading to high consumer prices. However, with retail pulses inflation now easing, the government is reassessing its import strategy.
Success in Chana and Moong
Between 2018-19 and 2022-23, India achieved considerable self-reliance in pulses, particularly in chana and moong, due to:
- Short-duration crop varieties requiring minimal irrigation.
- Government-backed MSP procurement, ensuring farmer incentives.
- Increased cropping cycles, enabling multiple harvests annually.
The Need for Focus on Tur and Urad
Despite their importance, tur and urad continue to face challenges due to:
- Longer crop duration (160-180 days), making them less attractive to farmers.
- Lack of MSP assurance, leading to price fluctuations.
- Policy ambiguity, despite their role in sustainable agriculture.
To replicate the success of chana and moong, the focus must shift to breeding shorter-duration, pest-resistant tur and urad varieties that can be mechanically harvested.
Way Forward
- Robust MSP Procurement: Ensuring fair prices for tur and urad cultivators.
- Research & Development: Accelerating the breeding of high-yield, short-duration varieties.
- Irrigation & Infrastructure Support: Expanding facilities in moisture-stressed areas.
- Policy Clarity: Providing long-term incentives to pulse farmers, akin to rice and wheat growers.
Conclusion
India’s push for self-reliance in pulses must go beyond temporary import restrictions. Sustainable policies, scientific advancements, and assured procurement are crucial to achieving Atmanirbharta in all pulse varieties, ensuring food security and economic stability for farmers.
Also Read: Indian Express Editorial Analysis: February 21, 2025
Disclaimer:
This analysis is based on the editorial content published in Indian Express and is intended solely for informational and educational purposes. The views, opinions, and interpretations expressed herein are those of the author of original article. Readers are encouraged to refer to the original article for complete context and to exercise their own judgment while interpreting the analysis. The analysis does not constitute professional advice or endorsement of any political, economic, or social perspective.
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