1. Understanding the Role of Diwans of Mysore in Karnataka's History
Introduction
The Diwans of Mysore played a pivotal role in shaping the administrative, economic, and social fabric of the Mysore princely state during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Acting as chief ministers, they were instrumental in implementing reforms under the guidance of the Mysore Maharajas, especially during the reign of Krishnaraja Wodeyar IV, often referred to as the “Raja Rishi.” Their contributions laid the foundation for modern Karnataka.
- Historical Context
- Post-Tipu Sultan Era (1799): After the fall of Tipu Sultan, the Wodeyars were reinstated under British supervision. Diwans emerged as key administrators during this period.
- Princely State Under British Paramountcy: The Diwans balanced the interests of the Maharaja and the British, contributing significantly to governance.
- Prominent Diwans and Their Contributions
- Rangacharlu (1881–1883):
- Instrumental in transitioning Mysore from British Commissioners to native administration.
- Established the Representative Assembly of Mysore in 1881, the first of its kind in India.
- Seshadri Iyer (1883–1901):
- Known for his visionary development policies, including the construction of the KRS Dam (Krishna Raja Sagara).
- Played a crucial role in introducing hydroelectric power to the state with the Shivanasamudra hydroelectric project.
- Sir M. Visvesvaraya (1912–1918):
- Introduced industrialization through the establishment of Mysore Iron and Steel Works (Bhadravati).
- Advocated for planned development and scientific temper.
- Championed education reforms and public health improvements.
- Mirza Ismail (1926–1941):
- Promoted industrial growth by establishing industries such as Mysore Lamps and Mysore Sandalwood Oil Factory.
- Focused on urban development, including modernization of Bangalore and Mysore.
- Rangacharlu (1881–1883):
- Impact of Reforms
- Economic Development: Industrialization and infrastructure development boosted the state economy.
- Social Progress: Introduction of public health measures and educational institutions improved social indicators.
- Modern Administration: The foundation of self-governance and representative institutions strengthened democratic ideals.
- Challenges and Limitations
- Balancing British interests with those of the princely state.
- Limited resources and the constraints of a feudal economy.
- Dependency on British approval for major decisions.
Conclusion
The Diwans of Mysore were visionaries who transformed the state into a model of progressive governance during the colonial period. Their emphasis on industrialization, education, and infrastructure development continues to influence Karnataka’s growth trajectory. They bridged tradition with modernity, laying the groundwork for the state’s future advancements.
Mains Practice Question
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Q. The Diwans of Mysore played a crucial role in transforming the princely state into a model of good governance during colonial India. Discuss their contributions, highlighting their significance in the development of modern Karnataka.
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2. Challenges and Prospects of the Biodiversity Beyond National Jurisdiction (BBNJ) Agreement
Introduction
The Biodiversity Beyond National Jurisdiction (BBNJ) Agreement, popularly known as the High Seas Treaty, represents a landmark in global ocean governance.
Signed under the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), it aims to conserve marine biodiversity, ensure equitable sharing of benefits, and regulate activities in areas beyond national jurisdiction.
However, the treaty’s implementation faces structural and geopolitical challenges, highlighting the complex interplay between ambition and reality in addressing global maritime concerns.
- Objectives of the BBNJ Agreement
- Conservation of marine biodiversity in the high seas.
- Equitable sharing of benefits derived from marine genetic resources.
- Conducting environmental impact assessments for human activities in international waters.
- Significance of the Treaty
- Aims to manage marine resources sustainably to address overfishing, pollution, and habitat destruction.
- Promotes the “common heritage of mankind” by prioritizing preservation over exploitation.
- Facilitates international cooperation in ocean governance and marine research.
- Challenges in Implementation
- Structural Complexities:
- Lack of clarity in the treaty’s implementation roadmap.
- Ratification lag: Only 14 of 104 signatories have ratified it, short of the required 60.
- Geopolitical Rivalries:
- Disputes over marine territories (e.g., South China Sea).
- Regional divisions over Marine Protected Areas (MPAs), especially in Asia.
- Economic and Technological Barriers:
- Unequal access to marine genetic resources and advanced technologies by developing nations.
- Capacity-building for low and middle-income countries remains a challenge.
- Conflict with Existing Frameworks: Overlap with other international agreements like the Convention on Biological Diversity risks fragmenting enforcement mechanisms.
- Structural Complexities:
- Criticism of the Treaty Provisions
- High-seas principle risks overshadowing the “common heritage of mankind” ideal.
- Insufficient regulation on environmental impact assessments for activities in Exclusive Economic Zones (EEZs).
- Lack of accountability for transnational corporations exploiting marine resources.
- Way Forward
- Bridging the divide between high-seas governance and coastal regulations.
- Enhancing capacity-building measures and technology transfers to Global South nations.
- Promoting collective international action to safeguard oceans as a shared resource.
Conclusion
The BBNJ Agreement is a bold step toward addressing the global challenges of marine conservation and governance. However, its success hinges on reconciling geopolitical divides, enhancing institutional capacities, and fostering inclusive partnerships. Without equitable enforcement and sustained cooperation, the treaty risks becoming an ineffective instrument against the mounting threats to ocean ecosystems.
Mains Practice Question |
Q. The Biodiversity Beyond National Jurisdiction (BBNJ) Agreement has been hailed as a milestone in ocean governance. Critically evaluate its significance and the challenges it faces in implementation. |
