Nalanda University, Focus on Unemployment
GS – 1
WHY IN NEWS?
In recent news, Nalanda University’s historical significance is being revitalized with the inauguration of a new campus, echoing Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s praise for its enduring legacy amid its ancient decline after Khalji raids in the 12th century.
SUMMARY OF THE NEWS:
The story of Nalanda University spans from its ancient Gupta dynasty origins as a renowned center of Buddhist learning to its destruction by Bakhtiyar Khalji in the 12th century. Rediscovered in the 19th century, it now seeks revival with the inauguration of a new campus, embodying Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of reclaiming its historical glory and global significance in education.
NALANDA UNIVERSITY:
Foundation and Growth: Nalanda University was founded around 427 AD during the Gupta dynasty’s reign, particularly under Emperor Kumaragupta I. It was established as a Buddhist monastic university in Bihar, India.
Early Influence: Initially a center for the study of Buddhist scriptures and philosophy, Nalanda grew rapidly due to imperial patronage, especially by the Gupta and later Pala dynasties. It attracted scholars and students from all over Asia, contributing to its reputation as a premier institution of learning.
Structure and Administration:
- Organizational Structure: Nalanda was organized in a manner typical of ancient Indian universities, with a systematic approach to education and administration. The curriculum included various fields such as Buddhist studies, philosophy, logic, grammar, astronomy, and medicine.
- Faculty and Scholars: The university boasted a distinguished faculty that included eminent scholars such as Aryabhata (mathematician-astronomer), Nagarjuna (Mahayana philosopher), Dharmapala (Buddhist scholar), and others who made significant contributions to their respective fields.
- Hiuen Tsang’s Account: The Chinese pilgrim Hiuen Tsang visited Nalanda during the 7th century and documented its operations, infrastructure, and curriculum in his travelogue. His detailed account provides valuable insights into the university’s stature and functioning during its heyday.
Decline and Destruction:
- Factors Leading to Decline: By the 12th century, several factors contributed to Nalanda’s decline, including political instability in northern India, decline in patronage from ruling dynasties, and the rise of competing centers of learning.
- Destruction by Bakhtiyar Khalji: Nalanda suffered a devastating blow when it was ransacked and destroyed by Bakhtiyar Khalji, a Turkish general of the Delhi Sultanate, around 1200 AD. This event marked a significant decline in Buddhist influence in India and the region.
Rediscovery and Legacy:
- Rediscovery in the 19th Century: The ruins of Nalanda were rediscovered in the 19th century by British archaeologists and scholars. The discovery renewed interest in the ancient university and sparked archaeological excavations to uncover its rich history.
- Modern Revival: In 2010, Nalanda University was re-established as an international institution dedicated to fostering academic excellence and cultural exchange in the spirit of its ancient predecessor. The revived university focuses on humanities, Buddhist studies, and other fields relevant to contemporary global education.
Significance:
Cultural and Intellectual Legacy: Nalanda University symbolizes India’s rich cultural and intellectual heritage, particularly in the field of education and Buddhist philosophy. Its legacy continues to inspire scholars and students worldwide.
Historical Context: Understanding Nalanda’s rise, fall, and revival provides insights into ancient Indian education systems, the spread of Buddhism across Asia, and the impact of historical events on cultural institutions.
Contemporary Relevance: The revival of Nalanda University reflects India’s commitment to promoting education and cultural diplomacy on the global stage, aligning with broader national and international educational objectives.
Conclusion:
Nalanda University stands as a testament to India’s enduring contributions to global education and cultural exchange. Its historical significance and modern revival underscore its relevance in contemporary discussions on heritage preservation, academic excellence, and international cooperation in education.
PYQ:
Prelims 2015:
Question: Which one of the following was a very important seaport in the Kakatiya kingdom?
Options:
a) Kakinada
b) Motupalli
c) Machilipatnam
d) Nelluru
Answer: b) Motupalli
Mains 2013:
Question: Nalanda University was a great center of learning in ancient India, especially in the realms of Buddhist studies and public administration. Discuss briefly the factors which contributed to the decline of this ancient seat of learning.
HINT:
Factors contributing to the decline of Nalanda University included:
- Decline in royal patronage from Gupta and Pala dynasties.
- Political instability and invasions, such as by Bakhtiyar Khalji in 12th century.
- Emergence of other centers of learning in India and abroad.
- Shifts in intellectual and religious preferences in medieval India.
Mains 2016:
Question: Nalanda’s contribution to the spread of knowledge and Buddhism across Asia reaffirms India’s deep historical linkages with the region. Discuss.
HINT:
- Nalanda University served as a major center for Buddhist learning, attracting scholars and students from across Asia.
- Its curriculum and faculty, including figures like Aryabhata and Nagarjuna, contributed significantly to the spread of knowledge.
- Hiuen Tsang’s accounts of Nalanda documented its systematic approach to education, reinforcing its reputation as a beacon of learning in the ancient world.
GS – 3
WHY IN NEWS?
In India, job creation remains a critical challenge exacerbated by rapid technological advancement and a shifting economy. The upcoming Union Budget is poised to address this, focusing on leveraging technology for efficiency while grappling with the rising numbers of job seekers, particularly the youth.
SUMMARY OF THE NEWS:
The Modi government faces significant challenges in job creation amid a changing economy and technological advancements. Recent reports highlight stagnant manufacturing employment and a slow job transition from agriculture, worsened by the COVID-19 pandemic. Solutions proposed include a robot tax, increased job incentives, and public investment in agriculture to ease farmer burdens. Collaboration across sectors is urged to design a growth model prioritizing employment, crucial to prevent social and political unrest amidst economic growth.
GROWTH MODEL PRIORITIZING EMPLOYMENT:
Focus on economic growth that maximizes job creation and reduces unemployment rates.
Components:
- Sectoral Focus: Promote industries with high labor absorption capacity like manufacturing, services, and agriculture.
- Skill Development: Enhance workforce capabilities through education, vocational training, and skill enhancement programs.
- Infrastructure Development: Invest in physical and digital infrastructure to support economic activities and job creation.
- Entrepreneurship: Encourage entrepreneurship and support small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) as significant job creators.
Government Interventions:
- Policy Support: Formulate pro-employment policies that incentivize job-intensive sectors and SME growth.
- Labor Market Reforms: Balance labor regulations to protect workers’ rights while fostering flexibility for businesses.
- Social Safety Nets: Implement social security measures and safety nets to support vulnerable groups and mitigate job losses.
Challenges and Solutions:
- Technological Disruption: Manage automation and AI adoption to ensure it complements rather than replaces human labor.
- Inclusive Growth: Ensure marginalized sections benefit equitably from economic growth through targeted policies.
- Global Integration: Align domestic policies with global economic trends to enhance competitiveness while safeguarding local employment.
Examples and Case Studies:
- Study successful models like South Korea’s focus on job-rich growth strategies or Germany’s dual vocational training system.
- Analyze local initiatives in India such as Make in India, Skill India, and Startup India aimed at boosting employment.
PYQ:
Prelims Question (Year: 2019):
Question: Consider the following statements:
1. According to the Industrial Employment (Standing Orders) Central (Amendment) Rules, 2018, ‘fixed term employment’ means a workman who is employed on a contract basis for a fixed period.
2. Fixed term employment can be introduced in all sectors.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
Options:
a) 1 only
b) 2 only
c) Both 1 and 2
d) Neither 1 nor 2
Answer: c) Both 1 and 2
Mains Question (Year: 2018):
Question: The shrinking job opportunities in the countryside in India is a serious problem and is causing serious socio-economic problems. Do you agree with this view? Give reasons in support of your answer.
HINT: Analyze the issue of shrinking job opportunities in rural India. Candidates were expected to discuss the socio-economic implications of rural unemployment, such as migration, agrarian distress, and the impact on poverty and social stability.