PYQ Relevance:
Q) The question of India’s Energy Security constitutes the most important part of India’s economic progress. Analyze India’s energy policy cooperation with West Asian Countries. (UPSC CSE 2017) |
Mentor’s Comment: UPSC mains have always focused on Energy Security (2017), and uneven distribution of mineral oil (2021).
Recently, Prime Minister Narendra Modi met Qatar’s Amir Sheikh Tamim Bin Hamad Al-Thani to strengthen India-Qatar ties into a “strategic partnership” focused on trade, investments, technology, energy, and people-to-people connections. They also discussed key global and regional issues. This is the Amir’s second state visit to India, following his 2015 visit.
Today’s editorial talks about the trade relations between Qatar and India. This content would help in mains answer writing GS Paper 2 in International Relations.
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Why in the News?
India and Qatar agreed to strengthen their relationship as a “strategic partnership,” aim to double trade to $28 billion in five years, and attract $10 billion in Qatari investment into India.
What are the trade relations between India and Qatar?
- Strategic Partnership and Trade Goals: India and Qatar have elevated their bilateral relations to a strategic partnership, aiming to double their trade from approximately USD 14 billion to USD 28 billion over the next five years. This agreement was formalized during discussions between the Indian Prime Minister and Qatari Amir Sheikh Tamim Bin Hamad Al-Thani.
- Key Exports and Imports: In the fiscal year 2022-23, India’s exports to Qatar were valued at USD 1.96 billion, while imports from Qatar reached USD 16.8 billion. Major exports from Qatar to India include liquefied natural gas (LNG), liquefied petroleum gas (LPG), and petrochemicals, whereas India exports cereals, textiles, machinery, and precious stones to Qatar.
- Energy Cooperation: Qatar is India’s largest supplier of LNG and LPG, accounting for over 48% of India’s LNG imports and 29% of its LPG imports in FY 2022-23. This energy trade has been a cornerstone of the bilateral relationship, with long-term contracts in place for continued supply.
- Investment Opportunities: Qatari investments in India have surpassed USD 1.5 billion, focusing on sectors such as telecommunications, retail, and infrastructure. Indian companies are also increasingly investing in Qatar, with significant contributions from firms like Larsen & Toubro and Wipro.
- Future Prospects: Both countries are exploring avenues beyond energy, looking to enhance cooperation in technology, manufacturing, and entrepreneurship. The recent discussions included the potential for a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) to further facilitate trade relations.
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Why is Qatar important to India?
- Energy Security: As a major LNG supplier, Qatar plays a crucial role in ensuring India’s energy security, accounting for over 48% of India’s LNG imports. Example: India imports around 8.5 million tonnes of LNG annually from Qatar, covering a significant portion of its energy demand.
- Trade & Investment: Bilateral trade is growing, with plans to double it to $28 billion and explore a Free Trade Agreement (FTA). Example: Qatar Investment Authority (QIA) has invested in Indian companies like Reliance Jio and Adani Green Energy.
- Indian Diaspora & Remittances: Over 800,000 Indians work in Qatar, making them the largest expatriate group.Example: Indian workers send billions in remittances to India annually, supporting the economy and families back home.
- Strategic & Security Cooperation: The new Strategic Partnership Agreement enhances cooperation in defence, intelligence sharing, and counterterrorism. Example: India and Qatar conduct joint naval exercises to ensure maritime security in the Gulf region.
- Geopolitical & Diplomatic Influence: Qatar plays a key role in West Asian diplomacy, including mediation in conflicts like Israel-Palestine and Taliban negotiations. Example: India engages with Qatar on regional issues to maintain stability and secure energy interests.
What are the benefits of recent deals between India and Qatar related to LNG?
- Duration and Volume: The new agreement extends the supply of 7.5 million metric tons per annum (MMTPA) of LNG from Qatar to India for an additional 20 years, from 2028 to 2048. This is an extension of the existing contract that was set to expire in 2028.
- Pricing Structure: The renewed deal is expected to offer LNG at rates lower than current prices, potentially saving India around $6 billion over the life of the contract. The pricing structure will differ from previous terms, eliminating fixed charges and allowing for more flexible pricing based on market conditions.
- Energy Security: This agreement is crucial for India’s energy security, as Qatar currently supplies about 35% of India’s LNG imports. The deal ensures a stable and reliable supply of natural gas, which is essential for various sectors, including power generation, fertilizers, and city gas distribution.
What are the challenges between India and Qatar?
- Legal & Human Rights Issues: Several Indian workers face legal challenges in Qatar, including imprisonment and labor rights concerns. Example: Former Indian Navy officer Commander Purnendu Tiwary remains in Qatari custody, despite the repatriation of seven other detained Indian naval personnel in 2024.
- Geopolitical Differences: India and Qatar have differing views on regional issues like Israel-Palestine and Middle East conflicts. Example: India supports a two-state solution, while Qatar has close ties with Hamas, leading to potential diplomatic frictions.
- Economic Dependence on Energy Imports: India heavily relies on Qatar for LNG imports, making it vulnerable to price fluctuations and supply disruptions. Example: Any geopolitical instability in the Gulf or energy price hikes could impact India’s energy security and trade balance.
Way forward:
- Diversifying Economic Engagement: Reduce dependency on energy trade by expanding cooperation in manufacturing, technology, and digital infrastructure. Example: Strengthening investments in sectors like fintech, healthcare, and logistics through bilateral agreements and joint ventures.
- Enhancing Diplomatic and Security Cooperation: Deepen collaboration in counterterrorism, maritime security, and intelligence sharing to address regional security concerns. Example: Conduct more frequent joint naval exercises and establish structured dialogues on geopolitical issues like the Israel-Palestine conflict.
- Addressing Legal and Labor Concerns: Strengthen diplomatic mechanisms to protect Indian workers’ rights and ensure fair treatment of those facing legal challenges in Qatar. Example: Expand labor agreements, improve grievance redressal mechanisms, and negotiate for faster repatriation of detainees, including Commander Purnendu Tiwary.
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PYQ Relevance:
Q) Describe the benefits of deriving electric energy from sunlight in contrast to the conventional energy generation. What are the initiatives offered by our government for this purpose? (UPSC CSE 2020) |
Mentor’s Comment: UPSC mains have always focused on major issues like conventional energy generation (2020) and coal-fired thermal plants (2014).
In August 2022, India updated its climate plan to the UNFCCC, promising to follow a cleaner, environmentally friendly path for growth. The country aims to cut emissions per unit of GDP by 45% by 2030 compared to 2005 levels. It also plans to get 50% of its electricity from non-fossil fuels by 2030, while keeping thermal power at 50% of the energy mix.
Today’s editorial addresses issues related to thermal power plants. This topic will be useful for GS Paper 2 and 3 in the Mains exam.
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Why in the News?
States that produce thermal power should be fairly compensated for handling the pollution caused while generating electricity for other states.
What is the extent of the pollution burden caused by thermal power plants in certain states?
- High Concentration of Polluting Power Plants: States like Chhattisgarh, Odisha, Jharkhand, and Uttar Pradesh are home to a large share of India’s thermal power plants, contributing significantly to the country’s carbon emissions. These states face disproportionate pollution as they generate much of the power consumed across India but do not benefit equally in terms of electricity consumption.
- For example, Chhattisgarh produces large amounts of electricity from thermal plants, but its per capita electricity consumption remains much lower than that of economically better-off states like Gujarat and Maharashtra.
- Disproportionate Emissions and Air Pollution: Thermal power generation is a major source of carbon dioxide (CO2) and particulate matter (PM), contributing heavily to air pollution. States like Chhattisgarh and Odisha, with a high density of coal-based plants, suffer from severe air quality deterioration, leading to health hazards like respiratory diseases.
- Externalities from Power Exporting States: States such as Chhattisgarh, Madhya Pradesh, and Odisha are significant net exporters of electricity. Despite being the source of much of India’s thermal power, these states bear the brunt of the pollution without receiving adequate compensation or benefits. Chhattisgarh was the highest net exporter of electricity in 2022-23, yet it continues to face the negative environmental impacts without direct benefits.
- Impact on Local Health and Environment: The local populations near thermal power plants suffer from air pollution-induced health issues like COPD, asthma, and lung cancer. Additionally, the local environment is negatively impacted due to thermal pollution and the disposal of coal ash.
- In Bihar, which generates most of its electricity from thermal plants, residents face health risks due to pollutants emitted by nearby plants, such as NTPC‘s plants.
- Water and Soil Contamination: Thermal power plants contribute to thermal pollution in water bodies, affecting aquatic life, and displace harmful chemicals into soil, which degrades agriculture. In coal-rich states like Odisha and Jharkhand, this leads to long-term environmental damage.
- For instance, the coal ash from thermal plants in Odisha has been found to pollute the soil, reducing agricultural productivity and harming local ecosystems.
What are the environmental and health impacts of this pollution on local populations?
- Respiratory and Cardiovascular Diseases: The emission of particulate matter (PM), sulfur dioxide (SO₂), and nitrogen oxides (NOₓ) from thermal power plants significantly degrades air quality. This leads to an increase in respiratory problems such as asthma, bronchitis, and Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD).
- For example, in Chhattisgarh, where thermal plants are concentrated, residents face high rates of respiratory illnesses due to prolonged exposure to air pollution from coal-fired power plants.
- Water and Soil Contamination: The disposal of toxic coal ash and wastewater from thermal power plants pollutes local water bodies and soil, leading to contamination of drinking water sources and agricultural land. This can cause long-term harm to both human health and local ecosystems.
- In Odisha, coal ash from thermal plants has been found to seep into nearby rivers and groundwater, impacting drinking water quality and agricultural productivity.
- Climate Change and Extreme Weather Events: The carbon dioxide (CO₂) emitted by thermal power plants contributes to global warming, leading to more frequent and severe extreme weather events like heatwaves, floods, and droughts. These events directly affect public health by increasing mortality rates, particularly among vulnerable populations like the elderly and children.
- For example, states like Uttar Pradesh and Odisha face heightened vulnerability to heatwaves and flooding, worsened by the cumulative impact of pollution from nearby thermal power plants.
What steps can be taken to mitigate the pollution caused by thermal power plants? (Way forward)
- Adoption of Cleaner Technologies: Implementing advanced technologies such as Flue Gas Desulfurization (FGD), Electrostatic Precipitators (ESP), and Selective Catalytic Reduction (SCR) can significantly reduce emissions of sulfur dioxide (SO₂), particulate matter (PM), and nitrogen oxides (NOₓ). These technologies capture pollutants before they are released into the atmosphere, improving air quality.
- Switching to Cleaner Fuels and Renewable Energy Sources: Gradually transitioning from coal to cleaner energy sources like natural gas, biomass, or renewable energy (solar, wind, and hydro) can help reduce carbon emissions and other pollutants.
- The Solar power initiatives in states like Rajasthan and Gujarat, which have vast renewable energy capacities, can be expanded to replace coal-based power generation, reducing reliance on thermal plants.
- Improved Waste Management and Pollution Control Regulations: Establishing strict regulations for the management of coal ash and waste from thermal plants can help prevent contamination of water bodies and soil. The use of ash for brick-making and cement production, or proper disposal in landfills, can mitigate environmental hazards.
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PYQ Relevance:
Q) Assess the importance of the Panchayat system in India as a part of local government. Apart from government grants, what sources the Panchayats can look out for financing developmental projects? (UPSC CSE 2018) |
Mentor’s Comment: UPSC mains have always focused on the Panchayat System (2015), and Local Governance (2021).
The 73rd Amendment of 1992 was a milestone in India’s democracy, establishing the Panchayati Raj system to decentralize governance. It created a three-tier structure at the village, block, and district levels, ensuring regular local elections and reserving 50% of seats for women, Scheduled Castes, and Scheduled Tribes. This brought democracy to the grassroots, promoting local representation and inclusive leadership. However, progress in strengthening local governance has slowed. Rapid technological and societal changes now risk making Panchayats less relevant. To keep them effective, their role must be reimagined to address modern challenges while preserving their core democratic purpose.
Today’s editorial talks about issues related to local government. This content would help in GS Paper 2 in mains answer writing.
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Why in the News?
The special discussion in Parliament on the 75th anniversary of the Indian Constitution had several salient aspects of the Constitution and policy directions adopted by previous governments but very little on a vital aspect of local governance was highlighted.
Why is the Panchayati Raj movement facing distress?
- Incomplete Devolution of Powers: Many States have not transferred all 29 subjects under the Eleventh Schedule, limiting Panchayats’ decision-making authority. Example: A 2022 Ministry of Panchayati Raj report found that less than 20% of States had fully devolved powers, restricting local governance.
- Declining Fiscal Autonomy: Though direct transfers have increased, untied grants (which Panchayats can use freely) have reduced from 85% (13th Finance Commission) to 60% (15th Finance Commission). Example: Many Gram Panchayats rely on centrally sponsored schemes, leaving little room for independent development planning.
- Marginalization Due to Digital Welfare Schemes: Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) schemes like PM-KISAN bypass Panchayats, reducing their role in beneficiary selection and grievance redress. Example: Farmers receive ₹6,000 annually under PM-KISAN directly in their accounts, eliminating Panchayats’ role in rural welfare.
- Political and Bureaucratic Interference: State governments and political parties use Panchayats as tools for electoral gains rather than empowering them as self-governing institutions. Example: In states like West Bengal and Kerala, Panchayat elections are highly politicized, often leading to violence and reducing focus on governance.
- Impact of Urbanization: With India’s rural population declining (from ~75% in 1990 to ~60% today), policy focus has shifted towards urban development and municipal governance. Example: Rural development funds have increasingly been diverted towards urban infrastructure projects, weakening Panchayat-led rural initiatives.
What impact does the distress in Panchayati Raj have on rural development?
- Inefficiency in Rural Welfare Implementation: Panchayats have been sidelined in the distribution of welfare benefits, leading to inefficiencies and reduced grievance redressal. Example: Schemes like PM-KISAN and PM Awas Yojana bypass Panchayats, causing delays in identifying genuine beneficiaries and addressing local concerns.
- Neglect of Rural Infrastructure and Public Services: Panchayats’ inability to raise resources has led to poor maintenance of rural roads, sanitation, and drinking water supply. Example: Many village schools and health centres remain understaffed due to a lack of funds and decision-making power at the Panchayat level.
- Increased Rural-Urban Migration: The failure to create employment and sustainable livelihoods in villages forces rural youth to migrate to cities for work. Example: States like Bihar and Uttar Pradesh witness high rural-to-urban migration as Panchayats are unable to promote local skill development and job creation.
- Weakened Local Decision-Making and Planning: Panchayats struggle to implement need-based development projects due to limited autonomy and lack of funds. Example: In many states, Gram Panchayats cannot initiate independent infrastructure projects like rural roads or drinking water facilities without state approval.
- Reduced Grassroots Participation in Governance: Declining public engagement weakens democratic processes, reducing local accountability and effective implementation of schemes. Example: Many village-level meetings (Gram Sabhas) see low attendance, leading to top-down decision-making that may not reflect local priorities.
What steps can be taken to revive and strengthen the Panchayati Raj system?
- Greater Devolution of Powers and Functions: State governments should fully implement the Eleventh Schedule by transferring all 29 subjects to Panchayats. Example: Kerala’s People’s Plan Campaign empowered Panchayats with financial and planning autonomy, leading to better local governance.
- Enhancing Financial Autonomy: Increase untied grants from Finance Commissions to Panchayats and allow them to generate local revenue through taxes and fees. Example: Maharashtra has successfully implemented property tax collection at the Gram Panchayat level to fund local development.
- Strengthening Administrative Capacity: Appoint dedicated local-level bureaucrats and improve digital governance tools for efficient service delivery. Example: Karnataka’s Gram Swaraj Project uses IT-based platforms to improve transparency and monitoring of Panchayat activities.
- Encouraging Citizen Participation and Accountability: Regular and active Gram Sabha meetings should be mandated for community involvement in decision-making. Example: In Rajasthan, social audits of MGNREGA work through Gram Sabhas have improved transparency and reduced corruption.
- Expanding Panchayats’ Role in Emerging Areas: Panchayats should be given new responsibilities in areas like water conservation, renewable energy, and disaster management. Example: Gujarat’s Mission Mangalam engaged Panchayats in women-led SHGs to promote local entrepreneurship and sustainable rural development.
Way forward:
- Comprehensive Devolution and Strengthening Autonomy – Ensure full transfer of subjects under the Eleventh Schedule, increase untied grants, and empower Panchayats with independent revenue-generating mechanisms to enhance self-governance.
- Capacity Building and Community Engagement – Improve Panchayat administration through digital tools, dedicated local bureaucrats, and mandated Gram Sabha participation to enhance transparency, accountability, and grassroots governance.
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PYQ Relevance:
Q) The USA is facing an existential threat in the form of China, that is much more challenging than the erstwhile Soviet Union.” Explain. (UPSC CSE 2021) |
Mentor’s Comment: UPSC mains have always focused on China as a threat to the USA (2021), and China is using its economic relations and positive trade surplus as tools (2017).
In mid-January, reports said China blocked its engineers and technicians from working at Foxconn in India and recalled those already there. It also restricted exports of key manufacturing equipment, which China dominates. While Foxconn brought in Taiwanese workers, the lack of equipment is a bigger challenge. This move threatens India’s goal of becoming a global manufacturing hub.
Today’s editorial discusses challenges arising from China’s dominance in the global supply chain. This topic is relevant for GS Paper 2 and GS Paper 3 in the UPSC Mains.
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Why in the News?
Recently, China has stopped its engineers and technicians from travelling to work at Foxconn’s facilities in India.
How is China using e-supply chains as a strategic tool?
- Monopoly Over Critical Manufacturing Equipment: China dominates the production of high-tech manufacturing equipment required for semiconductor and electronics production. Example: In early 2024, China restricted the export of specialized manufacturing machinery to Foxconn in India, slowing down iPhone assembly and production.
- Control Over Key Raw Materials: China holds a significant share of the global supply of rare earth elements (REEs) essential for electronics, EV batteries, and defense technology. Example: In 2023, China imposed export restrictions on gallium and germanium, two critical metals used in semiconductor and military applications, impacting global supply chains.
- Workforce and Knowledge Transfer Restrictions: By preventing its engineers and skilled technicians from working in foreign manufacturing hubs, China restricts the transfer of tacit knowledge to competitors. Example: Chinese engineers working at Foxconn’s Indian facilities were recalled, creating a skills gap that affected Apple’s production capacity.
- Disrupting Supply Chains to Gain Geopolitical Leverage: China can manipulate logistics, trade policies, and export restrictions to pressure countries and corporations dependent on its supply chains. Example: During the U.S.-China trade war, China imposed export controls on key components for companies like Huawei and Apple, demonstrating its leverage in global electronics production.
- Deep Integration into Global Manufacturing Networks: Through initiatives like the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) and heavy investments in industrial zones, China ensures that multinational corporations remain reliant on its supply chains. Example: Despite U.S. sanctions, companies like Tesla and Apple continue significant operations in China due to its well-integrated and cost-effective supply chain ecosystem.
What are the risks and vulnerabilities posed by China’s control over e-supply chains?
- Disruptions to Critical Industries: China’s dominance in semiconductor manufacturing, rare earth metals, and electronics components makes other nations vulnerable to supply chain shocks.
- India depends on China for over 75% of electronic components, affecting smartphone and telecom industries. The 2020 global chip shortage, worsened by China’s export controls, severely impacted industries like automobiles, defence, and consumer electronics.
- Geopolitical and Economic Coercion: China can weaponize supply chains to exert diplomatic pressure or punish countries for political disagreements.
- Post-Galwan clash (2020), India faced delays in customs clearance for Chinese goods, disrupting industries reliant on imports.
- Lithuania faced trade restrictions in 2021 after allowing a Taiwan representative office, showing how China uses supply chains as leverage.
- Vulnerability in Strategic Sectors (Telecom, Defense, Energy): Dependence on Chinese technology in strategic sectors poses risks related to cybersecurity, espionage, and sabotage.
- India banned Huawei and ZTE from 5G trials due to concerns over data security. The U.S. and EU have imposed restrictions on Chinese telecom firms citing national security threats.
- Supply Chain Manipulation and Price Volatility: China’s control over rare earth metals, batteries, and semiconductors allows it to manipulate prices and supply.
- Despite efforts to develop local lithium-ion battery production, India still relies on China for key materials, affecting the EV sector. In 2023, China restricted gallium and germanium exports, leading to price spikes for these critical semiconductor materials.
- Stifling Competitor Growth and Technological Dependence: China restricts the transfer of critical machinery and skilled labor to competitors to maintain its manufacturing edge.
- China’s ban on engineers working in Indian Foxconn plants and export curbs on key equipment have slowed India’s smartphone manufacturing expansion. U.S. firms like Apple, Tesla, and Intel remain dependent on China’s supply chains, despite attempts at diversification.
How can countries and companies safeguard themselves from China’s influence over e-supply chains? (Way Forward)
- Supply Chain Diversification (China Plus One Strategy): Countries and companies should expand production to alternative locations to reduce reliance on China.
- Example: Apple is shifting iPhone production to India, Vietnam, and Mexico to mitigate risks from China. The U.S. has passed the CHIPS Act (2022) to boost domestic semiconductor manufacturing and reduce reliance on Chinese supply chains.
- Strengthening Domestic Manufacturing and R&D: Governments should invest in local industries, incentivize component manufacturing, and build advanced R&D ecosystems.
- Example: India’s Production-Linked Incentive (PLI) Scheme supports domestic electronics and semiconductor manufacturing. Japan and South Korea are increasing investments in semiconductor fabs to reduce dependence on China.
- Forming Strategic Trade Alliances and Technology Partnerships: Nations should collaborate on trade agreements and secure alternative sources for critical materials and technology.
- Example: India, the U.S., Japan, and Taiwan are working together under the Chip 4 Alliance to strengthen the semiconductor supply chain. The EU-U.S. Trade and Technology Council (TTC) is securing alternative semiconductor and rare earth suppliers.
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PYQ Relevance:
Q) Public health system has limitation in providing universal health coverage. Do you think that private sector can help in bridging the gap? What other viable alternatives do you suggest? (UPSC CSE 2015) |
Mentor’s Comment: UPSC mains have always focused on the Public health system (2015), and the Health for All’ in India (2018).
Medical education is changing in unusual ways. There is a shortage of doctors, yet governments and medical professionals limit access to medical studies. As a result, more students from different countries travel abroad to study medicine. In the past, medical education was international, but now each country controls it while it still becomes more global. This trend is important because of healthcare needs. The exact number of students studying medicine abroad is unknown, but it is estimated to be over 200,000, often in low-quality institutions. Before the Russian invasion, Ukraine had 24,000 foreign medical students, mostly from India.
Today’s editorial talks about issues in the Medical sector. This content would help in GS Papers 1, 2 and 3 to substantiate your answer.
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Why in the News?
Studying medicine abroad is common, but it is largely unnoticed and lacks proper regulation.
How does the globalization of medical education impact the quality and accessibility of healthcare?
- Increased Access to Medical Education but Quality Concerns Persist: India has only 1 medical seat for every 22 applicants, with 2.3 million students appearing for NEET annually.
- As a result, over 20,000 Indian students go abroad for medical studies each year. While foreign education provides an alternative, some countries have lax regulatory frameworks, leading to concerns over clinical training standards.
- Low Licensing Exam Pass Rates for Foreign Medical Graduates: India’s Foreign Medical Graduate Examination (FMGE) pass rate has historically been below 20%.
- In 2022, only 10,500 out of 41,349 candidates (25.4%) cleared the exam. Many foreign-trained doctors struggle to meet national standards, delaying their entry into the healthcare system.
- Disproportionate Dependence on Foreign-trained Doctors in Some Countries: In the US, 25% of physicians are international medical graduates (IMGs), while in the UK, 37% of doctors in the NHS come from abroad.
- While globalization helps address doctor shortages in developed countries, it exacerbates the “brain drain” in source countries like India, Nigeria, and Pakistan.
- Growth of For-profit Medical Schools with Limited Oversight: The Caribbean region alone has over 50 private medical schools, many catering exclusively to international students from the US and Canada.
- These institutions charge high tuition fees but often lack sufficient clinical training infrastructure, raising concerns about graduate competence.
- Shortage of Trained Doctors in Source Countries: The WHO estimates a global shortfall of 10 million healthcare workers by 2030, with Africa facing a deficit of 6 million doctors and nurses.
- Many doctors trained abroad do not return home, worsening healthcare shortages in low-income countries while benefiting high-income nations.
What are the consequences of medical degrees that are obtained abroad, especially from countries with lower academic standards?
- High Failure Rates in Licensing Exams: Foreign-trained doctors often struggle to meet national medical standards, leading to low pass rates in licensing exams.
- Example: In India, the Foreign Medical Graduate Examination (FMGE) pass rate has historically been below 20%. In 2022, only 10,500 out of 41,349 candidates (25.4%) cleared the exam, delaying their entry into the healthcare system.
- Limited Clinical Exposure and Skill Gaps: Some foreign medical colleges lack proper clinical training, affecting students’ hands-on experience in diagnosing and treating patients.
- Example: Several Caribbean medical schools, catering to US and Canadian students, have faced criticism for their limited hospital affiliations, forcing students to complete clinical rotations in different countries.
- Difficulty in Securing Residency and Employment: Graduates from lesser-known foreign institutions often struggle to secure postgraduate training and jobs in competitive healthcare markets.
- Example: In the United States, international medical graduates (IMGs) face higher rejection rates for medical residencies, with only about 60% of non-US IMGs matching into residency programs in 2023, compared to 93% of US medical graduates.
Is the global mobility of medical education sustainable, and how does it affect local health systems?
- Brain Drain Weakens Healthcare in Source Countries: Many doctors trained abroad do not return, leading to a shortage of medical professionals in their home countries.
- Example: Nigeria loses over 2,000 doctors annually to migration, worsening its doctor-to-patient ratio, which stands at 1:5,000, far below the WHO-recommended 1:1,000.
- Unequal Distribution of Healthcare Professionals: High-income countries attract foreign-trained doctors, leaving rural and underserved regions in low- and middle-income nations critically short-staffed.
- Example: In India, only 20% of doctors serve in rural areas, even though 65% of the population resides there, leading to severe healthcare disparities.
- Reliance on Foreign-trained Doctors in Host Countries: Developed nations depend on foreign medical graduates to fill workforce gaps, making their healthcare systems vulnerable to changing immigration policies.
- Example: The UK’s NHS workforce includes 37% foreign-trained doctors, with a significant number from India and Pakistan.
Way forward:
- Strengthening Domestic Medical Education Infrastructure: Increase the number of medical seats and improve the quality of training in home countries to reduce dependence on foreign institutions. Example: India has added over 100 new medical colleges since 2019 to expand access to medical education.
- Stricter Accreditation and Recognition of Foreign Medical Degrees: Establish global accreditation standards and bilateral agreements to ensure only high-quality foreign medical degrees are recognized. Example: The National Exit Test (NExT) in India will standardize assessment for both domestic and foreign medical graduates.
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PYQ Relevance:
Q) Give an account of the growth and development of nuclear science and technology in India. What is the advantage of a fast breeder reactor programme in India? (UPSC CSE 2017) |
Mentor’s Comment: UPSC mains have always focused on nuclear science and technology (2017), and atomic energy (2013).
In the Union Budget speech on February 1, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman announced plans to amend the Atomic Energy Act and the Civil Liability for Nuclear Damage (CLND) Act. This move is likely to be welcomed by the U.S., where past governments have opposed India’s law because it holds nuclear manufacturers partly responsible for accidents. However, in India, removing supplier liability could be a major concern, as it might weaken nuclear safety measures.
Today’s editorial talks about the Atomic Energy Act and the Civil Liability for Nuclear Damage (CLND) Act. This content will help in GS papers 2 and 3 in mains answer writing.
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Why in the News?
The mention of plans to amend the Civil Liability for Nuclear Damage Act in the Union Budget is a serious issue that needs attention.
What is the Atomic Energy Act?
- The Atomic Energy Act, 1962 is an Indian law that regulates the development, production, and use of nuclear energy for peaceful purposes while ensuring national security. It gives the government exclusive control over nuclear materials, plants, and research and allows the establishment of nuclear power projects. The Act also covers radiation safety, uranium mining, reactor operations, and waste disposal to prevent misuse and ensure public safety.
What is the Civil Liability for Nuclear Damage Act?
- The Civil Liability for Nuclear Damage (CLND) Act, 2010 is an Indian law that defines liability in case of a nuclear accident. It ensures compensation for victims while holding nuclear plant operators accountable.
Key Features:
- Operator Liability: The primary financial responsibility for any nuclear accident rests with the plant operator (NPCIL in India), not the supplier.
- Right of Recourse: Unlike many other countries, India allows operators to seek compensation from suppliers if defective equipment or services cause an accident (Section 17).
- Liability Cap: Operator liability is capped at ₹1,500 crore (~$180 million), with the government covering additional costs if needed.
- Exclusion from Global Regimes: India has not joined international nuclear liability agreements like the Convention on Supplementary Compensation (CSC), meaning financial responsibility remains domestic.
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What are the safety and liability concerns related to nuclear energy?
- Risk of Catastrophic Accidents: Nuclear plant failures can lead to massive radiation leaks, environmental destruction, and long-term health impacts.Example: The Fukushima Daiichi disaster (2011, Japan) resulted from a tsunami, causing multiple reactor meltdowns and widespread radioactive contamination.
- Design Flaws and Negligence: Suppliers may overlook or downplay safety risks in reactor designs, leading to vulnerabilities. Example: The Three Mile Island accident (1979, USA) occurred due to a known reactor design flaw that the supplier failed to address.
- Limited Liability for Suppliers: In many countries, nuclear suppliers are indemnified, placing financial liability entirely on plant operators and governments.Example: General Electric (GE), which designed the Fukushima reactors, faced no financial consequences due to Japan’s liability laws.
- Insufficient Compensation for Victims: Liability caps limit compensation for victims, despite the high costs of nuclear disasters. Example: India’s Civil Liability for Nuclear Damage (CLND) Act caps liability at ₹1,500 crore, whereas Fukushima’s cleanup costs are estimated at ₹20-46 lakh crore.
- Radioactive Waste and Long-Term Risks: Safe disposal of nuclear waste remains a major challenge, with risks of leaks and contamination lasting thousands of years.Example: The Chernobyl disaster (1986, USSR) left a radioactive exclusion zone that remains uninhabitable nearly 40 years later.
How does India’s approach to nuclear liability differ from global standards?
- Operator Liability with Limited Supplier Responsibility: India’s Civil Liability for Nuclear Damage (CLND) Act, 2010, places primary liability on the operator (NPCIL), but allows it to seek compensation from suppliers in case of defective equipment or services (Right of Recourse, Section 17).
- Global Standard: Most countries fully indemnify suppliers, meaning they bear no financial responsibility after supplying reactors.
- Example: In Japan, General Electric (GE) faced no liability for the Fukushima disaster (2011), while in India, foreign suppliers fear financial risks if an accident occurs.
- Liability Cap vs. Unlimited Liability in Some Countries: India caps operator liability at ₹1,500 crore (~$180 million), with additional compensation coming from the government if needed.
- Global Standard: Some countries, like Germany, impose unlimited liability on operators to ensure full compensation. The U.S. Price-Anderson Act establishes a large industry-backed fund for damages beyond a certain limit.
- Example: After the Chernobyl disaster (1986, USSR), the Soviet government bore the entire cost (~$235 billion), whereas an Indian accident beyond ₹1,500 crore would shift the financial burden to taxpayers.
- India is Not Part of Global Nuclear Liability Regimes: India has not signed the Convention on Supplementary Compensation for Nuclear Damage (CSC), which standardizes liability norms and creates an international compensation pool.
- Global Standard: Most nuclear-powered nations, including the U.S. and Japan, are CSC members, ensuring global financial support for nuclear accidents.
- Example: If a nuclear accident occurs in France, CSC members contribute to compensation, but in India, all financial burdens remain domestic.
What are the reasons behind the government’s plan to amend the Atomic Energy Act and the Civil Liability for Nuclear Damage (CLND) Act?
- Attracting Foreign Investment and Suppliers – The existing CLND Act allows India’s nuclear operator (NPCIL) to seek compensation from foreign suppliers in case of faulty equipment, discouraging companies from supplying reactors. Amendments could limit supplier liability, making India a more attractive market for nuclear investments from countries like the U.S., France, and Russia.
- Expanding Nuclear Energy Capacity – India aims to increase its nuclear power generation to meet rising energy demands and climate goals. Simplifying liability laws could accelerate agreements with international partners and facilitate the construction of new nuclear plants under deals such as the India-U.S. Civil Nuclear Agreement.
What are the other implications of increasing nuclear energy reliance?
- High Economic Costs and Project Delays: Nuclear power plants require massive upfront investments, long construction periods, and frequent cost overruns.
- Example: The AP1000 reactors in Georgia, USA, were initially estimated at $14 billion but were completed at $36.8 billion—a 250% cost overrun. Similarly, India’s Kudankulam Nuclear Power Plant faced significant delays and cost escalations.
- Nuclear Waste Management and Environmental Risks: Nuclear energy produces radioactive waste that remains hazardous for thousands of years, requiring secure disposal and long-term monitoring.
- Example: The Fukushima disaster (2011) led to the release of radioactive material, contaminating land and water, with cleanup costs estimated between ¥35-80 trillion (~₹20-46 lakh crore). India lacks permanent storage facilities for high-level nuclear waste.
- Geopolitical and Security Concerns: Expanding nuclear energy means higher dependence on foreign suppliers, leading to strategic vulnerabilities and potential external influence.
- Example: India’s civil nuclear deal with the U.S. (2008) opened doors for technology transfer, but suppliers now demand liability protection before delivering reactors, creating diplomatic pressure.
Way forward:
- Strengthen Liability and Safety Frameworks: The government should Amend the Civil Liability for Nuclear Damage (CLND) Act to ensure fair risk-sharing between operators and suppliers.
- Need to invest in advanced reactor safety technologies (e.g., Small Modular Reactors – SMRs) and strengthen independent regulatory oversight.
- Develop Robust Waste Management and Indigenous Capabilities: The government should establish permanent disposal sites for high-level nuclear waste with stringent monitoring.
- Need to enhance domestic nuclear technology (e.g., Thorium-based reactors) to reduce reliance on foreign suppliers and improve energy security.
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PYQ Relevance:
Q) Clean energy is the order of the day.’ Describe briefly India’s changing policy towards climate change in various international fora in the context of geopolitics. (UPSC CSE 2018) |
Mentor’s Comment: UPSC mains have always focused on Climate Change (2017), and COP 26 (2021).
In the Climate Change Performance Index (CCPI) 2025, India ranks among the top 10 climate performers globally, underscoring its commitment to climate action. India has been recognized for its significant role in South-South climate cooperation, reflecting its leadership in fostering collaboration among developing nations to address climate change.
Today’s editorial highlights how South-South cooperation can help achieve climate goals, promote sustainable development, and empower developing countries to meet their climate targets, drawing attention to India’s strategic opportunities and responsibilities in this area. This content would help in substantiation of answers in Mains GS Paper III (Environment and Biodiversity).
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Why in the News?
India’s potential role in fostering climate cooperation between developing nations through South-South cooperation in the context of the Paris Agreement is needed for the global solutions to tackle climate change.
How does Article 6 of the Paris Agreement benefit India in achieving its climate goals?
- Carbon Markets: Under Article 6.2, countries can trade carbon credits to meet their emissions reduction targets. India can participate in these carbon markets, generating revenue by selling surplus carbon credits earned through emission reductions in sectors like renewable energy, energy efficiency, and afforestation.
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- By engaging in carbon trading, India can attract foreign investments from companies in developed countries looking to offset their emissions. This can provide funding for clean energy projects, supporting India’s transition to a low-carbon economy.
- Cooperative Approaches: Article 6.4 establishes a global carbon market mechanism, similar to the Clean Development Mechanism (CDM) under the Kyoto Protocol, but with improvements. India could utilize this mechanism to undertake joint projects with other countries that help reduce emissions while fostering sustainable development.
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- Through cooperative approaches, India can access advanced technologies, practices, and expertise from other countries, enabling its industries to adopt cleaner technologies and improve energy efficiency, contributing to its climate and development goals.
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- Article 6.8 promotes non-market mechanisms, which focus on facilitating actions like capacity-building, finance, and knowledge sharing to address climate change. This can help India strengthen its national capabilities to implement climate policies and adapt to the impacts of climate change, particularly in vulnerable regions.
- India, being highly vulnerable to the effects of climate change, can benefit from non-market approaches to enhance its adaptive capacities and resilience, addressing critical sectors like agriculture, water resources, and infrastructure.
- Flexibility in Meeting Targets:
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- The flexibility provided by Article 6 allows India to find the most cost-effective solutions for emission reductions, especially in sectors where technology deployment is expensive or challenging. It provides an opportunity to meet its Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) in a way that balances economic growth with environmental sustainability.
What are the potential challenges India faces in utilizing ITMOs and engaging in international climate finance?
- Monitoring, Reporting, and Verification (MRV) Systems: India’s current MRV systems for tracking emissions reductions may not meet the rigorous standards required for ITMOs, which are crucial for ensuring transparency and accountability in carbon markets.
- Inadequate MRV mechanisms could hinder India’s ability to accurately quantify and report emission reductions, limiting its participation in carbon trading and climate finance.
- Accessing Climate Finance: Despite being a major developing country, India faces challenges in accessing sufficient and predictable climate finance from international sources, as the global financing mechanisms often favor smaller or more vulnerable nations.
- Limited access to finance can slow down India’s ability to implement large-scale climate projects, especially in sectors like renewable energy, adaptation, and infrastructure development.
- Ensuring Environmental Integrity: While ITMOs enable carbon trading, there’s a risk of “low-quality” credits or “double counting” (where emissions reductions are claimed by multiple parties), which could undermine the credibility and environmental integrity of the system.
- If India is not careful in ensuring robust methodologies for generating and trading ITMOs, it might face challenges in maintaining the credibility of its climate commitments, affecting its international reputation.
- Domestic Policy and Institutional Coordination: India’s domestic policies on climate change may not be fully aligned with the requirements of international climate finance mechanisms or ITMO systems. There is also a need for better coordination among various ministries and stakeholders to implement and track climate action effectively.
- Misalignment between international climate goals and domestic policies could result in inefficiencies and missed opportunities to access ITMOs and climate finance.
What are the opportunities for India under South-South cooperation via Article 6.2?
- Carbon Trading with Fellow Developing Countries: India can collaborate with neighbouring countries like Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, and others in the South Asian region to work together to reduce emissions through renewable energy, afforestation, or energy efficiency programs.
- India could sell any surplus carbon credits generated through its own emission reduction efforts to other developing countries that need help meeting their own NDCs (Nationally Determined Contributions). This allows India to both achieve its climate goals and potentially generate revenue.
- Technology and Knowledge Transfer: India has already made significant progress in solar energy and can offer valuable lessons and technologies to fellow developing countries.
- India can also help other countries develop adaptation strategies for climate change impacts, such as water management techniques, disaster preparedness, and climate-resilient infrastructure.
- In return, India could receive new technologies, methods, and knowledge to enhance its own climate resilience.
- Joint Ventures for Clean Energy Projects: India can partner with other developing countries to co-develop large-scale renewable energy projects, such as solar, wind, or hydropower. Joint initiatives could be supported by carbon markets, with emission reductions which could attract investments, expertise, and improve access to clean energy technologies.
- By collaborating with other developing countries, India can contribute to the development of affordable, scalable solutions that are tailored to the specific needs of developing nations.
- These solutions could be implemented locally, reducing emissions and improving energy access.
- Strengthening Capacity and Institutional Frameworks: South-South cooperation can help India and other developing countries to assist in establishing frameworks for monitoring, reporting, and verifying (MRV) emissions reductions, benefiting both India and its partner countries.
- India can help south countries in refining its strategies and implementing the best practices that suit their own development contexts.
- Leveraging Climate Finance: India, by engaging in South-South cooperation, could also have access to international financial instruments that make climate action more affordable.
- This would be particularly beneficial in sectors where India faces challenges in scaling up clean technologies, like electric vehicles, or in regions like rural areas that require adaptation interventions.
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PYQ Relevance:
Q) “India’s relations with Israel have, of late, acquired a depth and diversity, which cannot be rolled back.” Discuss. (UPSC CSE 2018)
Q) Consider the following statements: (2023)
Statement I: Israel has established diplomatic relations with some Arab States.
Statement-II: The ‘Arab Peace Initiative’ mediated by Saudi Arabia was signed by Israel and Arab League.
Which one of the following is correct in respect of the above statements?
(a) Both Statement-I and Statement-II are correct and Statement II is the correct explanation for Statement I
(b) Both Statement-I and Statement-II are correct and Statement-II is not the correct explanation for Statement-I
(c) Statement I is correct but Statement II is incorrect
(d) Statement I is incorrect but Statement II is correct |
Mentor’s Comment: UPSC mains have always focused on India’s relations with Israel (2018), and the Arab Peace Initiative for Israel and Palestine ( 2023).
On February 4, 2025, Donald Trump proposed relocating Gaza’s 2.3 million residents to Egypt and Jordan, turning the area into a global resort under U.S. control. He hinted at a West Bank plan soon. Alongside Netanyahu, he praised Saudi Crown Prince Mb Salman, who reaffirmed that Saudi-Israel ties depend on a Palestinian state’s creation.
Today’s editorial talks about issues in the Middle East which is always in the news because of the Israel and Palestine conflict. This topic is also the favourite of UPSC in GS Paper2 mains and prelims related to International relations above mentioned in the box (PYQ Relevance). This content would help in substantiation of answers in Mains GS Paper 2.
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Why in the News?
Donald Trump recently proposed an audacious plan to relocate 2.3 million residents of the Gaza Strip to Egypt and Jordan, turning Gaza into a global resort, which has stirred geopolitical tension.
- This suggestion, along with his praise for Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman (MbS), hints at possible changes in the West Asia region, especially concerning the Israel-Palestine issue and Saudi Arabia’s potential involvement in the Abraham Accords.
What is meant by Trump’s ‘expanding the canvas’ strategy?
- Trump’s “expanding the canvas” strategy refers to his approach of broadening the scope of a negotiation or conflict resolution by introducing bold, often extreme proposals to provoke reaction and stimulate further discussions.
- By presenting an audacious or exaggerated idea, he aims to shift the focus and push opposing parties to consider more realistic and agreeable counter-offers. The idea is that this “shock tactic” can help break a stalemate and create space for new solutions.
- In the context of the Gaza proposal, Trump’s suggestion to depopulate Gaza and turn it into a global resort serves as an example of this strategy—pushing the boundaries of negotiation to force other stakeholders to come up with a more balanced, practical solution.
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What are the implications of the proposed strategy for the Gaza conflict, and how might it reshape the geopolitical landscape in West Asia?
- Geopolitical Tensions and Pushback: This proposal would likely anger Palestinians and Arab nations, as it bypasses the core issue of Palestinian statehood and self-determination. It could worsen tensions between Israel, Palestinians, and neighboring Arab countries.
- The suggestion might also be viewed as a land grab or colonial move, particularly because it disregards the established claim of Palestinians to their land, creating significant backlash in the region and beyond.
- Impact on Palestinian Statehood: Trump’s plan shifts focus away from the two-state solution (Israel and Palestine coexisting as separate states), which many international actors, including the U.S. and the UN, support.
- The proposal undermines the push for Palestinian independence and could derail efforts to achieve a lasting peace settlement.
- Saudi Arabia and Other Arab Nations’ Involvement: Trump’s proposal could alter the balance in Arab-Israeli relations. Saudi Arabia, which is being courted for inclusion in the Abraham Accords, might find it difficult to reconcile such a plan with its own stance on Palestinian rights, especially since Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman has linked normalization with Israel to the creation of a Palestinian state.
- It could either push Saudi Arabia and other Arab states further toward Israel or create more division, depending on how the proposal is received by the region’s leaders.
- Shifting Regional Alliances: If Saudi Arabia were to move toward accepting the proposal, it could signal a significant shift in Middle Eastern alliances, possibly leading to greater cooperation between Arab states and Israel, while sidelining Palestinian aspirations for statehood.
- On the other hand, if the plan fails, it could deepen regional divisions, particularly between Israel and the Arab world, and intensify the existing geopolitical instability in the region.
How are the ongoing conflicts and economic challenges in West Asia affecting the region’s future?
Political Impact of Conflicts: The wars and conflicts in places like Gaza, Syria, Yemen, and Lebanon have created deep divisions and instability. The region has been repolarized, leading to less cooperation and more distrust between nations.
- Issues such as the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, Iran’s nuclear ambitions, and Kurdish national aspirations remain unresolved, keeping tensions high and preventing lasting peace.
Economic Challenges: The conflicts have caused massive destruction, with the rebuilding costs in places like Gaza, Lebanon, and Syria. However, economic recovery is impossible without resolving the political issues first.
- The region’s economy is also heavily dependent on oil, which is a vulnerable resource. The global push to move away from fossil fuels and the volatility of oil prices make the region’s future uncertain.
- Countries like Saudi Arabia are aware of this and are trying to diversify their economies, but this process is slow.
What are the Abraham Accords?
The Abraham Accords refer to a series of normalization agreements between Israel and several Arab countries, aimed at establishing diplomatic, economic, and cultural relations. These agreements were brokered by the USA, and they marked a significant shift in Middle Eastern geopolitics.
Here are the four major features of the Abraham Accords:
- Normalization of Relations: Israel established diplomatic ties with Arab countries like UAE, Bahrain, Sudan, and Morocco.
- Economic Collaboration: The signatories are working together to enhance trade relations, investment opportunities, and economic partnerships. Israel’s advanced technology sector, including cybersecurity and innovation, is seen as a valuable area for collaboration with the Arab countries.
- Security Cooperation: Enhances defense and intelligence sharing, especially to address regional threats like Iran. As part of the normalization, the Accords encourage cultural exchange programs, tourism, and people-to-people connections.
- Exclusion of the Palestinian Issue: One of the most notable features—and points of controversy—of the Abraham Accords is that the agreements were made without resolving the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
- While Palestinian leaders and many in the Arab world have opposed the Accords, claiming they betray the Palestinian cause, the agreements were framed as separate tracks that do not require the resolution of Palestinian statehood for Arab-Israeli relations to normalize.
Saudi Arabia’s Role in Shaping Stability:
- Economic Influence: Saudi Arabia, as the largest economy in the region, plays a major role in the economic stability of West Asia. It has massive reserves of wealth, particularly from its oil exports, and is using this to invest in rebuilding and diversifying the region’s economy. The Saudi Public Investment Fund, for example, is helping to fuel new development projects.
- Diplomatic Influence: Saudi Arabia’s political influence is also crucial. Under Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman (MbS), the country has made efforts to mediate regional conflicts, like the war in Yemen and tensions with Iran. It has also sought to balance relationships with global powers, including the U.S., China, and Russia, while maintaining its leadership role in the Arab and Islamic world.
- Potential to Guide Regional Stability: Despite the conflicts around it, Saudi Arabia has largely avoided direct involvement in the region’s major wars. It can use its wealth and diplomatic leverage to fund reconstruction efforts and push for more peaceful, negotiated solutions to ongoing conflicts. It also holds significant sway over organizations like OPEC, which can affect the global oil market and, by extension, the region’s economy.
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What are the challenges the US faces in advancing the Abraham Accords, and how does it complicate vision for broader Arab-Israeli normalization?
- Palestinian Statehood and the Core Issue of the Conflict: The Palestinian issue is a major barrier to Arab-Israeli normalization, with many Arab nations, including Saudi Arabia, insisting on a Palestinian state as a prerequisite.
- Trump’s focus on individual peace deals with Arab states bypasses this issue, making it difficult for countries like Saudi Arabia to fully normalize relations with Israel.
- Opposition from Palestinian Leaders and Supporters: The Palestinian leadership has consistently rejected the Abraham Accords, seeing them as a betrayal of their cause. They argue that normalizing relations with Israel without addressing Palestinian rights and the establishment of a Palestinian state undermines their struggle for sovereignty and independence.
- This complicates the situation. As long as Palestinians feel excluded from peace processes or see no meaningful progress toward a state of their own, it will be difficult to secure broad Arab-Israeli normalization.
- Resistance from Ultra-Religious Israeli Groups: Within Israel, the growing influence of ultra-religious Jewish groups also complicates Trump’s plans. These groups often oppose any peace deal and their influence makes it harder for the Israeli government to adopt policies that could lead to broader peace agreements, even with Arab states.
- Competing Interests Among Arab States: While some Arab states like the UAE and Bahrain have embraced the Abraham Accords, others, particularly in the Gulf, have been more cautious.
- Saudi Arabia, for example, has signaled interest in normalizing relations with Israel, but only on the condition that Palestinian statehood is part of the deal.
- This puts Trump in a difficult position, as he must balance the desire to expand the Accords with the realities of Arab and Palestinian demands.
Way Forward:
- Need for Revised Diplomacy: A lasting solution must address Palestinian statehood, with a two-state solution being central to gaining support from Arab nations and Palestinian leaders. Direct negotiations, backed by international mediators, are crucial.
- Arab states, Israel, and global powers must work together through multilateral platforms, with Saudi Arabia playing a key role in fostering peace and stability in the region.
- Humanitarian Focus: Immediate efforts are needed to address the humanitarian crisis in Gaza and surrounding areas, with international aid supporting reconstruction and stability.
- Economic Diversification: The region must move beyond oil dependency by investing in other industries, with collaboration between the U.S. and Gulf states to promote long-term economic stability.
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PYQ Relevance:
Q. The scourge of terrorism is a grave challenge to national security. What solutions do you suggest to curb this growing menace? What are the major sources of terrorist funding? (2017)
Q. Discuss the impediments India is facing in its pursuit of a permanent seat in the UN Security Council. (2015) |
Mentor’s Comment: UPSC mains have always focused on grave challenge to national security (2017), and ‘pursuit of a permanent seat in the UN Security Council ’ (2015)
Wars are raging, global institutions are failing, and terrorism is evolving in new, digital, and decentralized forms. While conflicts like the Ukraine war and Gaza crisis dominate headlines, subterranean threats such as radicalization and lone-wolf terrorism are quietly reshaping global security risks.
Today’s editorial highlights why the world is in a volatile state, how extremist groups are adapting, and why counterterrorism efforts must evolve to meet these new challenges. This content will help in GS paper 2 (Security issues).
Why in the News?
The world is going through an unpredictable phase, with wars, conflicts, and terrorism on the rise. The post-1945 global order has collapsed, and international institutions like the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) and the International Court of Justice (ICJ) are failing to prevent violence. At the same time, terrorism is evolving, using digital tools and decentralized networks to survive and grow.
Why is the Present Period Unpredictable?
- Wars in Europe and West Asia:
- The Ukraine war continues with no clear end in sight.
- The Gaza conflict and tensions in Lebanon have led to large-scale civilian casualties.
- Failure of Global Institutions:
- The UNSC and ICJ have become powerless observers, unable to stop wars.
- The principles of international law are now ignored by major powers.
- Moral and Political Decline:
- Nations are acting in self-interest, with no common moral framework.
- Peace efforts are temporary and do not address the root causes of conflicts.
What are the Recent Subterranean Activities?
- False Sense of Stability in West Asia:
- Some believe that Israeli military actions have weakened Iran’s regional influence.
- However, underground resistance movements are growing, keeping tensions high.
- Resurgence of Islamist Extremism:
- Jihadist groups are reorganizing, using online radicalization.
- “Lone wolf” attacks are increasing, making them harder to predict.
- Digital Radicalization:
- Terrorist groups are recruiting and training people online.
- Social media and encrypted messaging apps are used to spread extremist ideologies.
How Terrorism is Witnessing a Revival?
- Terrorism is Adapting:
- Since 1979, terrorist networks have evolved.
- Al-Qaeda and ISIS have used both military and digital strategies to stay active.
- Now, terrorism is shifting towards smaller, more frequent attacks.
- Al-Qaeda and ISIS Regrouping:
- Al-Qaeda is training militants in Afghanistan, under Taliban rule.
- ISIS-Khorasan (ISKP) is expanding its operations beyond Afghanistan and Pakistan.
- Attacks have been reported in Moscow, Türkiye, and Iran.
- More Small-Scale Attacks:
- Instead of large bombings, modern terrorism relies on:
- Lone-wolf attacks (one person acting alone).
- Vehicle attacks, knives, or simple explosives.
- AI-driven propaganda to recruit supporters.
- Recent Terror Attacks in the U.S.:
- Las Vegas Cyber Truck Explosion: A Tesla exploded outside a hotel where President-elect Donald Trump was staying.
- New Orleans Vehicle Attack: A former soldier drove a truck into a crowd, killing 14 people while displaying an ISIS flag.
- Virginia Terror Plot: Authorities foiled a planned attack in early 2025.
- Warnings for the Future:
- Experts warn of a new wave of terror attacks using digital tools.
- Security agencies worldwide are on high alert to prevent further incidents.
Conclusion
A technology-driven and cooperative global approach is essential to counter rising conflicts and terrorism. Nations must strengthen international institutions, use AI for surveillance, and enforce stricter digital regulations to prevent online radicalization. Community engagement and de-radicalization programs can help address extremism at its roots. Stronger border security, cyber-tracking, and intelligence-sharing will be key to preventing future attacks. As threats become more decentralized and digital, proactive measures and global collaboration are the only paths to lasting peace.
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PYQ Relevance:
Q) How have digital initiatives in India contributed to the functioning of the education system in the country? Elaborate your answer (UPSC CSE 2020)
Q) Despite the consistent experience of high growth, India still goes with the lowest indicators of human development. Examine the issues that make balanced and inclusive development elusive. (UPSC CSE 2019) |
Mentor’s Comment: UPSC mains have always focused on National Education Policy (2020), and Significance of Primary Education (2016 and 2022).
Did you know that, the Budget Allocation for the FY 2024-25 of ₹ 73,498 cr is the highest ever for the Department of School Education & Literacy. On the other hand, while science and technology have integrated countries, education can generate the need for profit and can widespread use of innovations.
Today’s editorial discusses the major observations from the ASER 2024 Report. This content can be used in Mains answer to present the Digital divide in Rural and Urban Area. Further this content also tells you the Potential of Digital infrastructure and Implementation that India needs to build.
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Why in the News?
According to the recent ACER Survey 2024, India lacks a road map in the field of education that allows the promise of technology to be harnessed for those who need it the most.
What are the Key Highlights given by ASER 2024?
| The Annual Status of Education Report (ASER) is a citizen-led survey that provides estimates of schooling and learning levels in rural India. Published by the NGO Pratham, ASER has been conducted since 2005. After 2016, the survey transitioned to an alternate-year model, with the “basic” ASER conducted in all rural districts every other year. In the intervening years, a smaller survey focuses on specific age groups and domains. The “basic” ASER tracks enrollment for children aged 3-16 and assesses the reading and arithmetic skills of children aged 5-16 through household surveys. |
- Academic Observations and Reporting: Since 2006, private school enrollment in rural India has been increasing, plateauing at 30.8% in 2014 and remaining there in 2018.
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- Basic arithmetic abilities in Class 3 have risen to 33.7% in 2024, exceeding both 2022 and 2018 rates. Class 5 reading levels are also up, nearly matching 2018 figures, although private schools have not yet reached their pre-pandemic reading levels.
- Attendance for both teachers and students in government elementary schools has improved. Several states have pre-primary enrollment rates above 90%.
- Focus on Foundational Literacy and Numeracy: The big push for foundational literacy and numeracy (FLN) under NEP 2020 and the NIPUN Bharat Mission has helped to improve foundational learning through better resources, learning materials, and teacher training which appears to be a major contributor to the improvements noted in the ASER 2024 report.
- Emphasis on Early Childhood Education: NEP 2020’s emphasis on early childhood education is expected to further improve access, as ASER 2024 reported increased enrollment in early childhood education, with almost 80% of children aged 3 to 6 years enrolled in some form of pre-primary education.
- Improved Accessibility and Potential: In 2018, approximately 90% of rural households possessed basic mobile phones, while 36% owned smartphones. By 2022, smartphone ownership in these households increased to over 74%, and further to 84% in 2024, but educational use is limited to 57%.
- Among children aged 14-16, smartphone ownership rose from 19% to about 31% within a year.
- Smartphones were mainly used to send texts, worksheets, and videos during the pandemic as a substitute for textbooks. Digital skills from the pandemic remained relevant, and artificial intelligence (AI) generated new interest.
- Reversing Pandemic Losses: The ASER 2024 report suggests a rebound from the learning losses during the COVID-19 pandemic, especially in government schools, where reading and arithmetic skills have reached or exceeded pre-pandemic levels.
- The improvement in standard III implies that some of its credit can go to the NIPUN Bharat Mission.
What are the present challenges of digital divide in India according to ASER Report 2024?
- Gender Disparity: Boys outpace girls in access, ownership, and smartphone usage, which puts girls at a disadvantage and exacerbates existing inequalities. Even when smartphones are available, girls face systemic barriers that limit their access, such as social norms, parental control, and prioritization of boys’ education.
- Access vs. Usage: While nearly all children between 14 and 16 have access to cell phones, only 57% use smart devices for education-related activities, while about 76% use them for social media.
- Variations Across States: ASER 2024 indicates wide variations in digital literacy across states.
- Digital Literacy Skills: While smartphone access is widespread, structured digital education programs can enhance meaningful use of technology for learning.
- There is a gender gap in digital skills, with 85.5% of boys and 79.4% of girls reporting that they know how to use a smartphone.
- Smartphone Ownership: There is a gender gap in smartphone ownership, with only 36.2% of boys and 26.9% of girls reporting owning a smartphone.
- This lack of personal ownership limits access and curtails opportunities for girls to explore and learn independently.
How can technology be leveraged to bridge the digital divide and ensure equitable access to educational resources?
- Targeted distribution of school-owned devices: Schools can monitor device-to-student ratios to decide how each device can best support specific learning activities within the curriculum.
- Distribution can be based on the individual needs of the student, ensuring that each device is allocated where it can have the most significant impact on learning.
- Embrace pedagogically-led technology integration: Prioritizing integrating technology in a way that enhances the learning experience as a whole can ensure that every student benefits from the transformative potential of digital tools.
- This includes how educators are trained in technology as a means to achieve equitable learning outcomes.
- Assess Needs and Resources: Survey families to understand current technology access at home and take inventory of existing school technology equipment and infrastructure. Identify areas that need upgrades to support 1:1 device programs.
- Provide Multiple Access Options: Offer devices that students can use at school and take home and create a community technology center with free WiFi, computers, and printers. Partner with community organizations to provide access outside of school
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PYQ Relevance:
Q) Distinguish between Capital Budget and Revenue Budget. Explain the components of both these Budgets. (UPSC CSE 2021) |
Mentor’s Comment: UPSC mains have always focused on the Capital Budget and Revenue Budget (2021), and the objectives of Union-Budget (2017).
The Union Budget’s forecast of 10.1% nominal GDP growth for 2025-26 seems reasonable, based on the Economic Survey’s prediction of 6.3%-6.8% real GDP growth. Although capital spending has gone up, it’s similar to last year’s budget. The Budget aims to drive growth towards becoming a developed nation, though some measures, like tax relief, could have come sooner.
Today’s editorial talks about the measures taken in the Budget. This content would help in GS paper 3 in the economy section.
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Why in the News?
Some measures in the Budget should have been introduced earlier and replacing ‘fiscal deficit’ as a key indicator is a wrong decision.
How realistic are the government’s tax revenue growth assumptions?
- Gross Tax Revenue (GTR) Trends: The growth in the Government of India’s GTR has been trending downwards in recent years. The buoyancy of GTR has fallen for three successive years from 1.4 in 2023-24 to 1.15 in 2024-25 (RE) and then to 1.07 in 2025-26 (BE). As a result, growth in the Government of India’s GTR has kept falling from 13.5% in 2023-24 to 11.2% in 2024-25 (RE), and to 10.8% in 2025-26 (BE). Within the government’s tax revenues, the growth rate of Goods and Services Tax (GST) has also fallen from 12.7% in 2023-24 to 10.9% in 2025-26 (BE).
- Shift to Direct Taxes: The structure of the government’s taxation has moved from indirect to direct taxes, with the share of direct taxes in the government’s GTR increasing from 52% in 2021-22 to 59% in 2025-26 (BE).
- Personal Income Tax: There has been a fall in growth from 25.4% in 2023-24 to 20.3% in 2024-25 (RE) and 14.4% in 2025-26 (BE). This fall in growth in 2025-26 (BE) is partly due to the announced income-tax concessions.
- Corporate Income Tax: The growth in 2024-25 (RE) is quite low at 7.6%. This growth has been raised to 10.4% in 2025-26 (BE).
Is the level of government expenditure appropriate, and is its composition efficient?
- Overall Expenditure: The government is estimated to spend Rs 50,65,345 crore in 2025-26, 7.4% higher than the revised estimate of 2024-25. The size of government expenditure as a percentage of GDP has been reduced from 14.6% in 2024-25 (RE) to 14.2% in 2025-26 (BE). Growth in total expenditure, at 7.6% in 2025-26 (BE), is lower than the budgeted nominal GDP growth at 10.1%.
- Capital Expenditure: Capital expenditure has been raised from 11.11 lakh crore rupees in the current fiscal year to 11.21 lakh crore rupees for the oncoming fiscal year1. There has been a steady improvement in the quality of government expenditure as the share of capital expenditure in total expenditure has been improving. This share has improved by 10% points over the period from 2020-21 to 2025-26 (BE).
- Investment in Key Areas: Investment remains a central theme in the Budget, categorized into three key areas—people, economy, and innovation.
- Investment in people: Includes the establishment of Atal Tinkering Labs, broadband connectivity for schools and health centers, Centers of Excellence for Skilling, and initiatives for Gig workers.
- Investment in the economy: Focuses on infrastructure projects, interest-free loans to states for capital expenditure, asset monetization, and urban redevelopment projects.
- Investment in innovation: Allocates funds to private sector-driven R&D initiatives and missions to support urban planning and knowledge systems.
- AI Infrastructure: The Government of India has to build up large-scale Artificial Intelligence (AI) infrastructure in order to facilitate the adoption of emerging technologies.
Is the shift away from using fiscal deficit as a primary indicator of fiscal prudence a positive step?
- Change in Indicator: One measure introduced in the Budget is to move away from fiscal deficit as an indicator of fiscal prudence. The practice of giving a glide path in terms of fiscal deficit is being discontinued. It has been stated that from now on, the focus will be on reducing the debt-GDP ratio annually.
- New Target: The central government aims to reduce its outstanding liabilities to around 50% of GDP by March 2031.
- Debt-GDP Ratio: In the 2025-26 Budget, the practice of giving a glide path in terms of fiscal deficit is being discontinued. Alternative paths of the debt-GDP ratio with nominal GDP growth assumptions of 10.0%, 10.5% and 11.0% are given.
- The glide paths are indicated in terms of alternative growth assumptions and alternative assumptions regarding mild, moderate, and high degrees of fiscal consolidation. This makes the whole exercise vague and non-transparent.
- Fiscal Deficit Target: The fiscal deficit target for FY26 is set at 4.4% of GDP, revised down from 4.8% in the current financial year.
Way forward:
- Restore Fiscal Deficit Transparency: Reintroduce clear fiscal deficit targets with specific timelines, instead of focusing solely on the debt-GDP ratio. This would ensure greater clarity and accountability in fiscal management.
- Enhance Investment Efficiency: Prioritize strategic investments in key areas like AI infrastructure, R&D, and innovation, while ensuring these investments align with long-term growth goals and contribute to overall economic resilience.
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PYQ Relevance:
Q) Critically examine the role of WHOin providing global health security during the Covid-19 pandemic. (UPSC CSE 2020) |
Mentor’s Comment: UPSC mains have always focused on Bridging Healthcare Gaps (2015), and WHO Initiatives (2020).
The US is the largest contributor to WHO, providing about 18% of its funding. The withdrawal is expected to jeopardize critical health programs, particularly those addressing tuberculosis, HIV/AIDS, and other health emergencies.
Today’s editorial emphasizes the need for member states to collaborate more effectively in light of reduced US involvement, ensuring that global health priorities remain addressed despite funding challenges. This content can be used to present the significance of multilateral collaboration and its impact on international policy and governance with respect to Health.
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Why in the News?
After the USA’s withdrawal from WHO, it is time for the countries in the global south to support WHO and initiate collaborative actions to reshape the global health agenda.
What are the Potential Impacts of the US Withdrawal from WHO?
- Disruption of Funding and Programs: The US contributes nearly 18% of WHO’s budget (~$1 billion annually), supporting critical health programs like immunization, tuberculosis control, and pandemic preparedness.
- The withdrawal will likely disrupt ongoing projects aimed at combating health challenges such as HIV/AIDS and polio eradication.
- Weakened Global Health Response: WHO’s ability to coordinate responses to health crises will be significantly impaired without US support. This includes reduced resources for disease surveillance and emergency operations in regions facing outbreaks or health threats.
- Impact on Global Health Leadership and Collaboration: The absence of the US may create a leadership vacuum within WHO, allowing other nations (e.g., China) to increase their influence.
- This shift could alter international collaboration dynamics and lead to fragmented approaches to public health challenges.
- Repercussions for Low-Income Countries: Marginalized communities in low-income countries may face disproportionate impacts due to reduced funding from WHO. These communities rely heavily on WHO for access to essential health services, and the withdrawal signals a deprioritization of global health initiatives, exacerbating existing inequalities.
- The overall effectiveness of global health initiatives may decline as WHO struggles with funding constraints and could slow long-term progress toward key health goals, such as disease eradication and comprehensive vaccination programs, ultimately affecting global health security.
How might the withdrawal reshape international health diplomacy?
- Shift in Global Health Leadership: The absence of the US may create a leadership vacuum within WHO, potentially allowing countries like China to increase their influence in global health governance.
- This shift could alter the dynamics of international collaboration, with other nations stepping up to fill the void left by the US.
- Increased Geopolitical Tensions: The withdrawal could intensify competition between the US and China for influence in global health matters.
- China’s initiatives, such as the Health Silk Road, may gain traction as it seeks to position itself as a leader in global health, thereby reshaping alliances and partnerships among countries.
- Impact on Multilateral Cooperation: The US’s exit may weaken multilateral cooperation on critical health issues, leading to fragmented responses to global health challenges.
- Countries may become less willing to collaborate on shared health threats without US leadership, which could hinder effective pandemic preparedness and response efforts.
- Loss of Diplomatic Leverage: By withdrawing, the US relinquishes its role as a key influencer in shaping global health policies and initiatives.
- This could diminish its ability to advocate for public health programs that align with its interests and values, allowing other nations to take a more prominent role in setting global health agendas.
- Disproportionate Effects: The low-income countries that rely heavily on WHO for support may face greater challenges without US involvement.
What reforms or changes might be necessary within WHO in light of this withdrawal?
- Diversification of Funding Sources: WHO should encourage member states to increase their assessed contributions, which currently cover less than 20% of its budget. This could help reduce reliance on any single donor, particularly the US.
- WHO can seek to expand its voluntary contributions from other countries and private organizations to fill the financial gap left by the US withdrawal.
- Strengthening Governance and Accountability: Implementing more transparent financial management practices can help restore trust among member states and ensure that funds are allocated effectively.
- Establishing an independent oversight body to review WHO’s operations and decision-making processes may help address concerns about political influence and enhance accountability.
What opportunity do India have in this situation?
- Increased Leadership Role: India can take a prominent leadership position within WHO, representing the Global South.
- For Example, through the Vaccine Maitri initiative, India facilitated vaccine exports during the COVID-19 pandemic, demonstrating its commitment to global health equity and influencing health policies.
- Strengthening Domestic Capabilities: The withdrawal allows India to bolster its healthcare infrastructure and research capabilities.
- For Example, significant investments in indigenous vaccine production, such as Covaxin and Covishield, have positioned India as a major player in global vaccine supply chains, enhancing self-reliance and healthcare outcomes.
- Enhanced Collaboration with Emerging Economies: India can forge stronger partnerships with other emerging economies to collaboratively address global health challenges.
- For Example, engagement with countries like Brazil and South Africa through the IBSA Dialogue Forum can focus on shared issues like antimicrobial resistance and maternal health, enhancing collective responses to public health threats.
- Leveraging Pharmaceutical Strength: India’s robust pharmaceutical industry can fill gaps left by reduced WHO funding.
- Known as the “pharmacy of the world,” India supplied affordable vaccines during the pandemic, reinforcing its reputation as a key player in global healthcare by continuing to produce low-cost medications.
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Way Forward: India can not only mitigate the impacts of the US withdrawal but also can significantly contribute to shaping a more equitable global health landscape.
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PYQ Relevance:
Q) ‘China is using its economic relations and positive trade surplus as tools to develop potential military power status in Asia’, In the light of this statement, discuss its impact on India as her neighbor. (UPSC CSE 2017)
Q) The Gati-Shakti Yojana needs meticulous co-ordination between the government and the private sector to achieve the goal of connectivity. Discuss. (UPSC CSE 2022) |
Mentor’s Comment: UPSC mains have always focused on Sustainable Development (2016, 2017, 2018 and 2022), and Budget Initiatives (2017 and 2021).
Currently, India holds only about 0.05% of the global market share in shipbuilding, significantly lower than competitors like China (47%), South Korea (30%), and Japan (17%). This disparity highlights that without addressing inefficiencies in container movement and logistics integration, infrastructure growth alone will not lead to meaningful progress.
The editorial discusses the recent positive developments in India’s shipping industry, particularly following the government’s announcements in the Union Budget 2025-26. This content can be used to present challenges in the Maritime Sector.
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Why in the News?
The Union Budget 2025-26 appears to have met most of the shipping industry’s demands; but it has missed an opportunity to address tax disparities.
What specific government initiatives are being introduced to support the shipping industry?
- Maritime Development Fund (MDF): This initiative is the establishment of a MDF with an initial corpus of ₹25,000 crore which aims to provide long-term financing for the shipbuilding and maritime sectors, facilitating investment and growth within the industry.
- Shipbuilding Financial Assistance Policy: The government has announced a revamp of the Shipbuilding Financial Assistance Policy (SBFAP) which aims to address cost disadvantages faced by domestic shipyards by providing direct financial subsidies, thereby encouraging local shipbuilding and enhancing competitiveness.
- Customs Duty Exemptions and Incentives: This Budget extends customs duty exemptions on inputs and components used for manufacturing ships for more than 10 years.
- Additionally, credit notes will be issued for shipbreaking activities, promoting a circular economy within the industry in order to make shipbuilding and recycling more competitive.
- Extension of Tonnage Tax Scheme: The benefits of the existing tonnage tax scheme, which previously applied only to sea-going ships, will now be extended to inland vessels registered under the Indian Vessels Act, 2021.
- This change aims to promote inland water transport and enhance the overall efficiency of the maritime sector.
- Establishment of Shipbuilding Clusters: The Indian shipping industry has been advocating for the extension of the Shipbuilding Financial Assistance Policy (SBFAP) for another 10 years under the Amritkaal Maritime Vision 2047.
- The government plans to facilitate the creation of shipbuilding clusters to increase capacity and capabilities in ship manufacturing.
How can these initiatives impact India’s position in the global shipping market?
- Enhanced Global Competitiveness: By establishing the Maritime Development Fund and revamping financial assistance policies, India aims to boost its shipbuilding capabilities and reduce costs associated with ship construction and repair.
- This could elevate India’s ranking in global shipbuilding from 22nd to potentially within the top 10 by 2030 and top 5 by 2047, thereby increasing its share of global ship tonnage from less than 1% to around 5%.
- Improved Infrastructure and Efficiency: The government’s focus on port modernization through initiatives like the Sagarmala Programme and Maritime India Vision 2030 is set to enhance port infrastructure, logistics efficiency, and multimodal connectivity.
- These improvements will reduce turnaround times for vessels and lower logistics costs, making Indian ports more attractive for international shipping lines and increasing cargo handling capacity significantly.
- Attracting Foreign Investment: With a favorable investment climate that allows 100% Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) in port development, India is positioned to attract significant foreign capital into its shipping sector.
- This influx of investment can lead to technological advancements, better operational practices, and increased capacity, further solidifying India’s role as a key player in global maritime trade.
What challenges does the Indian shipping industry face despite these positive developments?
- High Costs and Financial Constraints: Indian shipyards face significant cost disadvantages compared to global competitors, particularly in terms of higher material and labor costs, as well as expensive financing options.
- This results in a 25-30% cost disadvantage for Indian shipyards compared to those in countries like China and South Korea.
- Additionally, the imposition of a 5% Goods and Services Tax (GST) on ship imports, which is not refunded for international operations, further strains financial resources for shipping companies.
Does the SARFAESI Act impact loan availability?
- Under Section 31(d) of the SARFAESI Act, banks and financial institutions cannot create a security interest in vessels as defined by the Merchant Shipping Act, 1958.
- This limitation means that lenders cannot easily seize and auction ships in case of loan defaults, which reduces their willingness to extend credit to shipowners.
- The ongoing discussions about amending the SARFAESI Act to include provisions for ships indicate a recognition of these challenges.
- By allowing banks to hold security interests in vessels, the government can enhance loan availability and create a more favorable environment for financing within the maritime sector.
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- Infrastructure Bottlenecks: Major Indian ports are grappling with issues such as congestion, inefficiency, and inadequate infrastructure to support increasing traffic volumes.
- The growth in cargo traffic has outpaced the development of port facilities, leading to delays and higher operational costs.
- For example, backlogs for rail freight have increased significantly, impacting the timely movement of goods.
- Furthermore, labor strikes and outdated technology contribute to lower productivity at ports, making them less attractive to global shipping lines.
- Dependence on Foreign Suppliers: Indian shipyards heavily rely on foreign suppliers for critical components and technology, which increases costs and complicates supply chains.
- This dependency results in longer lead times for procurement and vulnerability to supply chain disruptions.
- The lack of a robust domestic supply chain for high-tech maritime components further exacerbates these challenges, limiting the competitiveness of Indian shipbuilding firms.
Way Forward:
To realize its aspirations under the Amritkaal Maritime Vision 2047, India must prioritize investments in infrastructure, streamline regulatory processes, and foster a skilled workforce.
- The path forward requires a concerted effort from all stakeholders to transform these challenges into opportunities for sustainable development in the maritime sector.
- Establish a National Port Grid Authority to coordinate development across major and minor ports, promoting specialization and eliminating inter-port competition.
- Implementing a hub-and-spoke model with mega ports acting as transshipment hubs can optimize cargo movement and efficiency.
- Deploy Smart Port Infrastructure Management Systems (SPIMS) and introduce blockchain-based Port Community Systems to facilitate paperless and IoT based trade.
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PYQ Relevance:
Q) One of the intended objectives of Union-Budget 15-18 is to ‘transform, energize and clean India’. Analyze the measures proposed in the Budget 15-18 to achieve the objective. (UPSC CSE 2017)
Q) Distinguish between Capital Budget and Revenue Budget. Explain the components of both these Budgets. (UPSC CSE 2021) |
Mentor’s Comment: UPSC mains have always focused on Sustainable Development (2016, 2017, 2018 and 2022), and Budget Initiatives (2017 and 2021).
The Union Budget 2024-25 presents a strategic framework aimed at fostering economic growth while addressing the needs of various sectors, particularly the middle class, agriculture, and employment. While efforts to streamline tax structures and reduce compliance burdens are positive, they must be accompanied by robust strategies to ensure sustainable growth and equitable distribution of resources.
The editorial emphasizes the urgent need for decisive and equitable action in addressing inclusive and sustained growth. This content can be used to present challenges/criticism for the present Budget 2025-26 in your Mains Answers for Economy and Infrastructure.
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Why in the News?
The Union Finance Minister presented the Union Budget on February 1, addressing significant economic challenges while outlining an ambitious plan for ‘Viksit Bharat’ that focuses on various sectors, which although requires careful evaluation.
What are the key highlights from Budget 2025 that would raise the questions?
- Fiscal Consolidation Target: This target aims to reduce the fiscal deficit from the previous year’s estimate of 4.9% and reflects the government’s commitment to managing public debt while balancing necessary public expenditures and economic growth challenges.
- The Budget sets a Fiscal Consolidation Target of 4.4% of GDP for FY26, relying on optimistic revenue projections, including 11.2% growth in total tax revenues and 14.4% in income tax revenues, despite significant tax cuts and economic challenges.
- Second Asset Monetisation Plan (2025-30): This plan aims to generate ₹10 lakh crore by monetizing government-owned assets. The proceeds from this monetization will be reinvested into new infrastructure projects.
- Success of Second Asset Monetisation Plan (2025-30) after previous underperformance raises concerns, and ₹11.54 lakh crore in net market borrowings may crowd out private capital amid weak credit demand.
- Additionally, the government has proposed ₹1.5 lakh crore in interest-free loans to states to further support capital expenditure and infrastructure reforms.
- Personal Income Tax: The revisions in income tax rates that exempt incomes up to ₹12 lakh can lead to a loss of ₹1 lakh crore in direct tax revenue due to the following reasons:
- Increased Exemptions: By exempting incomes up to ₹12 lakh, more individuals will not be liable to pay income tax, significantly reducing the overall tax base.
- Reduced Tax Rates: The new tax regime includes lower tax rates for various income brackets, which means that even those who do pay taxes will contribute less than they would under the previous regime.
- Impact on Government Revenue: The expected loss of ₹1 lakh crore in direct tax revenue will limit the government’s financial resources, constraining its ability to fund developmental initiatives and public services.
- Declining Household Savings: As the government foregoes this revenue, it may struggle to maintain or increase public investments, which could exacerbate the already declining household savings rate, impacting long-term economic stability.
- India’s Manufacturing Sector: The Budget aims to bolster India’s manufacturing sector, which currently contributes only 17% to the GDP, through various initiatives. However, significant challenges remain that could hinder the sector’s growth and competitiveness.
- Regulatory Inefficiencies: By enhancing access to credit for MSMEs, the government aims to foster growth, but the existing regulatory framework often hampers business operations, leading to delays and increased costs that undermine competitiveness.
- Low Innovation Capacity: The government has introduced PLIs targeting various sectors to encourage domestic production and attract foreign investment. However, the investment in R&D is critically low, currently at just 0.64% of GDP. This lack of focus on innovation limits the ability of Indian manufacturers to compete effectively.
- Structural Weaknesses: The manufacturing sector has been plagued by structural weaknesses such as high costs of raw materials and logistics, which make it less competitive compared to other nations.
- For example, steel prices in India are reported to be 20-30% higher than those in China.
What are the gaps highlighted by the budget that need to be recognized in the Agricultural Sector?
Significant Agricultural Initiatives taken by the Government in Budget 2025-26:
1. Prime Minister Dhan-Dhaanya Krishi Yojana:
- Objective: To enhance agricultural productivity and promote sustainable farming practices in 100 districts characterized by low productivity, moderate crop intensity, and below-average credit access.
- The initiative is expected to benefit approximately 1.7 crore farmers by providing them with better financial support and resources. The program will be executed in partnership with state governments, leveraging existing schemes and specialized measures to drive focused reforms.
- Key Focus Areas:
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- Introduce advanced farming techniques and modern equipment.
- Encourage farmers to grow a variety of crops instead of relying on a single crop.
- Develop storage facilities at the panchayat and block levels to reduce crop wastage.
- Enhance irrigation infrastructure to increase agricultural output.
- Facilitate easier access to both short-term and long-term credit for farmers.
2. National Mission on High-Yielding Seeds:
- Objective: This mission aims to improve the availability and use of high-yielding seed varieties to boost agricultural productivity across the country.
- The mission emphasizes research and development in seed technology, ensuring that farmers have access to superior quality seeds that can lead to better crop yields.
- It will work in conjunction with other agricultural programs, such as the Dhan-Dhaanya Krishi Yojana, to maximize the impact on food security and farmer income.
3. Increased Kisan Credit Card (KCC) Limit:
- The loan limit for KCC has been raised from ₹3 lakh to ₹5 lakh, along with targeted support in 100 low-productivity districts, indicating a shift from blanket subsidies to more precise financial assistance for farmers.
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- Short-Term Loan Focus: The emphasis on credit enhancements primarily through short-term loans may perpetuate farmers’ dependency on debt without resolving underlying issues.
- Systemic inefficiencies in agricultural markets remain unaddressed, particularly regarding price volatility and market access.
- Missed Export Opportunities: The lack of concrete measures to promote agricultural exports, especially as India aims to lead in millets and natural farming, represents a significant missed opportunity.
- Services exports, particularly in IT and business process outsourcing, are growing robustly at a 10.5% CAGR, but efforts to diversify the export portfolio are lacking.
- While initiatives like Bharat Trade Net (BTN) and export credit support for MSMEs are positive, they lack the scale necessary to effectively address India’s ongoing trade deficits.
- The depreciation of the rupee and declining foreign exchange reserves highlight the need for a more ambitious export strategy.
- A fiscal push toward value-added sectors such as pharmaceuticals, electronics, renewable energy, and high-value agricultural products could enhance India’s position in global supply chains and improve export competitiveness.
What are the questions raised on other transformative and sustainable pushes?
- Lithium-Ion Battery Recycling: Ace Green Recycling plans to establish India’s largest lithium iron phosphate (LFP) battery recycling facility in Gujarat, with a capacity of 10,000 metric tons per year by 2026.
- Incentives for Clean Tech Manufacturing: The Budget introduces tax benefits and policy extensions aimed at supporting electric vehicle (EV) startups and clean tech manufacturing. This includes exemptions on cobalt powder and lithium-ion battery scrap from basic Customs Duty, which is expected to strengthen India’s battery recycling ecosystem.
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- Despite these initiatives, the transition to a low-carbon economy remains fragmented due to insufficient investment in essential areas like grid modernization and energy storage.
- To achieve a successful transition to a low-carbon economy, India needs a more integrated approach that includes substantial investments in energy infrastructure alongside the current recycling initiatives.
- For example, enhancing energy storage capabilities is crucial for managing the intermittent nature of renewable energy sources like solar and wind power.
Way Forward:
- While the Budget lays a promising foundation for economic progress, it requires a comprehensive approach that not only focuses on immediate tax relief but also addresses long-term challenges in productivity, innovation, and market access.
- The success of these initiatives will be measured by their ability to create lasting benefits for all segments of society, driving India toward its vision of a prosperous and inclusive economy.
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PYQ Relevance:
Q) Analyze internal security threats and transborder crimes along Myanmar, Bangladesh and Pakistan borders including Line of Control (LoC). Also discuss the role played by various security forces in this regard. (UPSC CSE 2020)
Q) ‘India is an age-old friend of Sri Lanka.’ Discuss India’s role in the recent crisis in Sri Lanka in the light of the preceding statement. (UPSC CSE 2022) |
Mentor’s Comment: UPSC mains have always focused on Crossborder insurgency (2019), and Role of India in Southeast Asia (2017).
The ongoing violence in Myanmar, human rights abuses, and political repression have left millions in dire conditions, with over 6,000 civilians killed and 3.5 million displaced. According to the World Bank, by 2025, around 19.9 million people—one-third of the population—are expected to require humanitarian aid, including 6.3 million children in Myanmar.
As Myanmar marks four years since the military coup, today’s editorial highlights the urgent need for global attention and action. The international community’s response has been inadequate, failing to effectively challenge the junta’s grip on power. This content can be used to present Neighbourhood Policy or South Asian Democratic Crises in your Mains Answers.
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Why in the News?
There are several significant developments surrounding the ongoing crisis in Myanmar as it marks the fourth anniversary of the military coup.
![[1st February 2025] The Hindu Op-ed: Four years on, Myanmar and its continuing nightmare](https://d18x2uyjeekruj.cloudfront.net/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/myn.jpg)
What has been the impact of the military coup on Myanmar’s political landscape?
The military coup in Myanmar on February 1, 2021, has drastically altered the political landscape, leading to instability and conflict.
- Return to Military Rule: The coup reversed a decade-long democratic transition by overthrowing the elected government of Aung San Suu Kyi’s National League for Democracy (NLD), resulting in widespread protests and civil unrest against the junta.
- Rise in Civil Unrest and Resistance: The coup sparked massive protests and a civil disobedience movement, leading to the formation of a shadow government, the National Unity Government (NUG), by ousted lawmakers.
- This has resulted in armed conflict with various ethnic groups and newly formed resistance forces, creating a state of civil war.
- Human Rights Violations and Humanitarian Crisis: The military’s brutal crackdowns have led to widespread human rights abuses, including killings and arbitrary detentions. Millions have been displaced, exacerbating existing ethnic conflicts, particularly affecting the Rohingya population. The international response has largely failed to hold the military accountable.
What are the prospects for Myanmar’s economy in 2025 considering the current socio political turmoil?
- The World Bank forecasts a 1% contraction in Myanmar’s GDP for the fiscal year ending in March 2025, marking a significant downgrade from earlier growth expectations.
- By 2025, around 19.9 million people—one-third of the population—are expected to require humanitarian aid, including 6.3 million children.
- Since the military coup in February 2021, armed conflicts and natural disasters have disrupted production across sectors like agriculture and manufacturing. Recent floods have further damaged infrastructure.
- About 25% of the population faces acute food insecurity, driven by high inflation rates projected at 26% annually. Many households struggle to afford basic necessities due to rising food prices.
- The long-term economic outlook remains grim, with subdued growth expected even if conflict levels stabilize. Further violence or natural disasters could worsen economic conditions.
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How has the role of ASEAN evolved in addressing the Myanmar crisis?
- Five-Point Consensus: In April 2021, ASEAN introduced a Five-Point Consensus calling for an end to violence, dialogue, humanitarian aid, and a special envoy to mediate. However, its effectiveness has been limited due to lack of inclusivity and pressure on the military junta.
- Trioka Mechanism: ASEAN created the Trioka Mechanism to monitor the implementation of the Five-Point Consensus. This group includes Indonesia, Laos, and Malaysia but faces concerns about its ability to address Myanmar’s complex issues.
- Humanitarian Response: ASEAN has held meetings to improve humanitarian aid delivery but struggles with implementation challenges.
- International Engagement: External influences, like those from the EU and UN, have shaped ASEAN’s approach. Critics argue that ASEAN’s preference for dialogue over sanctions has not produced significant results.
Way Forward:
- The UN and ASEAN have struggled to resolve the Myanmar crisis, prompting experts to call on neighboring countries—China, India, Thailand, Bangladesh, and Laos—to take action, as the situation threatens their interests.
- However, challenges persist: borders with India and Bangladesh are controlled by ethnic armed organizations (EAOs), trust issues exist between India and China, and India-Bangladesh relations are strained.
- This makes it difficult for these nations to reach a consensus on how to encourage peace.
- Thailand, as a significant ASEAN member, could play a crucial role but faces its own limitations.
- Meanwhile, China’s influence has grown since the coup, and experts suggest that Myanmar’s people should not rely on external help; instead, their leaders must prioritize dialogue over violence to avoid further suffering.
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PYQ Relevance:
Q) ‘India is an age-old friend of Sri Lanka.’ Discuss India’s role in the recent crisis in Sri Lanka in the light of the preceding statement. (UPSC CSE 2022) |
Mentor’s Comment: UPSC mains have always focused on India is an age-old friend of Sri Lanka (2022), and ‘India — Sri Lanka relations ’ (2013).
Over the past 40 years, India’s role in Sri Lanka’s ethnic conflict evolved from mediator to active player, leading to the 1987 Indo-Lanka Accord and the 13th Amendment, which introduced Provincial Councils. The JVP opposed it, calling it an Indian imposition. The LTTE also rejected it and demanded a separate Tamil Eelam, which India never supported.
Today’s editorial talks about the India Srilanka relation. This content would help in GS Paper 2 International relations.
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Why in the News?
Recently, India’s decision to name the Jaffna Cultural Centre after Tamil poet-philosopher Thiruvalluvar is a symbolic way to strengthen its deep ties with Sri Lanka.
What are the historical roots of the ethnic conflict in Sri Lanka?
- Colonial Legacy: British colonial rule (1815-1948) favoured the Tamil minority in administration and education, causing resentment among the Sinhalese majority.
- Sinhala-Only Act (1956): The official adoption of Sinhala as the sole national language marginalized Tamil speakers and led to widespread Tamil discontent.
- Discrimination in Education & Employment: Policies like the standardization of university admissions (1970s) made it harder for Tamils to access higher education and government jobs.
- Ethnic Violence & Riots: The 1983 anti-Tamil pogrom (Black July) led to mass violence against Tamils, intensifying the demand for Tamil autonomy.
- Rise of the LTTE: The Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) emerged as the dominant militant group demanding an independent Tamil Eelam, leading to a brutal civil war (1983-2009).
- Indo-Lanka Accord (1987) & 13th Amendment: This attempt at devolution through Provincial Councils failed to fully address Tamil aspirations, leading to continued tensions.
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How can the new government address Tamil aspirations and rights?
- Full Implementation of the 13th Amendment: The government should prioritize the effective implementation of the 13th Amendment to the Constitution, which allows for provincial councils and limited autonomy for Tamil-majority regions. This step is crucial for addressing Tamil political representation and governance.
- Engagement in Inclusive Dialogue: Establishing a direct and inclusive dialogue with Tamil political leaders and communities is essential. This dialogue should focus on addressing historical grievances, ensuring that Tamil voices are heard in national policy-making, and fostering reconciliation.
- Address Land Rights and Resettlement Issues: The government must take action to return lands occupied by the military to their rightful Tamil owners and halt any ongoing land grabs that threaten Tamil communities. Ensuring land rights is vital for restoring trust and dignity among Tamils.
- Commitment to Human Rights Accountability: The new administration should commit to addressing past human rights violations during the civil war, including accountability for wartime atrocities. This includes repealing repressive laws like the Prevention of Terrorism Act (PTA) that disproportionately affect Tamils.
- Cultural Recognition and Language Rights: Promoting Tamil culture and ensuring that Tamil is recognized as an official language alongside Sinhala would help foster a sense of inclusion and respect for Tamil identity within the broader national framework, enhancing community cohesion.
What role does international support play in resolving Sri Lanka’s ethnic issues?
- Mediation and Pressure: Countries like India have historically acted as mediators in Sri Lankan affairs. Their support can encourage the government to adhere to commitments regarding Tamil rights and autonomy.
- Development Assistance: International aid can facilitate economic development in Tamil areas, addressing disparities that fuel ethnic tensions. India’s financial assistance for infrastructure projects is an example of how external support can aid reconciliation efforts.
- Monitoring Human Rights: International organizations can monitor human rights conditions in Sri Lanka, advocating for accountability and justice for past atrocities against Tamils, which is essential for building trust and moving towards lasting peace.
Way forward:
- Strengthen Political and Constitutional Reforms: Ensure full implementation of the 13th Amendment, conduct Provincial Council elections, and explore further constitutional reforms to enhance Tamil political representation and autonomy.
- Promote Inclusive Economic Development and Reconciliation: Invest in infrastructure, employment, and education in Tamil-majority areas while advancing truth, justice, and reconciliation initiatives to address past grievances and build long-term social cohesion.
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PYQ Relevance:
Q) Discuss the multi-dimensional implications of uneven distribution of mineral oil in the world. (UPSC CSE 2021) |
Mentor’s Comment: UPSC mains have always focused on Chinese dominance in Geopolitics (2024) and Mines and Minerals in Indian Economy (2021 & 2022).
Despite having the fifth-largest reserves of rare earths globally, India currently lags in all stages of rare earth development. India heavily relies on China for critical minerals, with significant import percentages for essential resources such as lithium (82%), bismuth (85.6%), and silicon (76%). This dependency poses risks to India’s economic security. The International Energy Agency predicts that demand could double by 2030 and quadruple by 2040.
Today’s editorial emphasizes the challenges posed by the Critical Mineral industry at national and Global level. This content can be used for presenting the challenges in the Indian Economy with respect to Critical Mines and Minerals and Trade issues.
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Why in the News?
China’s recent actions (expanded its export control list by including 28 entities), including potential export restrictions, have heightened fears about India’s reliance on Chinese supplies of critical minerals like lithium, cobalt, and rare earth elements.
- China controls a substantial portion of the global supply of critical minerals, producing about 60% of rare earth elements, 50% of lithium, and 70% of cobalt.
- This dominance extends to processing, where China handles approximately 80% of the world’s critical mineral processing, allowing it to influence global prices and availability significantly.
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What are the implications of China’s dominance in the critical minerals supply chain for India’s Economic Security?
- Supply Chain Vulnerability: India’s heavy reliance on Chinese imports for critical minerals like lithium and cobalt creates significant risks, as China’s control over a large share of global production and processing capacity could lead to supply disruptions or price increases.
- Geopolitical Leverage: China’s ability to restrict access to critical minerals during geopolitical tensions poses a direct threat to India’s energy transition and economic stability, potentially hindering its renewable energy goals.
- Need for Strategic Diversification: In response to these challenges, India must pursue strategic partnerships with resource-rich countries and invest in domestic mineral exploration and processing capabilities to reduce dependence on China.
- Global Competition and Sustainability: As global competition for critical minerals intensifies, India must balance its pursuit of resource independence with sustainable mining practices, ensuring long-term availability while addressing environmental concerns.
What are the key challenges in developing India’s domestic critical mineral production?
- Limited Exploration and Development: Complex geology, lack of advanced exploration technologies, and regulatory hurdles slow down the discovery and commercial extraction of resources like lithium and cobalt.
- Processing Capacity Gaps: India lacks sufficient domestic processing and refining facilities for critical minerals. This gap forces the country to depend on foreign processing.
- Regulatory and Policy Constraints: Existing regulations reserve certain critical minerals for public sector undertakings, limiting private sector participation in exploration and mining.
- Additionally, the need for an updated list of critical minerals in the Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Act hampers timely exploration efforts.
- Establishing new exploration and processing activities involves long gestation periods, which can delay India’s efforts to become self-reliant in critical minerals.
- Skilled Workforce Shortage: There is a shortage of skilled manpower in the materials, minerals, and metals sectors due to gaps in specialized training and advanced skills development.
- Environmental Concerns: Mining activities can lead to significant environmental degradation, including biodiversity loss, water depletion, and pollution. Addressing these concerns while developing mineral resources poses a challenge for sustainable practices.
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How can India effectively reduce its dependency on Chinese imports for critical minerals?
- Domestic Exploration and Production: India is focusing on enhancing its domestic mining capabilities by identifying and exploring critical mineral reserves within its territory.
- For Example, the recent discoveries of lithium deposits in states like Jammu and Kashmir, Rajasthan, and Karnataka highlight the potential for self-reliance in critical minerals essential for renewable energy technologies.
- Critical Minerals Mission: Government has launched a Critical Mineral Mission aimed at securing domestic production, recycling, and overseas acquisition of critical minerals.
- This mission includes incentives for private companies to establish processing facilities and aims to reduce import duties on key minerals, thereby promoting local processing and refining.
- International Partnerships: India is actively seeking to forge strategic partnerships with resource-rich countries, particularly in Africa and Latin America, to secure mineral blocks through government-to-government agreements.
- This includes investments in countries like Australia, Chile, Ghana, and South Africa to diversify supply sources and mitigate risks associated with over-reliance on China.
- Regulatory Reforms and Investment: The Indian government is implementing regulatory reforms to attract private investment in the critical minerals sector.
- This includes auctioning critical mineral blocks to both state-owned and private companies, establishing entities like Khanij Bidesh India Ltd. (KABIL) for overseas acquisitions, and enhancing the National Mineral Exploration Trust (NMET) to support exploration efforts.
Key Significant Features of the Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Amendment Act, 2023
- Private Sector Involvement: The amendment allows the private sector to explore and mine six critical minerals previously restricted to state agencies, including lithium, beryllium, niobium, titanium, tantalum, and zirconium. This shift encourages private investment and expertise in the mining sector.
- Exploration Licenses (EL): The introduction of Exploration Licenses enables private companies to conduct reconnaissance and prospecting for critical minerals. This is expected to attract foreign direct investment (FDI) and engage junior mining companies, thereby boosting exploration efforts for deep-seated minerals.
- Exclusive Auctions for Critical Minerals: The central government is empowered to auction mineral concessions for critical minerals such as rare earth elements, cobalt, and nickel. This streamlined auction process is designed to accelerate production and generate revenue for state governments.
- Revenue-Sharing Mechanism: If resources are proven after exploration, the state government must conduct an auction for mining leases within six months. The exploration licensee will receive a share in the auction value of the subsequent mining lease, incentivizing exploration activities.
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What role do global market dynamics play in shaping India’s critical mineral policies?
- Geopolitical Influences: The competitive landscape of critical minerals is heavily influenced by geopolitical tensions, particularly with China, which dominates the supply chain.
- India’s policies need to be increasingly designed to mitigate reliance on Chinese imports by fostering partnerships with countries like the U.S., Australia, and members of the Quad, aiming for a more diversified and secure supply chain.
- Investment in Domestic Capabilities: To counteract dependency on imports, India should implement regulatory reforms to attract private investment in the mining sector.
- This includes auctioning mineral blocks and promoting initiatives like the National Critical Minerals Mission, which aims to strengthen the entire value chain from exploration to processing.
- Need for Strategic Sourcing: Global market fluctuations can lead to price volatility for critical minerals, prompting India to develop a carefully crafted import strategy.
- This strategy focuses on establishing stable relationships with resource-rich nations and diversifying sourcing options to mitigate risks associated with supply disruptions.
- Fiscal Incentives: A possible remedy is to offer larger upfront fiscal incentives during the exploration phase. In other words, pledging direct capital support early in the construction phase might be to approach critical minerals extraction as a semiconductor fabrication project.
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| PYQ Relevance:
Q) ‘India is an age-old friend of Sri Lanka.’ Discuss India’s role in the recent crisis in Sri Lanka in the light of the preceding statement. (UPSC CSE 2022) |
Mentor’s Comment: UPSC Mains have focused on ‘India is an age-old friend of Sri Lanka’ (in 2022), and ‘how domestic factors influence foreign policy between India and Srilanka’ (in 2013).
Sri Lankan President Anura Kumara Dissanayake’s recent visit to India drew significant attention, marking his first foreign trip since taking office. The visit highlighted the shift in Sri Lanka’s political landscape, with the National People’s Power’s surprising electoral success. India’s priorities have also evolved, focusing on countering China’s influence in the region.
Today’s editorial highlights the importance of Sri Lanka for India. This content can be used to substantiate the challenges and significance due to Srilanka for India in UPSC IAS mains paper GS2.
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Let’s learn!
Why in the News?
The joint statement released by New Delhi and Colombo during the Sri Lankan President’s visit to India shows what is currently important to both countries.
What is the joint statement released by New Delhi and Colombo during the Sri Lankan President’s visit?
- Bilateral Cooperation: The statement emphasizes the deep-rooted cultural ties and geographical proximity that underpin the India-Sri Lanka partnership.
- Both leaders reaffirmed their commitment to enhancing cooperation in areas such as parliamentary exchanges, development cooperation, debt restructuring, energy cooperation, trade and investment, and strategic defense engagement.
- Economic Support and Stability: President Anura Kumara Dissanayake expressed gratitude for India’s support during Sri Lanka’s economic crisis, highlighting India’s provision of nearly USD 4 billion in aid.
- The leaders agreed on an investment-based approach to assist Sri Lanka’s economic recovery and growth, while also addressing shared security interests in the Indian Ocean Region
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What is 13th Amandment?
- The 13th Amendment to the Constitution of Sri Lanka, passed in 1987, was introduced as part of the Indo-Sri Lanka Accord signed between Indian Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi and Sri Lankan President J.R. Jayewardene.
- Its primary aim was to provide a framework for the devolution of power to provincial councils, thereby addressing the demands for greater autonomy from the Tamil minority, particularly in the Northern and Eastern provinces.
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What is the current status of the 13th Amendment’s implementation in Srilanka?
- Stagnation in Implementation: The 13th Amendment, which was designed to provide power devolution to provincial councils in Sri Lanka, has seen little progress in its implementation.
- The recent joint statement from India and Sri Lanka did not address the amendment or the political solutions for Tamil aspirations, highlighting a lack of commitment from the current government led by President Anura Kumara Dissanayake.
- Political Hesitance: The Dissanayake administration has avoided explicitly referencing the 13th Amendment due to its association with “Indian imposition,” which is viewed negatively by the Sinhala-Buddhist majority. Instead, the government’s focus has shifted towards broader promises of provincial council elections and constitutional reforms without a clear plan for implementing the amendment.
How do historical grievances impact contemporary Tamil-Sinhala relations?
- Historical Conflict: Historical grievances from the civil war and ongoing issues related to Tamil rights significantly affect Tamil-Sinhala relations. The Tamil community continues to seek justice for wartime atrocities and greater political agency, while many in the Sinhala majority often view discussions about devolution and federalism with scepticism.
- Political Dynamics: The recent electoral success of the National People’s Power (NPP) signifies a shift in Tamil political engagement, as Tamils have shown support for a party that traditionally opposed Indian intervention.
- However, this shift raises concerns about how effectively the NPP will address Tamil issues without alienating its base among Sinhala nationalists.
What are the prospects for genuine reconciliation and autonomy for Tamils in Sri Lanka?
- Need for Clarity: There is an urgent need for the NPP to clarify its position on Tamil rights and reconciliation. While the party’s manifesto promises provincial council elections and constitutional reforms, it lacks a concrete strategy for addressing historical grievances or ensuring autonomy for Tamils.
- Challenges Ahead: Genuine reconciliation remains uncertain as long as past grievances are not adequately addressed. The Tamil polity must engage more directly with its constituents rather than relying on international actors.
- The NPP’s ability to foster inter-ethnic peace will depend on its willingness to confront historical failures and implement meaningful policies that reflect the aspirations of all communities in Sri Lanka.
Way forward:
- Clear Political Vision: The NPP should outline a concrete plan for addressing Tamil rights, implementing the 13th Amendment, and ensuring provincial autonomy, while balancing the demands of both Tamil and Sinhala communities.
- Inclusive Dialogue: Engage in direct, inclusive dialogue with all ethnic groups, focusing on national reconciliation and addressing past grievances, to foster a durable peace and meaningful political solution for all communities in Sri Lanka.
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| PYQ Relevance:
Mains:
Q) Climate change’ is a global problem. How India will be affected by climate change? How Himalayan and coastal states of India will be affected by climate change? (UPSC CSE 2017)
Q) ‘Clean energy is the order of the day.’ Describe briefly India’s changing policy towards climate change in various international fora in the context of geopolitics. (UPSC CSE 2022) |
Note4Students:
Prelims: Supreme court judgements related to climate change impact,
Mains: Role of state and local Government to address the impact of climate change,
Mentor comment: Climate change poses grave threats to human rights, including the rights to life, health, food, water, housing, and an adequate standard of living. Extreme weather events, sea-level rise, and environmental degradation disproportionately impact vulnerable populations. Governments have a legal obligation to curb climate change, and corporations must respect human rights by reducing emissions and adapting to climate impacts. Addressing climate change is crucial to upholding human rights and ensuring a sustainable future for all.
Let’s learn!
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Why in the news?
In a landmark judgment, the Supreme Court of India recently recognized a right to be “free from the adverse impacts of climate change” in “M.K. Ranjitsinh and Others vs Union of India”, deriving it from the right to life and the right to equality.
Law to inform development choices
- Integrating Climate Objectives into Development: Ensure that low-carbon and climate-resilient futures are prioritized in routine decision-making at all levels of development. Embed climate objectives in the legal framework to guide sustainable development choices.
- Grounding Climate Action in Social Justice: Design laws to protect vulnerable populations disproportionately affected by climate change. Ensure the energy transition is just and equitable, advancing social justice and inclusive development.
- Adopting a Comprehensive and Flexible Approach: Move beyond top-down emission targets to address broader developmental choices and their long-term impacts. Establish well-defined legal procedures that promote continuous consideration of low-carbon and climate-resilient futures.
- Building a Robust Institutional Framework: Create an institutional structure to strategize, prioritize, troubleshoot, and evaluate climate policies. Enhance governance capacity to ensure credible and accountable climate action across all levels of government.
- Tailoring Framework Climate Laws to the Indian Context: Adapt elements of global framework climate laws to suit India’s specific needs, focusing on maximising development per unit of carbon emitted. Emphasize climate resilience and social equity, ensuring development progresses in a low-carbon direction while building resilience to pervasive climate impacts.
Need for a Low-Carbon Development Body
- Rigorous Policy Analysis and Knowledge Generation: Establish a knowledge body in government to rigorously analyze policy options and their potential futures. Enable informed decision-making through a comprehensive understanding of low-carbon development and resilience strategies.
- Expertise and Technical Guidance: Create an independent ‘low-carbon development commission’ staffed with experts and technical personnel. Provide national and state governments with practical guidance on achieving low-carbon growth and resilience.
- Deliberative Decision-Making and Stakeholder Consultation: Facilitate a platform for deliberative decision-making involving multiple stakeholders. Systematically consult vulnerable communities and those adversely affected by technological changes to ensure their concerns are heard and integrated, leading to more sustainable and inclusive policy outcomes.
- Strategic Direction and Whole-of-Government Coordination: Form a high-level strategic body, or ‘climate cabinet,’ comprising key Ministers and representation from State Chief Ministers to drive climate strategy across government. Address the challenge of siloed decision-making by promoting a whole-of-government approach with dedicated coordination mechanisms.
- Enhanced Governance and Legal Empowerment: Complement the role of the Ministry of Environment, Forest, and Climate Change with higher-level coordination bodies. Reinforce existing structures like the Executive Committee on Climate Change with clearly defined legal powers and duties to ensure effective implementation and accountability in climate governance.
Role of State and Local Governments in Climate Law
- Engagement with Federal Structure: Recognize the importance of India’s federal structure in climate governance. Acknowledge that crucial areas for emission reduction and resilience improvement, such as electricity, agriculture, water, health, and soil, are managed by State and local governments.
- First Responders to Climate Impacts: Understand that climate impacts are felt first and most intensely at local levels. Ensure that any institutional structure or regulatory instrument engages meaningfully with subnational governments.
- Access to National Scientific Capacity: Establish channels for subnational governments to access national scientific resources and expertise. Utilize the low-carbon development commission as an intermediary to enhance local climate scientific capacity.
- Financing Local Action: Develop mechanisms for financing local climate actions. Align centrally-sponsored schemes with climate goals and require national departments to climate-tag expenditures to enhance local climate resilience.
- Coordination Mechanisms and Unified Goals: Create coordination mechanisms for the Centre and States to consult on major climate decisions. Require periodic updates of medium-term climate plans from both Centre and States, built around unified climate goals.
- State-Specific Solutions and Institutions: Enable States to develop complementary institutions to those at the Centre, providing local knowledge, strategy-setting, deliberation, and coordination functions. Foster the development of State-specific solutions that address unique local climate challenges.
Steps taken by Government to address the impact of climate change:
- International Solar Alliance (ISA): Launched in 2015, this alliance aims to efficiently utilize solar energy and reduce dependence on non-renewable sources like fossil fuels.
- One Sun, One World, One Grid (OSOWOG) project with the UK: This project aims to build and scale inter-regional energy grids to share solar energy globally.
- Swachh Bharat Mission: This program emphasized cleaning India’s cities and villages by providing toilets for every household.
- National Clean Air Programme: Launched in 2019 to reduce particulate matter concentrations in the atmosphere.
- Green Skill Development Programme: Launched to develop green skills and provide employment in the environment and forest sectors.
- Commitment to get 50% of energy from renewable sources and reduce total projected carbon emissions by 1 billion tonnes by 2030: The government aims to ensure sustainable development of the environment.
- Faster Adoption and Manufacturing of Hybrid & Electric Vehicles (FAME) India scheme: Launched in 2015 to promote electric vehicles and decrease coal consumption.
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Way forward:
- Strengthen Institutional and Legal Frameworks: Establish robust institutions like an independent low-carbon development commission to provide expert guidance, facilitate stakeholder consultations, and ensure informed decision-making.
- Promote Inclusive and Equitable Climate Action: Integrate social equity considerations into climate policies by systematically consulting vulnerable communities and those affected by technological changes.
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| PYQ Relevance:
Mains:
Q. In the context of the neo-liberal paradigm of development planning, multi-level planning is expected to make operations cost-effective and remove many implementation blockages.” Discuss. (UPSC IAS/2019)
Q. ‘Whether National Commission for Scheduled Castes (NCSC) can enforce the implementation of constitutional reservation for the Scheduled Castes in the religious minority institutions? Examine.
(UPSC IAS/2018) |
Note4Students:
Prelims: Definition of Liberalism;
Mains: Challenges to liberalism;
Mentor comment: Politics, like philosophy, aims to reconcile diversity, where contradictions converge in a multicultural society. Understanding this harmony reflects an idealistic state that prioritizes coexistence and universal welfare. However, global democratic history reveals ongoing challenges to liberalism, which safeguards against authoritarianism and protects civil rights. Amid rising sectarianism, the fundamental question persists: Who deserves basic rights? This issue underscores civil discrimination, racial politics, and xenophobia, exacerbated by the rise of right-wing nationalism and global migration dynamics.
Let’s learn.
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Why in the News?
There remains a glimmer of hope in the resilience of democratic forces, which can effectively counteract and uproot any divisive political aberration when the time is ripe.
What is Liberalism?
- Liberalism is a political and philosophical ideology that emphasizes individual rights, liberty, equality under the law, and limited government intervention in personal and economic affairs. It advocates for freedoms such as freedom of speech, press, religion, and assembly, and supports democratic processes, rule of law, and protection of civil liberties. Liberalism typically promotes social progress through tolerance, pluralism, and a commitment to human rights and justice.
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Electoral outcomes
- Shift in Public Opinion: There is a noticeable shift towards conservative and right-wing ideologies, marked by sentiments such as climate scepticism, anti-migration views, and nationalism. This trend was reflected in recent elections both in Europe and India.
- Voter Response: Despite expectations favouring right-wing outcomes, the electorate, particularly in India, was surprised with a strong rejection of what was perceived as authoritarianism and communalism. This indicates a robust defense of democratic values and fundamental rights.
- Impact on Minority Communities: The election results have been seen as a reassurance to minority communities, particularly Muslims, who felt marginalized and insecure due to perceived policies of exclusion and communal tension.
- Democratic Fortitude: The outcome is portrayed as a reaffirmation of democracy’s strength in allowing for checks and balances against oppressive regimes and divisive politics.
- Hope for Robust Opposition: There is optimism about the emergence of a strong opposition capable of holding the government accountable, promoting debate, and safeguarding diverse civil society interests.
- Challenges and Aspirations: The electorate expects rational governance, justice, and responsiveness to marginalized groups’ issues such as poverty, unemployment, and hunger.
- Ethical Governance: Emphasis is placed on governance that respects human rights universally, avoiding discrimination or exclusion based on ethnicity, religion, or political affiliation.
Verdict and the Advent of Hope
- Challenge to Democracy: The passage highlights a global erosion of democratic values, with right-wing governments accused of manipulating truth and resorting to oppressive tactics to maintain power.
- Call for Tempered Liberalism: There’s a plea for ruling dispensations to embrace a more moderate form of liberalism, abandoning illiberal practices that undermine democratic norms and freedoms.
- Role of Opposition: Expectations are set on opposition alliances to uphold principles of humility, pluralism, and modesty, providing a counterbalance to dominant political forces.
- Philosophical Reflection: The outcome of elections prompts reflection on political astuteness and statesmanship, essential for navigating the trajectory of democracy amidst global challenges.
- Natural vs Civil Order: Drawing from Spinoza, the clash between natural self-interest and civil responsibility underscores the necessity of societal order governed by law and morality to prevent chaos and uphold rights.
- Hope and Scepticism: The Indian electoral outcome reflects a dual sentiment of hope and scepticism, shaping the future direction of democracy and fostering philosophical introspection.
Challenges to liberalism:
- Rise of Right-Wing Sentiment: There is a global trend towards right-wing ideologies, marked by climate scepticism, anti-migration sentiment, and nationalist fervour, posing challenges to liberal values and policies.
- Authoritarianism and Communalism: The resurgence of authoritarianism and communal politics threatens democratic principles and societal harmony, particularly impacting marginalized communities like Muslims.
- Hope and Despair: The electorate’s response reflects a mix of hope and despair, with optimism placed in a robust opposition and democratic institutions to safeguard fundamental rights and uphold civil society diversity.
- Balancing Public and Private: The need for a nuanced approach in reconciling private religious beliefs with public, politicized lifestyles without diminishing individual rights is crucial for fostering a tolerant society.
Way forward:
- Policy Reforms: Implement inclusive policies that address economic disparities, social inequalities, and regional disparities effectively. This includes measures to tackle poverty, unemployment, and hunger through targeted welfare programs.
- Social Integration: Foster initiatives that promote social cohesion and integration across diverse communities. Encourage dialogue and understanding among different cultural and religious groups to mitigate communal tensions.
- Democratic Checks and Balances: Enhance the autonomy and effectiveness of democratic institutions such as the judiciary, election commissions, and anti-corruption bodies. Ensure they operate independently and transparently to uphold democratic principles.
- Dialogue and Consensus-Building: Foster inclusive decision-making processes that involve stakeholders from diverse backgrounds. Encourage political parties to engage in constructive dialogue and seek consensus on key policy issues.
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