The Indian Express editorial analysis offers valuable insights into current issues affecting India, providing a critical understanding of socio-political and economic matters. For UPSC CSE preparation, such editorials are essential for developing analytical skills, enhancing understanding of governance, and applying knowledge to relevant General Studies topics. Through editorial analysis, aspirants can engage with contemporary issues, assess policy impacts, and build a nuanced perspective required for the examination.
1. India, US and the atomic second wind
1. Context of India-US Advanced Technology Cooperation:
- The Biden Administration has played a pivotal role in elevating India-US relations, particularly in advanced technology sectors like AI, semiconductors, space, and biotechnology.
- The Initiative on Critical and Emerging Technologies (iCET), launched in January 2023, has facilitated detailed negotiations and collaborations, leaving a strong legacy for future bilateral relations.
2. Historical Overview:
- Early Engagement (1950s-60s):
- The US contributed to India’s early nuclear and space programs, agriculture modernization, and scientific education.
- Relations soured in the 1970s due to non-proliferation policies that imposed sanctions on India.
- 1980s Attempts:
- Prime Ministers Indira and Rajiv Gandhi sought common technological ground despite challenges.
- 1990s Strengthening of Non-Proliferation Controls:
- The nuclear tests of 1998 under Atal Bihari Vajpayee provided a basis for renewed engagement.
- India-US Civil Nuclear Initiative (2005-08):
- Negotiated under President George W. Bush and PM Manmohan Singh, this marked a major breakthrough.
3. Recent Developments Under Biden:
- Key Initiatives:
- Lifting restrictions on civilian space cooperation.
- Efforts to remove Indian atomic energy centers from the US blacklist to boost civilian nuclear energy collaboration.
- Nuclear Energy’s Renewed Significance:
- AI-driven demand for clean energy is reviving global interest in nuclear power.
4. Challenges in India-US Nuclear Collaboration:
- India’s Liability Law:
- The Civil Liability for Nuclear Damage Act (2010) has deterred US companies from investing in India’s nuclear energy sector.
- Lack of Progress:
- Despite the nuclear deal, no new international nuclear power plants (other than with Russia) have been established in India.
5. Geopolitical and Geoeconomic Implications:
- US-China Rivalry:
- The US’s focus on reducing dependence on China has enhanced its technological and industrial collaboration with allies like India.
- India’s Interest:
- The Modi government prioritizes boosting advanced technology sectors, aligning with US interests.
6. Transition to Trump Administration:
- Continuity and Change:
- Shared objectives like technological leadership and manufacturing revival provide optimism for continued cooperation.
- However, Trump might bring a different approach, requiring India to adapt diplomatically.
7. Future Directions:
- Both nations need sustained diplomatic and political efforts to ensure continuity in high-tech collaboration.
- Biden leaves behind a robust framework for Modi and Trump administrations to build upon.
Conclusion:
India and the US have made significant strides in technology collaboration over the decades, navigating challenges to forge stronger ties. As nuclear energy and advanced tech gain importance in the global economy, the partnership offers opportunities for mutual growth, provided both sides remain committed to addressing outstanding issues like liability laws and policy continuity.
2. In killing of Mukesh Chandrakar, a reminder of risks faced by reporters in small towns
1. Context of the Article:
- The suspicious death of Mukesh Chandrakar, a freelance journalist from Chhattisgarh, highlights the risks faced by journalists, particularly in rural and small-town areas of India.
- Chandrakar, known for exposing corruption in road construction projects, joins the growing list of journalists who face violence or intimidation for their investigative work.
2. The Vulnerability of Small-Town Journalists:
- Limited Support Systems:
- Freelancers often lack institutional or financial backing, making them easy targets for retaliation by corrupt officials, contractors, or mafias.
- Digital journalists face additional challenges, such as the closure of blogs and podcasts due to financial constraints or legal pressures.
- Examples of Violence and Intimidation:
- Rupesh Kumar Jha (Jharkhand): Faced UAPA charges in 2022 for reporting on industrial pollution.
- Nikhil Wagle (Maharashtra): His vehicle was attacked by right-wing groups in 2024.
- Jyoti Ranjan Mohapatra (Odisha): Beaten by unidentified assailants in February 2024.
- Buddhinath Jha (Bihar): Found half-burnt after investigating illegal clinics in November 2024.
- Historical cases like Umesh Dobhal (1980s): Murdered for exposing the liquor mafia in Uttarakhand.
3. Challenges of Reporting in Vernacular Media:
- Physical Presence vs. Limited Resources:
- Freelancers and vernacular journalists work on the ground, directly interacting with affected communities.
- In contrast, journalists from mainstream media often rely on brief visits, hired vehicles, or helicopters for coverage.
- Lack of Safety Mechanisms:
- The Editors’ Guild of India and the National Union of Journalists have expressed concerns over the worsening safety conditions for journalists in India.
- India’s ranking in the World Press Freedom Index continues to decline.
4. The Impact of Corruption on Journalists:
- Development vs. Corruption:
- In states like Chhattisgarh, large-scale development projects (e.g., highways) are often accompanied by allegations of corruption.
- Investigative journalists like Chandrakar face retaliation for exposing such malpractices.
- Loss of Accountability:
- Each death of a journalist represents not just the loss of a life but the silencing of stories about corruption and irregularities.
5. Broader Implications for Press Freedom:
- Erosion of Rule of Law:
- The accusers often face legal harassment or physical attacks, while the accused operate with impunity.
- Social Media as a Tool:
- Vernacular journalists often rely on platforms like YouTube or blogs to amplify their work, but this comes with risks of censorship or financial instability.
6. Lessons and Way Forward:
- Strengthen Protections for Journalists:
- Enact and enforce laws to ensure the safety and freedom of reporters, particularly freelancers and those in vernacular media.
- Promote Independent Media:
- Provide financial and institutional support to small-town and rural journalists.
- Address Press Freedom Concerns:
- Work towards improving India’s ranking in the World Press Freedom Index through systemic reforms.
Conclusion:
The killing of Mukesh Chandrakar serves as a grim reminder of the risks journalists face while exposing corruption in India’s small towns and rural areas. Safeguarding press freedom is essential not just for protecting lives but also for ensuring accountability and transparency in governance.
3. How Canada can undo Justin Trudeau’s damage to bilateral ties with India
1. Context of the Article
The resignation of Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau marks a turning point in India-Canada relations, which have been strained under his leadership. Trudeau’s handling of the Hardeep Singh Nijjar case, his tolerance for Khalistani separatism, and Canada’s past actions—such as its response to the Kanishka bombing—have been major sources of contention.
2. Trudeau’s Leadership and Bilateral Strain
- Nijjar Case Fallout:
Trudeau’s September 2023 statement alleging Indian involvement in Nijjar’s killing without credible evidence triggered a diplomatic standoff. India dismissed the accusations and reduced Canada’s diplomatic presence.
The situation worsened when Trudeau allowed six Indian diplomats to be designated as “persons of interest” in the case. - Domestic Considerations:
Trudeau’s statements and actions appeared aimed at appeasing domestic constituencies, including Khalistan supporters and the New Democratic Party (NDP) led by Jagmeet Singh, whose support was crucial for the minority Liberal government. - Broader Diplomatic Missteps:
Trudeau’s approach to the Nijjar case contrasted sharply with the US’s measured handling of similar matters, highlighting his political and diplomatic miscalculation.
3. Long-standing Issues in India-Canada Relations
- Khalistan Movement:
Canada’s reluctance to curtail Khalistani activities, citing “freedom of expression,” has been a consistent irritant for India.
The glorification of Indira Gandhi’s assassins and public displays of separatist propaganda have deepened India’s mistrust. - Past Grievances:
The Kanishka bombing case of 1985, where Canada’s investigative and prosecutorial lapses left scars on India-Canada ties.
Canada’s intrusive visa policies have also added to India’s frustrations.
4. Challenges for Trudeau’s Successor
- Political Landscape in Canada:
Trudeau’s resignation comes amid declining public approval of the Liberal Party, economic challenges, and pressure from the opposition Conservatives.
His successor, likely Chrystia Freeland, will face the daunting task of rebuilding the party and preparing for an early election. - Limited Scope for India-Canada Reset:
Domestic issues, including economic recovery and managing immigration, will dominate Canada’s priorities.
Any substantive shift in policy on Khalistan or the Nijjar case is unlikely due to domestic political sensitivities.
5. Implications for India-Canada Relations
- India’s Expectations:
India hopes Trudeau’s successor will adopt a more pragmatic and cooperative approach to bilateral ties, particularly in addressing its concerns over Khalistan and anti-India propaganda.
A reduction in tensions requires Canada to abandon its lenient stance on separatism and actively rebuild trust. - Challenges to Progress:
Canada’s domestic political dynamics and the looming shadow of Trump’s influence on its foreign policy could limit its ability to prioritize relations with India.
The Nijjar case will likely remain a sticking point, with Canadian authorities continuing legal proceedings.
6. Way Forward
- Bilateral Engagement:
Both nations should work towards institutional mechanisms to address contentious issues, such as Khalistan and visa policies.
Confidence-building measures, including enhanced trade and diaspora engagement, can help bridge the trust deficit. - Canada’s Role:
Acknowledging and addressing India’s core concerns on separatist activities will be critical for restoring goodwill.
Moving beyond Trudeau’s legacy of strained ties will require political will and a shift in diplomatic priorities.
Conclusion
Trudeau’s departure offers an opportunity for Canada to recalibrate its approach towards India. However, domestic challenges and entrenched policy stances may hinder immediate progress. For India, engaging constructively with Trudeau’s successor while maintaining firm positions on core issues will be key to fostering a more stable and cooperative bilateral relationship.
4. India and Canada, after Justin Trudeau
Justin Trudeau’s resignation as Canada’s Prime Minister presents both challenges and opportunities for India-Canada relations. While his departure removes a key figure behind the diplomatic strain, rebuilding trust and cooperation will require patience, pragmatic diplomacy, and addressing long-standing issues.
1. Trudeau’s Legacy and Strained Relations
- Khalistan Controversy:
Trudeau’s tenure was marked by tensions over Canada’s handling of Khalistani activities. His 2023 accusation in Parliament linking India to the assassination of Hardeep Singh Nijjar without presenting evidence alienated New Delhi and escalated the diplomatic standoff. - Visa and Diaspora Concerns:
Canada’s inconsistent visa policies have created uncertainty for Indian students and workers, souring perceptions among the large Indian diaspora in Canada. - Economic and Immigration Challenges:
Domestically, Trudeau faced criticism over inflation, immigration, and economic management, which undermined his leadership and party support.
2. Opportunities Under New Leadership
Trudeau’s departure offers a limited but important opening for India to reset ties with Canada. However, this will depend on:
- New Leadership’s Priorities:
Canada’s political focus will likely remain domestic in the short term, with the Liberals preparing for elections and facing strong Conservative opposition. Any immediate policy shift on India-related issues, such as Khalistan or visa processes, might be constrained by political considerations. - Revisiting Bilateral Engagement:
The change in Ottawa provides space for a structural review of India-Canada relations. Addressing mutual concerns—particularly on separatist activities, trade, and people-to-people connections—can lay the groundwork for improved ties.
3. Challenges to an Immediate Reset
- Maximalist Positions:
The hardline stances taken during Trudeau’s tenure, including accusations against Indian officials and expulsions of diplomats, have created deep distrust. Rebuilding confidence will require more than leadership change—it will need concrete policy shifts. - Domestic Political Flux in Canada:
The uncertainty surrounding Canada’s political landscape, including the looming influence of a potential Trump presidency in the US, may distract Ottawa from focusing on external relationships like the one with India. - Diaspora Politics:
Appeasing the radical fringe within Canada’s Indian diaspora has strained ties. Without decisive steps to curb separatist propaganda and activities, meaningful progress in bilateral relations will remain elusive.
4. Steps for Rebuilding Ties
- Addressing Core Issues:
Canadian politicians must take Indian concerns about Khalistani activities seriously. Enforcing laws against separatist glorification and violence is essential for trust-building. - Easing Visa Policies:
Stabilizing the visa regime will benefit thousands of Indian students and workers, fostering goodwill among the diaspora and boosting people-to-people ties. - Trade and Economic Cooperation:
Deepening economic collaboration through trade agreements and investments can create a more stable foundation for bilateral engagement. - Strengthened Diplomatic Channels:
Establishing regular and structured dialogues at the ministerial and senior official levels can help address issues before they escalate.
5. Conclusion
While Trudeau’s departure alone will not resolve the tensions in India-Canada relations, it provides an opportunity for both sides to reflect and recalibrate. For India, a constructive approach that combines firmness on core issues with readiness for dialogue will be crucial. For Canada, addressing India’s concerns about Khalistan and ensuring a fair, predictable visa regime can pave the way for a more balanced and productive partnership.
5. GDP slowed down this year. Will next year be better?
The Indian economy has experienced a noticeable slowdown this year, with GDP growth estimated at 6.4% for 2024-25 as per the National Statistics Office (NSO). This marks a decline from the 8.2% growth recorded last year. Several factors, both domestic and global, have contributed to this deceleration, raising concerns about the economic trajectory for the coming year.
1. Current Economic Landscape
- Sectoral Performance:
- Manufacturing: The industrial sector, particularly manufacturing, has emerged as a significant drag, with growth projected at 5.3%, a sharp drop from 9.9% last year.
- Construction and Utilities: Construction and the electricity, gas, and water supply segments are also experiencing slower growth.
- Services Sector: Deceleration is evident in services, though private consumption is projected to pick up.
- Private and Rural Consumption:
While private consumption in urban areas remains sluggish, rural demand has shown resilience, buoyed by strong kharif production and optimistic rabi crop forecasts. - Investment and Capital Expenditure:
Investment activity has moderated, with private investment subdued and central government capital expenditure falling 12% below last year’s levels. This raises concerns about the government’s ability to meet its budgeted capex targets.
2. Key Challenges
- Global and Domestic Uncertainties:
- Geopolitical Issues: Rising global uncertainties, including geopolitical tensions and trade disruptions, pose risks to economic recovery.
- Inflationary Pressures: Persistent inflation in some sectors continues to affect consumer spending and investment sentiment.
- Debt-Deficit Dynamics: Slower nominal GDP growth (projected at 9.7% this year) could strain the government’s fiscal position, complicating debt and deficit management.
- Structural Bottlenecks:
- Manufacturing and industrial stagnation point to deeper structural challenges that require urgent policy intervention.
- Slowdowns in construction and infrastructure development could undermine long-term economic potential.
3. Optimism for the Coming Year
- Reviving Rural Economy:
Healthy agricultural output and promising rabi prospects are likely to sustain rural consumption, a key driver of demand. - Budgetary Focus:
The upcoming Union Budget will play a crucial role in determining growth momentum. Increased focus on capex, rural development, and incentivizing private investment could provide a much-needed boost. - Global Recovery:
If global economic conditions stabilize, exports and industrial activity could see a rebound, aiding overall growth.
4. Path Forward: Key Priorities for 2025-26
- Enhancing Investment Climate:
Measures to encourage private investment, alongside consistent government capex, are essential to drive growth across sectors. - Strengthening Manufacturing:
Policies focused on boosting manufacturing competitiveness and addressing supply chain issues can help reinvigorate the sector. - Addressing Fiscal Challenges:
A prudent approach to fiscal management, coupled with innovative revenue-generating mechanisms, will be critical to sustaining public spending without worsening debt dynamics. - Focus on Structural Reforms:
Long-term reforms in labor markets, infrastructure, and ease of doing business can enhance productivity and foster sustainable growth.
5. Conclusion
While this year’s GDP slowdown highlights vulnerabilities in India’s economic framework, the fundamentals remain strong. With targeted policy interventions and favorable global conditions, the Indian economy can regain momentum and potentially achieve higher growth rates in the coming fiscal year. However, addressing structural challenges and ensuring fiscal discipline will be pivotal in realizing this potential.
6. Who Selects the University Vice-Chancellor?
The selection of Vice-Chancellors (VCs) in Indian universities has often been a subject of debate. With political expediency sometimes overshadowing merit, the process raises questions about the autonomy of universities in choosing their leaders. The government plays a central role in appointing VCs, leaving little regard for the autonomy that universities should ideally have in making such decisions.
1. The Role of the Vice-Chancellor
- A Versatile Leader:
A VC is not just an academic leader but a versatile individual who must balance administrative responsibilities with academic leadership. Universities need a leader with a vision, not just an expert in teaching. Yet, VCs are often selected based on political alignment rather than merit. - UGC Regulations:
The University Grants Commission (UGC) regulations prescribe strict qualifications for the post, emphasizing the need for a distinguished academician. However, this limitation has come under scrutiny, especially when compared to international examples like Oxford University’s appointment of John Hood, a businessman, as VC.
2. Recent Changes in UGC Regulations
- Opening Doors for Non-Academics:
Recent UGC regulations have broadened the pool of potential candidates by making non-academics eligible. Now, distinguished figures from fields like industry, public administration, and public policy with academic or scholarly contributions can be considered for the VC role. This change has been welcomed as it introduces diversity and innovation into university leadership. - Search Committees:
Involving search committees for VC appointments has become more common, but a more transparent and merit-based selection process is still needed. Inviting nominations from a wider pool of respected public intellectuals and former VCs can help in identifying the best candidates.
3. The Politics of VC Appointments
- Political Influence:
Historically, VCs have been appointed based on political preferences. For example, left-leaning VCs were preferred by Congress governments, while current regimes opt for leaders with opposing ideologies. This politicization of the process often undermines the universities’ autonomy and academic integrity. - Bureaucratic Leadership:
Some successful VCs have come from bureaucratic backgrounds, such as former diplomats or civil servants. Notable examples include G Parthasarathy, a former diplomat who led Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU) successfully. These appointments challenge the notion that only academicians can effectively lead universities.
4. The Question of Autonomy
- Government Control:
While the central government appoints VCs in central universities, it is rare for state universities to appoint VCs independently. In fact, in many cases, even when the university nominates a candidate, approval from the government is required. The lack of autonomy in the selection process has led to calls for greater independence for universities. - Global Comparison:
Unlike in many Asian countries, where government influence is significant, Western and African universities often have greater autonomy in selecting their VCs. This model has led to better leadership in many cases, and India could benefit from adopting a similar approach.
5. Conclusion: Need for University Autonomy
The selection process for VCs in India remains highly centralized, with little regard for the autonomy of universities. While the recent changes in UGC regulations are a step in the right direction, universities should be trusted with more authority in choosing their leaders. The goal should be to make the VC position more student-centric, focused on advancing the university’s academic and administrative goals, rather than being centered on the VC’s political affiliation.
7. In Pluto and Charon’s pairing, a love story and a reminder
- Cosmic Pairing of Pluto and Charon:
- Pluto and its largest moon, Charon, have a unique relationship where they orbit each other in the Kuiper Belt, unlike Earth and its moon.
- A new theory suggests that Charon was born from a violent collision between Pluto and another moon, in a “kiss-and-capture” event.
- The Story of Pluto’s Demotion:
- Pluto was once the ninth planet but was demoted to a dwarf planet in 2006 after a redefinition by the International Astronomical Union.
- Despite this, Pluto has seen a resurgence in interest, especially after the New Horizons mission in 2015.
- New Horizons Mission Findings:
- The mission provided stunning images of Pluto’s surface, revealing unexpected features like ice mountains, nitrogen glaciers, and the heart-shaped Tombaugh Regio.
- The mission dispelled the idea of Pluto as a barren and lifeless world, showing its geological activity and mysterious qualities.
- Science and Life Parallels:
- The article draws a parallel between the messy, complicated nature of scientific discoveries and human life.
- Just like Pluto’s relationship with Charon, change can lead to something beautiful and enduring despite the challenges.
- Reminder of Inevitable Change:
- The changing understanding of Pluto’s origins and relationship with Charon serves as a reminder that change, whether in science or life, is inevitable, messy, but can lead to lasting and meaningful outcomes.
Disclaimer:
This analysis is based on the editorial content published in Indian Express and is intended solely for informational and educational purposes. The views, opinions, and interpretations expressed herein are those of the author of original article. Readers are encouraged to refer to the original article for complete context and to exercise their own judgment while interpreting the analysis. The analysis does not constitute professional advice or endorsement of any political, economic, or social perspective.
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