Indian Express Editorial Analysis: January 21, 2025

For UPSC CSE aspirants, analyzing editorials from The Indian Express is essential to build a comprehensive understanding of current affairs, policy debates, and socio-economic challenges. Here’s a structured breakdown of the editorial themes covered on January 21, 2025, tailored for UPSC preparation:

1. Not just a change of regime, Trump is reshaping post-War America

This article examines the transformative policies of Donald Trump during his presidency, emphasizing his divergence from the post-World War II liberal hegemony. It highlights Trump’s approach to reshaping America’s domestic and foreign policies, his challenges to the liberal establishment, and the broader implications for global geopolitics.

Key Points:

1. Trump’s Revolution:
   • Described as a “revolution of common sense” by Trump.
   • Aimed at reshaping the social, political, economic, and geopolitical order in America, diverging from the post-War liberal hegemony.
   • Seen as a “counter-counter-revolution” by conservatives to counter liberal destabilization efforts.
2. Rejection of Liberal Order:
   • Trump capitalized on growing discontent with the liberal order in the 21st century.
   • Defeated political dynasties like the Clintons and Bushes in 2016.
   • Liberal establishment and media branded him as a “Russian agent,” leading to relentless opposition.
3. Polarized 2024 Elections:
   • The 2024 elections rejected liberal establishment politics.
   • Supporters viewed anti-Trump legal campaigns as a “political witch hunt.”
   • Deep societal divide reflected in contrasting perceptions of Trump.
4. Trump’s Key Domestic Challenges to Liberal Hegemony:
   • Cultural and Social Policies:
     • Opposition to gender identity politics, diversity regulations, and imposition of liberal values.
     • Emphasis on restoring free speech and traditional values.
   • Immigration and Borders:
     • Reassertion of US territorial sovereignty with a focus on controlling borders and deporting illegal aliens.
   • Trade Policy:
     • Shift from free trade to “fair trade” and “reciprocity.”
     • Emphasis on tariffs to rebalance US trade.
   • Global Leadership:
     • Move away from prioritizing global leadership at the expense of domestic interests.
     • Advocacy for America-first policies.
5. Foreign Policy Approach:
   • Criticized America’s “endless wars” and emphasized diplomacy with Russia and China.
   • Aspirations to act as a “peacemaker” while focusing on US core interests.
   • Diverse views within Trump’s cabinet on handling foreign conflicts and alliances.
6. Symbolic Actions:
   • Pardoned January 6 protesters, contrasting with Biden’s family pardons.
   • Reinforced allegiance to his political base.
7. Geopolitical Implications:
   • Potential shifts in global order, particularly in Eurasia and the Indo-Pacific.
   • Reduced focus on promoting liberal internationalism and human rights globally.
8. Challenges for Trump’s Movement:
   • Internal contradictions and external opposition.
   • Navigating ideological divides within his coalition and countering hostility from opponents.

2. In Trump’s withdrawal from the Paris Pact, some hard truths about the UN and Global North

This article highlights Donald Trump’s withdrawal of the United States from the Paris Agreement, shedding light on the challenges within global climate negotiations, the role of developed nations, and the implications for climate justice. It critiques the weakening of the principle of Common But Differentiated Responsibility (CBDR) and the UN’s struggles to address climate inequities.

Key Points:

1. US Withdrawal from the Paris Agreement:
   • Trump announced the US’s withdrawal from the Paris Agreement in 2017, which took three years to take effect.
   • His second-term withdrawal, announced after re-election, will take only one year as it bypasses the initial commitment period.
2. Impact on Global Climate Goals:
   • The US, being the world’s second-largest GHG emitter, exiting the deal weakens collective efforts to limit global temperature rise to 1.5°C.
   • Other nations will face increased pressure to enhance their Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs), raising concerns about equity and commitment gaps.
3. Baku CoP29 and Financial Commitments:
   • CoP29, termed the “Finance CoP,” focused on mobilizing $100 billion annually from developed nations to support climate efforts in developing countries.
   • Commitments fell short of expectations, further exacerbated by the US’s withdrawal.
   • The abdication of responsibility by the US may dissuade other developed nations from fulfilling their financial pledges.
4. Common But Differentiated Responsibility (CBDR):
   • CBDR acknowledges the historical emissions of developed nations and their ecological debt to the Global South.
   • Despite being a founding principle of the UNFCCC, its legal status has been eroded over time, particularly after the Paris Agreement adopted voluntary national commitments.
   • Developed nations often default on financial promises while pressuring developing nations like India and China to take on greater responsibilities.
5. Critique of the UNFCCC:
   • The UNFCCC has failed to address the developmental needs of the Global South and provide robust frameworks to tackle fossil fuel reliance.
   • It has not adequately countered climate skeptics or “bullies” like Trump, who undermine collective action.
6. Global North vs. Global South Dynamics:
   • Developed nations perceive themselves as making “sacrifices” while accusing developing nations of being “free riders.”
   • The inequitable approach in climate negotiations exacerbates distrust and hinders meaningful cooperation.
7. Broader Implications:
   • Trump’s exit from the Paris Agreement reflects deeper flaws in global climate governance, including the lack of accountability and weakened moral foundations.
   • The success of the Paris Agreement is crucial to averting climate disasters, but the withdrawal of major polluters like the US undermines its objectives.

3. HMPV virus – its not the pandemic

This article sheds light on the Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV), addressing public anxieties about its potential threat while distinguishing it from the COVID-19 pandemic. It emphasizes science-based communication, robust health systems, and lessons from the pandemic to tackle respiratory illnesses effectively.

Key Takeaways:

1. What is HMPV?
   • HMPV (Human Metapneumovirus) belongs to the Pneumoviridae family and was first detected in 2001, though it existed earlier.
   • It is a common respiratory virus, causing mild symptoms like nasal congestion, cough, fever, and sore throat, similar to the flu.
   • Severe cases are rare and typically occur in vulnerable groups like infants, the elderly, and immunocompromised individuals.
2. Transmission and Prevention:
   • Spread via respiratory droplets, infected surfaces, or direct contact.
   • Preventive measures include wearing masks, hand hygiene, avoiding crowded places, and protecting high-risk individuals.
   • Routine precautions also reduce the burden of other respiratory illnesses like seasonal flu, tuberculosis, and pneumonia.
3. Current Status in India:
   • HMPV causes about 3% of Influenza-like Illness (ILI) and Severe Acute Respiratory Illness (SARI) cases during flu season, as per ICMR surveillance.
   • The virus has not mutated into a form of public health concern.
   • Cases detected in India are consistent with expected seasonal trends and do not warrant panic.
4. Comparison with COVID-19:
   • HMPV is not novel; populations worldwide have been exposed to it for decades, unlike SARS-CoV-2, which was entirely new in 2019.
   • HMPV shows strong seasonality, milder symptoms, rare fatalities, and no long-term post-viral effects, distinguishing it from the COVID-19 virus.
5. Health System Preparedness:
   • India’s health infrastructure is equipped to manage HMPV using routine RT-PCR tests and symptomatic treatment.
   • Proactive steps by the Ministry of Health, ICMR, and NCDC include surveillance, risk communication, and learning from COVID-19 experiences.
   • The Niti Aayog’s framework for future pandemic preparedness emphasizes enhanced R&D for vaccines and countermeasures.
6. Broader Lessons for Public Health:
   • Science-Based Communication: Clear messaging to prevent unnecessary panic while ensuring awareness.
   • Surveillance and Monitoring: Continuous tracking of trends in respiratory illnesses and potential mutations.
   • Air Pollution Control: Air pollution exacerbates respiratory diseases like ILI and SARI, requiring a multi-sectoral approach to reduce its impact.
7. Future Outlook:
   • Strengthening pandemic preparedness through investments in healthcare infrastructure, research, and vaccination development.
   • Implementing WHO-recommended strategies for combating known and emerging pathogens.
   • Using the current flu season to refine processes for handling future outbreaks.

4. 7 imperatives to build a viksit agri economy by 2047

This article outlines a strategic roadmap for transforming India’s agricultural sector into a modern, sustainable, and globally competitive agri-economy by 2047. It identifies seven key imperatives that leverage technology, policy reforms, and innovation to address current challenges while empowering smallholder farmers. Below are the highlights and their relevance:

Key Takeaways:

1. Adoption of AI in Agriculture:

• Current Status: Limited penetration in areas like weather forecasting, pest detection, and crop yield optimization.
• Global Example: US and Europe use generative AI for precision farming at scale.
• India’s Pathway:
  • Develop vernacular AI platforms for small farmers.
  • Partner with AgTech startups for affordable AI solutions.
  • Leverage government schemes to disseminate AI-based advisory services.
• Relevance: Highlights the intersection of technology and agriculture (GS Paper III).

2. Regenerative Farming Practices:

• Current Status: Practices like organic farming and zero-budget natural farming exist in pockets.
• Challenges: Soil degradation due to monoculture and excessive chemical use.
• Global Example: France and the US support regenerative agriculture through policies, incentives, and R&D.
• India’s Pathway:
  • Frame a national policy on regenerative farming.
  • Promote private sector-led R&D in sustainable agriculture.
• Relevance: Addresses environmental sustainability and agricultural reforms (GS Paper III).

3. Robotics and Automation:

• Current Status: Limited adoption due to high costs and reliance on rural labor.
• Global Example: Robotic harvesters are widely used in developed countries.
• India’s Pathway:
  • Develop low-cost robotic solutions for small farms.
  • Establish AgTech hubs for testing automation.
  • Foster public-private partnerships to scale innovations.
• Relevance: Enhances understanding of agri-tech and rural development.

4. Alternative Protein Market:

• Current Status: Nascent stage, led by startups.
• Global Example: EU fosters growth through initiatives and advanced R&D.
• India’s Pathway:
  • Collaborate with global leaders for production and awareness.
  • Focus on affordability and scalability of lab-grown proteins.
• Relevance: Important for food security, innovation, and nutrition policy.

5. Digital Twins in Agriculture:

• Current Status: Minimal usage; manual field trials dominate.
• Global Example: The US uses digital twins to model field trials virtually, saving costs and time.
• India’s Pathway:
  • Partner with AgTech firms to pilot digital twin technology.
  • Provide tax incentives for digital modeling.
• Relevance: Showcases the role of data-driven innovation in agriculture.

6. Blockchain for Supply Chain Transparency:

• Current Status: Experimental use in food traceability.
• Global Example: China has scaled blockchain in agricultural supply chains to improve transparency and market access.
• India’s Pathway:
  • Focus on export crops for blockchain adoption.
  • Train farmers and develop supportive infrastructure.
• Relevance: Addresses technology, governance, and trade policies.

7. Climate-Smart Farming:

• Current Status: Limited large-scale initiatives despite PM-KUSUM.
• India’s Pathway:
  • Expand micro-irrigation and renewable energy for agriculture.
  • Develop climate-resilient seed varieties.
  • Leverage AI for localized climate advisories.
• Relevance: Vital for climate adaptation and resilience in agriculture.

Policy Implications:

• Customizing Global Solutions: India should adapt innovations to its diverse agri-landscape rather than replicate foreign models.
• Public-Private Partnerships: Collaboration between stakeholders can bridge resource and technological gaps.
• Smallholder Inclusion: Ensuring equitable access to technology and resources is crucial for inclusive growth.
• Focus on Sustainability: Emphasizing regenerative practices and climate-smart solutions is key to long-term food security.

By acting on these imperatives, India can pave the way for a “Viksit Bharat” by 2047, ensuring its agricultural sector is resilient, innovative, and globally competitive.

5. Sanjaya Baru writes: Fears of a Trump presidency are greatly exaggerated

Sanjaya Baru, in his opinion piece, critiques the exaggerated fears surrounding the potential return of Donald Trump as President of the United States. He argues that while Trump’s rhetoric often creates global alarm, the highly integrated nature of the global economy limits any country’s ability, including the U.S., to act unilaterally without repercussions. Here are the key takeaways:

1. Trump’s “America First” Rhetoric

Baru questions the novelty of Trump’s “America First” policy, noting that the U.S. has historically prioritized its own interests post-World War II. He highlights that American dominance has always been framed as ensuring a “rules-based liberal international order,” often at the expense of allies and adversaries alike.

2. Historical Context: The Unipolar Moment

Baru revisits the early 1990s when the U.S. emerged as a global hegemon after the Soviet Union’s collapse. Predictions of American dominance during this “unipolar moment” eventually proved unsustainable due to economic shifts, including the 2008 financial crisis and the rise of emerging markets like China and India.

3. Global Economic Integration

Baru emphasizes that today’s global economy is deeply interdependent. Policies such as higher U.S. tariffs would harm not only producers in countries like China and India but also American consumers. He argues that this mutual dependence constrains the extent to which the U.S. can unilaterally disrupt global systems.

4. The Rise of China and India

Despite American dominance during the unipolar moment, both China and India managed to grow their economies significantly. This resilience suggests that stronger versions of these economies are well-positioned to navigate any turbulence Trump may create.

5. Trumpian Disruption: Bluff or Reality?

Baru posits that much of the fear surrounding Trump’s potential actions might be overblown or strategically exaggerated by those who benefit from perpetuating such concerns, including Washington lobbyists and global elites seeking to maintain influence.

6. Potential Positive Outcomes

Baru highlights that some aspects of Trump’s inward-focused agenda, such as investments in domestic infrastructure, education, and healthcare, could benefit both the U.S. and the global economy. If America were to reduce its military interventions abroad, it might create a more stable global order.

Conclusion

Baru asserts that fears of Trump’s presidency disrupting the global order are overstated. The integrated nature of the global economy and the resilience of rising powers like China and India act as natural checks on U.S. unilateralism. While Trump’s rhetoric may stir anxiety, the international community is neither powerless nor as vulnerable as often portrayed.

6. RG Kar verdict has left many clamouring for death sentence. But will that stop sexual assault?

The RG Kar verdict and the debates it has sparked around justice and women’s safety in India underscore the deep societal challenges in addressing sexual violence. This thought-provoking piece raises critical questions about the systemic factors that perpetuate such crimes and whether harsher punishments like the death penalty can serve as effective deterrents.

1. Justice vs. Deterrence

While life imprisonment for the perpetrator in the RG Kar case has brought some closure, murmurs for the death penalty reflect public outrage and a desire for harsher retribution. However, the larger question remains: Does capital punishment deter rape? Statistics show that incidents of sexual violence persist despite stringent laws introduced after the 2012 Nirbhaya case. The problem lies deeper in societal attitudes and entrenched patriarchy.

2. Patriarchy and Power Dynamics

The article highlights that rape is not merely a criminal act but a manifestation of power—rooted in caste, religion, and gender hierarchies. Patriarchy uses sexual violence as a tool to assert dominance, reinforcing a woman’s “place” in society. This systemic issue cannot be addressed solely through legal measures; it requires dismantling the structures that enable such power imbalances.

3. Voices from the Margins

The writer draws attention to the disparity in societal reactions to sexual violence based on the victim’s socio-economic background. Crimes in urban centers or involving professionals often elicit stronger public outcry than similar incidents in rural or marginalized communities. This selective outrage reveals how class and privilege influence the visibility of such crimes.

4. Reclaiming Public Spaces

Movements like “Reclaim the Nights” aim to challenge victim-blaming narratives and assert women’s right to safety in public spaces. However, as the article points out, the notion of “reclaiming” presumes prior ownership. For many women, especially in rural and marginalized communities, neither the “nights” nor the “days” have ever been theirs.

5. Cultural Shifts Are Crucial

While stronger laws and policing are essential, they are insufficient without cultural change. Education, awareness, and dialogue about gender equality must start early. Families, schools, and media play a vital role in reshaping perceptions of gender roles and challenging toxic masculinity.

Conclusion

The RG Kar incident is a grim reminder of the pervasive threat to women’s safety and the urgent need for systemic reform. True justice lies not only in punishing the perpetrator but in creating a society where such crimes are less likely to occur. This requires addressing the root causes of sexual violence—patriarchy, power imbalances, and societal apathy toward marginalized voices.

7. Ashutosh Varshney writes: With Donald Trump’s return, a very different America is upon us

Donald Trump’s return to the White House marks a turning point in American politics, with significant implications for both domestic and international arenas. Ashutosh Varshney’s analysis sheds light on the underlying themes of Trump’s presidency, focusing on the interplay between politics and law, his approach to governance, and the likely impact of his policies.

Key Features of Trump’s Politics

1. Politics Over Law
   Varshney aptly describes Trump’s politics as prioritizing popular will over the rule of law. The dismissal of federal criminal cases against Trump, despite serious allegations, exemplifies this shift. Judicial decisions emphasizing the primacy of popular mandates over legal frameworks set a concerning precedent. The pardons for January 6 insurrectionists further highlight the erosion of legal accountability in favor of political expediency.
2. Tariffs as a Political Tool
   Trump’s tariff policies extend beyond economic logic to serve as instruments of political leverage. His readiness to use tariffs against allies and adversaries alike underscores his “America First” agenda. While aimed primarily at China, such policies could disrupt global trade dynamics, impacting partners like India.
3. Immigration and DEI Crackdown
   Domestically, Trump’s focus on illegal immigration and opposition to diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives reflects his administration’s polarizing stance. These policies resonate with his base but risk deepening social divisions within the U.S.

Implications for India

1. Trade and Tariffs
   India’s IT sector, a key beneficiary of U.S. markets, faces potential challenges under Trump’s tariff policies. However, India could leverage its position to negotiate a bilateral trade deal, balancing its own tariffs with access to U.S. markets.
2. H-1B Visa Uncertainty
   Indian professionals in Silicon Valley may find themselves caught in the crossfire between Trump’s MAGA base and tech entrepreneurs advocating for H-1B visas. The outcome of this internal conflict could have long-term repercussions for India’s economic and professional ties with the U.S.

The Bigger Picture

Trump’s second presidency arrives with significant political capital, combining control of Congress and a broader popular mandate. This amplifies his ability to pursue transformative policies, but also raises questions about the long-term implications for democratic norms, both in the U.S. and globally.

For India, navigating this “different America” will require strategic diplomacy and adaptability. While opportunities for collaboration exist, especially in trade, challenges like visa restrictions and tariff disputes may test the resilience of Indo-U.S. relations.

As Varshney concludes, unless countervailing forces emerge, Trump’s disruptions could reshape America and its global standing in ways that are both profound and lasting.

8. Yogendra Yadav writes: Celebrating Indian Republic should go beyond sarkari rituals

Yogendra Yadav, in his opinion piece, argues that celebrating Republic Day must go beyond government-led rituals and focus on rekindling the essence of republicanism. He emphasizes the significance of a republic as a rejection of arbitrary power and highlights the need for civic virtues and social equality as envisioned by the Constitution and leaders like Ambedkar.

Key Points:

1. Meaning of a Republic:
   • A republic rejects arbitrary power in all forms—political, social, and economic.
   • It embodies ideals of liberty, sovereignty, equal citizenship, and civic virtues.
2. Historical Context:
   • Republic Day commemorates the adoption of the Indian Constitution on January 26, 1950.
   • The transition marked a departure from monarchy to a republican form of governance.
3. Ambedkar’s Vision of Democracy:
   • Democracy as a tool for revolutionary change in social and economic life without bloodshed.
   • Advocated for fraternity, liberty, and equality based on the teachings of Buddha.
   • Founded the Republican Party of India to promote radical republicanism.
4. Republicanism vs. Liberal Democracy:
   • Inspired by thinkers like Machiavelli, civic republicanism emphasizes liberty as non-domination.
   • Modern interpretations, such as Philip Pettit’s “neo-republicanism,” aim to counter inequality and domination.
5. Modern Challenges to Republican Values:
   • Yadav highlights a loss of shared purpose and institutions in recent times, threatening the essence of the republic.
   • Issues like corruption, communal violence, and misuse of power are examples of deviations from republican ideals.
6. Relevance of Satirical Insights:
   • Harishankar Parsai’s satire, Thithurata Hua Ganatantra, underscores societal inequalities during Republic Day celebrations.
   • Suggests Republic Day jhankis should reflect state realities like scams, lynching, and misuse of justice.
7. Call for Reclaiming the Republic:
   • Advocates reconnecting with the ideals of swaraj and the Constitution’s spirit.
   • Urges for a collective movement to rebuild India’s republican values and fight against domination.

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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