Analyzing editorials from The Hindu is a crucial component of Civil Services Examination preparation. These editorials offer insightful perspectives on current national and international issues, fostering critical thinking and enhancing one’s understanding of diverse topics relevant to the UPSC syllabus. Through this analysis, aspirants can refine their skills in comprehension, articulation, and issue-based evaluation, which are essential for the Preliminary, Mains, and Interview stages of the examination.
1. Down, But Not Out: On the Border-Gavaskar Trophy
Relevance: Essay and Ethics
India’s Decade-Long Dominance Ends
- India’s dominance in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy came to an end on Sunday at the Sydney Cricket Ground.
- The trophy, second only to the Ashes in stature and the most-watched cricket series globally, had been India’s preserve since 2015.
- Australia last won the title during the 2014-15 home series.
- The streak ended with Pat Cummins leading Australia to a 3-1 series victory.
Key Highlights of the Series
- Despite the 3-1 margin, the series was closely contested.
- Indian batters struggled throughout the series, while speedsters dominated.
- Jasprit Bumrah’s injury in the final Test allowed Australia to capitalize during their second innings chase.
- Bumrah, who captained India in the series opener, emerged as the leading wicket-taker with 32 scalps.
- His resilience with the bat also helped India avoid the follow-on during the Gabba Test.
Transition in the Indian Test Team
- India failed to qualify for the ICC World Test Championship final, prompting a period of transition.
- Senior players like Cheteshwar Pujara and Ajinkya Rahane were already phased out; R. Ashwin retired mid-series.
- The selectors and coach Gautam Gambhir now face decisions about the futures of Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, and Ravindra Jadeja.
- Historically, Australian tours have prompted transitions, such as the retirements of Dilip Vengsarkar (1991-92) and the duo of Rahul Dravid and V.V.S. Laxman (2011-12).
Key Player Performances
- Kohli scored a ton in the Perth Test but had a poor series overall with 190 runs at an average of 23.75.
- Rohit Sharma’s form was even worse, with scores of 3, 6, 10, 3, and 9.
- Promising performances included Yashasvi Jaiswal’s contributions, K.L. Rahul’s initial consistency, and Nitish Kumar Reddy’s century at Melbourne.
- Lower-order resistance helped, but it wasn’t enough to secure victories.
Australia’s Middle Order and Pat Cummins’ Impact
- Australia also faced batting challenges but was rescued by the form of Steve Smith, Travis Head, and Marnus Labuschagne.
- Pat Cummins led by example, claiming 25 wickets and scoring 159 runs to dominate the series.
The Road Ahead for India
- India must identify younger players adept at handling both spin and pace across formats and conditions.
- The team needs to rebuild its batting core while ensuring a balanced and effective bowling lineup.
Source: TH
2. Contrived Grievance: On the Tamil Nadu Governor
Recurring Controversies in Tamil Nadu
- The customary address by Tamil Nadu Governor R.N. Ravi to the Legislative Assembly has turned into an annual source of discord.
- For the third consecutive year, the Governor has sparked controversy, this time by leaving the Assembly without delivering his speech.
- Mr. Ravi claimed that the national anthem and the Constitution were insulted because the anthem was not played before his address.
- However, the State government clarified that the tradition is to play the State invocation before the speech and the national anthem afterward, a practice communicated to the Governor’s office.
Governor’s Actions Under Scrutiny
- Mr. Ravi’s actions are seen as a deliberate attempt to politicize the event and avoid his constitutional duty of presenting the government’s policy statement.
- In 2023, he omitted portions of the address, including references to the ‘Dravidian model of governance’ and praise for law and order in Tamil Nadu.
- In 2024, he cited “misleading claims and facts” in the address to justify his refusal to read it.
Gubernatorial Changes and Challenges
- Recent reshuffles in gubernatorial positions saw changes in Kerala, Bihar, Manipur, and Mizoram.
- Despite the controversies surrounding Mr. Ravi, he remains in Tamil Nadu, raising questions about the Union government’s intentions.
Political Implications and Constitutional Concerns
- Governors are constitutionally expected to act as neutral arbiters, but Mr. Ravi’s actions suggest a political bias.
- He has delayed assent to bills and made overtly political comments, undermining the authority of the State government.
- Recent Supreme Court judgments emphasize that Governors should not use their position to destabilize State regimes led by political opponents.
Need for Accountability
- The Union government’s decision to retain Mr. Ravi despite persistent controversies appears to test the State’s tolerance.
- Such actions raise concerns about weakening the principles of federalism and turning Governors into political agents.
Source: TH
3. Rumblings in Tamil Nadu’s Ruling Alliance
Tensions Surface Between DMK and CPI(M)
- K. Balakrishnan, outgoing CPI(M) State secretary, criticized the DMK government, accusing Chief Minister M.K. Stalin of enforcing an “undeclared emergency” in Tamil Nadu.
- He highlighted issues such as denial of permissions for protests, including a procession linked to the 24th party State conference, which he termed as stifling democratic rights.
- Balakrishnan questioned the DMK’s governance model, rejecting the Dravidian model and advocating for a “Left model” as a better alternative.
Opposition Gains Momentum
- The criticism from a DMK ally added weight to the Opposition’s claims, especially amidst concerns over the law-and-order situation.
- Recent incidents, such as the sexual assault case at Anna University, have fueled demands for justice, with permissions for related protests being denied.
- The AIADMK’s IT wing highlighted Balakrishnan’s remarks, suggesting they reflect an oppressive regime.
Balakrishnan’s Dual Position
- While affirming CPI(M)’s commitment to fighting communalism and supporting the DMK-led anti-BJP alliance, he asserted that this does not make CPI(M) a passive partner.
- Balakrishnan emphasized the CPI(M)’s commitment to addressing issues of workers, farmers, and other marginalized groups if the DMK fails to uphold its promises.
DMK’s Controlled Response
- The DMK refrained from a strong reaction to Balakrishnan’s allegations.
- Hindu Religious and Charitable Endowments Minister P.K. Sekarbabu denied claims of an undeclared emergency, citing improved freedom compared to the AIADMK’s tenure.
- Murasoli, the DMK’s official publication, criticized Balakrishnan’s approach, questioning his motives and suggesting his actions could harm alliance harmony.
Underlying Issues Within the Alliance
- Balakrishnan’s remarks underscore growing unease among alliance partners about perceived government excesses.
- His statements suggest that CPI(M) seeks to assert its independence while remaining aligned with the DMK on broader national issues, such as opposing the BJP.
Impact on the Alliance’s Future
- The public airing of grievances reflects tensions that could strain the ruling coalition.
- Both parties will need to balance alliance unity with addressing internal disagreements to maintain their collective strength.
Source: TH
4. The Collegium and Changes — It May Still Be Early Days
Introduction
- The Supreme Court’s Collegium system, responsible for judicial appointments, remains a subject of debate and reform.
- Recent proposals, such as conducting interviews for High Court judge candidates and excluding those with close judicial relatives, aim to address long-standing concerns about the system.
Recent Proposals: A Step Towards Reform
- Interviews for Judicial Candidates:
- Aiming for thorough scrutiny of nominees for elevation to High Courts.
- Expected to ensure better evaluation of qualifications and suitability.
- Exclusion of Relatives in Judiciary:
- Intends to promote diversity and address perceptions of nepotism.
- Recognizes potential drawbacks, as deserving candidates may be excluded.
Challenges in Reform Implementation
- Any meaningful reform depends on the government’s cooperation.
- The government’s tendency to stonewall or delay proposals undermines the process.
- Collegium’s ad hoc methods and lack of binding rules leave room for inconsistency and opacity.
Constitutional Framework and the Collegium’s Evolution
- Original Provisions in the Constitution:
- Judicial appointments involve the President consulting the Chief Justice of India (CJI) and others.
- Transfers of judges also require consultation with the CJI.
- Judicial Interpretation and the Collegium System:
- Second Judges Case (1993): Defined “consultation” as “concurrence” with a collegium of senior judges.
- Fourth Judges Case (2015): Reaffirmed judiciary’s primacy in appointments, asserting it as part of the Constitution’s basic structure.
Government’s Role and the Collegium’s Authority
- In practice, the government’s ability to delay or reject recommendations weakens the collegium’s primacy.
- This creates a paradox where the judiciary’s independence is theoretically safeguarded but practically challenged.
The Rule of Law and the Need for Collaboration
- The government is bound to follow procedures outlined in the Judges’ cases.
- However, delays in implementation undermine judicial independence.
- For meaningful reform, collaboration between the judiciary and the executive is essential to ensure the process’s integrity.
Conclusion
- The collegium’s newest proposals are a step forward but must be backed by effective implementation.
- Compliance with the rulings in Judges’ cases is critical for maintaining the judiciary’s independence and the rule of law.
- Ultimately, ensuring accountability and independence in judicial appointments requires a balanced, collaborative approach that respects the Constitution’s vision.
Source: TH
5. Enhancing Governance the Digital Way
Introduction
- India’s journey toward digital governance aims to improve citizen services and empower government employees.
- The efficiency of public service delivery hinges on the workforce’s ability to adapt to evolving digital tools.
Digital Governance: A Paradigm Shift
- Modernizing Governance Processes:
- Governance involves multiple stakeholders, including government bodies, NGOs, and community leaders.
- Adapting to digital tools is crucial to enhancing decision-making, communication, and workflows.
- Lessons from Chanakya:
- Chanakya’s principles of statecraft and governance remain relevant, emphasizing strategy, ethical leadership, and adaptability.
Key Initiatives in Digital Governance
- Capacity Building via iGOT Karmayogi:
- Launched in 2020, the platform equips officials with skills in data analytics, public administration, and digital technologies.
- Offers personalized learning paths to encourage continuous improvement.
- e-Office Initiative:
- Automates workflows, reduces paperwork, and enhances operational efficiency.
- Promotes real-time communication and transparency in government processes.
- Government e-Marketplace (GeM):
- Digitizes procurement processes, fostering efficiency and accountability.
Challenges in Digital Transformation
- Resistance to Change:
- Varying levels of digital readiness among employees.
- Need for additional support and training for those hesitant to adopt new technologies.
- Incentive Structure:
- Initiatives like iGOT Karmayogi risk being reduced to attendance trackers without meaningful job-related applications.
- Real success lies in translating training into practical opportunities.
- Digital Divide:
- Limited access to high-speed Internet and digital tools in rural areas risks marginalizing employees and citizens.
- Cybersecurity Concerns:
- Increasing digitization elevates risks of data breaches and cyberattacks.
- Employee training in cybersecurity is essential to safeguard sensitive information.
- Need for Continuous Learning:
- Rapid technological advancements demand ongoing training and upskilling opportunities.
- Programmes must remain dynamic to keep pace with new developments.
Way Forward
- Strengthening Infrastructure:
- Prioritize access to reliable digital tools and high-speed Internet, especially in rural areas.
- Encouraging Innovation:
- Foster a culture that embraces technology and innovation at all levels of governance.
- Targeted Training:
- Focus on outcomes by linking training to skill applications and job advancements.
- Enhancing Cybersecurity Measures:
- Implement robust protocols and train employees to manage digital risks effectively.
Conclusion
- India’s digital governance journey has set a strong foundation, but achieving its full potential requires robust infrastructure, dynamic training, and a digitally empowered workforce.
- An inclusive and transparent governance model, where every employee is equipped for the digital age, can set a global benchmark.
- By prioritizing accountability, adaptability, and inclusivity, India can create a governance system that meets the aspirations of its citizens.
Source: TH
6. The End of Global Climate Policy
Introduction
The 2024 climate conference in Baku marked a pivotal shift in global climate governance, moving beyond the traditional donor-recipient framework. The conference proposed an alternative sustainability forum, urging developing nations to steer their own course toward sustainable development.
The Original Climate Treaty Vision
- Purpose of the 1992 Treaty: To collectively address climate concerns while recognizing the historical responsibility of developed nations (primarily G7) for emissions.
- Grand Bargain: Developing nations agreed to tackle a problem they didn’t create, expecting technology transfer and financial support in return.
- Imbalance in Research and Practice:
- Rules have historically been designed to favor G7 nations.
- Focus on symptoms (emission reduction) rather than root causes (unsustainable consumption patterns).
The Shift in Global Dynamics
- G7 and the “Optical Illusion” of Climate Finance:
- Promises of financial support by 2035 lack substance.
- The G7 has largely absolved itself of direct responsibility for climate change.
- Global South’s Growing Influence:
- Representing four-fifths of the global population and half the global GDP, the Global South is advocating for climate justice.
- 72 countries now include “just transition” in their Nationally Determined Contributions, emphasizing the social dimensions of climate action.
Climate Justice and its Challenges
- Systemic Inequities:
- Existing rules disproportionately benefit developed nations, exacerbating income inequality and the North-South divide.
- Policies like carbon pricing and trade restrictions often harm the Global South.
- Urban Resource Use:
- Urbanization drives 75% of global emissions and resource use.
- G7 countries have historically overused resources; in 2050, they are projected to contribute 25% of global emissions with only 10% of the population.
- Asia, with 55% of the global population, is expected to account for an equivalent share of emissions.
A Call for New Principles
- Justice at the Core:
- New sustainability principles should aim for equitable well-being within ecological limits.
- India’s Role:
- India must emulate the strategic approach of G7 nations to create a shared prosperity model.
Proposed Global Governance Reforms
- Alternate Sustainability Forum:
- Led by BRICS and partners, focusing on urban energy transition and sustainability science.
- This forum would monitor G7 policies and facilitate knowledge exchange.
- Refocus UN Climate Negotiations:
- Limit discussions to G7 emissions reductions and grants to vulnerable nations ($300 billion).
- Reassess Global Institutions:
- View international fora as annual stocktaking events rather than platforms for substantive action.
- Allow outdated institutions like the WTO’s dispute settlement mechanism to fade away.
The Role of BRICS
- BRICS nations can bridge gaps in the evolving multilateral system.
- Playing this role could strengthen their claim to permanent membership in the UN Security Council.
Conclusion
The climate crisis necessitates a profound rethinking of global governance, with justice and equity at the forefront. Developing nations must take ownership of their sustainable futures, moving beyond outdated frameworks dominated by the G7. An alternative sustainability forum, strategic leadership, and a focus on shared prosperity within ecological limits can set the stage for a just and inclusive global climate policy.
Source: TH
Disclaimer:
This analysis is based on the editorial content published in The Hindu 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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