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GS Paper: GS2-18.Bilateral, regional and global groupings and agreements involving India and/or affecting India’s interests.

  • [25th October 2024] The Hindu Op-ed: The Gaza war and the Global South’s ‘interventions’

    PYQ Relevance:

    [2018] India’s relations with Israel have, of late, acquired a depth and diversity, which cannot be rolled back.” Discuss.
    [2022] How will I2U2 (India, Israel, UAE and USA) grouping transform India’s position in global politics?Prelims:
    [2013]  The term “two-state solution” is sometimes mentioned in the news in the context of the affairs of: 
    (a) China 
    (b) Israel 
    (c) Iraq 
    (d) Yemen

    Mentor’s Comment:  Israel’s war in Gaza, launched in response to the October 7 Hamas attacks, once again took center stage at the International Court of Justice (ICJ) this week. The UN General Assembly brought up the issue of illegal Israeli settlements at the court, with public hearings set to conclude on February 26. 

    The hearings highlighted a deeper divide, as Western countries largely defended Israel’s airstrikes on Gaza as an act of “self-defense,” while many Global South nations backed South Africa’s push for the ICJ to charge Israel with “war crimes” for its actions. The hearings took place against the backdrop of a major dispute between Brazil and Israel.

    _

    Let’s learn!

    Why in the News?

    • Most of the speakers at the hearings were from the Global South, with Brazil and South Africa taking the lead in the International Court of Justice (ICJ). 
    • All permanent members of the UN Security Council submitted comments, though Israel did not take part. India did not speak at the hearings, but its neighbors, Pakistan and Bangladesh, strongly criticized Israel’s actions.

    Global South View on Israel- Palestine Conflict: 

    • Fragmented Global South Response: The Global South has not presented a unified stance toward the Israel-Palestine conflict. While some countries have sought legal actions against Israel, others have taken more cautious approaches, focused on diplomacy and ceasefire calls.
    • South Africa’s Legal Action: Driven by its own history of apartheid, South Africa took Israel to the International Court of Justice (ICJ) in December 2023, seeking a warrant against Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.
    • Divergence Within BRICS: China and India, the two biggest powers within the Global South construct, have taken divergent positions based on their national interests rather than building consensus within newer multilateral formats like BRICS.
    • The Role of BRICS Expansion: The BRICS group recently expanded, a move supported by China but not particularly favored by India, illustrating differing priorities even within major Global South frameworks.

    China’s View on Israel- Palestine Conflict:

    • China’s Support for Palestinian Sovereignty: China aligns its position with Arab interests, supporting Palestinian sovereignty from a decolonization perspective. In July 2024, it hosted a conference aimed at unifying various Palestinian factions.
    • China’s Strategic Calculations: China refrained from condemning Hamas after the October 2023 attacks, aiming to keep its mediation options open, especially after the high-profile Iran-Saudi Arabia mediation. However, recent developments, including the killings of Ismail Haniyeh and Yahya Sinwar, have disrupted these efforts.
    • China’s Use of Multilateral Forums: China seeks to leverage forums like BRICS to promote the Global South narrative in its favor. The expansion of BRICS and Palestine’s interest in joining reflect China’s strategy to broaden its influence.

    India’s View on  Israel- Palestine Conflict:

    • India’s Balanced Approach: India maintains a consistent and balanced position, supporting both Israel’s counter-terrorism efforts and the Palestinian cause. Its stance includes a two-state solution and recognition of Palestine since 1988.
    • Counter-Terrorism Focus: India’s stance on the conflict focuses on counter-terrorism, reflecting its own experiences with cross-border terrorism, similar to Israel’s challenges. The 2011 release of Sinwar by Israel is comparable to India’s release of Masood Azhar in 1999.

    The disunity in the Global South affects India’s interests in several ways:

    • Limits Diplomatic Leverage: The lack of a unified stance weakens India’s ability to push for collective action on issues like terrorism or multilateral reforms.
    • Challenges in BRICS Consensus: Diverging views within BRICS complicate India’s efforts to shape the group’s agenda in line with its own interests, such as counter-terrorism and economic cooperation.
    • Reduces Influence in West Asia: Fragmented approaches hinder India’s ability to play a significant mediating role in the Israel-Palestine conflict or other regional matters.
    • Complicates Strategic Alignments: Disunity forces India to navigate complex diplomatic relationships individually, rather than benefiting from coordinated Global South support.
    • Dilutes Global South’s Voice: The lack of coherence limits India’s capacity to effectively champion developing countries’ concerns on global platforms like the UN.

    Way forward: 

    • Strengthen Diplomatic Alliances: India should work on building stronger bilateral and regional partnerships to create support for its positions within the Global South, focusing on areas of mutual interest such as counter-terrorism and economic development.
    • Leverage Multilateral Platforms Strategically: India can actively shape the agenda in forums like BRICS by promoting consensus on common issues, such as peace initiatives and reforming global governance, to enhance its influence and the collective voice of the Global South.

    https://www.thehindu.com/opinion/op-ed/the-gaza-war-and-the-global-souths-interventions/article68792576.ece

  • On sanctions and shadow fleets

    Why in the News?

    During coverage of the Russia-Ukraine conflict, many Western media outlets have referred to tanker ships transporting Russian crude oil or oil products to other countries as a “shadow fleet.”

    What is shadow fleet?

    • The “shadow fleet” refers to tanker ships transporting oil from sanctioned countries, using tactics like flag hopping, complex ownership structures, and cargo transfers at sea to evade detection and sanctions.

    What are Flags of Convenience (FoCs)?

    • Flags of Convenience (FoCs) refer to the practice of registering a ship in a country other than that of the ship’s owner. Ships then fly the flag of the country where they are registered, known as the “flag state.”
    • Initially, FoCs emerged as a way for shipowners to minimize taxes and avoid stringent regulations. They allow shipowners to benefit from favorable regulatory environments, such as lower taxes, less stringent safety requirements, and more lenient labor laws.
    • Examples: Common FoCs include Panama, Liberia, and the Marshall Islands. These nations have minimal regulations, making it easier for ships to operate with reduced scrutiny.

    How do corporations with large fleets obscure ownership and origin of cargo? (Challenges to find the origin country of the ship)

    • Complex Ownership Structures: Corporations often create complex ownership arrangements to hide the true identity of shipowners. This may involve setting up multiple shell companies, where each company owns only one or two ships. The use of offshore accounts and subsidiaries further adds to the opacity.
    • Frequent Changes in Ship Registration and Management: Ships frequently switch their flag state (known as “flag hopping”) to avoid detection and regulatory compliance.
    • Renaming Vessels: Ships involved in activities that could trigger sanctions often change their names to avoid being traced back to previous sanctioned activities.
    • Using FoCs and Non-Compliant Jurisdictions: Ships may be registered in countries that are not signatories to international regulatory frameworks, such as the International Maritime Organization (IMO).
      • For instance, Eswatini has emerged as a FoC because it does not follow IMO guidelines, allowing for less regulatory oversight.

    Why has India been accused of hosting a shadow fleet?

    • Increased Russian Oil Shipments: Indian firms and Dubai-based entities with Indian ties have been involved in transporting Russian oil, raising suspicions of sanction evasion.
    • Certification by Indian Register of Shipping (IRS): The IRS certified more ships linked to Russian oil post-sanctions, which some viewed as supporting “shadow fleet” operations.
    • Use of Flags of Convenience: Ships connected to India often registered under foreign flags, obscuring their ownership and the origin of their cargo to bypass sanctions.

    What are the different ways through which ships ensure they don’t lose their insurance?

    • Switching Insurance Providers: If a ship loses its Protection and Indemnity (P&I) insurance cover due to violations of sanctions, the owner may shift the vessel’s management to a different company with valid P&I insurance.
    • Changing Ship Management and Ownership: By changing the management entity or even the registered owner (via shell companies), ships can regain insurance cover without having to comply with the initial sanctions.
    • Use of Different Flag States: Ships registered under FoCs or jurisdictions not compliant with international regulations face less scrutiny, which can help them maintain insurance coverage despite potentially violating sanctions.
    • Renaming Vessels: This practice helps erase the association of the ship with any prior incidents or sanctions violations, allowing the ship to be insured under a different identity.

    Way forward: 

    • Enhance Oversight and Transparency: India should tighten regulations on ship certification and ownership disclosure, ensuring compliance with international norms to prevent any association with sanction-evading activities.
    • Strengthen International Coordination: India should collaborate with global maritime bodies to align its policies with international shipping standards, promoting responsible trade practices while safeguarding its economic interests.

  • India, Pakistan avoid blaming each other at SCO meeting

    Why in the News?

    External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar informally interacted with Pakistan’s Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar during the SCO summit’s concluding lunch in Islamabad.

    About SCO:

    • The SCO was established in 2001 to promote regional cooperation in security, economic development, and cultural exchange among its member states, which include China, India, Russia, Pakistan, and several Central Asian countries.
    • The organization represents around 40% of the global population, making it one of the largest regional groups. Its influence spans economic, political, and security dimensions.
    • The SCO focuses on combating terrorism, separatism, and extremism (the “three evils”), enhancing regional security, and fostering economic collaboration among member states.
    • The SCO holds annual summits, rotating between member countries, to discuss various topics ranging from economic cooperation to regional security challenges.

    What were the major insights during SCO 2024 summit?

    • Diplomatic Engagement: The informal interaction between India’s External Affairs Minister and Pakistan’s leadership marked a notable shift in diplomatic engagement, highlighting a more constructive tone compared to previous meetings.
    • Avoidance of Contentious Issues: Both India and Pakistan’s leaders refrained from discussing sensitive topics such as Kashmir, indicating a focus on cooperation rather than conflict during this summit.
    • Collective Responsibility: The Indian foreign minister emphasized the need for an “honest conversation” about trust and cooperation in the SCO region, highlighting the importance of addressing concerns over terrorism and separatism in fostering trade and connectivity.
    • Positive Outcomes: The summit resulted in the signing of eight documents, including proposals for economic dialogue, cooperation in the creative economy, and strategies for addressing challenges in areas like green development and digital economy.
    • Future Cooperation: The joint statement from the summit emphasized optimizing the region’s potential in various sectors such as trade, innovation, and climate change, indicating a commitment to collaborative economic growth.

    Challenges for India: 

    • India-Pakistan Relations: Pakistan’s membership complicates India’s position within the SCO. The rivalry between India and Pakistan can hinder India’s ability to assert its interests effectively, especially since China and Russia are influential players in the organization.
    • Balancing Relations: India’s participation in the SCO necessitates a delicate balancing act between its traditional ties with Russia and its growing partnerships with Western nations. This is particularly challenging given the SCO’s often anti-Western posture.

    Way forward: 

    • Strengthen Regional Cooperation: India should prioritize common interests within the SCO, such as counter-terrorism, economic development, and connectivity, while using diplomatic channels to reduce tensions with Pakistan and maintain constructive dialogue.
    • Strategic Balancing: India can pursue a balanced approach by aligning its SCO engagements with its broader foreign policy goals, leveraging partnerships with Russia and Central Asia while carefully managing its ties with Western nations.

  • Canada accuses Indian diplomats?

    Why in the News?

    India-Canada relations have reached a historic low after Justin Trudeau’s government accused Indian officials of being involved in “activities that pose a significant threat to public safety,” claims that New Delhi has strongly rejected as “preposterous.”

    What specific allegations has Canada made against Indian diplomats?

    • Violent Extremism: Canadian authorities claim that agents of the Government of India have been involved in violent extremist activities affecting both countries.
    • Involvement in Criminal Activity: The Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) have accused Indian diplomats and consular officials of being linked to homicides, acts of violence, and the use of organized crime to create a sense of insecurity among the South Asian community in Canada.
    • Foreign Interference: Investigations suggest Indian officials leveraged their positions to collect information on certain individuals or groups in Canada, either directly or through proxies. This intelligence was allegedly shared with the Research and Analysis Wing (RAW) in India.
    • Threats and Coercion: The allegations include coercion tactics where individuals in Canada were reportedly threatened regarding their immigration status or faced risks to their family members in India.
    • Connections with Organized Crime: There are claims that Indian intelligence conveyed information to criminal networks in India, allegedly linked to gangster Lawrence Bishnoi, who is in custody in India. These networks are suspected of intimidating or targeting Canadians of South Asian descent.
    • Involvement in Assassinations: The controversy began with the assassination of Khalistani activist Hardeep Singh Nijjar in Surrey, and was further linked to the killing of Sukhdool Singh Gill in Winnipeg. Both incidents allegedly have ties to Indian government directives.

    How has India responded to Canada’s accusations?

    • Denial of Allegations: India has categorically dismissed the allegations as “absurd” and “preposterous.” Indian authorities have rejected claims of any involvement in criminal activities in Canada or targeting the Sikh community.
    • Accusations of Canadian Tolerance for Extremism: New Delhi has countered by accusing Canada of allowing anti-India elements and Khalistani separatist groups to operate freely, impacting India’s sovereignty and security.
    • Denial of Diplomatic Cooperation: Reports suggest that while India initially agreed to cooperate with the Canadian investigation, it later denied visas to RCMP officials who intended to share evidence with Indian counterparts.

    What actions have both countries taken in retaliation?

    • Expulsion of Diplomats: Following Canada’s expulsion of an Indian diplomat, India retaliated by expelling a senior Canadian diplomat, escalating the diplomatic dispute.
    • Visa Suspension: In response to the diplomatic tensions, India suspended visa services for Canadian citizens, citing security concerns for Indian diplomatic personnel in Canada.
    • Reduced Diplomatic Presence: The crisis has resulted in both nations significantly scaling back their diplomatic staff, affecting consular services and visa issuance.
    • Diplomatic Disengagement: India’s foreign minister has hinted at limiting diplomatic interactions with Canada, reflecting the deterioration in bilateral ties.

    What are the potential implications of this diplomatic crisis for both sides?

    • Bilateral Relations: The row represents a historic low in India-Canada relations. Both nations may experience prolonged diplomatic disengagement, adversely affecting cooperation in trade, education, and defence.
    • Economic Impacts: Canada is a significant partner for Indian students and the Punjabi diaspora, which could face disruptions in visa issuance, immigration processes, and consular services.
    • Geopolitical Ramifications: The dispute may strain India’s relations with Western allies, including the United States, which has strong ties with both India and Canada.
    • Division in Diaspora Communities: The Sikh community in Canada could be further divided, with escalating tensions around pro-Khalistan activities. Allegations against Indian officials may also increase anti-India sentiments among diaspora groups.

    Way forward: 

    • Diplomatic Engagement and De-escalation: Both countries should prioritize diplomatic channels to de-escalate tensions, perhaps through neutral intermediaries or international platforms, ensuring that the crisis does not further damage long-term relations, trade, and people-to-people ties.
    • Focused Cooperation on Extremism and Criminal Activity: A joint task force or collaborative investigation involving both nations could be set up to address concerns about violent extremism and criminal activity, fostering transparency and trust, while respecting sovereignty and legal frameworks.

  • UAE to review India’s concerns on surge in Silver, Platinum Alloy imports

    Why in the News?

    India has raised concerns over the increase in imports of silver products, platinum alloy, and dry dates from the UAE under the Free Trade Agreement (FTA).

    Issues Raised by India:

    • The Global Trade Research Initiative (GTRI) has called for an urgent review of the India-UAE CEPA, citing concerns that the agreement allows unlimited imports of gold, silver, platinum, and diamonds with zero tariffs.
    • GTRI claims that many of these imports do not meet Rules of Origin requirements and thus should not qualify for concessions.
      • India’s gold and silver imports from the UAE increased by 210% to $10.7 billion in 2023-24.
      • India allows customs duty concessions of 7% on silver and 1% on 160 metric tonnes of gold under the agreement.
    • India also requested that the Indian Jewellery Exposition Centre in Dubai be classified as a Designated Zone to allow domestic jewellery manufacturers to benefit from concessional duties, including those not registered under UAE’s domestic regulations.
    • India also requested the UAE to grant recognition to the i-CAS (India Conformity Assessment Scheme) Halal scheme to simplify the certification process and boost exports of animal products.
    • The UAE expressed its willingness to review this request after consulting internal stakeholders, including federal tax authorities.

    India-UAE Trade Relations:

    Details
    Volume • The UAE is India’s 3rd largest trading partner with $83.65 billion in bilateral trade in 2023-24.
    • Trade between India and UAE grew from $180 million in the 1970s to $85 billion in 2022-23.
    Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) • Signed in February 2022, making India the first country to sign such an agreement with the UAE.
    • CEPA has slashed tariffs on 80% of goods and offers zero duty access to 90% of Indian exports to the UAE.
    Non-Oil Trade Target • The target of reaching $100 billion in non-oil trade by 2030 is seen as achievable given current growth trends.
    Investment from UAE • UAE’s investments in India are around $20-21 billion, with $15.5 billion as Foreign Direct Investment (FDI).
    • The Abu Dhabi Investment Authority (ADIA) has invested in projects like the NIIF Master Fund and renewable energy initiatives.
    India’s Exports to UAE • UAE is India’s 2nd largest export destination after the US, with exports worth $31.61 billion in 2022-23.
    • Key exports include petroleum products, gems, food items, textiles, and engineering goods.
    India’s Imports from UAE • UAE is a critical partner for India’s energy security.
    • India imports petroleum, gems, minerals, and chemicals from UAE.
    • UAE is India’s 4th largest crude oil supplier and 2nd largest for LNG and LPG.

     

    PYQ:

    [2022] How will I2U2 (India, Israel, UAE and USA) grouping transform India’s position in global politics? 

  • Nile nations agree on Water-Sharing without Egypt’s nod

    nile river

    Why in the News?

    A regional partnership of 10 countries announced that an agreement on the equitable use of Nile River water resources has come into effect, despite Egypt’s opposition.

    Why discuss this?

    • The legal status of the “cooperative framework” was confirmed by the African Union after South Sudan joined the treaty.
    • The treaty is backed by the Nile Basin Initiative.
    • Countries Involved:
      • Ethiopia, Uganda, Rwanda, Burundi, and Tanzania have ratified the agreement.
      • Egypt and Sudan have refused to sign.
      • Congo abstained, while Kenya has yet to submit its ratification documents.

    About Nile River:

    Details
    Length Approximately 6,650 km (4,130 miles), making it the longest river in the world.
    Tributaries White Nile (originating from Lake Victoria in Uganda) and Blue Nile (originating from Lake Tana in Ethiopia).
    Countries Traversed 11 countries: Uganda, Rwanda, Burundi, DR Congo, Tanzania, Kenya, Ethiopia, South Sudan, Sudan, and Egypt.
    Source
    • White Nile from Lake Victoria,
    • Blue Nile from Lake Tana.
    Mouth Mediterranean Sea, forming the Nile Delta in Egypt.
    Major Cities Includes Cairo, Khartoum, and Alexandria.
    Key Dams
    • Aswan High Dam (Egypt), controls flooding, generates hydroelectric power, and forms Lake Nasser.
    • Built in 1970 across the Nile in Aswan, Egypt; helps in irrigation, flood control, and hydroelectric power generation but also disrupts silt flow.
    Economic Importance Provides over 90% of water for Egypt and Sudan; vital for agriculture, fishing, industry, and energy production.
    Disputes Between Ethiopia, Egypt, and Sudan over water rights, particularly due to the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD).
    Historical Treaties
    • 1929 and 1959 Nile Water Agreements allocated water mostly to Egypt and Sudan; upstream countries seek revision.
    • Nile Basin Initiative (NBI): Established in 1999, it is a partnership among Nile Basin countries aimed at promoting cooperation, development, and sustainable management of the Nile’s resources.

     

    PYQ:

    [2020] Consider the following pairs:

    River Flows into
    1. Mekong Andaman Sea
    2. Thames Irish Sea
    3. Volga Caspian Sea
    4. Zambezi Indian Ocean

    Which of the pairs given above is/are correctly matched?

    (a) 1 and 2 only

    (b) 3 only

    (c) 3 and 4 only

    (d) 1, 2 and 4 only

  • [pib] India’s Statement at the 21st ASEAN-India Summit 

    Why in the News?

    In alignment with the theme of this year’s ASEAN Summit—“Enhancing Connectivity and Resilience”—PM Modi laid out the following ten key suggestions for strengthening cooperation.

    Back2Basics: Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN)

    • ASEAN, founded in 1967 with the Bangkok Declaration, aims for economic growth, regional peace, and an integrated ASEAN community.
    • The ASEAN Charter, launched in 2008, formalized ASEAN’s legal status and sought to establish a single free-trade area.
    • The ASEAN Intergovernmental Commission on Human Rights (AICHR) was established in 2009, adopting the ASEAN Human Rights Declaration in 2012.
    • ASEAN members comprises Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, and Vietnam. East Timor (Timor-Leste) applied for membership in 2011 but is not yet a member.
    • ASEAN Plus Three (China, Japan, South Korea) aims to deepen regional integration among Southeast Asia and East Asian countries.
    • East Asia Summit (EAS), including ASEAN Plus Three + India, Australia, and New Zealand, enhances strategic dialogue and cooperation in the region.

    Ten suggestions by PM Modi for ASEAN Connectivity and Resilience:

    No. Suggestion Details
    1 ASEAN-India Year of Tourism (2025) Declare 2025 as ASEAN-India Year of Tourism, with India committing USD 5 million to promote tourism between India and ASEAN.
    2 Celebrating a Decade of India’s Act East Policy Organize events connecting artists, youth, entrepreneurs, and think tanks, including a Music Festival, Youth Summit, Hackathon, etc.
    3 Women Scientists’ Conclave Hold an annual Women Scientists’ Conclave under the India-ASEAN Science and Technology Fund to promote collaboration and innovation.
    4 Scholarships for ASEAN Students Double the Masters scholarships for ASEAN students at Nalanda University and launch a new scholarship program for ASEAN students in agriculture.
    5 Review of ASEAN-India Trade Agreement Complete the review of the ASEAN-India Trade in Goods Agreement by 2025 to enhance economic ties and build a secure, resilient supply chain.
    6 Disaster Resilience Allocate USD 5 million from the ASEAN-India Fund for disaster resilience, with collaboration between India’s NDMA and ASEAN’s Humanitarian Assistance Centre.
    7 Health Resilience Institutionalize the ASEAN-India Health Ministers Meeting and invite two experts from each ASEAN country to India’s National Cancer Grid Vishwam Conference.
    8 Digital and Cyber Resilience Establish a cyber-policy dialogue between India and ASEAN to strengthen digital and cyber resilience.
    9 Promoting a Green Future Organize workshops on green hydrogen involving experts from India and ASEAN to promote sustainable energy solutions.
    10 Climate Resilience Promote the “Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam” (Plant for Mother) campaign to encourage tree planting and strengthen climate resilience.

     

    PYQ:

    [2016] Evaluate the economic and strategic dimensions of India’s Look East Policy in the context of the post-Cold War international scenario.

    [2015] India is a member of which among the following? (2015)

    1. Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation
    2. Association of South-East Asian Nations
    3. East Asia Summit

    Select the correct answer using the code given below:

    (a) 1 and 2 only

    (b) 3 only

    (c) 1, 2 and 3

    (d) India is a member of none of them

     

    https://pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=2063975

  • A re-balancing of India’s great power relations

    Why in the News?

    India’s participation in the sixth Quad Leaders’ Summit in Wilmington, Delaware, U.S., on September 21, 2024, has heightened expectations for strengthening security cooperation among the “four key maritime democracies in the Indo-Pacific.”

    How can India navigate its relationships with major powers?

    • Strategic Autonomy: India maintains a policy of non-alignment, balancing relations with both the U.S. and Russia. It is careful not to be drawn into formal alliances but seeks to leverage its partnerships for national interests.
    • Quad vs. Russia: India’s engagement with the U.S.-led Quad strengthens its Indo-Pacific strategy, while its ties with Russia (a Quad opponent) focus on maintaining historical military and strategic benefits.
    • Russia-China Dynamics: As Russia moves closer to China, India seeks to rebalance, ensuring its interests are not sidelined, particularly in the context of China’s growing influence in Asia and unresolved border disputes.
    • U.S. Partnership: While deepening ties with the U.S., India is cautious about fully aligning with Washington’s agenda (for exports), especially regarding tensions with Russia.

    What role does India play in Global Conflict Resolution?

    • As a Peace facilitator: India is increasingly positioning itself as a peace facilitator, evidenced by the NSA (Ajit Dowal) of India’s outreach to Russia and France regarding the Ukraine conflict and peace plan.
    • As a ‘Vishwa Bandhu’: India’s engagement with both Ukraine and Russia shows its willingness to serve as an interlocutor, navigating complex diplomatic terrains while pushing for dialogue in global conflicts.
      • India’s attempts to mediate in conflicts like Ukraine emphasize its independent foreign policy, aiming to project itself as a “Vishwa Bandhu” (friend to the world).

    What implications do Domestic Issues have on India’s Foreign Policy?

    • Economic Dependencies: India’s reliance on Russian military equipment and discounted oil affects its stance on the Ukraine war, pushing for a more nuanced approach in balancing U.S. and Russian relations.
    • Border Tensions with China: Domestic security concerns, such as the standoff at the LAC, influence India’s foreign policy decisions, especially in its cautious relationship with China despite economic interdependence.
    • Public Opinion and Strategic Decisions: India’s foreign policy must account for domestic perceptions of global powers, balancing national security with economic growth and political stability in a complex international environment.

    Way forward: 

    • Strengthen Strategic Autonomy: India should continue balancing its relationships with major powers by deepening economic and security ties with both the U.S. and Russia, while maintaining flexibility to protect its national interests, particularly in the Indo-Pacific and vis-à-vis China.
    • Expand Peace Diplomacy: India can further leverage its role as a mediator in global conflicts, enhancing its international standing by promoting dialogue and peace initiatives.

  • The status of the civil war in Sudan

    Why in the News?

    On September 26, the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) initiated a significant offensive against the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) in Khartoum and Bahri. As a result, the conflict, which had been relatively calm for several months, has reignited with increased intensity.

    What is the extent of the war? 

    • Duration and Scope: The civil war has lasted for over 18 months, initially erupting from a power struggle between the two military factions—the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF). What began in Khartoum has spread to various regions, including Omdurman, Bahri, Port Sudan, El Fasher, and areas in Darfur and Kordofan.
    • Casualties and Displacement: The UN reports over 20,000 fatalities since the conflict began. Additionally, the International Organization for Migration estimates 10.89 million internally displaced persons (IDPs) as of October 1.
    • Worsening Humanitarian Crisis: Access to aid and healthcare has become severely restricted, particularly in Darfur. 
      • The UN has declared famine in specific camps like Zamzam, affecting nearly 500,000 IDPs. Currently, 25.6 million people—more than half of Sudan’s population—face critical food insecurity.

    How have ethnic tensions and rivalries played a part in the war? 

    • Ethnic Conflict: The war has evolved beyond a military rivalry, intensifying along ethnic lines. The RSF, composed of predominantly Arab militias, has been involved in targeting non-Arab communities, such as the Masalit, particularly in the Darfur region.
    • Militia Involvement: Various regional ethnic militias have taken sides in the conflict, complicating the dynamics further. The SAF has allied with the Sudanese People’s Liberation Movement, while the RSF has garnered support from Arab militias.
    • Historical reason: Ethnic tensions are rooted in historical grievances, exacerbating violence and leading to retaliatory attacks between communities, which have fueled the conflict.

    What are the implications for the region?

    • Mass Displacement: Over two million refugees have fled to neighboring countries, including Chad, South Sudan, and Ethiopia. This has strained resources in host countries and raised concerns about a potential migrant crisis in Europe.
    • Ethnic Clashes in Neighboring Regions: The instability in Sudan has triggered ethnic violence along the borders with South Sudan and Ethiopia, particularly in contested areas like Abyei and El Fashaga.
    • Economic Impact: The ongoing conflict jeopardizes essential infrastructures, such as oil pipelines from South Sudan to the Red Sea, threatening regional economic stability.
    • Cross-Border Tensions: A lack of effective governance in Sudan has led to increased ethnic tensions and clashes in border regions, which could have wider implications for regional security and stability.

    Way forward: 

    • Facilitate Peace Talks: India can leverage its diplomatic relations with the conflicting factions (SAF and RSF) to encourage dialogue and support peace initiatives through multilateral platforms like the African Union and the UN.
    • Strengthen Regional Alliances: India can collaborate with neighbouring countries (Chad, South Sudan, Ethiopia) to manage the refugee crisis and promote stability through joint security initiatives.

  • [pib] International Energy Efficiency Hub

    Why in the News?

    The Union Cabinet has approved the signing of a ‘Letter of Intent’ that will enable India to join the International Energy Efficiency Hub (Hub).

    About the International Energy Efficiency Hub

    • The Hub was established in 2020 as the successor to the International Partnership for Energy Efficiency Cooperation (IPEEC), of which India was already a member.
    • It is a global platform that promotes collaboration and energy efficiency among governments, international organizations, and the private sector.
    • Members: As of July 2024, 16 countries (Argentina, Australia, Brazil, Canada, China, Denmark, the European Commission, France, Germany, Japan, Korea, Luxembourg, Russia, Saudi Arabia, the US, and the UK.)
    • The Bureau of Energy Efficiency (BEE), a statutory agency, has been designated as the implementing agency for India’s participation in the Hub.

    Significance for India

    • India will benefit from opportunities to collaborate with other member states as a member.
    • India can share its expertise and learn from international best practices in energy efficiency.
    • The country will also contribute to global efforts to address climate change by promoting energy-efficient technologies and practices.
    • India’s participation will:
      • Accelerate the transition to a low-carbon economy.
      • Improve energy security by adopting more efficient energy practices.

    Back2Basics: Bureau of Energy Efficiency (BEE) 

    Details
    Establishment Established in March 2002 under the Energy Conservation Act, 2001
    Objective To promote energy efficiency and conservation, reduce energy intensity, and enhance energy security
    Governing Body Functions under the Ministry of Power, Government of India
    Key Functions • Develops energy efficiency policies and strategies
    • Implements energy conservation programs
    • Coordinates with various sectors like industry, transport, and municipalities on energy efficiency
    • Promotes R&D in energy conservation technologies
    Key Initiatives • Standards and Labeling Program (Star rating system for appliances)
    • Perform, Achieve, and Trade (PAT) Scheme (for energy-intensive industries)
    • Energy Conservation Building Code (ECBC) (for commercial buildings)
    • National Mission for Enhanced Energy Efficiency (NMEEE)
    • Energy Efficiency Financing Platform (EEFP)
    Important Programs • National Energy Conservation Awards
    • Demand Side Management (DSM)
    • Street Lighting National Program (SLNP) (LED streetlight replacement)
    Goals • Reduce energy intensity in India
    • Improve energy efficiency in key sectors like agriculture, industry, buildings, and appliances
    • Contribute to sustainable development and reduce greenhouse gas emissions
    International Cooperation Collaborates with UNDP, World Bank, and ADB on energy efficiency projects globally
    Legislative Framework Operates under the Energy Conservation Act, 2001
    Achievements • Significant reduction in carbon emissions
    • Supports India’s climate commitments under the Paris Agreement

     

    PYQ:

    [2016] On which of the following, can you find the Bureau of Energy Efficiency Star Label?

    1. Ceiling fans

    2. Electric geysers

    3. Tubular fluorescent lamps

    Select the correct answer using the codes given below:

    (a) 1 and 2 only

    (b) 3 only

    (c) 2 and 3 only

    (d) 1, 2 and 3