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Subject: Bilateral Relations

1. Major World Events
2. India’s Interests in neighbourhood
3. Effects of our Policies

  • Trade relations, and India’s agri imports from Canada

    Central Idea

    • India and Canada are currently facing escalating diplomatic tensions, with India suspending visa services in Canada and Canada making adjustments to its staff presence in India.
    • Amidst this backdrop, let’s take a closer look at the trade ties between these two nations.

    Understanding India-Canada Trade

    • Trade Volume: In the last fiscal year (2022-23), India’s total trade with Canada amounted to $8 billion, which represents approximately 0.7% of India’s total global trade valued at $1.1 trillion.
    • Balance in Bilateral Trade: Bilateral trade between the two countries has been relatively balanced. For instance, in 2022-23, both imports and exports were approximately $4 billion each, resulting in a modest trade surplus of $58 million for India.

    canada

    Key Imports from Canada

    • Mineral Fuels and Oils: India’s primary imports from Canada include mineral fuels, mineral oils, and related products, which account for nearly half (46%) of the total import value.
    • Wood Pulp and Paper Waste: Wood pulp and paper waste are another significant category of imports from Canada.
    • Edible Vegetables: Edible vegetables and certain roots and tubers also make up a substantial portion of India’s imports from Canada.

    Key Exports to Canada

    • Pharmaceutical Products: India primarily exports pharmaceutical products to Canada.
    • Articles of Iron and Steel: Articles made of iron or steel constitute another major category of exports.
    • Machinery and Mechanical Appliances: Nuclear reactors, boilers, machinery, and mechanical appliances are among India’s top exports to Canada.

    Critical Agricultural Imports from Canada

    • Muriate of Potash (MOP): Canada is a crucial supplier of muriate of potash (MOP) to India, a widely used fertilizer. Canada’s share in India’s MOP imports has been substantial.
    • Masur (Red Lentil): Canada is also India’s largest supplier of masur or red lentil, a significant pulse crop.
    • Impact on Masur Imports: The ongoing India-Canada standoff has raised concerns, especially regarding masur imports. Masur has become a substitute for arhar/tur (pigeon-pea), with implications for prices and trade dynamics.
    • Yellow/White Peas: India used to import yellow/white peas as a substitute for chana (chickpea), primarily from Canada, until 2017-18.

    Current Challenges and Crop Size Concerns

    • Geopolitical Worries: The diplomatic tensions have led to concerns about the availability and size of Canada’s masur crop. The 2023 crop is smaller than the previous year’s, impacting landed masur prices.
    • Yellow/White Peas: Yellow/white peas, once a significant import, have faced fluctuations in trade volumes with Canada.

    canada

    Others: Indian Students in Canada

    • Since 2018, India has been the largest source country for international students in Canada.
    • In 2022, their number rose 47 percent to nearly 320000, accounting for about 40 % of overseas students, according to the Canadian Bureau for International Education.
    • It also helps universities and colleges provide subsidised education to domestic students.

    Conclusion

    • Trade Dynamics: India and Canada maintain a balanced trade relationship, with certain critical imports like MOP and masur playing pivotal roles in India’s agricultural sector.
    • Impact of Diplomatic Tensions: The ongoing diplomatic tensions could potentially affect trade dynamics, especially in the case of masur imports, raising concerns about supply and prices.
    • Trade Relationships Evolving: India-Canada trade relations continue to evolve, and the resolution of diplomatic tensions will influence the future direction of this trade partnership.

  • India- Canada Diplomatic Face-Offs over Khalistan

    Khalistan

    Central Idea

    Background of Diplomatic Face-Offs

    • India has accused the Canadian government of inadequate action against pro-Khalistan supporters, perceiving it as an attempt to court the Canadian-Sikh community.
    • Canada has denied these allegations and called it instead an exercise of Freedom of Speech and Individual Liberty.

    Pro-Khalistan stance of Trudeau Govt

    • These recent tensions echo a long history of strained relations.
    • In 1998, Canada recalled its high commissioner to India following India’s nuclear tests.
    • Disagreements began as early as 1948 when Canada supported a plebiscite in Kashmir.

    Recent Discord

    • Leadership Clashes: Trudeau’s appointment of four Sikhs to his 30-member Cabinet in 2015, boasting more Sikhs than Modi’s ministry, stirred controversy over his proximity to Khalistan sympathizers.
    • Diplomatic Incidents: Tensions escalated when then Punjab CM refused to meet Canadian Defence Minister Harjit Singh Sajjan in 2017, accusing him of associating with separatists. Trudeau’s 2018 visit to India received a cool reception, further souring relations.
    • Atwal Controversy: India expressed dismay when Jaspal Atwal, convicted of attempting to assassinate an Indian Cabinet minister in 1986, was initially invited to dine with Trudeau during the same visit. The invitation was later rescinded.
    • Brief Respite: Relations appeared to improve when Canada mentioned ‘extremism’ and Khalistan in its 2018 ‘Public Report on the Terrorist Threat to Canada.’ Both countries established an anti-terrorism cooperation framework in 2018.
    • Reversal: In 2019, Canada removed all mentions of Khalistan and Sikh extremism from the report, drawing criticism from Punjab CM Amarinder Singh, who had provided Trudeau with a list of extremists, including Hardeep Singh Nijjar.

    Current Perspective: G20 Humiliation 

    • Canada’s Viewpoint: Canadian officials assert that their efforts to improve relations with India through trade and commerce are hindered by India’s focus on Khalistan. They argue that the separatist movement is relatively insignificant and that the Khalistan referendums organized by Sikhs for Justice are legal.
    • India’s Concerns: During the recent G20 summit, PM Modi conveyed “strong concerns” about “continuing anti-India activities of extremist elements” in Canada.

    Historical Roots of Canadian Interference

    • Long-standing Connection: Canada’s association with the Khalistan cause dates back. Surjan Singh Gill established the ‘Khalistan government in exile’ office in Vancouver in 1982, even issuing Khalistani passports and currency. However, he garnered limited local Sikh support.
    • Militancy’s Impact: Militancy in Punjab during the early 1980s had repercussions in Canada. In 1982, then PM Pierre Trudeau declined to extradite Talwinder Singh Parmar, accused of killing two police officers in Punjab. The Air India Kanishka bombing in 1985, orchestrated by the Babbar Khalsa, led to 331 civilian deaths in Canada’s worst act of terrorism.

    Changing Governments and Influences

    • Political Fluctuations: The Khalistan movement’s trajectory often mirrors India and the subcontinent’s changing politics. Relations improved during the Vajpayee government, with hints of reconciliation.
    • Strong Relations: During Stephen Harper’s tenure as Canadian PM (2006-2015), Canada and India enjoyed strong relations, marked by numerous high-level visits and cooperation.
    • Community Influence: With over 7.7 lakh Sikhs in Canada, the Sikh community wields substantial political influence, with 18 Sikh MPs in the Canadian parliament in 2019, surpassing those in India.

    Repercussions of the spat

    (1) Migration Trends:

    • The ongoing tensions and the Khalistan movement have led to a 246% increase in asylum claims by Indian nationals in Canada.
    • Experts suggest this may be a tactic employed by immigration agents.

    (2) Shift in Interest:

    • Interest in the Khalistan movement in Canada has waned, with the issue being less prominent.
    • Supporters are often second-generation Canadians influenced by pro-Khalistani social media and music/ rap-culture, rather than direct experiences in Punjab.

    (3) Trade and Economy:

    • In 2022, the trade between India and Canada exceeded $13.7 billion, making India Canada’s 10th largest two-way merchandise trade partner.
    • However, recent developments have led to the pause of trade talks and the cancellation of a planned trade mission to India.

    Conclusion

    • The complexities surrounding India-Canada relations, exacerbated by the lingering specter of Khalistan, continue to evolve.
    • Historical antecedents, political transitions, and diaspora dynamics all contribute to the intricate dance between the two nations.
    • While challenges persist, the potential for cooperation remains, provided both countries navigate the path toward common ground with sensitivity and diplomacy.

  • Reforming H-1B Visa Program: Vivek Ramaswamy’s Pledge

    h-1b visa

    Central Idea

    • Indian-American Republican presidential contender Vivek Ramaswamy vows to overhaul the H-1B visa program.
    • The H-1B visa, highly sought-after among Indian IT professionals, permits US companies to employ foreign workers for specialized roles requiring theoretical or technical expertise.

    Why discuss this?

    • The H-1B visa are highly sought-after category used by Indian professionals in the US as many use them as a precursor for permanent residency.
    • However, the waiting periods for the employment-based green card for Indians can stretch into decades.
    • The US embassy in India has already processed over 9 lakh non-immigrant visa currently and is expected to pass the one million mark soon.

    Understanding H-1B Visa Program

    • The H-1B visa program is crafted to facilitate the entry of skilled foreign workers into the United States, enabling them to work for American companies.
    • It is particularly sought after by Indian IT professionals as it permits U.S. companies to employ foreign workers in specialized roles demanding theoretical or technical expertise.
    • Despite its popularity, the H-1B visa program faces criticisms for extended waiting periods and the use of a lottery system for selection.

    Ramaswamy’s Perspective

    • Personal Experience: Ramaswamy acknowledged his own immigrant experience and contended that the H-1B system is detrimental to all parties involved.
    • Merit-Based Reform: He advocated for replacing the lottery system with a meritocratic admission process, describing the current system as a form of indentured servitude that primarily benefits sponsoring companies.
    • Eliminating Chain Migration: He also emphasized the need to eliminate chain-based migration, arguing that family members who join immigrants are not merit-based contributors to the country.

    Historical Context and Comparisons

    • Resonance with Trump: Ramaswamy’s stance on H-1B visas draws parallels with Donald Trump’s 2016 campaign.
    • Hard stance: Despite hiring foreign workers under H-1B visas for his businesses, Trump initially adopted a hardline stance on these workers before later softening his rhetoric.

  • India urges Sri Lanka to fulfill commitments for Tamil aspirations

    tamil

    Central Idea

    • India has expressed its concerns about the slow progress made by Sri Lanka in fulfilling its commitments to address the aspirations of the Tamil community.
    • India’s representative at the UN Human Rights Council in Geneva emphasized the inadequacy of progress.

    Tamil issue in Sri Lanka

    • Violent persecution against the Tamil population erupted in the form of the 1956, 1958, 1977, 1981, and 1983 anti-Tamil pogroms in Sri Lanka.
    • Over 13 years since the end of Sri Lanka’s civil war, in which tens of thousands of civilians were killed and disappeared, survivors continue demanding justice and accountability for war-time crimes.
    • In the post-war years, Sri Lanka’s human rights defenders have frequently flagged concerns over persisting militarisation, especially in the Tamil-majority north and east; repression, and the shrinking space for dissent.

    Why discuss this?

    • Reconciliation and Human Rights: Despite the war’s conclusion, the country still faces challenges in reconciling its ethnic divisions and ensuring the protection of human rights.
    • Economic Crisis: In addition to its unresolved conflict, Sri Lanka has experienced a severe economic crisis that began in the previous year, leaving a significant portion of its population vulnerable. The crisis has led to increased poverty levels and food insecurity for many households.

    UN Human Rights Council’s Concerns

    • Political and Democratic Reforms: The UN Deputy High Commissioner for Human Rights highlighted the delay in implementing political and democratic reforms, even a year after a significant protest movement.
    • Food Insecurity: UNHRC pointed out that approximately 37% of households in Sri Lanka face acute food insecurity, indicating the extent of the economic challenges.
    • Political Participation: Delays in holding local government elections and reconstituting Provincial Councils have limited citizens’ political participation and free expression.
    • Land Acquisition: The UN official raised concerns about escalating tensions in Sri Lanka’s north and east due to land acquisition for military installations, conservation efforts at Hindu or Muslim sites, and forestry protection.

    India’s Position

    • Power Devolution: India reiterated its support for the aspirations of the Tamil community for equality, justice, dignity, and peace.
    • Limited sovereignty: It also emphasized its commitment to the unity, territorial integrity, and sovereignty of Sri Lanka by implementing the 13th Amendment.

    UN Review and Sri Lanka’s Response

    • The UN Human Rights Council is currently reviewing Sri Lanka’s commitments, and there will be no vote on a resolution at this session.
    • While acknowledging Sri Lanka’s initiatives in truth-seeking and reconciliation, the High Commissioner’s report emphasized the need for urgent confidence-building measures for genuine reconciliation and transitional justice.
    • The Sri Lankan government rejected the report and labelled previous Council resolutions as intrusive and polarizing.

    Conclusion

    • India’s call for Sri Lanka to fulfil its commitments to address Tamil aspirations reflects ongoing concerns about the progress of reconciliation and human rights in the country.
    • The economic crisis and delays in political reforms have further complicated the situation, necessitating meaningful actions to promote genuine reconciliation and transitional justice.
    • The review at the UN Human Rights Council serves as an important platform for monitoring Sri Lanka’s efforts in this regard.

  • India-Greece Relations: Bridging Cultures and Commerce

    greece

    Central Idea

    • PM Modi recently visited Greece to elevate bilateral ties to the level of strategic partnership.
    • No Indian PM has visited Greece since 1983.
    • Greece awarded the Indian PM with “The Grand Cross of the Order of Honour” (its second highest civilian award).

    India and Greece Ties: A Historic Backgrounder

    • India’s engagement with Greece spans over 2500 years, marked by trade, literature, and art interactions.
    • Trade links and cultural exchanges existed between Mauryan Kings and Greece, evidenced by coinage and writings.
    • Alexander the Great’s invasion in 326 BC led to interactions with Indian rulers, including battles with Raja Porus and Ambhi.
    • Chanakya’s writings mention Megasthenes, an ambassador, in Chandragupta’s court.
    • The fusion of Greek and Indian influences is visible in Gandhara Art.

    Establishment of Modern Diplomatic Ties

    • Diplomatic relations established in 1950.
    • Embassies set up in Athens and Delhi, reflecting mutual cooperation.
    • Greece respected India’s decisions on various internal matters and the Non-Alignment Movement (NAM).
    • Collaboration on nuclear issues and international platforms showcased strong ties.
    • Greece’s support for India on geopolitical and global matters.

    Key Areas of Collaboration

    (1) Defence and Security

    • Enhancing collaboration in maritime security, counter-terrorism, cyber security, and defence industry.
    • Establishment of an India-Greece dialogue framework at the level of National Security Advisors (NSAs) for comprehensive discussions.

    (2) Maritime Security and International Law

    • A shared vision for a free, open, and rules-based Mediterranean Sea and Indo-Pacific.
    • Pledged adherence to the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) and respect for sovereignty, territorial integrity, and freedom of navigation.

    (3) Culture and Tourism

    • Commitment to promoting art exchanges and cooperation.
    • Joint efforts to preserve and safeguard ancient sites are bolstered through collaboration within UNESCO.

    (4) Trade and Investment

    • The ambitious goal of doubling bilateral trade by 2030.
    • Exploration of opportunities in sectors including renewable energy, infrastructure, pharmaceuticals, agriculture, and innovation.

    (5) Mobility and Migration Partnership Agreement (MMPA)

    • Recognition of the mutual benefits of an early finalization of the MMPA.
    • Aims to facilitate the free movement of the workforce between the two nations.

    Recent Visit: An In-depth Analysis

    • PM Modi’s visit marked the first by an Indian Prime Minister in 40 years.
    • Collaborative efforts focused on military cooperation, counter-terrorism, and cybersecurity.
    • National Security Advisor-level dialogue was held to facilitate comprehensive discussions on mutual concerns.
    • Both nations committed to maritime security, promoting free and open seas in the Mediterranean and Indo-Pacific.
    • Adherence to UNCLOS, sovereignty, territorial integrity, and navigation freedom are emphasized.
    • Strengthening cooperation across defence, science, culture, tourism, and agriculture sectors.
    • Greek membership in the International Solar Alliance and Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure.

    Future Outlook

    • Both leaders stressed cultural exchanges and people-to-people connections.
    • PM Modi invited PM Mitsotakis to India, highlighting further deepening of relations.
    • India-Greece ties play a significant role in the broader India-Europe commercial corridor plans.
    • Shared vision for progress and commitment to diplomatic resolutions.
    • Strengthening civilizational bonds through cultural interactions.

    Conclusion

    • The historical and modern India-Greece relations exhibit a strong foundation and evolving collaboration.
    • Recent joint efforts underscore a robust partnership across various domains and a positive outlook for the future.

  • Tibetan Democracy Day: A Legacy of Struggle and Resilience

    tibet

    Central Idea

    • Tibetan Democracy Day on September 2 marks the founding of the Tibetan government-in-exile in Dharamshala.
    • It signifies the establishment of Tibetan democracy after forced displacement.

    Tibetan Govt in Exile: Historical Genesis

    • In 1960, a year after Tibetans were displaced, the first elected representatives of the Tibetan Parliament-in-exile were sworn in.
    • His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama’s influence led to the enactment of the Tibetan constitution in 1963, emphasizing democracy.

    Role of Central Tibetan Administration (CTA)

    • The CTA, based in Dharamshala, manages over 100,000 Tibetan refugees globally.
    • It is the heart of Tibetan self-governance and resilience.
    • CTA’s Evolution:
    1. The first women representatives were elected in 1963 under the Tibetan constitution.
    2. In 1975, the CTA declared September 2 as the founding day of Tibetan democracy.
    3. The Charter of the Tibetans in exile was adopted in 1991, followed by the Tibetan Supreme Justice Commission in 1992.

    CTA’s Functioning

    • The CTA, led by the President (Sikyong), operates through departments: Religion and Culture, Home, Finance, Education, Security, Information and International Relations, and Health.
    • The Tibetan Parliament-in-exile has 45 members representing various aspects of the Tibetan community.

    Leadership Transition

    • The Dalai Lama’s shift to semi-retirement led to direct elections of the executive head, Kalön Tripa.
    • In 2011, His Holiness delegated political authority to Sikyong, the President of the CTA.

    Bodh Gaya’s Role

    • In 1960, the first elected Tibetan representatives took their oaths in Bodh Gaya, marking the inception of the democratic system.
    • Bodh Gaya played a pivotal role in the early days of Tibetan democracy.

    India’s perception of Tibet

    • India respects the Dalai Lama as a spiritual leader but does not officially recognize the CTA as a government.
    • It balances diplomatic considerations while supporting Tibetan refugees.

    Global Recognition

    • The US stands as a vocal supporter, with bipartisan backing and specialized coordinators for Tibet.
    • While global recognition is limited, Tibetans value India’s consistent support.

    Back2Basics: Tibetan Buddhism

    Description
    Origin and Development Form of Vajrayana Buddhism; emerged in Tibetan Plateau and Himalayan regions
    Tantric Practices Emphasizes rapid spiritual awakening through rituals, visualizations, and energy transformation
    Dalai Lama and Panchen Lama Dalai Lama (Tenzin Gyatso) is spiritual leader; Panchen Lama is also significant
    Monastic Traditions Strong monastic presence; monks and nuns preserve teachings and meditate
    Deity Pantheon Diverse deities representing enlightenment qualities; depicted in mandalas and thangkas
    Prayer Flags and Wheels Flags convey prayers; wheels accumulate merit and blessings
    Reincarnation and Tulku System Belief in reincarnation; system to identify tulkus (reincarnated lamas)

     

  • PM mentions Katchatheevu Islands

    katchatheevu

    Central Idea

    • The island of Katchatheevu has emerged as a symbol of historical disputes, political contention, and a reminder of complex geopolitical decisions.
    • PM’s reference to Katchatheevu during a parliamentary debate added fuel to the ongoing discussions surrounding this small island, nestled between Tamil Nadu and Sri Lanka.

    Katchatheevu Island: Historical Background

    • Colonial Influence: Katchatheevu, a 285-acre island, has its origins in a 14-century volcanic eruption. It was historically under the control of the Jaffna kingdom in Sri Lanka and later the Ramnad Zamindari in India.
    • British-Era Claims: Both India and Sri Lanka claimed Katchatheevu in the early 20th century to establish fishing boundaries. The ownership dispute continued even during the British Raj.

    1974 Indo-Sri Lankan Maritime Agreement

    • Landmark Decision: Indira Gandhi’s government decided to cede Katchatheevu to Sri Lanka as part of the 1974 agreement, aiming to establish maritime borders.
    • Political Implications: The decision raised concerns in Tamil Nadu, where voices protested the lack of state assembly consultation and the impact on traditional fishing rights.
    • Fishing Ambiguity: The agreement allowed Indian fishermen access to Katchatheevu “hitherto,” but fishing rights remained ambiguous, leading to disputes.

    Sri Lankan Civil War and Beyond

    • Civil War Dynamics: The Sri Lankan civil war (1983-2009) shifted focus from the Katchatheevu issue as Sri Lanka’s naval forces grappled with internal strife.
    • Post-War Reality: Post the civil war, Sri Lanka reinforced maritime defense, leading to the arrest of Indian fishermen venturing into their waters, reigniting demands for Katchatheevu’s retrieval.

    Tamil Nadu’s Persistent Concerns

    • Political Backlash: Tamil Nadu politicians across parties raised objections against ceding Katchatheevu without state assembly consent, citing historical ties and livelihood impacts.
    • Legal Battles: Late J Jayalalitha’s AIADMK filed petitions challenging the 1974 agreement, arguing it affected traditional fishing rights. However, the Union government’s stance remained unaltered.
    • Modi Government’s Position: Despite vocal demands from Tamil politicians, the Modi government maintained that the island’s status was finalized in 1974 and reclaiming it would require drastic measures.

    Contemporary Implications

    • Symbol of Sovereignty: Katchatheevu symbolizes regional and sovereignty concerns, reflecting tensions between Tamil Nadu’s interests and central government decisions.
    • Geopolitical Dilemma: The case highlights the delicate balance between historical claims, political sentiments, and international agreements in the context of bilateral relations.

    Conclusion

    • The island of Katchatheevu continues to serve as a reminder of India’s historical intricacies, reflecting the delicate balancing act between state interests, national decisions, and regional aspirations.
    • While Tamil Nadu’s calls for retrieval echo in the political corridors, the longstanding 1974 agreement and subsequent geopolitical realities create a complex landscape.
    • As the island’s fate intertwines with broader diplomatic relations, Katchatheevu remains a testament to the complexities of national sovereignty and regional sentiment.

  • China’s Use of Stapled Visas and its Implications for India

    stapled visa

    Central Idea

    • The issuance of stapled visas by China to Indian nationals from Arunachal Pradesh and Jammu and Kashmir has been a contentious issue between the two countries.

    What is Stapled Visa?

    • A Stapled Visa is an unstamped piece of paper attached to the passport, different from a regular visa that is affixed and stamped.
    • China has been issuing stapled visas to Indian nationals from certain regions, notably Arunachal Pradesh and Jammu and Kashmir, which are territories that China disputes with India.
    • By using stapled visas for residents of these regions, China is making a unilateral claim over the disputed territories, suggesting that it considers them as part of its own territory.

    China’s Dispute over Indian Territory:

    • Sovereignty Dispute: China disputes India’s sovereignty over Arunachal Pradesh and questions the legal status of the McMahon Line, the boundary agreed upon between Tibet and British India in 1914. This dispute underlies Chinese claims over the Line of Actual Control (LAC) and its repeated border transgressions into Indian Territory.
    • Unilateral Claim: China claims approximately 90,000 sq km of Arunachal Pradesh as its territory, referring to it as “Zangnan” or “South Tibet.” Chinese maps often depict Arunachal Pradesh as part of China.

    Use of Stapled Visas:

    • Signaling Intentions: Chinese state media began referring to Arunachal Pradesh as “South Tibet” in 2005. In 2006, China refused to grant a visa to an Indian government official serving in Arunachal Pradesh. Subsequently, China started issuing stapled visas to all Indian citizens from Arunachal Pradesh and Jammu and Kashmir.
    • Timeline of Events: Stapled visas for Jammu and Kashmir residents appeared around 2008-09. Over the years, China repeatedly issued stapled visas to Indian nationals, including sports athletes, weightlifters, and archers, leading to tensions between the two countries.

    India’s Response and Stance

    • Protest and Diplomatic Efforts: The Indian government has consistently protested against the issuance of stapled visas and conveyed its stance to China, asserting that there should be no discrimination based on domicile or ethnicity in the visa regime for Indian citizens.
    • Refusal to Accept Stapled Visas: India has refused to accept stapled visas as valid travel documents and cautioned Indian citizens that such visas are not considered valid for travel out of the country.
    • Sovereignty Assertion: India firmly asserts its sovereignty over Arunachal Pradesh and maintains that stapled visas undermine its territorial integrity.

  • Free Movement Regime along India-Myanmar Border

    myanmar

    Central Idea

    • The ongoing ethnic conflict between the Meiteis and Kukis in Manipur is further complicated by the issue of illegal migration of tribal Kuki-Chin people into India from Myanmar.
    • Amid this charged and sensitive debate, questions have been raised on the Free Movement Regime (FMR) that allows tribes along the Indo-Myanmar Border (IMB) to travel inside each other’s territory without a visa.

    myanmar

    Understanding Free Movement Regime

    • Conceptualization: The FMR was implemented in 2018 as part of the Act East policy to improve Indo-Myanmar ties.
    • Travel permit: It allows tribes living along the IMB to travel up to 16 km into the other country without a visa.
    • Ethnic and Cultural Ties: The border between India and Myanmar was demarcated without considering the opinions of the people living in the region, splitting people of the same ethnicity and culture into two nations.
    • Significance: The FMR aimed to facilitate people-to-people contact, local trade, and business, essential for livelihoods and sustenance.
    • Discontinuation: As the crisis in Myanmar unfolded, India suspended the FMR in September 2022.

    Challenges created by FMR

    • Unintentional Aiding of Illegal Immigration: The porous and unfenced Indo-Myanmar border has led to concerns about illegal immigration, drug trafficking, and gun running.
    • Refugee influx: The military coup in Myanmar triggered persecution against the Kuki-Chin peoples, leading to a significant influx of Myanmarese tribals into Manipur and Mizoram, seeking shelter. Mizoram set up camps for over 40,000 refugees, despite protests from the Union Ministry of Home Affairs.
    • Deforestation and Tensions: The Manipur government accused village chiefs of illegally settling migrants from Myanmar in new villages, leading to deforestation.
    • Resistance to eviction: An eviction drive triggered violence between Kukis and the government.

    Possible Solutions

    • Better Regulation of FMR: Experts agree that the FMR needs better regulation to address the challenges arising from illegal activities and cross-border movements.
    • Middle Path: A middle path could be sought, addressing changing socio-politico-economic conditions in Myanmar and the dynamic demographic profile of the region.
    • Tackling the Issue: India needs to find an approach that balances addressing illicit activities and border crimes while considering the concerns and needs of the local population.

    Conclusion

    • The FMR along the Indo-Myanmar Border, although intended to foster people-to-people contact and local trade, has posed challenges related to illegal migration and illegal activities.
    • While there are calls to remove the regime entirely, finding a middle path that considers the region’s socio-politico-economic dynamics and the well-being of the local population seems essential.
    • Addressing these challenges will require a careful and balanced approach, reflecting the complexities of the situation on the ground.

  • Sri Lanka’s 13th Amendment: A Controversial Pursuit of Power

    sri lanka 13a

    Central Idea

    • PM Modi’s recent call for Sri Lanka to fulfill its commitment to implement the 13th Amendment has stirred controversy within the political landscape.
    • The ruling party led by President Wickremesinghe, rejected the prospect, arguing that the President lacked the mandate for it.
    • Not much earlier, President Wickremesinghe had promised that the Sri Lankan government will “fully implement” the 13th Amendment.

    Tamil issue in Sri Lanka

    • Violent persecution against the Tamil population erupted in the form of the 1956, 1958, 1977, 1981, and 1983 anti-Tamil pogroms in Sri Lanka.
    • Over 13 years since the end of Sri Lanka’s civil war, in which tens of thousands of civilians were killed and disappeared, survivors continue demanding justice and accountability for war-time crimes.
    • In the post-war years, Sri Lanka’s human rights defenders have frequently flagged concerns over persisting militarisation, especially in the Tamil-majority north and east; repression, and the shrinking space for dissent.

    What is the 13th Amendment?

    • It is an outcome of the Indo-Lanka Accord of July 1987, signed by the then PM Rajiv Gandhi and President J.R. Jayawardene, in an attempt to resolve the ethnic conflict and civil war.
    • The 13th Amendment led to the creation of Provincial Councils and assured a power-sharing arrangement to enable all nine provinces in the country, including Sinhala majority areas, to self-govern.
    • Subjects such as education, health, agriculture, housing, land and police are devolved to the provincial administrations.
    • Sinhala nationalists have resisted the full implementation of the 13th Amendment since its inception over 35 years ago.

    Challenges to Full Implementation

    • Historic Demand: Sri Lanka’s Tamil polity maintains that even full implementation of the 13th Amendment falls short of addressing the historic demand for the right to self-determination.
    • Unfulfilled Promises: Successive governments have promised to implement the 13th Amendment fully but have failed to do so, further deepening the contentious issue.
    • UN Human Rights Council Resolution: The UNHRC resolution adopted in October 2022 urged Sri Lanka to fulfill its commitments on devolving political authority for reconciliation and the enjoyment of human rights for all citizens.

    Why is it contentious?

    • The 13th Amendment carries considerable baggage from the country’s civil war years.
    • It was opposed vociferously by both Sinhala nationalist parties and the LTTE.
    • The opposition within Sri Lanka saw the Accord and the consequent legislation as an imprint of Indian intervention.
    • It was widely perceived as an imposition by a neighbour wielding hegemonic influence.
    • The Tamil polity, especially its dominant nationalist strain, does not find the 13th Amendment sufficient in its ambit or substance.
    • However, some find it an important starting point, something to build upon.

    India’s reservations

    • Because of restrictions on financial powers and overriding powers given to the President, the provincial administrations have not made much headway.
    • In particular, the provisions relating to police and land have never been implemented.

    Significance of 13A

    • To date, the Amendment represents the only constitutional provision on the settlement of the long-pending Tamil question.
    • In addition to assuring a measure of devolution, it is considered part of the few significant gains since the 1980s, in the face of growing Sinhala-Buddhist majoritarianism.