In 2023, the US surpassed the UAE to become India’s second-largest supplier of liquefied natural gas (LNG), providing 3.09 million tonnes (MT).
World LNG Report 2024 by International Gas Union (IGU)
US as a Major Supplier: The report highlights that the United States has displaced the UAE to become India’s second-largest supplier of liquefied natural gas (LNG) in 2023, with shipments reaching 3.09 million tonnes (MT).
Trade Growth: The US supplied India with 1.8 MT of LNG in 2019, which increased to 3.86 MT in 2021, indicating a significant rise in trade volume despite a decrease in 2022 due to rising prices.
Qatar’s Dominance: Qatar remained India’s largest LNG supplier from 2019 to 2023, with shipments peaking at 10.92 MT in 2023, reflecting its consistent role in India’s energy supply.
The decline of African Suppliers: The report notes a significant decline in LNG shipments from African nations, particularly Nigeria and Angola, which saw their exports to India drop from pre-pandemic levels of around 2.7 MT and 2.9 MT, respectively, to just 0.73 MT each in 2023.
Present trade dynamics
Price Sensitivity: Indian companies remain price-sensitive, with LNG imports being contingent on competitive pricing. Analysts suggest that if LNG prices stay below $12 per mBtu, there could be significant growth in imports.
Geographical Advantage: The proximity of US LNG cargoes to India via the Cape of Good Hope makes it more cost-effective for sellers to export to India compared to North Asia.
Long-term Contracts: Ongoing long-term contracts signed by Indian entities with US suppliers continue to underpin LNG consumption, despite fluctuations in global prices.
Use of LNG in India:
Fertilizer Sector: The fertilizer sector remains the largest consumer of LNG in India, contributing to 32% of the total natural gas consumption.
Power Sector: The power sector accounted for 12% of the total natural gas consumption in India.
City Gas Distribution (CGD) Sector: CGD entities accounted for 19% of the total natural gas consumption in India
What can be done?
Strengthening Domestic Policies: India could benefit from reforms in domestic gas policies, including greater transparency over LNG inventory levels and improvements in gas pipeline capacity, to enhance the efficiency of LNG imports and distribution.
Creating Price Stability: The need to establish a stronger index link between LNG import prices and domestic gas prices could mitigate price risks for LNG importers, ensuring that long-term contracts remain aligned with market conditions.
Enhancing Infrastructure: Govt. should invest in LNG infrastructure, including regasification terminals and transportation networks, which can facilitate increased imports and improve supply chain efficiency.
Diversifying Supply Sources: To reduce dependency on specific regions, India should explore diversifying its LNG supply sources, including potential agreements with emerging suppliers in different regions.
The invasion violated the Games’ Olympic Truce, which says nations should not attack each other from 1 week before the Olympics to 1 week after the Paralympics.
Belarus was implicated for allegedly allowing Russia to use its territory for military purposes.
In October 2023, the Russian Olympic Committee was suspended after declaring authority over Ukrainian sports organizations in certain regions.
Political Neutrality and Violations
The IOC cited Russia’s International Friendship Association (IFA) as a political body violating the IOC charter.
The charter states that sports organizations within the Olympic Movement shouldapply political neutrality.
Russia’s announcement of the Friendship Games in 2024 led to accusations of politicizing sports.
Critics note the concept of “political neutrality” is not based on objective criteria and is challenging to interpret consistently.
What is Individual Neutral Athletes (AINs)?
The IOC allows athletes from these countries to participate as individual-neutral athletes (AINs).
Athletes must not represent their country or any associated organization.
They cannot actively support the Russian invasion of Ukraine.
AINs are athletes with Russian or Belarusian passports qualified through existing qualification systems.
They will compete under a neutral flagand uniform, with a neutral song played if they win medals.
The audience cannot wave their flags.
Do you know?
The Indian Olympic Association was suspended in 2014, leading to three athletes competing under the Olympic flag.
India hosted the 2nd BIMSTEC Foreign Ministers’ Retreat in New Delhi, creating an informal forum to enhance regional cooperation in security, connectivity, trade, and investment in the Bay of Bengal
About BIMSTEC:
BIMSTEC, or the Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation, is a regional organization established in June 1997.
seven countries: India, Bangladesh, Bhutan, Myanmar, Nepal, Sri Lanka, and Thailand.
It aims to foster multifaceted cooperation across various sectors, including security, connectivity, trade, and investment, particularly in the Bay of Bengal region.
Importance of Strengthening Eastern Ties
Regional Stability and Security: The growing presence of China in the Bay of Bengal is perceived as a potential threat to regional stability. By strengthening ties with countries like Bangladesh and Myanmar, India aims to reinforce its position as a preferred security partner in the region.
Economic Development: Enhanced relations with eastern neighbors facilitate India’s access to essential maritime routes, particularly for its landlocked northeastern states.
Indo-Pacific Strategy: Improved relations with Myanmar and Thailand are integral to India’s broader Indo-Pacific strategy. These countries are key members of ASEAN, which India considers central to its vision for the region.
Strengthening ties can enhance India’s influence and presence in the Indo-Pacific, aligning with its “Act East Policy” and “Neighbourhood First” approach.
Major Components of the Retreat
The 2nd BIMSTEC Foreign Ministers’ Retreat was structured into two main segments:
Assessment of Regional Cooperation: The first part focused on evaluating the current state of cooperation within BIMSTEC, building on outcomes from the previous retreat.
Member states discussed various initiatives, including the establishment of Centers of Excellence in areas like Agriculture and Maritime Transport, and emphasized the importance of private sector involvement in trade and entrepreneurship.
Expectations for the Upcoming Summit: The second segment involved discussions on each country’s expectations for the upcoming summit.
Key proposals included mapping mineral resources, promoting the Blue Economy,enhancing tourism and cultural exchanges.
Bilateral merits
India-Myanmar Concerns: Mr. Jaishankar addressed issues with Myanmar regarding the flow of displaced persons, narcotics, and arms across the border, and urged the return of unlawfully detained Indian nationals.
India-Bangladesh Cooperation: In his meeting with the Bangladesh Foreign Minister, Mr. Jaishankar was requested to ensure the smooth supply of daily essentials and send a technical team for the Teesta project, signifying efforts towards resolving long-pending concerns.
Way forward:
Enhance Security Collaboration: Need to prioritize discussions on security cooperation among BIMSTEC members, particularly in countering transnational crimes such as narcotics and arms trafficking.
Develop Connectivity Projects: Indian government should expedite the implementation of connectivity projects, such as the India-Myanmar-Thailand trilateral highway, to facilitate trade and movement. This will not only enhance economic ties but also improve regional stability.
Mains PYQ:
Q Do you think that BIMSTEC is a parallel organisation like the SAARC? Waht are the similarities and dissimilarities between the two? How are Indian foreign policy objectives realized by forming this new organisation? (2022)
When Donald Trump suggested during the 2016 presidential campaign that he might not honor the U.S. commitment to defend NATO allies if attacked, it alarmed the trans-Atlantic alliance.
NATO country member’s flags flutter at the bloc’s headquarters in Brussels
NATO’s Structure and Membership: NATO, established in 1949, comprises 31 member countries, including the United States, Canada, and various European nations. The alliance was formed to ensure collective defence against potential threats, particularly from the Soviet Union during the Cold War.
The flags of these member countries flutter at NATO’s headquarters in Brussels, symbolising unity and cooperation.
Evolving Role of European Nations: In light of recent geopolitical challenges, particularly Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, European leaders recognize the need to take on greater responsibility for their own defense.
This shift is partly a response to the U.S. focus on other global threats, such as China, and the changing dynamics within NATO
Security issues with European Countries and US support:
European Acknowledgement: European leaders recognize the need to evolve NATO to meet 21st-century challenges and are prepared to take on more responsibility for their defense.
US Military Support: Mr Trump’s presidency highlighted that US military support is not guaranteed, prompting Europe to reconsider its security strategies.
Threats from Russia and China: Russia’s invasion of Ukraine and the US’s focus on China’s expansion in the Asia-Pacific, as well as Iran and North Korea, underscore the need for Europe to enhance its own security measures.
NATO’s Evolution: European nations must increase their defense spending and capabilities, including troop numbers, equipment upgrades, and countering technological threats.
A wake-up call for all:
Trump’s “America First” Rhetoric: Trump’s suggestion that the US might not honour its NATO commitments triggered the alarm and a reevaluation of NATO’s future.
Increased European Defense Spending: European NATO members have significantly increased their defense spending commitments, with 23 out of 31 non-US members meeting or exceeding the 2% GDP target, up from just three members ten years ago.
EU Defense Industry Boost: The EU is planning to enhance its defense industry, with calls for more independence in airspace defence and relocating production to Europe, especially in response to the threat posed by Russia’s actions in Ukraine.
Conclusion: European NATO members should continue to enhance their defense spending, focusing on upgrading military equipment, increasing troop numbers, and improving technological capabilities to counter both conventional and emerging threats such as cyber warfare and foreign interference.
Mains PYQ:
Q The new tri-nation partnership AUKUS is aimed at countering China’s ambitions in the Indo-Pacific region. Is it going to supersede the existing partnerships in the region? Discuss the strength and impact of AUKUS in the present scenario. (UPSC IAS/2021)
The Paris Olympics has began and will run from July 26 to August 11, 2024.
Some lesser known facts about Olympics:
The Olympic Games originated in ancient Greece in 776 BC in Olympia.
Held every 4 years, they featured athletic competitions among representatives of various city-states.
The modern Olympics were revived byBaron Pierre de Coubertin of France.
The first modern Olympic Games were held in Athens, Greece, in 1896.
The Olympic Rings represent the union of the 5 inhabited continents (Africa, Americas, Asia, Europe, and Oceania).
The Winter Olympics were introduced in 1924 in Chamonix, France and it features sports practiced on snow and ice, like skiing, ice skating, and ice hockey.
The Olympic Torch Relay was introduced in the 1936Berlin Games.
The number of participating countries has grown from 14 in the 1896 Games to over 200 in recent editions.
Women were first allowed to compete in the 1900 Paris Olympics.
The Paralympics, for athletes with disabilities, were first held in Rome in 1960.
About Paris Olympics
The Paris Olympics, officially known as the Games of the XXXIII Olympiad, will be held in Paris, France.
This event, commonly referred to as the 2024 Summer Olympics, is an international multi-sport competition featuring athletes from around the world.
PYQ Relevance: Mains: Q1 Critically examine the aims and objectives of SCO. What importance does it hold for India? (UPSC IAS/2021) Q2 How is the S-400 air defence system technically superior to any other system presently available in the world? (UPSC IAS/2021)
Prelims: Q Recently, India signed a deal known as ‘Action Plan for Prioritization and Implementation of cooperation Areas in the Nuclear Field’ with which of the following countries? (2019) (a) Japan (b) Russia (c) The United Kingdom (d) The United States of America
Note4Students:
Prelims: Bordering countries with Russia and China;
Mains: Geopolitics dynamics as per India;
Mentor comments: India-Russia relations have evolved significantly, particularly following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. Bilateral trade surged to approximately $65 billion in 2022, driven by discounted oil imports, which accounted for a substantial portion of trade. Despite Western sanctions, India continues to maintain strong ties with Russia, focusing on energy supplies and defense cooperation. The two nations are exploring new payment mechanisms and investment opportunities to strengthen economic ties. However, India’s diversification in defense procurement poses challenges to this traditional partnership, highlighting the need for a strategic shift in their relationship.
Let’s learn!
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Why in the News?
Two weeks after Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Russia, marking his first bilateral trip in the government’s third tenure.
Assessment of the conflict in Ukraine
Evolution of the Conflict: The conflict began with Russia’s invasion of Ukraine on February 24, 2022, and has entered its third year with no clear resolution in sight. Initially expected to be a swift operation, the war has evolved into a prolonged military stalemate.
Casualties and Displacement: The war has resulted in significant human costs, with over 10,000 civilians killed and nearly 20,000 wounded according to the United Nations.
More than 14 million people have been displaced, with 6 million now living as refugees in various countries.
Territorial Control: As of now, Russia controls approximately 17% of Ukrainian territory, a decrease from the 20% occupied early in the conflict. This indicates some resilience on Ukraine’s part despite ongoing military challenges.
Economic Impact: The conflict has imposed heavy economic burdens on both countries. Estimates suggest that Ukraine has suffered losses exceeding $500 billion, while Russia has incurred substantial financial sanctions, losing over $300 billion due to international responses.
Military Stalemate: The military situation has stabilized, with Russia managing to hold its positions in eastern Ukraine. However, Ukraine continues to face shortages of arms and personnel, complicating its counteroffensive efforts.
International Dynamics: The conflict has highlighted divisions within the West regarding support for Ukraine For example, the United States, the United Kingdom, and Poland have provided significant military aid, while others, such as Germany and France, have been more cautious,
Global South Perspective: Many countries in the Global South disapprove of Russia’s actions but also resist unilateral sanctions imposed by Western nations. This reflects a broader geopolitical divide where nations seek to navigate their interests without fully aligning with either side.
Future Prospects: The likelihood of a “frozen conflict” appears to be increasing, with both sides entrenched in their positions. The potential for a peace process, as indicated by upcoming conferences, suggests that diplomatic efforts may be necessary to address the ongoing stalemate.
India’s Position: India has maintained a neutral stance, abstaining from UN votes condemning Russia and increasing its oil imports from Russia. While providing humanitarian aid to Ukraine, India has refrained from deeper military or infrastructural support, reflecting its strategic interests in maintaining relations with both Russia and Western nations.
Geopolitics dynamics as per India:
Strategic Autonomy and Geopolitical Signaling: Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Moscow, following the cancellation of his visit to Astana, Kazakhstan for the SCO Summit, signifies India’s strategic choice to prioritize a meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin over a joint appearance with Chinese President Xi Jinping.
India’s Strategic Concerns: India aims to maintain Russia as a strategic ally in the face of continuous tensions with China at the Line of Actual Control (LAC).
Western Geopolitical Dynamics: The Biden administration has strengthened alliances like AUKUS (Australia-U.K.-U.S.) for nuclear submarines and engaged with “Quad Plus” countries, including New Zealand, South Korea, Vietnam, and the Philippines leading dilution of the main objective of QUAD.
The U.S. hosted the “AP-4” (Australia, New Zealand, South Korea, and Japan) leaders during the NATO summit in Washington, underscoring its strategic focus in the region.
India’s Position within the Quad: India’s reluctance to make the Quad (India, Japan, Australia, U.S.) a strategic concept risks limiting its utility to Indo-Pacific partners compared to other emerging alliances.
Broader Geopolitical Strategy: The visit to Russia highlights India’s commitment to its strategic autonomy and the importance of diversifying its strategic options.
Geo-Economic Thrust of Modi’s Visit to Russia
Geo-Economic Thrust of Modi’s Visit to Russia Strengthening Trade Relations: The visit underscores a significant increase in India-Russia trade, which surged by 66% to $65 billion last year, driven largely by discounted Russian oil imports.
Focus on Energy Supplies: The joint statement from the Modi-Putin summit emphasized enhancing cooperation in energy supplies, particularly oil and LNG.
Circumventing Sanctions: The summit outlined action items aimed at circumventing Western sanctions.
Maritime Connectivity: The discussion included plans to operationalize the Chennai-Vladivostok maritime corridor.
Defence Cooperation: Despite diversifying its defence procurement, India continues to rely significantly on Russia for military hardware. The visit aimed to address concerns regarding delays in defence supplies.
Conclusion: India’s strategic autonomy, underscored by Modi’s visit to Russia, focuses on strengthening geo-economic ties, energy cooperation, and diversified alliances, balancing its relations with Russia and the West amidst global conflicts.
The China-backed Niger-Benin Export Pipeline that would make Niger an oil-exporting country is being threatened by an internal security crisis and a diplomatic dispute with neighboring Benin.
These issues arose after last year’s coup that toppled Niger’s democratic government.
About Niger
Niger, located in West Africa, is a landlocked country known for its vast desert landscapes and significant cultural heritage.
The northern region of Niger is dominated by the Sahara Desert, comprising more than half of the country.
The central part of Niger is characterized by the Sahel, a semi-arid transition zone between the Sahara
The Aïr Mountains, located in the northern central part are a significant mountain range with the highest peak, Mont Idoukal-n-Taghès (2,022 m).
The Niger River is the country’s primary water source.
Lake Chad is a significant body of water shared with Nigeria, Chad, and Cameroon. Its size keep on fluctuating.
About Niger Benin Export Pipeline
The 1,930-kilometer pipeline runs from Niger’s Chinese-built Agadem oil field to the port of Cotonou in Benin.
It was designed to help Niger achieve an almost 5x increase in oil production through a $400 million deal with China’s state-run national petroleum company.
The pipeline faces significant challenges, including a recent diplomatic disagreement with Benin.
These issues threaten to strain Niger’s economy, heavily reliant on external support now withheld after a coup.
PYQ:
[2018] Which of the following has/have shrunk immensely/dried up in the recent past due to human activities?
Aral Sea
Black Sea
Lake Baikal
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
The Union Budget presented by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman prioritized India-funded projects in neighbouring countries, receiving the majority of the Ministry of External Affairs’ allocation.
What are the India-funded projects in the neighbourhood?
India has provided significant aid to Nepal, including funding for hydroelectric power plants like Pardi, Trishuli and Devighat.
In Afghanistan, India has provided over $3 billion in assistance and was involved in over 400 projects across 34 provinces, including major infrastructure projects like the Salma Dam and the Zaranj-Dalaram Highway.
In Myanmar, Kaladan Multi-Modal Transit Transport Projects is $484 million project aims to connect the northeastern Indian state of Mizoram to the Sittwe port in Myanmar’s Rakhine state.
In the 2024-25 budget, India allocated ₹700 crore to Nepal (up from ₹550 crore), ₹245 crore to Sri Lanka (up from ₹150 crore), and ₹30 crore to Seychelles (up from ₹10 crore).
Reasons for reduced focus on Bhutan
Bhutan, the largest recipient of MEA’s annual allocation, saw a dip in funding by ₹332.02 crore to ₹2,068.56 crore.
However, this slight reduction does not indicate a decrease in funding for projects in Bhutan, as India and Bhutan recently cleared 61 projects amounting to ₹4,958 crore.
Importance of Bhutan for India:
Strategic Importance:
Bhutan shares borders with India and China, acting as a buffer state between the two. Its strategic location is crucial for India’s security interests.
India has provided assistance to Bhutan in areas like defence, infrastructure, and communication to maintain its sovereignty and territorial integrity.
During the 2017 Doklam standoff between India and China, Bhutan allowed Indian troops to enter its territory to resist Chinese incursions.
Economic Importance:
India is Bhutan’s largest trading partner, accounting for 98% of its exports and 90% of its imports.
Bhutan’s hydropower potential is a significant source of revenue, and India has been instrumental in assisting Bhutan in developing these projects.
India provides substantial economic support to Bhutan. In 2015-16, India’s budgetary support to Bhutan stood at ₹61.60 billion, making it the largest recipient of India’s foreign aid.
Cultural Ties: Bhutan and India share strong cultural ties, as both countries are predominantly Buddhist
Future scope for India’s Neighbourhood Policy (Way forward)
Strengthening Bilateral Ties: Need to negotiate free trade agreements, promote investments, and collaborate on infrastructure projects to boost economic ties.
For example, India and Bangladesh have made significant progress in recent years, with the inauguration of the Maitri Setu bridge connecting Tripura to Bangladesh. The two countries are also working on the Akhaura-Agartala rail link to enhance connectivity.
Promoting Regional Cooperation: Need to collaborate on regional initiatives such as the BBIN (Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Nepal) Motor Vehicles Agreement for seamless movement of goods and people.
For instance, India has been actively involved in the BIMSTEC Coastal Shipping Agreement and the BIMSTEC Grid Interconnection project to enhance regional connectivity and energy cooperation.
Mains PYQ:
Q Evaluate the economic and strategic dimensions of India’s Look East Policy in the context of the post-Cold War international scenario. (UPSC IAS/2016)
At least 130 people have died in clashes during student protests over government job quotas in Bangladesh.
Why have students in Bangladesh taken to the streets?
Opposition to Quota System: Students are protesting against the quota system for government jobs, specifically the 30% reserved for freedom fighters and their descendants, which they believe limits merit-based opportunities.
Reversal of Quota Reforms: The protests intensified after the Supreme Court restored the quota system, reversing the previous decision to abolish it. Students demand a more balanced and inclusive quota system.
Why Is the 30% quota for Freedom fighters and their descendants an emotive matter for the Awami League?
Legacy of Sheikh Mujib: The quota system was introduced by Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, and continuing it is seen as fulfilling his legacy and honouring the sacrifices of freedom fighters.
Political Significance: The Awami League views the quota as a means to reinforce support within the bureaucracy and maintain political loyalty, linking it closely to the party’s historical and ideological narrative.
How did the protests turn violent?
The violence escalated when Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina labeled protesters as “razakars” or traitors, which enraged students and led to violent clashes with the police and Rapid Action Battalion (RAB).
The situation deteriorated to the point where the military had to be deployed to control the unrest, further intensifying the violence and confrontation between protesters and authorities.
Have the Quotas Been Misused?
Allegations of Abuse: There have been claims that the quota system has been misused, with reservations extended to party operatives and not just deserving freedom fighters’ descendants.
Dilution and Extension: The quota system, initially meant for freedom fighters and war survivors, has been criticized for being extended to broader categories over time, leading to concerns about fairness and effective utilization.
India’s recent Initiatives – ‘Strengthening Ties and Empowering Governance’
Economic Cooperation: India and Bangladesh agreed to strengthen trade and investment linkages, including the early commencement of negotiations for a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA).
Capacity Building for Civil Servants: India has been providing training and capacity-building programs for Bangladeshi civil servants through the National Centre for Good Governance (NCGG).
Development Assistance: India is the largest development partner for Bangladesh, having extended approximately $8 billion in Lines of Credit (LOC) over the past eight years for infrastructure development in sectors such as roads, railways, and shipping.
Way forward:
Balanced Approach: The Bangladesh government should consider a transparent and balanced quota reform that addresses both merit-based and reservation needs.
Monitoring and Accountability: Establishing mechanisms to monitor the implementation of quotas and prevent misuse is crucial.
Recently, the Quad Foreign Ministers’ meeting in Japan highlighted the UNSC’s paralysis, ongoing violations of international law, and the growing influence of China and an axis of Russia, China, North Korea, and Iran.
Present State of the UNSC:
Paralysis and Ineffectiveness: The United Nations Security Council (UNSC) is currently paralyzed, unable to effectively address or resolve significant global conflicts. Efforts to reform the UNSC have stalled, leaving it incapable of adapting to contemporary geopolitical realities.
Impunity in Violations of International Law: International law is being violated with impunity in conflicts such as the Ukraine war and the assault on Gaza by Israel.
The UNSC’s inability to act decisively has contributed to a growing disregard for its authority and mandates.
Role of India in QUAD:
Strategic Partnership: India’s involvement in QUAD enhances its strategic partnerships with the other member nations, allowing for collaborative efforts in maritime security, humanitarian assistance, and disaster relief operations.
Building Indo-In Pacific Policy: One of the primary objectives of QUAD is to mitigate China’s assertive actions in Indo Pacific region.
India is positioned to take on a leadership role in regional security.
Economic Collaboration: The QUAD nations are working towards strengthening economic ties, including infrastructure development at ‘Strait of Malacca’ and alternative financing options for Indo-Pacific countries.
Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief: India has actively engaged in humanitarian efforts, exemplified by its Operation Sanjeevani, which provided medical assistance to several Indo-Pacific nations during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Silverlining on BRICS
Promoting South-South Cooperation: BRICS represents a significant non-Western global initiative in the post-Cold War era. It can bring together major emerging economies from different parts of the world.
Amplifying Voices in Global Governance: The BRICS Population is around 40% of the world so the BRICS nations can amplify their voices in global governance and expand their choices of international partners through this grouping.
Fostering Economic Resilience: Despite the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, BRICS has emerged as a more effective and efficient institution in fostering economic resilience among its member nations.
Exploring Alternative Financial Mechanisms: BRICS has taken steps to establish alternative financial mechanisms, such as the New Development Bank (NDB) and the Contingent Reserve Arrangement (CRA).
Role BRICS group in G20: The BRICS group has consistently pushed for the inclusion of development issues in the G20 agenda. They argue that the G20 should prioritize the needs of developing countries, particularly in terms of infrastructure investment and social sector support
Promoting Sustainable Development: The BRICS nations have emphasized the importance of responsible financing for green and sustainable development.
Initiatives like the NDB’s focus on sustainable infrastructure projects which would help in achieving of SDG Goal 9.
Conclusion: Need to support and advocate for comprehensive reforms of the UNSC to address its paralysis and enhance its effectiveness. This includes expanding permanent membership to better represent contemporary global dynamics and improving decision-making processes to tackle conflicts with greater agility.
Mains PYQ:
Q Quadrilateral Security Dialogue (Quad) is transforming itself into a trade bloc from a military alliance, in present times Discuss. (2020)
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