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Type: op-ed snap

  • Foreign Policy Watch: India-Pakistan

    [8th May 2025] The Hindu Op-ed: Pakistan’s complex web of terror networks

    op-ed snap | Security Issues | Mains Paper 3: External State & Non-State Actors: Challenges To Internal Security.

    PYQ Relevance:

    [UPSC 2023] Give out the major sources of terror funding in India and the efforts being made to curtail these sources. In the light of this, also discuss the aim and objective of the ‘No Money for Terror (NMFT)’ Conference recently held at New Delhi in November 2022.

    Linkage: Pakistan’s terror infrastructure, including ISI funding, Gulf-based private donors, diaspora contributions through charities, business operations, money laundering via hawala networks, narcotics trafficking, and cryptocurrency. This question directly asks about the sources of terror funding, which is a central theme in the source.

     

    Mentor’s Comment:  The Soviet-Afghan War in 1979 was a turning point when Pakistan’s intelligence agency (ISI), with support from U.S. funding, started building a network of jihadi groups. This network has since developed into the advanced terrorist groups we see today. Pakistan intentionally supported these fighters, who had various goals, including attacking Kashmir, gaining control in Afghanistan, causing sectarian violence, and fighting ideological battles. Recent data shows that terrorism sponsored by Pakistan has been rising again in the region.

    Today’s editorial looks at Pakistan’s long-standing terrorist network using open-source intelligence, declassified documents, and academic studies. This content would help in GS Paper II (International Relation) and GS Paper III (Internal Security).

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    Let’s learn!

    Why in the News?

    Pakistan’s security forces have supported terrorist groups for a long time, seeing them as useful for their goals. Since 2008, Pakistan has repeatedly been added to and removed from the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) ‘grey list’ because it has not effectively stopped the funding of terrorism.

    What role did the Soviet-Afghan War of 1979 play in the evolution of Pakistan’s terror infrastructure?

    • ISI’s Strategic Empowerment with U.S. and Saudi Funding: During the war, Pakistan’s Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) became the main conduit for channeling billions of dollars in U.S. (CIA) and Saudi funds to Afghan mujahideen fighting Soviet forces. Eg: This funding network empowered the ISI to build covert training camps and logistical bases, which later supported outfits like Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) and Haqqani Network.
    • Creation of a Jihadi Ecosystem and Proxy Network: The war institutionalised jihad as a tool of foreign policy, with ISI actively recruiting, training, and radicalising fighters. These fighters, once trained, were later redeployed for operations in Kashmir, Afghanistan, and elsewhere. Eg: The Harakat ul-Mujahidin (HUM), originally formed to fight in Afghanistan, later became one of the first Pakistani terror outfits to target Indian interests in Kashmir.
    • Spread of Radical Ideology through Madrassas and Seminaries: To support the Afghan jihad, Pakistan encouraged the growth of radical madrassas, often funded by Gulf donors, to indoctrinate youth. These institutions outlived the war and became feeders for future terror groups. Eg: Many madrassas aligned with Ahl-e-Hadith and Deobandi ideologies became recruiting hubs for groups like Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) and LeT.

    Where are the major training camps and headquarters of Pakistan-supported terrorist groups located?

    • Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir (PoK): PoK serves as a key launchpad and training ground for anti-India terror operations, especially focused on Kashmir. Eg: Training camps of Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) have been reported in Muzaffarabad and Kotli, where cadres are prepared for infiltration into India.
    • Punjab Province (Especially Lahore and Bahawalpur): Several extremist groups operate openly or under charitable fronts in Punjab, with strong logistical and financial networks. Eg: The headquarters of Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) is based in Bahawalpur, and Jamaat-ud-Dawa (JuD), the front of LeT, has operated from Muridke near Lahore.
    • Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP): The rugged terrain along the Afghanistan border provides safe havens for jihadist groups with transnational reach. Eg: The Haqqani Network, linked to the Afghan Taliban, has operated out of North Waziristan, conducting cross-border attacks into Afghanistan.

    How is the terror network in Pakistan financed and sustained despite international pressure?

    • State and Deep State Support: Elements within Pakistan’s military and intelligence agencies, particularly the Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI), have been accused of providing logistical, financial, and strategic support to terrorist groups to serve foreign policy objectives, especially in India and Afghanistan. Eg: The ISI’s backing of Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) was exposed during investigations into the 2008 Mumbai attacks, where LeT operatives received training, funds, and guidance.
    • Charities and Front Organizations: Terrorist groups often operate under the guise of charitable organizations to raise funds both domestically and internationally. These organizations collect donations in the name of humanitarian relief, which are then diverted for militant activities. Eg: The Falah-e-Insaniat Foundation (FIF), a front for Jamaat-ud-Dawa (JuD), raised significant funds until it was banned for links to LeT.
    • Drug Trafficking, Hawala, and Extortion: Illicit economies, including narcotics trafficking, smuggling, extortion, and the hawala system (an informal money transfer network), are widely used by terrorist groups to fund their operations. Eg: The Afghan-Pakistan border region, particularly in Balochistan and former FATA, is a major route for drug trafficking, which provides revenue to groups like the Haqqani Network and TTP.

    Why has Pakistan repeatedly appeared on the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) grey list rather in black list?

    • Partial Compliance and Political Commitments: Pakistan has often shown partial compliance with FATF action plans, such as enacting anti-terror financing laws or prosecuting select terror operatives. These steps, while often symbolic or limited, provide just enough movement to avoid blacklisting. Eg: After being grey-listed in 2018, Pakistan passed laws to regulate charitable donations and froze some accounts linked to UN-designated terrorists like Hafiz Saeed.
    • Geopolitical Considerations and Diplomatic Shielding: Global powers, especially China, Turkey, and Saudi Arabia, have used their influence within FATF to shield Pakistan from being blacklisted due to strategic and political interests, including Pakistan’s role in regional stability and Afghanistan. Eg: In several FATF meetings, China and Turkey have openly opposed efforts to blacklist Pakistan, arguing that it has made progress.

    How did the Indian government execute OPERATION SINDOOR? 

    • Response Triggered: Launched in retaliation to the April 22, 2025, Pahalgam attack that killed 26 civilians. Eg: The attack by a group linked to LeT prompted the operation.
    • Precision Airstrikes: Executed 24 missile strikes on nine targeted sites in Pakistan’s Punjab and administered Kashmir regions, lasting about 23 minutes. Eg: Sites in Bahawalpur and Muzaffarabad were among those hit.
    • Advanced Military Assets: Deployed Rafale jets with precision-guided SCALP missiles and AASM bombs to ensure accurate targeting with minimal collateral damage. Eg: The use of advanced munitions highlighted India’s operational efficiency.
    • Disruption of Terror Infrastructure: Targeted key terrorist facilities such as training camps, recruitment centers, and armories linked to groups like LeT and JeM. Eg: A strike in Bahawalpur reportedly affected close aides of a major terror leader.
    • Aftermath and Escalation: The operation led to heightened tensions, with Pakistan condemning the strikes and both sides engaging in artillery exchanges along the Line of Control. Eg: The subsequent border clashes underscored the operation’s significant impact on regional stability.

    Way forward: 

    • Global Accountability and Financial Sanctions: Strengthen FATF enforcement and international cooperation to impose targeted sanctions on Pakistan-based terror networks and their sponsors. Eg: Revive monitoring mechanisms to ensure closure of front charities like JuD and FIF.
    • Regional Counter-Terror Framework: India and like-minded nations should push for a South Asia-focused multilateral counter-terrorism initiative with intelligence sharing and cross-border coordination. Eg: Build on QUAD and SCO platforms to diplomatically isolate state-sponsored terrorism.

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  • Terrorism and Challenges Related To It

    [7th May 2025] The Hindu Op-ed: The fragmentation in the global fight against terror

    op-ed snap | International Relations | Mains Paper 2: Effect Of Policies & Politics Of World On India’S Interests

    PYQ Relevance:

    [UPSC 2016] Present an account of the Indus Water Treaty and examine its ecological, economic and [UPSC 2024] Terrorism has become a significant threat to global peace and security’. Evaluate the effectiveness of the United Nations Security Council’s Counter-Terrorism Committee (CTC) and its associated bodies in addressing and mitigating this threat at the international level.

    Linkage:  Terrorism as a global threat and asks about the effectiveness of an international institution (UNSC’s CTC) in addressing it. This directly relates to the article which discusses the lack of a collective fight against terror and highlights how actions within the UN Security Council (like China blocking proposals against Pakistan-based terrorists) demonstrate the challenges and fragmentation in international cooperation against terrorism.

     

    Mentor’s Comment:  The Pahalgam terror attack on April 22 has once again revealed the lack of unity in the global fight against terrorism, as well as Pakistan’s tendency to use terrorism whenever there is a possibility of peace returning to Jammu and Kashmir. Although many countries have condemned the attack, they have also urged both India and Pakistan to show restraint. U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio asked both nations to find a peaceful solution that ensures long-term peace and stability in South Asia. U.S. Vice-President J.D. Vance expressed hope that India’s reaction would not lead to a larger conflict in the region. Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov said that any issues between India and Pakistan should be resolved through political and diplomatic talks. Meanwhile, the EU’s foreign policy chief, Kaja Kallas, didn’t even describe the incident as a terror attack.

    Today’s editorial talks about how the world is not united in fighting terrorism and highlights how Pakistan often uses terrorism as a tool. This topic is useful for GS Paper II (International Relations) and GS Paper III (Internal Security).

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    Let’s learn!

    Why in the News?

    In the past, there was a strong global consensus and zero tolerance towards terrorism. However, in the case of India, which continues to be a victim of state-sponsored terrorism, the international response often seems to follow a different set of standards.

    What does the Pahalgam terror attack reveal about the global fight against terrorism?

    • Fragmentation and Hypocrisy in the Global Anti-Terror Stand: The unified global stance post-9/11 has weakened; countries now view terrorism through selective lenses based on their strategic interests. Eg: While the Pahalgam attack was clearly a terrorist act targeting Hindu pilgrims, the EU failed to call it a “terror attack” and instead used vague diplomatic language, showcasing diplomatic double standards.
    • “Your Terrorist vs My Terrorist” Mindset Prevails: Different regions prioritize different types of terrorism, undermining a collective global response. Eg: The U.S. focuses on REMVE (racially and ethnically motivated violent extremism), while Canada ignores pro-Khalistan threats against India, citing freedom of expression.
    • Global Inaction Against State-Sponsored Terrorism: Despite clear evidence of Pakistan’s role in cross-border terrorism, major powers avoid taking concrete action, fearing geopolitical consequences. Eg: China has blocked UN sanctions against terrorists operating from Pakistani soil, and the West emphasizes “regional stability” over punishing the perpetrator.

    Why are global powers urging restraint between India and Pakistan after the attack?

    • Fear of Nuclear Escalation in South Asia: Global powers are wary of any confrontation between two nuclear-armed nations, especially in a volatile region. Eg: Despite India’s position as the victim, the U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio urged both India and Pakistan to maintain “long-term peace and regional stability”, placing equal responsibility on both sides.
    • Geopolitical Fatigue Due to Multiple Ongoing Conflicts: With active wars in Ukraine, Gaza, and West Asia, there is a limited appetite among global powers for another escalation in Asia. Eg: U.S. Vice-President J.D. Vance expressed hope that India’s response would not trigger a regional conflict, reflecting global fatigue and risk-aversion.
    • Pakistan’s Manipulative Use of the ‘Nuclear Threat’ Narrative: Pakistan has long used the “nuclear war” bogey to deter international support for strong Indian countermeasures. Eg: Even as Western powers support Ukraine in a war against nuclear-armed Russia, they urge Indian restraint to avoid a similar escalation with Pakistan.

    How has Pakistan’s role in terrorism affected its relations with India and the UN?

    • Strained Bilateral Relations with India: Terror attacks traced back to Pakistan-based groups have derailed peace processes and led to diplomatic isolation. Eg: After the Pulwama attack (2019), India withdrew the Most Favoured Nation (MFN) status from Pakistan and suspended bilateral talks.
    • Global Censure and Blacklisting Threats by the UN and FATF: Pakistan has been repeatedly flagged by international watchdogs like the UN and FATF for harbouring terror networks. Eg: In 2018, the FATF grey-listed Pakistan due to insufficient action against terror financing, affecting its global financial credibility.
    • Reduced Legitimacy in Global Forums: Its credibility at the UN is undermined by its ambivalence towards terror groups, weakening its case on Kashmir and other issues. Eg: India has consistently blocked Pakistan’s attempts to internationalize the Kashmir issue at the UN by highlighting its support for cross-border terrorism.

    Why is there a double standard in addressing terror attacks on Hindus?

    • Global Narrative Often Selective Based on Identity Politics: Attacks on Hindus are sometimes downplayed in international media and forums due to fears of appearing biased or anti-minority. Eg: The 2023 Pakistan Hindu temple attacks received minimal global coverage compared to similar attacks on other communities.
    • Lack of Institutional Recognition for Hindu Persecution: Unlike other religious groups, Hindus often lack dedicated international forums or recognition as victims of targeted violence. Eg: The Kashmiri Hindu exodus in the 1990s remains largely absent from global human rights discussions, unlike similar ethnic cleansings.
    • Geopolitical Considerations Overshadow Justice: Nations avoid condemning attacks on Hindus in countries like Pakistan or Bangladesh to maintain strategic ties, even at the cost of justice. Eg: Western powers rarely impose sanctions or raise strong objections to sectarian violence against Hindus in South Asia.

    What actions should India take against state-sponsored terrorism from Pakistan? (Way forward)

    • Strengthen Diplomatic Pressure through Global Alliances: India should leverage platforms like the UN, G20, and Quad to diplomatically isolate Pakistan and expose its terror links. Eg: After the Uri and Pulwama attacks, India launched diplomatic campaigns leading to Pakistan’s continued presence on the FATF grey list.
    • Enhance Intelligence and Surgical Response Capabilities: India must invest in real-time intelligence and conduct targeted counter-terror operations across the Line of Control when credible evidence exists. Eg: The 2016 Surgical Strikes and 2019 Balakot air strikes demonstrated India’s shift to proactive defense strategies.
    • Cut Economic and Water Leverage: India can revisit the Indus Waters Treaty and limit trade relations to exert pressure without crossing into full-scale conflict. Eg: Post-Pulwama, India reviewed the Indus treaty and imposed 100% customs duty on Pakistani imports.

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  • Foreign Policy Watch: India-Pakistan

    [6th May 2025] The Hindu Op-ed: The messaging from putting the IWT in ‘abeyance’ 

    op-ed snap | International Relations | Mains Paper 2: Bilateral, Regional and Global Groupings and agreements involving India

    PYQ Relevance:

    [UPSC 2016] Present an account of the Indus Water Treaty and examine its ecological, economic and political implications in the context of changing bilateral relations.

    Linkage: The decision to put the IWT in ‘abeyance’ is discussed in the article within the context of changing bilateral relations between India and Pakistan following a terror attack. The article highlights the political implications and the strategic considerations behind the decision, which aligns with examining the treaty’s implications in changing bilateral relations.

     

    Mentor’s Comment:  On April 24, India declared that it would temporarily suspend the Indus Waters Treaty (IWT) of 1960 until Pakistan stops supporting cross-border terrorism. The term “abeyance” means a temporary pause, with the possibility of restarting the treaty if Pakistan takes real actions to stop terrorism, especially following the Pahalgam terror attack on April 22.

    Today’s editorial discusses India’s temporary suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty (IWT) of 1960. This topic is relevant for GS Paper II (International Relations).

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    Let’s learn!

    Why in the News?

    Using water resources as a strategic tool may offer short-term gains, but it could ultimately harm India in the long run.

    Why has India placed the Indus Waters Treaty in abeyance?

    • Response to Cross-Border Terrorism: India used the IWT as a strategic pressure tool following the Pahalgam terror attack (April 22, 2024), holding Pakistan accountable for supporting terrorism. Eg: Similar to the 2016 Uri attack response (surgical strikes), this move sends a message of zero tolerance.
    • Political Messaging and Public Sentiment: The decision caters to domestic outrage and shows a firm stance, particularly after recurring terror incidents. It helps the government project decisive action without immediate military escalation. Eg: After the Pulwama attack in 2019, India took firm actions like revoking Article 370 — a similar pattern of assertiveness is evident.
    • Leverage to Expedite Infrastructure Projects: India aims to use this pause to accelerate stalled or disputed hydropower and irrigation projects like Ratle and Tulbul Navigation on western rivers. Eg: Pakistan’s objections delayed the Kishenganga and Baglihar projects — abeyance reduces procedural hurdles temporarily.
    • Legal Dispute over Treaty Mechanism: India had already accused Pakistan of violating dispute resolution provisions of the IWT by unilaterally approaching the Permanent Court of Arbitration in 2023. Eg: India considers this a material breach and is using “abeyance” as a middle path instead of outright termination.
    • Strategic Signalling Amid Regional Instability: Given Pakistan’s current political and economic instability, India sees an opportunity to reshape the narrative and strengthen its own water security posture. Eg: With Pakistan’s military losing public support and the government under pressure, India is testing diplomatic leverage.

    Can using water resources strategically bring short-term gains but harm India long-term?

    • Diplomatic Strain: Using water as a tool for leverage can strain diplomatic relations with neighbouring countries, potentially leading to prolonged conflicts. Eg: If India disrupts water-sharing agreements under the Indus Waters Treaty, it could escalate tensions with Pakistan, affecting regional stability.
    • International Reputation: Strategic manipulation of water resources may damage India’s global image as a responsible water-sharing partner, undermining trust in future agreements. Eg: India’s suspension of the IWT may invite international criticism for violating treaty obligations, harming its reputation in the international community.

    What are the legal limitations under the IWT and international law regarding unilateral suspension or abeyance of a treaty?

    • Principle of Pacta Sunt Servanda: Under international law, treaties must be honored in good faith. This principle (pacta sunt servanda) ensures that once a treaty is ratified, it cannot be unilaterally suspended or abrogated without serious justification. Eg: In the IWT, India and Pakistan are obligated to maintain water-sharing arrangements despite political tensions.
    • Article 60 of the Vienna Convention on the Law of Treaties: A treaty can only be suspended or terminated unilaterally if there is a “material breach” or a fundamental change in circumstances (rebus sic stantibus), and this must be declared after due process. Eg: If one party to a treaty deliberately violates its terms, the other party might argue that the treaty is no longer binding.
    • Specific Treaty Provisions: Many treaties, including the IWT, include specific provisions about suspension, termination, or modification in certain circumstances. These provisions must be followed. Eg: In the IWT, disputes are to be resolved through a permanent commission rather than unilateral suspension of obligations.
    • Dispute Resolution Mechanisms: Most treaties include mechanisms for resolving disputes rather than allowing unilateral suspension, reinforcing the need for cooperation and dialogue. Eg: The IWT mandates the use of a Permanent Indus Commission to address any disputes regarding the water-sharing arrangement.

    How might India use the term “abeyance” to affect procedural cooperation mechanisms under the Indus Waters Treaty?

    • Suspension of Dispute Resolution Mechanism: The term “abeyance” suggests temporarily putting something on hold rather than full termination, which could lead to the suspension of mechanisms like the Permanent Indus Commission (PIC) for resolving water-sharing disputes. Eg: If India places certain provisions of the IWT in abeyance, it could halt the regular meetings and communication under the PIC, leading to delayed resolutions.
    • Impact on Technical Cooperation: The IWT relies on continuous technical cooperation to monitor water flows and manage the shared river systems. “Abeyance” may disrupt such technical collaboration, affecting data sharing and joint assessments. Eg: India’s use of “abeyance” could delay joint inspections or data exchange related to water quality or infrastructure projects, impacting the treaty’s smooth functioning.
    • Erosion of Trust: Using “abeyance” could signal a lack of commitment to the treaty, potentially undermining trust between India and Pakistan and hindering future cooperation under the IWT. Eg: If India temporarily halts cooperation on the IWT, Pakistan may view it as a breach of good faith, weakening the foundation of trust that is critical for long-term collaboration.
    • Escalation of Diplomatic Tensions: The term could be interpreted as a politically motivated pause, which may lead to diplomatic tensions between the two countries. This would make it harder to revive procedural cooperation when needed. Eg: India’s declaration of “abeyance” after the 2019 Pulwama attack could escalate tensions and make it more difficult to resume dialogue on water-related issues, as the diplomatic focus shifts to security concerns.

    Way forward: 

    • Engage in Diplomatic Dialogue: India and Pakistan should prioritize re-engaging through the Permanent Indus Commission to address grievances and resume cooperation on water-sharing, ensuring that the IWT remains intact while managing political tensions.
    • Strengthen Dispute Resolution Mechanisms: Both countries should strengthen the dispute resolution mechanisms under the IWT, ensuring that any concerns over violations are addressed through legal channels rather than unilateral actions, preserving long-term stability and trust.

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  • Port Infrastructure and Shipping Industry – Sagarmala Project, SDC, CEZ, etc.

    [5th May 2025] The Hindu Op-ed: Shaping the port of the future

    op-ed snap | Economics | Mains Paper 3: Infrastructure: Energy, Ports, Roads, Airports, Railways Etc.

    PYQ Relevance:

    [UPSC 2021] Investment in infrastructure is essential for more rapid and inclusive economic growth.” Discuss in the light of India’s experience.

    Linkage: Vizhinjam Port is seen as a major infrastructure project that can bring big economic benefits and boost growth in the region. This “port of the future” is a clear example of how building key infrastructure can help speed up development and strengthen India’s role in global sea trade.

     

    Mentor’s Comment:  The town of Vizhinjam in Kerala has been an important part of global sea trade since ancient times. Inscriptions from the Pandya-Chola period (1129 AD) refer to it as Rajendra Chola Pattinam, a key port in Kerala. Some historians believe that Vizhinjam was earlier known as Balita, a port mentioned in the 1st-century travel book The Periplus of the Erythraean Sea. Over time, however, Vizhinjam lost its importance when colonial powers began to focus on developing other ports like Cochin and Madras.

    Today’s editorial analyses the first deep-water container transhipment port at Vizhinjam. This content would help in the GS Paper II (International Relations) and GS Paper III (Port & Infrastructure).

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    Let’s learn!

    Why in the News?

    India’s first deep-water container transshipment port at Vizhinjam has been officially opened by the Prime Minister.

    What historical records highlight Vizhinjam’s ancient maritime significance?

    • Inscriptions from the Pandya-Chola Era (1129 AD): Vizhinjam was referred to as Rajendra Chola Pattinam, highlighting its importance under Chola rule. Eg: Inscriptions found in Tamil Nadu indicate Vizhinjam was a maritime outpost under Rajendra Chola I.
    • Mention in The Periplus of the Erythraean Sea (1st century AD): Scholars correlate Vizhinjam with Balita, a port listed in this Greco-Roman navigational text. Eg: The Periplus details trade with South Indian ports exporting spices, pearls, and textiles.
    • Vital Node in the Ancient Spice Route: Vizhinjam facilitated trade in pepper and aromatics between India and the Greco-Roman world. Eg: Goods from Kerala were shipped to Alexandria and further into Europe via this port.
    • Geographic Advantage as a Natural Port: Vizhinjam’s deep-sea location and sheltering coastline made it ideal for anchorage and monsoon navigation. Eg: Sailors preferred Vizhinjam for docking during the southwest monsoon season.
    • Decline Due to Colonial Maritime Reorientation: Colonial interests bypassed Vizhinjam in favor of Cochin and Madras, leading to its historical obscurity. Eg: The British East India Company developed Cochin, reducing Vizhinjam’s strategic relevance.

    Why is Vizhinjam Port crucial for India’s transshipment strategy?

    • Proximity to International Shipping Routes: Vizhinjam lies just 10 nautical miles from the busy east–west international sea route, reducing diversion time for vessels. Eg: Ships plying between the Persian Gulf and the Malacca Strait can easily access Vizhinjam without significant deviation.
    • Natural Deep-Draft Port: It has a natural depth of over 20 meters, allowing large container ships (like Ultra Large Container Vessels) to dock without dredging. Eg: Unlike ports such as Chennai or Kolkata, Vizhinjam can handle Mother Vessels directly.
    • Reduces India’s Dependence on Foreign Ports: India currently transships ~75% of its cargo through ports like Colombo, Singapore, and Jebel Ali. Vizhinjam aims to internalize this traffic. Eg: Container traffic from Kochi or Tuticorin often goes to Colombo first—Vizhinjam can bypass this.
    • Strategic Location for Regional Hub Development: Located on the southern tip of India, it can serve as a transshipment hub for South Asia and East Africa. Eg: Ports in Maldives, Seychelles, and even parts of the African east coast could be serviced via Vizhinjam.
    • Boosts Sagarmala and Atmanirbhar Bharat Goals: It aligns with India’s vision to develop port-led development and reduce logistic costs under the Sagarmala Programme. Eg: Vizhinjam complements other projects like Vadhavan and Paradip in creating an integrated maritime network.

    Who are the main stakeholders in the Vizhinjam Port project?

    • Government of Kerala: Owns the port infrastructure and plays a key role in policy, land acquisition, and facilitating local support. Eg: Kerala State Industrial Development Corporation (KSIDC) is involved in project coordination.
    • Adani Ports and SEZ Ltd (APSEZ): The main private developer and operator of the port under a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model. Eg: APSEZ is responsible for design, build, finance, operate, and transfer (DBFOT) of the port.
    • Central Government of India: Provides financial assistance and regulatory approvals via the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways. Eg: The project received viability gap funding (VGF) from the Centre to make it commercially feasible.
    • Local Community and Fisherfolk: Crucial stakeholders impacted by land use, fishing access, and environmental changes. Eg: Protests by fishing communities in 2022 highlighted concerns over displacement and livelihood loss.
    • Environmental and Regulatory Bodies: Ensure compliance with Coastal Regulation Zone (CRZ) norms, environmental clearances, and sustainable development. Eg: The Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC) granted conditional clearance after EIA studies.

    How can Vizhinjam’s economic potential mirror global models like Shenzhen?

    • Strategic Coastal Location for Global Trade: Like Shenzhen, Vizhinjam lies close to major global shipping routes, enabling it to become a vital logistics hub. Eg: Vizhinjam is just 10 nautical miles from the international east-west shipping corridor, ideal for transshipment.
    • Integrated Industrial and Port Development: Shenzhen’s success came from combining port infrastructure with export-oriented industrial zones; Vizhinjam can follow suit with Special Economic Zones (SEZs). Eg: Planned industrial corridors around Vizhinjam can attract electronics, pharmaceuticals, and marine processing units.
    • Private Sector-Led Infrastructure Expansion: Like Shenzhen’s model of leveraging private investment for rapid development, Vizhinjam is being developed under PPP with Adani Ports. Eg: Adani Ports has experience in developing Mundra Port as an integrated commercial port ecosystem.
    • Tech-Driven, Green Port Initiatives: Shenzhen is a pioneer in using smart and sustainable technologies; Vizhinjam can adopt automation, renewable energy, and green logistics. Eg: Vizhinjam’s deep draft allows handling of mega ships with less dredging, reducing ecological footprint.
    • Employment and Urban Transformation: Shenzhen evolved from a fishing village to a global metropolis; Vizhinjam can drive local employment, urbanisation, and socioeconomic growth. Eg: Development of port-linked infrastructure is expected to boost tourism, services, and real estate in the Trivandrum region.

    What are the challenges for the ports in India? 

    • Labor Disputes and Industrial Actions: Indian ports have experienced significant disruptions due to labor strikes and protests. Eg: In August 2024, approximately 20,000 port workers initiated a strike demanding wage revisions and improved pension benefits. This industrial action threatened to halt operations across major ports, causing delays in cargo handling and impacting global trade.
    • Inadequate Last-Mile Connectivity: Despite improvements in port infrastructure, many Indian ports suffer from poor last-mile connectivity. Eg: The Jawaharlal Nehru Port in Navi Mumbai often faces delays due to inefficient road networks and underdeveloped transport links, affecting overall port efficiency.
    • Port Congestion and Operational Inefficiencies: Indian ports are grappling with congestion issues, leading to delays in cargo handling and increased turnaround times for vessels. Eg: Factors like outdated cargo tracking systems and regulatory bottlenecks have forced some shipping lines to skip Indian port calls to maintain schedules.

    Way forward: 

    • Improve Port Infrastructure and Last-Mile Connectivity: Enhance road, rail, and port connectivity to streamline cargo movement and reduce congestion. Investments in modernizing transport networks and implementing smart technologies can ensure smoother operations and quicker turnaround times.
    • Strengthen Labor Relations and Efficiency: Resolve labor disputes through better communication and negotiations, ensuring worker welfare while maintaining productivity. Implementing automation and improving operational processes can also reduce dependency on manual labor and improve efficiency.

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  • [3rd May 2025] The Hindu Op-ed: A profound shift in the global order

    op-ed snap | International Relations | Mains Paper 2: Effect Of Policies & Politics Of World On India’S Interests

    PYQ Relevance:

    [UPSC 2019] ‘The long-sustained image of India as a leader of the oppressed and marginalised Nations has disappeared on account of its new found role in the emerging global order”. Elaborate.

    Linkage: India is at a turning point, and the world is becoming more equal, moving away from old colonial ways. As Asia becomes more important again, this change is also affecting how India is seen and positioned globally.

     

    Mentor’s Comment:  India is at another turning point, similar to when Vasco da Gama arrived in Kozhikode in 1498 and the local ruler, the Zamorin, failed to act strategically. But this time, it’s not about sea trade routes—it’s about how global value chains are being reshaped through power and influence. This is a crucial moment for India, which is on track to become the world’s third-largest economy. For the past 75 years, the world has followed a post-colonial order known as globalisation. It was based on countries following common rules for the greater good, and divided the world into “donors” and “recipients.” But this idea no longer works, especially after China overtook the U.S. in foreign aid, manufacturing, and global trade share. As a result, institutions like the WTO, UN, and various treaties have become less useful to powerful countries, leading to U.S. pullouts.

    Today’s editorial analyses global value chains as being reshaped through power and influence. This content would help in the GS Paper II (International Relations).

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    Let’s learn!

    Why in the News?

    President Donald Trump is not acting randomly. He is reacting to a world where countries are becoming more equal and breaking free from old colonial ideas, while still trying to keep their fading advantages.

    What shift in global trade is compared to Vasco De Gama’s arrival?

    • Transition from Trade Routes to Value Chains: Vasco De Gama’s 1498 voyage opened sea-based trade routes connecting India to Europe. Today, the world is witnessing a shift from traditional trade to technology-driven global value chains (GVCs), reshaped by geopolitical forces rather than free markets. Eg: The semiconductor supply chain, where countries like Taiwan, South Korea, and the U.S. dominate chip design and fabrication, reflecting value chain complexity over simple trade.
    • Strategic Inertia vs Strategic Foresight: The Zamorin’s complacency during Vasco’s arrival represents a lack of strategic foresight in seizing global opportunities. India now faces a similar moment and must act strategically to capitalize on the global trade realignment and not miss out like in the colonial past. Eg: India’s PLI (Production Linked Incentive) schemes in electronics and pharmaceuticals are efforts to plug into global manufacturing chains proactively.
    • Geopolitically Driven Trade Structures: Earlier global trade was commercially motivated, but today it is increasingly geopolitically driven, with blocs forming and multilateralism weakening. Eg: The U.S.-China trade war and decoupling from Chinese supply chains are forcing countries like India to reposition themselves in new GVCs.

    Why is the post-colonial global order losing relevance?

    • Shift from Multilateralism to Bilateralism and Power Politics: The post-colonial world order was built on rule-based multilateral institutions (e.g., WTO, UN), promoting equal participation. Now, major powers prefer bilateral deals that prioritize national interest over global consensus. Eg: The U.S. withdrawing from multilateral agreements like the Paris Climate Accord and WTO dispute mechanisms.
    • Obsolescence of Donor-Recipient Hierarchy: The older order assumed a world divided into ‘donors’ (developed nations) and ‘recipients’ (developing nations). This has become irrelevant as emerging powers like China now surpass traditional Western powers in aid and trade influence. Eg: China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) has made it a larger global lender than the World Bank in many regions.
    • Erosion of Trust During Global Crises: Global institutions failed to uphold equitable principles during emergencies, revealing self-serving behavior by developed nations. Eg: During the COVID-19 pandemic, G-7 countries hoarded vaccines and medical supplies, sidelining poorer nations and weakening trust in global cooperation.

    Who should lead India’s push for new global governance principles?

    • India’s World-Class Diplomats: India should empower its skilled and experienced diplomatic corps to frame and advocate new governance principles suited to a multipolar world. Eg: Indian diplomats played a key role in shaping the International Solar Alliance, showing leadership in global climate governance.
    • Cooperation Between Political Leadership and Policy Experts: A coordinated approach involving political vision (e.g., Prime Minister’s “Asian Century” narrative) and strategic policy institutions can guide India’s global engagement. Eg: NITI Aayog and MEA’s policy think tanks can jointly shape proposals for reforms in multilateral institutions like the WTO and UN.
    • Engagement with Global South and Emerging Institutions: India must lead with inclusive principles by aligning with BRICS, ASEAN, and the African Union, promoting a fair and tech-driven global order. Eg: India’s BRICS presidency and advocacy for the Global South Voice at G-20 summits shows readiness for leadership beyond the West-dominated system.

    How can India become a global leader in AI and technology?

    • Leverage Human Capital and Digital Infrastructure: India must build on its skilled workforce, vast datasets, and proven digital stack (like Aadhaar, UPI) to drive AI innovation. Eg: IndiaStack enabled large-scale digital public goods, which can now serve as the foundation for developing large language models (LLMs) and AI applications.
    • Promote Open-Source and Indigenous Innovation: Focusing on open-source technologies and encouraging local R&D will allow India to innovate independently and at scale. Eg: India can emulate models like DeepSeek (an open-source AI rivaling U.S. models) to build affordable, accessible AI tools.
    • Create National Consensus and Industry-Academia Collaboration: A national policy consensus involving all stakeholders—governments, academia, and industry—must be built to focus on AI, chips, and deep tech. Eg: China’s rise in hardware was driven by state-industry coordination; India needs similar programs for semiconductors and AI research centers.

    Which regions should India partner with for a new economic framework?

    • ASEAN (Association of Southeast Asian Nations): India should collaborate with ASEAN to build an Asian Common Market and leverage regional complementarities in trade, manufacturing, and digital economy. Eg: India’s Act East Policy and its trade agreements with Singapore and Thailand provide a base for deeper economic integration.
    • African Union: Africa offers a growing consumer base and untapped potential for investment in infrastructure, technology, and education. Eg: India’s Pan-African e-Network Project and growing pharma exports make Africa a strategic partner in India’s south-south cooperation.
    • BRICS and Emerging Economies: Collaborating within BRICS helps India shape multipolar global governance and alternative trade norms. Eg: India’s proposal for a BRICS currency system and its role in the New Development Bank demonstrate long-term strategic engagement.
    • Middle East (West Asia): Strong energy ties and growing interest in tech cooperation make the Middle East a key partner in India’s economic future. Eg: The India-UAE CEPA and I2U2 group (India-Israel-UAE-USA) promote trade, food security, and innovation-led partnerships.
    • Latin America and Caribbean (LAC): This region provides opportunities for trade diversification, agricultural cooperation, and technology exchange. Eg: India’s investments in pharmaceuticals and IT sectors in Brazil and Mexico mark a growing footprint in the LAC region.

    Way forward: 

    • Institutionalise Strategic Partnerships: India should formalise economic and technology alliances through frameworks like FTAs, digital cooperation pacts, and regional value chains with emerging regions (ASEAN, Africa, LAC).
    • Champion Inclusive Global Norms: Lead the Global South in advocating reforms in global governance institutions, emphasising equity, sustainability, and tech sovereignty to shape a multipolar, resilient global order.

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  • Foreign Policy Watch: India-China

    [2nd May 2025] The Hindu Op-ed: China’s strategic push — Asia ties amid tariff tensions

    op-ed snap | International Relations | Mains Paper 2: India & Its Neighborhood – Relations

    PYQ Relevance:

    [UPSC 2017] China is using its economic relations and positive trade surplus as tools to develop potential military power status in Asia’, In the light of this statement, discuss its impact on India as her neighbor.

    Linkage: China’s economic relations to its strategic power status in Asia and asks about the impact on India, which aligns with the broader implications of China’s growing regional influence discussed in the source.

     

    Mentor’s Comment:  Chinese President Xi Jinping’s visit to Vietnam, Malaysia, and Cambodia from April 14-18, 2025, aimed to present China as the most reliable partner in the region. With a 145% tariff on Chinese goods imposed by the Trump administration, China is rethinking its foreign trade strategies, particularly with countries in Southeast Asia where it has strong ties and supportive partners. This visit is not just regular diplomacy but a strategic move by China to ease economic pressure, show stability, and strengthen its leadership role in the Indo-Pacific region.

    The editorial today analyzes Chinese President Xi Jinping’s recent visit to Vietnam, Malaysia, and Cambodia. This analysis can help in understanding the broader dynamics of China’s foreign policy and its impact on international relations, which is relevant for GS Paper 2 in the UPSC exam.

    _

    Let’s learn!

    Why in the News?

    Beijing’s efforts to engage with Southeast Asia could make it harder for the U.S. to form a coalition aimed at isolating or limiting China economically.

    What was the aim of Xi Jinping’s Southeast Asia tour?

    • Counter U.S. Economic Pressure and Protectionism: In response to the 145% tariff on Chinese exports by the Trump administration, China used the tour to strengthen trade ties with receptive Southeast Asian partners like Vietnam, Malaysia, and Cambodia.
    • Position China as a Stable and Reliable Partner in the Indo-Pacific: Xi signed 45 agreements with Vietnam and over 30 with Malaysia, showcasing China’s willingness to invest in digital economy, AI, agriculture, and infrastructure — directly contrasting U.S. policies perceived as protectionist or security-centric.
    • Promote China’s Regional Leadership and Soft Power: Xi emphasized non-interference, cultural ties, and the Belt and Road Initiative, including major projects like the Funan Techo Canal in Cambodia, to build a “community with a shared future” and present China as the regional leader.

    Why is Southeast Asia key to China’s trade strategy?

    • Buffer Against U.S. Trade Pressures: As the U.S. imposes tariffs (e.g., 145% on Chinese exports under Trump), China needs trade partners less influenced by Washington. Eg: Cambodia, Vietnam, and Malaysia are not aligned with U.S. protectionism and offer alternate trade routes.
    • Alternative Manufacturing Base: Rising labor costs and export restrictions push China to shift low-cost manufacturing to nearby countries. Eg: Many Chinese firms are investing in Vietnamese and Malaysian industrial parks as part of their “China Plus One” strategy.
    • Gateway to Regional Supply Chains: Southeast Asia is integrated into global value chains and is a key node in East Asian manufacturing. Eg: The Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) links China with ASEAN, allowing tariff-free trade on many goods.
    • Diplomatic and Economic Receptiveness: ASEAN countries are generally open to China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) and infrastructure investment. Eg: The Funan Techo Canal in Cambodia, funded by China, improves logistics and deepens economic ties.
    • Market Expansion and Political Influence: Growing middle classes and urbanization offer long-term markets for Chinese goods and services. Eg: Digital economy and AI agreements with Malaysia expand Chinese tech firms’ reach while strengthening bilateral ties.

    Which agreements were signed with Vietnam, Malaysia, and Cambodia?

    • Vietnam – Strategic and Economic Deepening: China and Vietnam signed 45 cooperation agreements covering infrastructure, trade, connectivity, and border management. Eg: Agreements included railway connectivity, digital economy initiatives, and boosting cross-border trade.
    • Malaysia – Tech and Economic Collaboration: Over 30 agreements were signed focusing on the digital economy, artificial intelligence, agriculture, and infrastructure. Eg: MoUs on AI cooperation, palm oil trade, and joint development of industrial parks were key highlights.
    • Cambodia – Investment and Infrastructure Expansion: China reaffirmed its role as Cambodia’s largest investor and trading partner, with a focus on large-scale infrastructure projects. Eg: The Funan Techo Canal project was a major outcome, seen as a symbol of deepened strategic and economic ties.

    How does China’s approach differ from the U.S. in the region?

    • Economic Diplomacy vs. Security-Centric Strategy: China emphasizes infrastructure, trade, and investment, while the U.S. often leads with security alliances and military cooperation. Eg: China’s Belt and Road projects (like the Funan Techo Canal in Cambodia) contrast with U.S.-led initiatives like AUKUS and the Quad.
    • Non-Interference vs. Value-Based Engagement: China promotes a policy of non-interference and economic cooperation without imposing political conditions. The U.S. ties engagement to democracy, human rights, and strategic alignment. Eg: China’s warm ties with Cambodia, despite its authoritarian governance, contrast with U.S. criticism of its human rights record.
    • Tangible Deliverables vs. Abstract Frameworks: China offers clear economic incentives (like market access and investments), while U.S. initiatives often lack concrete trade benefits. Eg: China signs dozens of bilateral agreements; the U.S.’s Indo-Pacific Economic Framework (IPEF) has been criticized for lacking market access.

    What could be the impact on India? 

    • Strategic Space Shrinkage in Southeast Asia: As China deepens ties with ASEAN countries, India may find it harder to expand its influence in the region. Eg: Vietnam engaging with China despite maritime tensions may dilute India’s strategic partnership with Hanoi.
    • Competitive Pressure on Infrastructure and Trade Diplomacy: China’s aggressive investment through BRI challenges India’s outreach via initiatives like the Act East Policy or Mekong–Ganga Cooperation. Eg: China’s infrastructure push in Cambodia (e.g., Funan Techo Canal) may overshadow India’s developmental efforts in the region.
    • Risk of Regional Economic Isolation: Closer China-ASEAN integration may sideline India from key trade and supply chains unless it accelerates its economic engagement. Eg: India’s exit from RCEP and China’s expanding trade deals with ASEAN may reduce India’s leverage in setting regional economic norms.

    Way forward: 

    • Strengthen Economic and Infrastructure Diplomacy: India should deepen its engagement with Southeast Asia through large-scale infrastructure projects, trade agreements, and digital economy initiatives to compete with China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). Eg: Focusing on improving connectivity, like the India-Myanmar-Thailand trilateral highway, and enhancing regional supply chains could help.
    • Foster Strategic Partnerships and Multilateral Cooperation: India should prioritize strengthening its strategic ties with ASEAN countries through multilateral platforms like the East Asia Summit (EAS) and the Quad, focusing on security and regional stability. Eg: India must increase its participation in economic partnerships to counter China’s growing influence.

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  • Foreign Policy Watch: India-Pakistan

    [1st May 2025] The Hindu Op-ed: The impact of suspending a water treaty

    op-ed snap | International Relations | Mains Paper 2: India & Its Neighborhood – Relations

    PYQ Relevance:

    [UPSC 2016]  Present an account of the Indus Water Treaty and examine its ecological, economic and political implications in the context of changing bilateral relations.

    Linkage:  India’s action regarding the IWT due to strained bilateral relations stemming from terrorism and outlines potential economic impacts on Pakistan and political/diplomatic implications for India.

     

    Mentor’s Comment:  In response to the terrorist attack by The Resistance Front that killed 26 tourists in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, India’s Cabinet Committee on Security decided to suspend the Indus Waters Treaty (IWT) of 1960 immediately. This suspension will remain in place until Pakistan completely stops supporting cross-border terrorism. The decision essentially means ending the water treaty, which was signed in 1960, but there is no clause in the treaty that allows for it to be cancelled unilaterally.

    Today’s editorial looks at the recent halt of the Indus Waters Treaty (IWT) after a terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir. This topic is useful for GS Paper II (International Relations).

    _

    Let’s learn!

    Why in the News?

    India may defend its decision to suspend the Indus Waters Treaty, but this could affect its relationships with neighbouring countries.

    Why did India suspend the Indus Waters Treaty?

    • Response to Cross-Border Terrorism: India suspended the IWT as a strong retaliatory measure after The Resistance Front, a Pakistan-backed terrorist group, killed 26 tourists in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir. Eg: The Cabinet Committee on Security declared the suspension until Pakistan “credibly and irrevocably abjures its support for cross-border terrorism.”
    • Strategic Leverage Against Pakistan: India views the IWT as a tool of strategic pressure, given that Pakistan’s agriculture and hydropower heavily rely on water from the Indus, Jhelum, and Chenab rivers. Eg: By suspending water-sharing obligations and planning to increase storage and diversion, India aims to weaken Pakistan’s water security.

    What legal challenges arise from this suspension under international law?

    • Lack of Exit Clause in the IWT: The IWT does not have a provision for unilateral termination or suspension by either party. Article XII (4) specifies that the treaty shall continue unless a duly ratified treaty for termination is concluded. Eg: India’s suspension of the treaty violates this provision, as there is no formal exit mechanism within the IWT itself.
    • Vienna Convention on the Law of Treaties (VCLT) Challenges: India’s use of VCLT provisions, particularly Article 62 on treaty modification or termination due to a fundamental change in circumstances, is problematic. India is not a party to the VCLT, and Pakistan has signed but not ratified it, making its application complex. Eg: Using VCLT to justify the suspension may face legal challenges since it doesn’t apply directly in the context of the IWT.
    • Violation of International Legal Norms: Unilateral suspension of the IWT without mutual consent may be viewed as a violation of customary international law, which favors the continuation of treaties unless both parties agree to their termination. Eg: Legal experts argue that India’s actions undermine the principle of pacta sunt servanda (agreements must be kept), which is a core tenet of international law.
    • Possible Retaliation and Legal Action by Pakistan: Pakistan has legal recourse to challenge India’s suspension, including bringing the issue to international forums such as the ICJ, UN Security Council, or the Permanent Court of Arbitration. Eg: Pakistan could argue that India’s suspension violates the VCLT or raises a dispute regarding the treaty’s interpretation, seeking a legal ruling on the matter.

    How could the move impact water disputes within Pakistan?

    • Intensification of Inter-Provincial Water Conflicts: Pakistan’s provinces, particularly Punjab and Sindh, already face longstanding water disputes. India’s suspension of the IWT could exacerbate these internal conflicts, especially as the western rivers are critical to both agriculture and hydroelectric power in Pakistan. Eg: Punjab and Sindh have previously clashed over water allocations, and a reduction in water flow from India could heighten tensions, particularly over the allocation of Indus river waters.
    • Increased Political Instability: A reduction in the water flow from India could lead to widespread agricultural damage and water shortages, particularly in Punjab, which is the country’s agricultural heartland. This could spark public protests and political instability within Pakistan. Eg: The ongoing disputes over projects like the Cholistan Canal between provinces may intensify if Pakistan faces reduced water availability, leading to political pressures on the federal government to resolve these disputes.

    Which infrastructure projects support India’s water strategy?

    • Hydroelectric Projects: Projects like Kishanganga Hydroelectric Project and Ratle Dam utilize water from the western rivers for power generation, in line with India’s share under the Indus Waters Treaty.
    • Run-of-the-River Dams: Baglihar Dam and Salal Dam regulate river flows for electricity generation, without significant water storage, supporting India’s strategy to manage water resources.
    • Irrigation and Flood Control: Infrastructure like the Srinagar flood control project and irrigation systems in Jammu and Kashmir helps manage water for agricultural use and regional stability.

    What are the regional diplomatic consequences of India’s decision?

    • Strained Relations with Pakistan: Suspending the Indus Waters Treaty (IWT) may worsen India-Pakistan relations, particularly over water access, potentially leading to diplomatic protests. Eg: Pakistan could raise the issue at international platforms like the UN or the International Court of Justice.
    • Impact on India-China Relations: China, as an upper riparian of India’s rivers, may use India’s suspension to justify withholding hydro data on rivers like the Brahmaputra. Eg: During the 2017 Doklam crisis, China did not share hydro data with India but did with Bangladesh.
    • Influence on India-Bangladesh Ties: India’s suspension could affect the renewal of the Ganga Water Treaty with Bangladesh in 2026. Eg: Bangladesh could be concerned about water-sharing agreements, given the geopolitical tensions.

    Way forward:

    • Engage in Diplomatic Dialogue: India should initiate diplomatic discussions with Pakistan, China, and Bangladesh to mitigate tensions and seek mutually beneficial water-sharing agreements, ensuring regional stability.
    • Strengthen Water Infrastructure: India must invest in enhancing its water storage and management infrastructure to maximize its treaty entitlements and reduce reliance on fluctuating water flows.

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  • Waste Management – SWM Rules, EWM Rules, etc

    [30th April 2025] The Hindu Op-ed: A powerful judicial remedy for waste management

    op-ed snap | Enviro & Biodiversity | Mains Paper 3: Conservation, Environmental Pollution & Degradation, Eia

    PYQ Relevance:

    [UPSC 2023] The most significant achievement of modern law in India in the constitutionalization of environmental problems by the Supreme Court. Discuss this statement with the help of relevant case laws.

    Linkage: The Supreme Court’s proactive role in integrating environmental concerns into constitutional law, aligns with the source’s assertion that environmental protection is a constitutional imperative aimed at safeguarding fundamental rights.

     

    Mentor’s Comment:  A new study published in Nature says that India is the world’s biggest plastic polluter, releasing 9.3 million tonnes of plastic each year—about 20% of the global total. The study defines plastic emissions as plastic waste (like litter and burned plastic) that escapes from areas where it’s at least somewhat controlled and ends up in the open environment, where there’s no control at all.

    Today’s editorial looks at plastic pollution in India and the actions taken by the Supreme Court to reduce it. This topic is useful for GS Paper 2 (Policy and governance) and GS Paper 3 (Environmental pollution).

    _

    Let’s learn!

    Why in the News?

    A new study published in Nature says that India produces more plastic pollution than any other country in the world.

    What does the Nature study reveal about India’s plastic pollution?

    • India is the World’s Largest Plastic Polluter: According to the study, India releases 9.3 million tonnes (Mt) of plastic waste annually, accounting for about 20% of global plastic emissions. Eg: This includes both plastic debris and open burning, contributing heavily to land, air, and water pollution.
    • Plastic Waste Emissions Include Mismanaged and Openly Burnt Waste: Plastic emissions are defined as plastic that moves from controlled (managed or mismanaged) systems to unmanaged, uncontained environments. Eg: Waste escaping from open dumpsites or burnt in open fields, common in peri-urban and rural India.
    • Official Data Grossly Underestimates Real Waste Figures: India’s reported per capita plastic waste generation is 0.12 kg/day, but the study estimates it at 0.54 kg/day, suggesting severe underreporting. Eg: Rural waste and informal recycling activities are often excluded from government reports.
    • Uncontrolled Dumpsites Far Outnumber Sanitary Landfills: The study found that unregulated dumpsites outnumber sanitary landfills by 10:1, highlighting a major infrastructure gap. Eg: Cities like Patna and Guwahati rely on open dumping due to lack of engineered landfills.
    • Data Deficiency Hampers Effective Waste Management: Lack of reliable data, especially from rural areas and informal sectors, weakens national waste management planning. Eg: In the Indian Himalayan Region, poor data on plastic waste flow leads to accumulation in fragile ecosystems.

    Why is India’s plastic waste data seen as inaccurate?

    • Exclusion of Rural Areas from Official Data: Government statistics largely reflect urban waste generation, ignoring plastic waste from vast rural regions. Eg: Villages disposing plastic in fields or burning it are not included in national data systems.
    • Unaccounted Informal Recycling Sector: The informal sector plays a big role in plastic recycling but is not officially documented in waste audits. Eg: Ragpickers collecting and selling recyclables in Delhi or Mumbai don’t show up in municipal records.
    • No Data on Open Burning of Waste: Open burning, a major source of plastic emissions, is not systematically tracked or included in national waste reports. Eg: In slums and small towns, plastic is often burnt in the open due to lack of collection facilities.
    • Overreporting of Waste Collection Coverage: India claims a 95% collection rate, but this is likely overstated due to poor documentation and ground reality. Eg: Areas with irregular garbage pickup services are still marked as “covered” in official data.
    • Lack of Transparent Data Methodology: There is no clarity on how data is collected, audited, or verified by municipal or state agencies. Eg: The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) reports don’t mention the sampling or survey methods used.

    How can India improve its waste management system?

    • Ensure Reliable and Inclusive Data Collection: Create a robust, transparent mechanism to collect data from both urban and rural areas, including informal sectors. Eg: Use mobile apps or digital platforms to track daily waste from panchayats and slums in states like Bihar or Odisha.
    • Mandate Waste Audits and Public Methodologies: All data-gathering agencies must publish their methodologies and undergo third-party audits to ensure accuracy. Eg: Municipal bodies in Maharashtra could be required to disclose how they measure household waste generation.
    • Link Local Bodies to Full Waste Processing Ecosystem: Every urban and rural local body should be mandatorily connected to Material Recovery Facilities (MRFs), recyclers, EPR kiosks, and landfills. Eg: Villages in Himachal Pradesh could be linked to nearby MRFs for segregating plastic and compostable waste.
    • Implement and Monitor Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR): Producers, importers, and brand owners (PIBOs) must collect and manage plastic waste they generate, through designated kiosks. Eg: FMCG companies could set up EPR kiosks in towns across Tamil Nadu to collect multi-layered packaging.
    • Leverage Technology and Geo-tag Infrastructure: Use India’s tech capability to geo-tag waste infrastructure, monitor waste flows, and plan better logistics. Eg: Using GIS-based dashboards to track landfill use and recycling rates in cities like Bengaluru and Jaipur.

    What is the Vellore Tanneries Case?

    • The Vellore Tanneries Case refers to a significant legal battle concerning the environmental pollution caused by the tannery industry in Vellore, Tamil Nadu, India. It is a landmark case due to its focus on the polluter pays principle and environmental justice.

    Why did the Supreme Court act on the Vellore tanneries case? 

    • To Enforce Environmental Justice and Fundamental Rights: The Court recognized that pollution from tanneries violated citizens’ fundamental rights to clean air, water, and health, guaranteed under Article 21 of the Constitution. Eg: Villagers in Vellore affected by contaminated groundwater and health issues were denied their basic rights.
    • To Ensure Accountability and Compliance: Government policies and earlier Court orders had been routinely ignored, so the Court issued a continuing mandamus to ensure time-bound compliance. Eg: The Court directed a committee to monitor clean-up and remediation in Vellore and submit reports within 4 months.
    • To Uphold the “Polluter Pays Principle”: The Court ruled that polluters must bear the cost of damage to the environment and compensate affected communities. Eg: Tanneries discharging untreated effluents were made liable for both environmental restoration and community compensation.
    • To Promote Sustainable Development through Remediation: The Court emphasized that restoring the damaged environment is a part of sustainable development, not an optional activity. Eg: Soil and water remediation programs in the affected leather clusters were ordered to be implemented.

    Way forward: 

    • Strengthen Data Collection and Transparency: Establish comprehensive waste data systems that include rural areas, informal sectors, and open burning, with clear methodologies and third-party audits to ensure accurate reporting.
    • Implement Robust Waste Management Infrastructure: Connect local bodies to the full waste processing ecosystem, enforce Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) for plastic waste, and leverage technology to track and manage waste flows effectively.

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  • Women empowerment issues – Jobs,Reservation and education

    [29th April 2025] The Hindu Op-ed: Role in a risk society: how women bear a disproportionate burden

    op-ed snap | Indian Society | Mains Paper 1: Salient features of Indian Society

    PYQ Relevance:

    [UPSC 2019] What are the continued challenges for women in India against time and space?

    Linkage: The article details talk about the various challenges that contribute to women bearing a disproportionate burden, including socio-economic inequalities, health risks, and the burden of caregiving roles.

     

    Mentor’s Comment: In a risk society — where modernisation creates new, man-made dangers like pandemics or climate crises — women face deeper vulnerabilities due to caregiving burdens, poor health, insecure work, and limited access to aid or resources. This gendered risk is not incidental but structural.

    This is relevant for GS Paper 1 (Indian Society) and themes like “Challenges for women across time and space”.

    _

    Let’s learn!

    Why in the News?

    The term ‘risk society’, coined by Ulrich Beck in his book Risk Society: Towards a New Modernity, refers to a shift from an industrial society to a society where uncertainty and dangers, caused by technology and environmental changes, play a larger role in shaping our lives.

    Why are women more vulnerable to the consequences of risks in a risk society, especially in developing countries?

    • Unequal Access to Resources: Women often have less access to land, credit, education, and technology compared to men. Eg: In rural areas of Africa and South Asia, women farmers typically control smaller plots and have less access to irrigation or improved seeds, making them more vulnerable to climate shocks like droughts.
    • Caregiving Responsibilities Increase Exposure: Women are usually responsible for caregiving roles (childcare, eldercare, healthcare), exposing them more to environmental and health risks. Eg: During the COVID-19 pandemic, women healthcare workers (70% of health workforce globally) faced higher exposure to the virus.
    • Greater Health Vulnerabilities: Due to physiological factors and social inequalities (like poor nutrition), women face higher health risks during environmental crises. Eg: In India, 57% of women suffer from anaemia (NFHS-5), making them more vulnerable during food shortages or health crises.
    • Social and Cultural Norms Deepen Disadvantages: Gender norms often prioritize men’s needs over women’s during disasters, leading to unequal relief, recovery, and aid access. Eg: After natural disasters like the 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami, women had lower survival rates partly because cultural norms restricted their ability to swim or climb trees.
    • Economic Insecurity Limits Resilience: Women are overrepresented in informal, low-wage, and insecure jobs, making it harder for them to recover from economic disruptions. Eg: During lockdowns in 2020, women in informal sectors (like domestic work or street vending) lost incomes faster and found it harder to regain employment.

    How do manufactured risks differ from natural risks?

    Aspect Natural Risks Manufactured Risks
    Origin of the Risks Arise from natural events or phenomena without human intervention. Result from human activities, often related to technological, industrial, or environmental actions
    Eg. Earthquakes, floods, storms Chernobyl nuclear disaster, pollution from industrial activities
    Predictability and Control Typically unpredictable, though some can be forecasted with scientific tools. Often foreseeable and manageable through technologies or regulations.
    Eg. Earthquakes (hard to predict), hurricanes (can be forecasted) Air pollution (can be reduced through cleaner technologies)
    Scope and Impact Often localized, though some (e.g., pandemics) can have widespread effects. Tend to have global implications, affecting large populations and interconnected systems.
    Eg. Flood in a specific region Climate change causing global consequences (e.g., rising sea levels, extreme weather)

    How did significant disasters like the Chernobyl nuclear accident and the COVID-19 pandemic reveal the vulnerabilities of an interconnected world?

    • Global Spread of Consequences: Both disasters showed how localized events can have widespread, global implications due to the interconnectedness of modern society. Eg: The Chernobyl disaster in 1986 released radioactive material into the atmosphere, which was carried by wind and affected countries across Europe, highlighting how environmental risks can transcend national borders. Similarly, the COVID-19 pandemic, originating in China, spread rapidly across the globe, disrupting economies and health systems worldwide.
    • Overwhelming Existing Systems: Both events overwhelmed existing infrastructures, revealing vulnerabilities in global systems that were ill-equipped to handle large-scale crises. Eg: In Chernobyl, the failure to control the nuclear fallout showed the inadequacies of disaster management and safety protocols, especially with complex technologies. The COVID-19 pandemic exposed weaknesses in healthcare systems, even in developed countries, as hospitals were overwhelmed with patients and unable to cope with the rapid spread of the virus.
    • Amplification of Inequalities: Both disasters deepened existing inequalities, demonstrating how interconnected risks can exacerbate vulnerabilities for marginalized groups. Eg: Chernobyl disproportionately affected nearby populations, including poorer communities, who were more vulnerable to health impacts due to limited access to resources and healthcare. The COVID-19 pandemic similarly highlighted how marginalized groups, such as low-income workers and people in developing countries, suffered more from economic disruption and limited access to healthcare.

    Who primarily bears the burden of managing risks in households, especially related to environmental and health hazards?

    • Women as Primary Caregivers: In many societies, especially in developing countries, women are the primary caregivers and household managers, placing them at the forefront of managing health and environmental risks. Eg: Women often handle household chores such as cooking, cleaning, and caring for children or elderly family members, putting them at increased exposure to risks like air pollution from solid fuel use or water contamination.
    • Gendered Roles in Resource Management: Women are frequently responsible for collecting water, gathering fuel, and managing food resources, making them more vulnerable to environmental hazards like water scarcity, pollution, and food insecurity. Eg: In rural areas, women often walk long distances to collect water, and if these water sources are contaminated, they face health risks directly, such as waterborne diseases.
    • Economic and Social Vulnerabilities: Women’s economic position and access to resources are often limited, making it harder for them to recover from environmental or health-related disasters. Their roles as caregivers are frequently undervalued, and they often lack the financial independence or support to manage risks effectively. Eg: In the aftermath of climate-related disasters like floods or droughts, women, especially in rural or low-income households, may face greater difficulties in accessing relief or rebuilding their livelihoods, further exacerbating their vulnerability.

    What are the steps taken by the Indian government? 

    • National Action Plan on Climate Change (NAPCC): Launched in 2008 to tackle climate change by promoting renewable energy and enhancing climate resilience (e.g., National Solar Mission).
    • Swachh Bharat Abhiyan (Clean India Mission): Initiated in 2014 to improve sanitation and reduce health hazards through waste management and toilet construction.
    • Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana (PMFBY): Launched in 2016 to provide crop insurance, protecting farmers from losses due to natural calamities.

    Way forward: 

    • Strengthening Gender-Responsive Policies: Develop and implement policies that address the specific needs of women in disaster management, healthcare, and environmental sustainability to reduce vulnerabilities.
    • Enhancing Access to Resources and Technology: Improve access to education, technology, and financial resources for women, particularly in rural areas, to enable them to better manage and mitigate risks.

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  • [28th April 2025] The Hindu Op-ed: The ‘political trilemma’ and the crisis in the West

    op-ed snap | International Relations | Mains Paper 2: India & Its Neighborhood – Relations

    PYQ Relevance:

    [UPSC 2019] Are we losing our local identity for the global identity? Discuss

    Linkage: The tension between globalising forces and national or local identities, which is at the heart of the debate surrounding the political trilemma, particularly the interplay between international economic integration and national sovereignty/popular democracy.

     

    Mentor’s Comment:  Democracies in the West are facing a crisis marked by increasing polarization, mistrust in institutions, and rising populism, leading to more insular policies. Economist Dani Rodrik’s “political trilemma” suggests countries can only have two of three things: global economic integration, national sovereignty, and popular democracy. Despite globalization, nations have imposed trade barriers, limiting its benefits.

    Today’s editorial examines the growing polarization, distrust in institutions, and the rise of populism, which are driving countries towards more insular policies despite globalization. This topic is relevant for GS Paper 1 on Society and GS Paper 2 on Polity in the Mains exam.

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    Let’s learn!

    Why in the News?

    What was once just a concept in academic studies is now happening around the world, with its effects being more noticeable in Western countries than in others.

    How has globalization impacted sectors and populations in Western countries, fueling populism?

    • Job Losses in Manufacturing: Outsourcing of jobs to lower-cost countries has led to job losses in traditional sectors like steel and textiles, especially in regions like the U.S. Rust Belt, fueling populist sentiments. Eg: The U.S. steel industry decline and its role in Donald Trump’s 2016 campaign.
    • Economic Inequality: Globalization has widened the gap between prosperous urban elites and struggling rural populations, contributing to resentment and populist support. Eg: The Brexit vote, with economically disadvantaged areas pushing for leave due to perceived inequality.
    • Cultural and Identity Concerns: The movement of people and ideas has raised fears of cultural dilution, driving anti-globalization and nationalist rhetoric. Eg: The rise of far-right parties in Europe, like the National Rally and AfD, focusing on immigration and national identity.

    What are the three choices in balancing democracy, sovereignty, and globalization, according to Rodrik’s trilemma?

    • Democracy + Globalization, but Ceding Sovereignty: Countries embrace democratic participation and global economic integration but surrender some national sovereignty. Eg: The European Union (EU), where countries gave up control over key areas like trade and migration for economic benefits, leading to nationalist backlash, such as Brexit.
    • Globalization + Sovereignty, but Restricting Democracy: Countries maintain sovereignty and integrate into the global economy but limit democratic influence on economic decisions, often relying on technocratic governance. Eg: IMF-imposed austerity measures in countries like Kenya, which prioritized fiscal stability over popular democracy, leading to public dissatisfaction.
    • Democracy + Sovereignty, but Limiting Globalization: Countries preserve both sovereignty and democracy but restrict the extent of globalization, often through protectionist policies. Eg: India’s approach of using protectionism and selective foreign investment to balance globalization with domestic control, ensuring political stability and sovereignty.

    How have China and India managed their economies through selective globalisation?

    • Controlled Foreign Investment: Both countries selectively allow foreign investments in specific sectors while restricting or limiting them in others to protect strategic industries. Eg: China has encouraged foreign investments in manufacturing but tightly controls foreign ownership in sectors like media, telecom, and finance. India has similarly promoted foreign direct investment (FDI) in industries like technology but has been cautious in sectors like retail and defense.
    • Export-Oriented Growth: Both nations have prioritized export-led growth, using globalization to access international markets while maintaining strong domestic industrial policies. Eg: China’s “Made in China” strategy focused on becoming the global manufacturing hub, while India’s “Make in India” initiative aims to boost domestic manufacturing for export.
    • Government Control Over Key Sectors: Both countries retain significant government control over critical sectors, such as banking, energy, and infrastructure, to safeguard national interests. Eg: China’s state-owned enterprises (SOEs) dominate key industries like energy and finance, while India has state-run companies in sectors like oil, railways, and defense.
    • Selective Trade Agreements: China and India have negotiated trade agreements that protect domestic industries while opening up others for global competition. Eg: China joined the World Trade Organization (WTO) in 2001 but protected its agricultural sector with subsidies. India has been cautious in committing to trade agreements that might undermine its domestic sectors, like agriculture.
    • Managing Political and Economic Sovereignty: Both nations maintain tight political control, limiting the influence of external forces on domestic governance and policy-making. Eg: China tightly controls its political landscape and restricts foreign influence through measures like the “Great Firewall,” while India enforces its sovereignty by regulating foreign content in media and restricting foreign NGOs in sensitive areas.

    What consequences have Western democracies faced from balancing free trade, self-determination, and democracy?

    • Economic Inequality and Job Losses: Free trade has led to the outsourcing of manufacturing jobs to lower-cost countries, resulting in job losses and economic insecurity for certain segments of the population. Eg: In the U.S. and the U.K., industrial regions like the Rust Belt have seen significant declines in manufacturing jobs due to globalization, contributing to growing economic disparities.
    • Rise of Populism and Nationalism: As global competition increased, many voters felt left behind by globalization, leading to the rise of populist and nationalist political movements that prioritize national sovereignty over international cooperation. Eg: Brexit in the U.K. and the election of populist leaders like Donald Trump in the U.S. were fueled by sentiments of reclaiming national sovereignty and resisting the perceived negative impacts of globalization.
    • Erosion of Trust in Democratic Institutions: The challenges of balancing democracy with the pressures of globalization have caused frustration among citizens, leading to diminished trust in democratic institutions and the political establishment. Eg: In France, protests like the “Yellow Vest” movement reflect public dissatisfaction with economic policies seen as favoring global markets over local welfare, questioning the legitimacy of institutions and their responsiveness to the people’s needs.

    Way forward: 

    • Balancing Globalization with Domestic Welfare: India must ensure that globalization benefits are equitably distributed, addressing economic insecurity and preventing resentment. Eg: Support local industries and vulnerable sectors through skill development and welfare programs.
    • Strengthening Democratic Institutions: India should make democratic institutions more responsive to public concerns, ensuring inclusivity and addressing inequality. Eg: Engage citizens in policymaking to ensure economic policies benefit all.

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