22 March 2024 : Indian Express Editorial Analysis

Indian Express Editorial Analysis

22-March-2024

1. IN THE SAME BOAT

Topic: GS2 – International Relations – Bilateral Relations GS3 – Environment This topic is relevant for both Prelims and Mains as this analysis discusses the UAE’s and India’s efforts to address water scarcity and the potential for collaboration between the two countries.

 

Context:

Water scarcity is not a distant concern but rather a pressing issue with global ramifications. From Europe to Asia, governments and communities are facing this challenge, which poses threats to international security, contributes to humanitarian crises, social unrest, and even armed conflicts. This analysis delves into the current state of water scarcity, focusing on global efforts and the specific situations in the UAE and India, highlighting the need for collaborative action to address this issue.

Global Concerns and Projections:

• The impact of water scarcity is exacerbated by climate change, with projections indicating a potential increase in affected populations.
• According to the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change, global warming could lead to millions to billions more people experiencing water scarcity.
• This underscores the urgency for collaborative action on a global scale to secure a sustainable future for all.

UAE’s Response to Water Scarcity:

• The UAE, situated in a dry, arid environment, has long prioritized effective water management.
• Leveraging cutting-edge technologies, the UAE has implemented measures to support the sustainable use of water resources.
• Furthermore, the UAE has taken a proactive role in global initiatives, advocating for action on water scarcity at events like COP28 and committing financial resources to support innovative solutions through initiatives like the XPrize Water Scarcity competition.

India’s Challenges and Efforts:

• India, despite hosting a significant portion of the world’s population, faces its own challenges with water scarcity.
• With only a small fraction of global water resources, India has implemented various strategies, including community-level efforts and national policies like the National Water Policy 2020, to address this issue.
• India shares the UAE’s concerns and recognizes the importance of collaborative efforts to mitigate water scarcity.

Collaborative Opportunities Between UAE and India:

• Recognizing their shared interests and concerns, the UAE and India must collaborate more closely to address water scarcity.
• By leveraging their combined knowledge and resources, both countries can foster innovative solutions that support water security not only domestically but also globally.
• Joint efforts can focus on integrating water conservation measures into agricultural policies, supporting sustainable investment, and fostering collaboration between public and private sectors.

Conclusion:

• The urgent need for novel solutions to combat water scarcity necessitates collaboration and collective action.
• The UAE extends an open invitation to India and other stakeholders to collaborate on transformative ideas that ensure a sustainable water future for all.
• By acting decisively and together, water scarcity can be addressed as a unifying force for shared prosperity rather than a source of conflict.

 

What could be the Effects of Water Scarcity in India?

Health Issues: Lack of access to safe drinking water can cause various health problems such as dehydration, infections, diseases, and even death. A report by the NITI Aayog stated that around 2 lakh people die in India every year due to inadequate water supply. According to the World Bank, India has 18% of the world’s population, but only has enough water resources for 4% of its people. In 2023, around 91 million Indians will not have access to safe water. Ecosystem Damage: Water scarcity also poses a threat to the wildlife and the natural habitats in India. Many wild animals have to venture into human settlements in search of water, which can lead to conflicts and endangerment. Water scarcity also disrupts the biodiversity and the ecological balance of the ecosystems. Reduced Agriculture Productivity: Water scarcity can have a negative impact on the agricultural sector, which consumes 85% of the country’s water resources. Water scarcity can reduce crop yields, affect food security, and increase poverty among farmers. Economic Losses: Water scarcity can hamper the economic growth and development of India. Water scarcity can affect industrial production, reduce energy generation, and increase the cost of water supply and treatment. Water scarcity can also affect tourism, trade, and social welfare. In the report, ‘Climate Change, Water and Economy’, the World Bank (2016) underlines that countries with water shortages may face a major setback in economic growth by 2050.

 

PYQ:  What are the salient features of the Jal Shakti Abhiyan launches by the Government of India for water conservation and water security? (UPSC CSE (M) GS-3 2020)

Practice Question:  Discuss the global ramifications of water scarcity, with a focus on its current challenges and the imperative for collaborative action. Examine the efforts undertaken by countries like the UAE and India in addressing water scarcity and explore the potential for international cooperation to mitigate this pressing issue. (250 words/15 m)

2. The judge’s code

Topic: GS2 – Polity – Judiciary This topic is relevant for both Prelims and Mains in the context of understanding the principles of judicial conduct and their implications for governance and the rule of law.

 

Context:

Former Judge Abhijit Gangopadhyay’s swift transition to politics within 48 hours of demitting office has raised eyebrows and sparked debates. While it’s not unprecedented for judges to enter the political arena, Gangopadhyay’s case has stirred controversy due to the circumstances surrounding his resignation and the manner in which he entered politics.

Precedents of Judges in Politics:

• Gangopadhyay’s move isn’t the first instance of a judge venturing into politics.
• Historical examples like former Chief Justice of India K Subba Rao, Justice Baharul Islam, and Justice KS Hegde have also made transitions from the judiciary to the political sphere.
• However, these transitions were often spaced out over time and occurred under different circumstances, raising questions about the uniqueness of Gangopadhyay’s case.

Gangopadhyay’s Controversial Tenure and Political Ambitions:

• What sets Gangopadhyay apart from his predecessors is the controversy surrounding his tenure as a judge and the apparent use of his judicial position as a platform to advance his political ambitions.
• Gangopadhyay’s actions, including political statements in courtrooms and alleged breaches of judicial conduct, have sparked concerns about the integrity and impartiality of the judiciary.

Judicial Ethics and Integrity:

• The Bangalore Principles of Judicial Conduct, which emphasize the importance of judicial dignity, impartiality, and independence, serve as a benchmark for judicial behavior.
• Gangopadhyay’s actions, including engaging in political activities while holding a judicial office, have raised questions about his adherence to these principles and their implications for public trust in the judiciary.

The Need for Judicial Self-Restraint:

• Former Judge ES Venkataramiah’s reflections on judicial conduct highlight the importance of self-restraint and humility in upholding the integrity of the judiciary.
• Gangopadhyay’s apparent disregard for these principles, coupled with his self-aggrandizement, stands in contrast to the ideals of judicial self-restraint and humility.

Conclusion:

• Gangopadhyay’s swift transition to politics and the controversies surrounding his tenure raise broader questions about judicial ethics, integrity, and the delicate balance between judicial independence and accountability.
• As the judiciary’s custodians of justice, judges must uphold the highest standards of conduct to maintain public trust and confidence in the judiciary.

What can be Done to Address Judges Taking Post Retirement Jobs?

Implement a Cooling-Off Period: Similar to the suggestion of former Chief Justice R M Lodha, there should be a mandatory cooling-off period between a judge’s retirement and their eligibility for any post-retirement assignment. This period would help mitigate potential conflicts of interest and ensure impartiality. Recommendations of Law Commission: The recommendations of the 14th Law Commission Report, 1958, highlighted this concern and advocated for a system that ensures financial security to the judges without compromising independence. Enhance Judicial Ethics and Standards: Strengthening the ethical guidelines and standards for judges, both during their tenure and post-retirement, can help maintain the integrity and impartiality of the judiciary. Judges should be encouraged to prioritise public trust and confidence in the judiciary over personal interests. Increase Transparency: There should be greater transparency in the process of appointing retired judges to post-retirement positions. This includes disclosing the criteria for selection, ensuring open competition for these roles, and making public the reasons behind each appointment.

 

PYQ: With reference to the Indian judiciary, consider the following statements: (2021) 1) Any retired judge of the Supreme Court of India can be called back to sit and act as a Supreme Court judge by the Chief Justice of India with the prior permission of the President of India. 2) A High Court in India has the power to review its own judgement as the Supreme Court does. Which of the statements given above is/are correct? (a) 1 only (b) 2 only (c) Both 1 and 2 (d) Neither I nor 2 Ans: (c)

Practice Question:  Discuss the ethical implications of former Judge Abhijit Gangopadhyay’s transition into politics shortly after demitting office. Evaluate the broader challenges to judicial integrity and independence raised by such transitions, drawing comparisons with historical precedents and established principles of judicial conduct. (250 words/15 m)

For Enquiry

Phone


Whatsapp


Mail

Search


22 March 2024 : The Hindu Editorial Notes PDF



22 March 2024 : PIB Summary for UPSC



22 March 2024 : Indian Express Editorial Analysis



21 Mar 2024 : Daily Current Affairs Quiz



21 Mar 2024 : Daily Answer Writing



21 March 2024 : Daily Current Affairs



21 March 2024 : PIB Summary for UPSC



21 March 2024 : The Hindu Editorial Notes PDF



21 March 2024 : Indian Express Editorial Analysis



20 Mar 2024 : Daily Answer Writing

March – The Hindu Editorial 22 March 2024 : The Hindu Editorial Notes PDF The Hindu Editorial
22-March-2024
1. Water, an instrument to build world peace
Topic: GS2 – Governance…
March 2024 PIB 22 March 2024 : PIB Summary for UPSC PIB Summary for UPSC
22-March -2024
1. International Telecommunication Union elects India as co-chair…
Indian Express 22 March 2024 : Indian Express Editorial Analysis Indian Express Editorial Analysis
22-March-2024
1. IN THE SAME BOAT
Topic: GS2 – International Relations…
Daily Quiz 21 Mar 2024 : Daily Current Affairs Quiz 21 Mar 2024 : Daily Quiz…
mains answer writing 21 Mar 2024 : Daily Answer Writing Mains Answer Writing
21-March-2024
Q1) The growing regulatory burden associated with Information Technology…
Daily Current Affairs 21 March 2024 : Daily Current Affairs Daily Current Affairs
21-March -2024- Top News of the Day
1. India’s Income Inequality Reaches…
March 2024 PIB 21 March 2024 : PIB Summary for UPSC PIB Summary for UPSC
21-March -2024
1. Maiden test-firing of India’s first indigenously-made 1500 HP…
March – The Hindu Editorial 21 March 2024 : The Hindu Editorial Notes PDF The Hindu Editorial
21-March-2024
1. Data marketplaces: the next frontier
Topic: GS3 – Indian Economy…
Indian Express 21 March 2024 : Indian Express Editorial Analysis Indian Express Editorial Analysis
21-March-2024
1. A border runs through it
Topic: GS2 – International…
mains answer writing 20 Mar 2024 : Daily Answer Writing Mains Answer Writing
20-March-2024
Q1) Without economic growth, capacity building and job creation,…