8 April 2024 : Indian Express Editorial Analysis

Indian Express Editorial Analysis

8-April-2024

1. Getting around a boycott

Topic: GS2 – International Relations – Bilateral Relations This topic is relevant for both Prelims and Mains as the analysis delves into the complexities of bilateral relations between India and Bangladesh, including historical factors, economic ties, and political tensions.

 

Context:

The relationship between Bangladesh and India has been complex, influenced by historical, economic, and political factors. The “India factor” has been a significant discourse in Bangladeshi domestic politics, with instances of both cooperation and tension. Recently, there has been a rise in anti-India sentiments, notably seen in the emergence of the “India Out” campaign advocating the boycott of Indian products. This campaign reflects a historical trend of anti-India stands in Bangladesh, stemming from various political ideologies and interests.

Historical Anti-India Stands:

• From Maulana Abdul Hamid Khan Bhashani to the present-day opposition alliance led by the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), there have been instances of anti-India stances throughout Bangladesh’s history.
• Bhashani’s pro-China and Islamic socialist views criticized Sheikh Mujibur Rahman’s alignment with India, attempting to forge a coalition against the Awami League.
• The BNP, representing right-of-center forces, has also shown anti-India tendencies, influenced by its orthodox social constituency inspired by Bhashani.

Political Context and Boycott Movement:

• The BNP’s anti-India stance can be seen as an attempt to regain political momentum amidst a decline since 2006.
• Boycotting elections in 2014 and 2024 contributed to a loss of political influence and organizational strength.
• Some BNP leaders, including Ruhul Rizvi and Amir Khasru Mahmud Chowdhury, support the Boycott India movement, aiming to capitalize on public sentiment, despite the party not issuing an official statement.
• This movement includes public displays of rejection of Indian products, symbolized by Rizvi’s public gesture of discarding a Kashmiri shawl.

Economic Prosperity and India-Bangladesh Relations:

• In contrast, Sheikh Hasina’s government has focused on economic development, leading Bangladesh towards middle-income status by 2041 and graduation from the Least Developed Countries list in 2026.
• Economic ties between India and Bangladesh have been crucial for Bangladesh’s prosperity, with India being a major trade partner.
• India’s proximity and established transportation links provide natural trade advantages, facilitating the movement of goods.
• Textiles form a significant portion of India’s exports to Bangladesh, supporting Bangladesh’s garment manufacturing sector, while other imports include petroleum, pharmaceuticals, and machinery.

Infrastructure Development and Trade Partnership:

• India also contributes to Bangladesh’s infrastructure development, supplying construction materials and vehicles.
• Projects like the supply of locomotives and buses have enhanced transportation and efficiency in Bangladesh.
• Additionally, informal trade between the two countries stabilizes inflation and supports economic stability in Bangladesh.

Implications of India Out Campaign:

• The intensification of the India Out campaign threatens to disrupt the existing trade relationship and ongoing negotiations on economic agreements.
• Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and the ruling Awami League argue against the boycott, emphasizing the importance of maintaining economic ties for both countries’ development.

Youth Perspective and Diplomatic Actions:

• Younger generations in Bangladesh prioritize economic development and are open to collaboration with India.
• Their support for the Awami League-led alliance since 2008 suggests a preference for economic growth over boycotts.
• However, building trust between the governments and promoting people-to-people contact is crucial to sustaining the India-Bangladesh development partnership.
• Measures such as liberalizing the visa regime and sensitizing the media can foster mutual understanding and cooperation.

Conclusion:

• The “India factor” remains a significant aspect of Bangladesh’s domestic politics, characterized by historical tensions and economic interdependence.
• While anti-India sentiments persist, particularly within certain political factions, economic ties continue to drive development and prosperity.
• The challenge lies in balancing political rhetoric with the practical realities of economic cooperation and mutual benefit.
• Both governments must prioritize building trust and cooperation through diplomatic efforts and people-to-people contact to ensure the longevity of the India-Bangladesh partnership.

What are the Points of Tensions Between India and Bangladesh?

Sharing of Transboundary River Waters: India and Bangladesh share 54 common rivers, but only two treaties have been signed so far of Ganga Waters Treaty and The Kushiyara River Treaty. The other major rivers, such as the Teesta and Feni are still under negotiation. Illegal Migration: The issue of illegal migration from Bangladesh to India, encompassing both refugees and economic migrants, continues to be a significant concern. This influx strains Indian border states, impacting resources and security. The problem intensified with Rohingya refugees entering India through Bangladesh. The National Register of Citizens (NRC), aimed at curbing such migration, has raised concerns in Bangladesh. Bangladesh seeks Indian support in persuading Myanmar to take back the Rohingyas who were forced to take refuge in Bangladesh. Drug Smuggling & Trafficking: There have been many incidences of cross border drug smuggling & trafficking. Humans (especially children & women) are trafficked & various animal & bird species are poached through these borders. Growing Chinese Influence in Bangladesh: At present, Bangladesh is an active partner in the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) (India is not a part of BRI). China’s increasing involvement with Bangladesh could potentially undermine India’s regional standing and impede its strategic aspirations.

 

PYQ: Analyze internal security threats and transborder crimes along Myanmar, Bangladesh and Pakistan borders including Line of Control (LoC). Also discuss the role played by various security forces in this regard. (UPSC CSE (M) GS-3 2020)

Practice Question:  Analyzing the intricate relationship between Bangladesh and India is crucial for understanding regional geopolitics and economic dynamics. Discuss the historical, political, and economic factors that have shaped this relationship over time. (250 words/15 m)

 

2. What women voters want

Topic: GS2 – Social Justice – This topic is relevant for both Prelims and Mains as the analysis delves into various social issues affecting women and marginalized communities in India.

 

Context:

In recent years, women voters have emerged as significant stakeholders in Indian politics, surpassing male participation in the 2019 general elections. The Election Commission estimates a substantial female voter turnout for forthcoming elections, challenging the traditional notion of women voting according to the directions of male heads of households. Studies indicate that women are making conscious choices when voting, prompting political parties to consolidate support among them by promising to fulfill their aspirations.

More about the news:

Gender Parity Challenges and the Need for Equity:

• Despite some strides, India ranks low on the Global Gender Gap Report, indicating persistent gender disparities.
• The consultative process for a gender manifesto reveals that Indian women demand equity and a dignified life, as enshrined in the Constitution’s preamble.
• Marginalized communities, especially women from historically criminalized tribes and transgender individuals, face challenges such as lack of government identification and identity recognition, highlighting the need for a comprehensive gender agenda.

Recommendations for a Gender Agenda:

• Several recommendations emerge from the gender manifesto, addressing various aspects of gender equality.
• Legislative action is urged to uphold personal rights, including the right to marriage for LGBTQ+ individuals.
• Additionally, addressing safety concerns, especially gender-based violence and online abuse, requires a zero-tolerance policy and reforms in law enforcement.

Social Inclusion and Health Policies:

• Efforts to promote social inclusion involve unlearning gender norms, gender sensitization in education, and shared childcare responsibilities.
• Health policies should prioritize women’s health, including free screenings for breast and cervical cancer.
• Economic empowerment measures, such as funding for women-led startups and policies to enhance women’s participation in the workforce, are essential for women’s economic prosperity.

Political Representation and Reservation:

• While progress has been made with the passage of the Women’s Reservation Bill, implementation remains a challenge.
• The next government must ensure its implementation without delay, along with provisions for reservations for underrepresented communities in legislative bodies.

Conclusion:

• Achieving gender equality in India requires concerted efforts across various domains, including legislation, social norms, healthcare, and economic policies.
• The recommendations outlined in the gender manifesto offer a roadmap for the next government to advance towards a more gender-equal society.
• With the unequivocal will to break new ground, India can shape a future where gender parity is not just an aspiration but a reality.

What are the Indian Government Initiatives to Promote Gender Equality?

Beti Bachao Beti Padhao (BBBP) ensures the protection, survival, and education of the girl child. Mahila Shakti Kendra (MSK) aims to empower rural women through skill development and employment opportunities. The National Creche Scheme offers safe environments for children, enabling women to pursue employment. Pradhan Mantri Matru Vandna Yojna provides maternity benefits to pregnant and lactating mothers. Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana ensures housing under women’s names. Sukanya Samriddhi Yojna (SSY) economically empowers girls through bank accounts. Gender Budget has been made a part of the Union Budget of India since 2005 and entails fund allocation towards programmes/schemes dedicated to women. Nirbhaya Fund Framework provides for a non-lapsable corpus fund for the implementation of initiatives aimed at enhancing the safety and security of women in the country. One Stop Centres (OSCs) offer integrated services for women victims of violence, including medical aid, legal assistance, and counselling. The Constitution (106th Amendment) Act, 2023, reserves one-third of all seats for women in Lok Sabha, State legislative assemblies, and the Legislative Assembly of the National Capital Territory of Delhi, including those reserved for SCs and STs.33% reserved seats in Panchayati Raj Institutions for women are already in place. The Vigyan Jyoti programme aims to encourage girls to pursue higher education and careers in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics), especially in the areas where women’s participation is low in order to balance the gender ratio across the streams. Other Initiatives like Stand-Up India, Mahila e-Haat, Entrepreneurship and Skill Development Programme (ESSDP), and Pradhan Mantri Mudra Yojana (PMMY) promote women entrepreneurs.

 

PYQ: Male membership needs to be encouraged in order to make women’s organization free from gender bias. Comment. (200 words/10m) (UPSC CSE (M) GS-1 2013)

Practice Question:  Discuss the key challenges hindering gender equality in India and suggest policy measures to address them effectively. (150 words/10 m)

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