8 January 2025 : Indian Express Editorial Analysis
1. Atomic power equations
(Source – Indian Express, Section – The Ideas Page – Page No. – 15)
| Topic: GS2 – International Relations |
| Context |
| The article highlights the strategic advancements and challenges in India-US relations as symbolized by Jake Sullivan’s visit to India and the broader geopolitical context. |
Analysis of the news:
Significance of Jake Sullivan’s Visit to India
- Jake Sullivan’s visit to India as the US National Security Advisor marks a culmination of his efforts in strengthening the bilateral relationship between India and the United States.
- This visit underscores three crucial dimensions of the partnership: a commitment to elevate ties, deepening technological collaboration, and addressing legacy challenges in nuclear and space cooperation.
Elevating India-US Strategic Partnership
- The Biden Administration’s sustained focus on the India-US relationship has been evident throughout its tenure.
- Sullivan and his team at the White House have played a pivotal role in navigating potential crises to ensure the partnership remains on a trajectory of growth.
- This reflects a long-term vision to bolster strategic ties, rooted in mutual trust and shared geopolitical objectives, particularly in the Indo-Pacific region.
Deepening Advanced Technology Cooperation
One of the defining features of the Biden Administration’s approach to India has been its emphasis on advanced technology collaboration.
This effort transcends traditional government-to-government interactions and involves private industries, startups, and research communities from both nations.
The launch of the Initiative on Critical and Emerging Technologies (iCET) in January 2023 serves as a cornerstone of this collaboration.
- Sectors of Focus: Key areas include artificial intelligence (AI), semiconductors, space exploration, and biotechnology, all of which are poised to dominate the global economy in the coming decades.
- Strategic Objectives: The iCET aims to derisk global supply chains from dependence on China, foster resilient technological ecosystems, and contribute to a balanced regional power structure in the Indo-Pacific.
Historical Context of Technology Collaboration
India’s fascination with American technology dates back to the 19th century and has played a central role in bilateral ties since independence.
- Early Cooperation: The US supported India in developing its nuclear and space programs, modernizing agriculture, and advancing scientific education.
- Collapse and Revival: The 1970s witnessed a decline in cooperation due to US-led non-proliferation policies. However, the late 1990s and early 2000s saw a resurgence, with landmark agreements like the India-US civil nuclear initiative under President George W. Bush and Prime Minister Manmohan Singh.
Overcoming Challenges in Nuclear Cooperation
Despite significant advancements, certain hurdles persist in fully realizing the benefits of India-US technological cooperation, particularly in nuclear energy.
- US Initiatives: Sullivan announced the lifting of restrictions on civilian space cooperation and efforts to remove Indian atomic energy centers from the US blacklist.
- India’s Role: India needs to amend its Civil Liability for Nuclear Damage Act (2010) to attract investments from US and Indian companies in nuclear energy projects.
The urgency of these reforms is heightened by the burgeoning demand for clean energy from AI-driven data centers, positioning nuclear energy as a critical component of future energy strategies.
Future Prospects: Transition and Continuity
As the Biden Administration nears its end, the foundations for enduring techno-industrial collaboration are firmly laid.
The incoming Trump administration shares several strategic objectives with its predecessor, including reclaiming US technological leadership and countering China’s dominance.
- Geopolitical Convergence: India’s interest in advancing its technology sectors aligns with the US’s goal of strengthening partnerships with trusted allies.
- Diplomatic Efforts: Recent consultations, including Sullivan’s visit to India and Jaishankar’s meetings in Washington, aim to ensure a smooth transition and continued momentum in the partnership.
Conclusion: Sustaining the Momentum
- The India-US relationship in advanced technologies hinges on continued diplomatic and political efforts.
- While the alignment of interests offers optimism, the Modi government must remain agile in adapting to potential shifts in the US approach under Trump.
- The enduring convergence of geoeconomic and geopolitical interests between the two nations lays a robust groundwork for sustained collaboration.
- However, vigilance and proactive engagement will be essential to navigate the complexities of this evolving partnership.
| Significance of India-US Relations |
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| PYQ: “What introduces friction into the ties between India and the United States is that Washington is still unable to find for India a position in its global strategy, which would satisfy India’s National self- esteem and ambitions” Explain with suitable examples. (250 words/15m) (UPSC CSE (M) GS-2 2019) |
| Practice Question: Critically analyze the evolution of India-US relations in the context of advanced technology and nuclear cooperation, highlighting the challenges and opportunities in sustaining this partnership amidst changing geopolitical dynamics. (150 Words /10 marks) |
For more such UPSC related Current Affairs, Check Out: 7 January 2025 : Indian Express Editorial Analysis
