10 April 2025 : The Hindu Editorial Analysis
1.Understanding India’s China conundrum
(Source – The Hindu, International Edition – Page No. – 8)
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Context |
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Change in China’s Approach Under New Leadership
- China today is very different from what it was a few decades ago.
- Since 2013, it has shown increasing aggression, especially near its borders.
- It often refers to its past and claims it has been wronged, trying to restore old frontiers like those of the Qing Dynasty.
- This attitude has become a cause of concern for neighbouring countries like India.
Pattern of Border Skirmishes
- There have been several clashes between Indian and Chinese troops over the years: in 2013 (Depsang), 2016 (Demchok), 2017 (Doklam), and 2020 (Galwan).
- Despite occasional friendly diplomatic gestures, these incidents show a pattern of growing tension.
- Any recent positive signals must be viewed with caution, and one should not assume relations are returning to the earlier, more peaceful period.
Signs of De-escalation in 2024
- Towards the end of 2024, tensions slightly reduced and patrolling at disputed border points was adjusted.
- These developments were discussed just before a major international summit.
- A new agreement on patrolling was introduced, but many details remain unclear.
- Although the situation improved, both sides still remain cautious, especially along the Line of Actual Control (LAC).
Military Preparations and Strategic Concerns
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- In early 2025, one country claimed that normalcy had returned after high-level talks.
- Talks between the two sides may resume soon, but true progress will require detailed and transparent agreements.
- In March, China increased its defence budget by 7.2%, almost three times more than India’s, which spends less than 2% of its GDP on defence.
- Over one lakh troops, with heavy weapons, remain deployed in the Himalayan region.
- Reports suggest China is also increasing its nuclear warheads, with a possible addition of around 100 warheads recently.
Technological and Military Superiority
- China has a significant lead in Artificial Intelligence (AI), cyber warfare, and military technology.
- It is ahead in anti-satellite capabilities, quantum tech, and digital battlefield tools.
- These developments show that peaceful talks alone are not enough; India must stay alert and prepared.
Diplomatic Moves in India’s Neighbourhood
- China is increasing its presence in countries close to India, like Bangladesh.
- As India strengthens ties with global powers, it must not neglect its neighbours.
- China is also expanding in Africa, especially in the nuclear energy sector, which can affect India’s energy security.
Conclusion
- India must stay prepared for all outcomes, including sudden changes in global partnerships.
- Both countries have ancient histories and can manage their differences, but strategic caution is necessary in the present environment.
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Practice Question: Discuss the implications of China’s military modernization and border posture for India’s strategic and diplomatic priorities in the Indo-Pacific region. (250 Words /15 marks)
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PYQ: ‘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. (150 words/10m) (UPSC CSE (M) GS-2 2017) |
2. The Rohingya are on the brink of starvation
(Source – The Hindu, International Edition – Page No. – 9)
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Context |
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Rohingya Crisis in Cox’s Bazar
- Cox’s Bazar hosts over one million Rohingya refugees, making it one of the largest and most neglected humanitarian crises in the world.
- These refugees are now facing even worse conditions due to the sudden withdrawal of funding by the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID).
Withdrawal of USAID Funding
- USAID, previously the world’s largest donor to humanitarian causes, spent around $40 billion annually across the globe.
- This funding has been cut by the Department of Government Efficiency, which was created under the U.S. administration.
- Bangladesh was the second-largest recipient of USAID in South Asia, and the sudden withdrawal has severely affected the Rohingya refugees.
Impact on Refugees
- The decision to reduce USAID support has had serious consequences for humanitarian work globally.
- For the Rohingya refugees, who already suffered genocide and displacement, this has made their lives worse.
- The World Food Programme (WFP) had to reduce monthly food rations from $12.50 to $6 per person.
- Medical support has declined sharply, with five hospitals shutting down and sanitation projects collapsing.
Ideological Shift and Moral Concerns
- The funding cuts reflect an ideological shift that favours private, profit-based aid instead of structured, government-led support.
- Hunger, displacement, and genocide are moral problems, not just financial issues.
- Believing that charity or private funding can replace long-term government aid is unrealistic and dangerous.
Global and Regional Impact
- The collapse of USAID’s support has especially affected services for women and children, increasing their risk of exploitation.
- The move also affects U.S. soft power in South Asia.
- China is stepping in to fill the gap, increasing its influence in Bangladesh and mediating repatriation talks between Bangladesh and Myanmar.
A Call for Action
- Other countries like the European Union (€32.3 million), Japan, and Italy have pledged aid, but they cannot replace USAID’s scale.
- The situation serves as a test for the world’s commitment to humanity.
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Practice Question: Examine the consequences of the abrupt withdrawal of USAID funding on the humanitarian situation of Rohingya refugees in Bangladesh. (150 Words /10 marks) |
