11 September 2024 : The Hindu Editorial Analysis

1. UAE-India ties are rooted in affinity, trust and respect

(Source – The Hindu, International Edition – Page No. – 8)

Topic: GS2 – International Relations –  Bilateral Relations

Context

The recent visit of the UAE Crown Prince to India highlighted the enduring ties between the two nations, symbolised by the planting of trees at Rajghat. Despite differences in size and economy, both countries share a strong bond of mutual respect, trust, and collaboration across various sectors.

Growing Ties Between India-UAE

• During a recent visit to Delhi, a symbolic gesture of planting a tree at Rajghat reflected the deep ties between two countries.
• This tradition has been carried out by three generations of the UAE’s leadership over three decades, marking a connection rooted in history but reaching towards the future.
• Despite differences in size, population, and economic focus, the countries’ relationship is based on shared values, mutual respect, and complementary strengths.

Roots of Affinity, Trust, and Respect

• The UAE-India relationship is based on long-standing trust, respect, and human connections.
• Ancient trade links between the Arabian Gulf and India date back thousands of years, with archaeological evidence showing ties to the Indus Valley civilization.
• Over time, many Emiratis travelled to India for medical treatment, and even today, Indian homoeopathic medicine is valued.
• This deep-rooted relationship has been nurtured by generations, and like a tree, it draws strength from these shared human connections.

Contribution of the Indian Expatriate Community

• With over 3.5 million Indians living in the UAE, they form the largest expatriate community in the country.
• The UAE’s success is built on principles of tolerance, inclusion, and empowerment of minorities, with Indian expatriates playing a vital role in its economy.
• The high degree of connectivity between the two countries is reflected in the more than 1,500 weekly flights between them.

Strong Bilateral Economic Ties

• The economicpartnership between the UAE and India has led to significant achievements.
• In February 2022, India became the first country with which the UAE signed a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA).
• Unlike most trade negotiations, which often take years, this agreement was reached within six months, reflecting the high level of trust between the two nations.
• The CEPA has already led to a 15% increase in bilateral trade within the first year, with future plans for further investments.

Expanding Educational and Technological Cooperation

• The recent opening of an overseas branch of a prestigious Indian university in Abu Dhabi highlights the educational ties between the UAE and India.
• Cooperation between the two countries also extends to areas such as health innovation and renewable energy, which are vital for their future development.
• The partnership will soon expand into civil nuclear technology, with India’s expertise in nuclear desalination offering promising solutions for the UAE’s water needs.

Symbolism of the Tree Planting

• The Crown Prince planted an amaltas tree, known for its fast growth and embodiment of opportunity and renewal.
• His father had planted the slower-growing moulsari tree, symbolising stability and patient trust.
• Together, these trees represent the balance of innovation and stability in the UAE-India partnership, with a shared commitment to growth, renewal, and flourishing together.

Conclusion: Confidence in Mutual Growth

• The UAE and India’s comprehensive strategic partnership is built on strong historical connections, mutual respect, and shared values.
• Both nations are committed to continuing their growth and innovation, with confidence in the stability and opportunities that their partnership offers for the future.

PYQ: How will I2U2 (India, Israel, UAE and USA) grouping transform India’s position in global politics ? (UPSC CSE (M) GS-2 2022)

Practice Question:  Discuss the evolving India-UAE relationship, highlighting its historical roots, economic partnerships, and strategic significance in the contemporary geopolitical landscape. (250 Words /15 marks)

2. Montelukast: overused and dangerous

(Source – The Hindu, International Edition – Page No. – 9)

Topic: GS2 – Social Justice – Health

Context

The article highlights the growing concerns about the unregulated and irrational use of montelukast in India, despite global warnings about its serious neuropsychiatric effects. It calls for regulatory intervention to curb misuse, raise awareness, and promote safer, guideline-based treatments for asthma and allergic rhinitis.

What is Montelukast?

• Montelukast is an oral medication developed in 1998, used as a long-term “preventer” or “controller” for asthma and allergic rhinitis.
• It is inferior to inhaled corticosteroids for asthma control and is not a first-line treatment for allergic rhinitis.

Issues Regarding Montelukast

• Neuropsychiatric Concerns: Serious side effects include aggression, nightmares, depression, cognitive impairment, anxiety, and insomnia. Some cases are associated with suicide.
• Global Warnings: U.S. FDA issued a ‘black box warning’, and U.K. health authorities warned about its neuropsychiatric effects.
• Scientific Studies: Large-scale studies from countries like the U.S., Denmark, Korea, and the U.K. have confirmed the association between the drug and mental health issues.

Situation in India

• Widespread Use: Despite global warnings, montelukast is widely prescribed in India, often combined with antihistamines.
• Public Perception: Indian patients prefer oral drugs over inhalers due to misconceptions about addiction and safety, leading to irrational use.
• Over-the-Counter Sales: The drug is often available without prescription, contributing to misuse.
• Profit-Driven Prescriptions: Pharmaceutical companies aggressively market the drug in combination with other medications, raising concerns about profit motives.
• Growth in Sales: The drug’s sales in India exceed ₹2,400 crore, with most sales coming from unscientific combinations.

Way Forward

• Regulatory Intervention: Authorities need to step in to regulate the prescription of montelukast and ensure its rational use.
• Awareness Campaigns: Raise awareness among physicians and the public about the adverse effects of the drug.
• Promote Safer Alternatives: Encourage the use of evidence-based treatments like inhaled corticosteroids and antihistamines for asthma and allergic rhinitis control.

Practice Question:  Examine the issue of unregulated drug use in India, highlighting its implications on public health. What measures can be taken to strengthen drug regulation and ensure the safe prescription and usage of pharmaceuticals? (250 Words /15 marks)