2 Jan 2024 : The Hindu Editorial Noted Pdf

1. Widening war: On the Gaza war going beyond Israel-Palestine.

Topic: GS2 – International Relations – Effect of policies and politics of developed countries on India’s interests Relevant for UPSC as it involves geopolitical complexities, global shipping disruptions, and the need for diplomatic solutions in the region.

Context:

The U.S. strike on Yemen’s Houthi militants in the Red Sea reveals a widening conflict beyond Israel-Palestine.Houthi attacks on commercial vessels disrupt global shipping, prompting a U.S. naval task force. Regional tensions escalate amid dissatisfaction with U.S. support for Israel.Addressing Gaza’s core issue is crucial to prevent deeper entanglement.

US Strike on Houthi Militants, Global Shipping Disruptions, and Regional Diplomatic Challenges:

Geopolitical Escalation:

• A U.S. strike targeted Iran-backed Houthi militants in the Red Sea during an attack on a container ship, signaling an expansion of the conflict beyond Israel-Palestine.
• Three Houthi boats were sunk, and 10 militants were killed in close combat, highlighting tensions in the region where the rebels control much of Yemen.
• The Houthis, expressing solidarity with Palestinians, announced their intention to continue attacking commercial vessels in the Bab el-Mandeb Strait, impacting global shipping routes.
• Houthi attacks have targeted at least 20 commercial tankers since late November, leading major shipping companies to suspend trading on Red Sea routes.

Naval Task Force Response:

• The U.S. responded by announcing a new naval task force to ensure security in the Red Sea, a crucial shipping lane connecting the Mediterranean and Arabian Seas.

Regional Tensions:

• Despite the crisis, no Red Sea basin country, including Egypt, has joined the U.S.-led task force, indicating regional dissatisfaction with U.S. support for Israel’s offensive in Gaza.
• The Houthi control of Yemen’s Red Sea Coast, particularly the port of Hodeidah, gives them a strategic advantage in conducting sea denial attacks.
• The U.S. has engaged in airstrikes in Yemen, but it remains uncertain whether such actions can effectively deter Houthi attacks.

Call for Diplomatic Solutions:

• The article suggests that addressing the core issue of the Gaza conflict and working towards a ceasefire is crucial before focusing solely on the Houthi threat.
• Failure to consider the broader regional context may risk the U.S. getting further entangled in a widening conflict.

2. Sign of the future: On ISRO’s PSLV C58 mission.

Topic: GS3 – Science and Technology – Developing new technology – Space Relevant for UPSC as it highlights ISRO’s recent scientific missions, technological innovations, and the balance between exploration and research.

Context:

ISRO’s recent missions, including Aditya L-1 and XPoSat, showcase a shift towards scientific exploration.The dual-purpose C58 mission reflects ISRO’s unique needs, emphasizing technological innovation and supporting private space endeavors.

Recent Scientific Missions:

• ISRO launched two scientific missions post-Chandrayaan-3 success: Aditya L-1 to study the sun and XPoSat for polarised X-rays in astrophysics.

XPoSat Mission Details:

• Launched in a two-part mission aboard PSLV-C58 on January 1.
• XPoSat is the second space-based experiment studying X-ray polarisation, tracking 8-30 keV energy range X-rays for 5 years.
• POLIX payload by Raman Research Institute and XSPECT payload by ISRO’s U.R. Rao Satellite Centre are key instruments.
• Aims to unravel mysteries of intense X-ray sources like pulsars and black holes.

Skewed Science-Technology Balance:

• ISRO historically leans towards technological missions.
• XPoSat represents a positive shift towards more scientific endeavors.

C58 Mission’s Dual Purpose:

• After launching XPoSat, the PSLV fourth stage became a rudimentary satellite and orbital testbed.
• Carried 10 payloads including a radio payload, UV radiation measurement device, and various innovative technologies from private entities and ISRO centers.

Unique Needs and Priorities of ISRO:

• The dual-purpose mission showcases ISRO’s distinct needs and priorities.
• Highlights the agency’s role in supporting scientific aspirations, private space endeavors, and technological advancements.

Challenges and Conclusion:

• Amid preparations for a permanent lunar station, ISRO balances technological capabilities and scientific knowledge.
• The mission reflects ISRO’s role in advancing both space exploration and scientific understanding of the universe.

Practice Question: In the context of recent ISRO missions like Aditya L-1 and XPoSat, discuss the evolving balance between scientific exploration and technological innovation in India’s space endeavors. (150 words/10 m)

3. Reigniting the flame of India-Korea defence cooperation.

Topic: GS3 – International Relations – Bilateral Relations Critical for UPSC as it assesses understanding of geopolitical dynamics, diplomatic challenges, and strategic cooperation, reflecting global affairs acumen.

Context:

India and South Korea face challenges in defining a comprehensive defence framework.Overcoming historical perceptions and prioritizing strategic goals are crucial. Opportunities lie in technological collaborations, counterterrorism efforts, and joint exercises for a resilient Indo-Pacific partnership.

Challenges in Defence Framework Development:

• The absence of a shared vision for a comprehensive defence framework hinders progress in India-Korea defence relations.
• Both nations need to transcend bilateral cooperation and embrace a paradigm shift to navigate the evolving global scenario.

Korean Perspective on India’s Regional Role:

• The Korean government’s resistance to reassess India’s role in the region poses a hurdle.
• Shifting from Cold War mentalities is essential for a deeper partnership between India and Korea.

Strategic Considerations vs. Arms Acquisition:

• Overemphasis on weapons acquisition and technology transfer by India.
• Korean focus on profit-driven weapons sales without broader strategic considerations.
• The need to prioritize long-term strategic goals over short-term gains due to powerful arms lobbies.

Challenges from Emerging Coalitions:

• The coalition of North Korea, China, and Russia poses a challenge.
• Divergent stances may arise, necessitating a nuanced appraisal of each party’s strategic imperatives.

Technological Collaborations:

• Both nations aim to collaborate in developing advanced defence systems and equipment.
• Opportunities for cooperation in space warfare, information warfare, and cybersecurity.
• Leveraging Korea’s high-tech capabilities for robust security measures in the digital domain.

Counterterrorism and Maritime Security:

• Potential for collaboration in counterterrorism and joint efforts in maritime security.
• Opportunities in peacekeeping operations and sharing resources for enhanced regional and global stability.

Joint Exercises and Army Collaboration:

• Leveraging UN peacekeeping expertise for collaborative efforts.
• Joint exercises, exchange of best practices in Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR).
• Extending cooperation beyond naval focus to strengthen capabilities of both armies.

Conclusion:

• Gen. Pande’s visit reignites India-Korea defence cooperation.
• A strategic, balanced approach is key to unlocking enduring defence collaboration.
• Adaptability to the evolving geopolitical landscape crucial for fostering a partnership in the Indo-Pacific region.

Practice Question: Discuss the challenges and opportunities in India-Korea defence relations, emphasizing the need for a comprehensive framework.(150 words/10 m)