28 June 2023 : The Hindu Editorial
The Hindu Editorial
28-June-2023
Daily Current Affairs For UPSC ,The Hindu Editorial Summary
1. Pay heed to a resurgence in militancy in Rajouri-Poonch.
Topic: GS3 – Terrorism and national security.
Context:
- The Rajouri-Poonch region of Jammu and Kashmir has witnessed a surge in terror-related incidents in recent years.
- Since October 2021, at least 20 soldiers have been killed by militants in the border districts of the region.
Reasons for revival of militancy in Rajouri-Poonch region:
- Terrorist cadres and their leadership in Pakistan may be seeking to diversify and expand their influence beyond the Kashmir Valley.
- The militants in the region have been able to operate effectively due to various factors.
- They make use of smart technology for communication and movement, operate in small groups from urban areas, and take advantage of a thinned down counter-insurgency grid in Jammu region due to troops being deployed on the Line of Actual Control (LAC) with China.
- There has been a reinvigoration of sleeper cells and over ground workers supporting the terrorists.
- The drug menace in the region has deepened, and there is a nexus between drug trafficking and terrorism.
- Some suggest that infiltration is happening through the borders of Nepal and Bangladesh rather than the conventional routes across the Line of Control (LoC).
- State agencies find it challenging to outsmart terrorists in the use of technology or defeat them in the use of social media rhetoric.
Gurjar-Bakkarwals as a pillar of support:
- Operation Sarp Vinash, also known as the Hill Kaka Operations, was launched by the Counter Insurgency Force ‘Romeo’ in 2022 in the Rajouri-Poonch region.
- The operation resulted in the elimination of an estimated 65-70 terrorists.
- The local population, particularly the Gurjar-Bakkarwal community, has strongly supported the Indian Army in counter-insurgency efforts.
- Since 2004-05, peace has largely prevailed in the region due to the people’s decision to stand up against the terrorists, with the Gurjar-Bakkarwals playing a major role in this
In the context of this article, it is important to understand the issue of increasing militancy in Jammu and Kashmir region in recent times with multiple perspectives.
Reasons for increasing militancy in Jammu and Kashmir region:
- Cross-border support: Militant groups in Pakistan continue to provide support, training, and weapons to insurgent elements operating in Jammu and Kashmir. This external support plays a significant role in sustaining and fueling militancy in the region.
- Political grievances: The political conflict and disputes surrounding the status of Jammu and Kashmir have been a longstanding issue. Political grievances, including aspirations for self-determination and demands for greater autonomy, have fueled discontent and provided a fertile ground for militancy to thrive.
- Socio-economic factors: Socio-economic factors such as unemployment, poverty, and lack of development opportunities have contributed to the disillusionment among sections of the population. Militant groups often exploit these grievances to recruit new members who may see militancy as a means to address their socio-economic concerns.
- Radicalization and religious extremism: The influence of radical ideologies and religious extremism has played a role in the rise of militancy in the region. Some individuals, driven by radical interpretations of religion, become susceptible to recruitment and indoctrination by militant groups.
- Geographical factors: The rugged and difficult terrain of Jammu and Kashmir, particularly along the Line of Control (LoC), provides a conducive environment for infiltration and hiding of militants. The challenging geography facilitates their movements and makes it difficult for security forces to apprehend them.
- Weak governance and corruption: Weak governance, corruption, and ineffective administration have also contributed to the grievances and discontent among the local population. The perception of injustice or abuse of power by security forces can further alienate the people and create an environment conducive to militancy.
- External influences: Apart from Pakistan’s support, external influences and geopolitical dynamics in the region can also impact the militancy situation. Regional conflicts and geopolitical rivalries may contribute to the escalation of violence and the infiltration of foreign militants into the region.
What can be the way forward:
- Enhance security measures: Strengthen the security apparatus by improving intelligence gathering, surveillance, and coordination among various security agencies. This includes increasing the presence of security forces in vulnerable areas and enhancing their capabilities to effectively counter militant activities.
- Address political grievances: Engage in a sustained and meaningful political dialogue with all stakeholders to address the underlying political grievances and aspirations of the people of Jammu and Kashmir. This can involve measures such as promoting autonomy, empowering local governance structures, and finding a peaceful resolution to the long-standing dispute.
- Promote socio-economic development: Focus on socio-economic development initiatives aimed at addressing unemployment, poverty, and lack of opportunities. This can be achieved through investment in infrastructure, education, healthcare, and skill development programs.
- Counter radicalization: Implement comprehensive counter-radicalization programs that emphasize education, religious moderation, and community engagement.
- Strengthen governance and accountability: Improve governance structures and address issues of corruption, nepotism, and abuse of power. Ensure transparency and accountability in the administration to build trust between the government and the people.
- Enhance cross-border cooperation: Strengthen cooperation with neighboring countries, particularly Pakistan, to prevent the use of their territory for terrorist activities. Sharing intelligence and conducting joint operations can be instrumental in curbing militancy.
- Empower local communities: Involve and empower local communities in countering militancy. Encourage the formation of community-based initiatives, such as village defense committees, to enhance local security and surveillance.
- International support and collaboration: Seek international support and collaboration in addressing the issue of militancy in the region. Engage with regional and global stakeholders to garner support for peacebuilding efforts, counter-terrorism measures, and socio-economic development initiatives.
Steps taken by Indian government to curb this rising militancy:
- Security measures: The Indian armed forces have been conducting a number of counter-insurgency operations in the region, including Operation All Out, which was launched in 2017. These operations have resulted in the killing of a large number of militants, as well as the disruption of their networks.
- Political measures:The Indian government has also taken a number of political measures to address the root causes of militancy in Kashmir. These include the release of political prisoners, the holding of elections, and the initiation of dialogue with Kashmiri leaders.
- Article 370: On 5 August 2019, the Indian government revoked the special status of Jammu and Kashmir under Article 370. The government also bifurcated the state into two union territories: Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh. This can help in better governance and administrative action.
- Economic measures:The Indian government has also invested in a number of economic development projects in Kashmir in an effort to improve the lives of Kashmiris and reduce their support for militancy. These projects include the construction of roads, schools, and hospitals.
- Mediation:The Indian government has also tried to mediate between the different stakeholders in Kashmir, including the government of Pakistan, in an effort to find a political solution to the conflict.
- Border management: The government has focused on improving surveillance, using advanced technology, and constructing physical barriers to deter infiltration and smuggling of weapons and contraband.
- Intelligence and information sharing: There has been an emphasis on improving intelligence gathering and sharing among different security agencies. Coordination and information sharing between central intelligence agencies, state police, and paramilitary forces have been enhanced to counter militant activities effectively.
Conclusion:
It is important to note that the reasons for increasing militancy in the Jammu and Kashmir region are multifaceted and interconnected. Addressing these issues requires a comprehensive approach that includes political dialogue, socio-economic development, countering radicalization, improving governance, and addressing the cross-border support to effectively address the root causes of militancy.
2. Strategic high: On India-U.S. ties and strategic cooperation
Topic: GS2 – International relations.
Context:
- Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s state visit to the United States has deepened strategic cooperation between the two countries without becoming treaty allies.
More about the article:
- The defense ties between India and the US have reached a new high with agreements for joint manufacturing of GE Aerospace’s F414 engines for Indian aircraft and the purchase of Predator-MQ-9B armed unmanned aerial vehicles.
- India has previously acquired military equipment from the US, including transport aircraft, attack helicopters, maritime patrol aircraft, and howitzers.
- Both countries share concerns about China’s expansion in the Indo-Pacific and aim to address shared security concerns through their defense cooperation.
- The joint initiatives in jet engine production, semiconductors, and space technology offer India an opportunity to develop its defense industry and enhance its technological competence.
- India maintains its strategic autonomy while strengthening its partnership with the US and remains cautious about getting involved in power rivalries.
- The US recognizes India’s desire to protect its borders and sovereignty, and mutual trust between the two countries can contribute to stability in the region.
Note: For more details, please refer The Hindu editorial – 24 June 2023
3. China explodes H. bomb: India detects test
Topic: GS3 – Defence developments
Context:
- China conducted its first hydrogen bomb test with an estimated yield of one to two megatons of TNT.
More about the news:
- China successfully carried out its inaugural hydrogen bomb test, producing an approximate explosive power ranging from one to two megatons of TNT.The test took place in the Lop Nor region of Sinkiang in Central Asia.
- The Indian Atomic Energy Department detected the explosion through its micro-barograph network.
- China’s achievement in developing a hydrogen bomb is a matter of concern for India.
What is hydrogen bomb?
- A hydrogen bomb, also known as a thermonuclear bomb or H-bomb, is a type of nuclear weapon that derives its explosive power from the process of nuclear fusion.
- Unlike atomic bombs, which rely on nuclear fission, hydrogen bombs use a two-stage process that combines nuclear fusion and nuclear fission reactions.
- The primary stage of the bomb involves a fission reaction, typically triggered by a conventional explosive or an atomic bomb, which creates the high temperatures and pressures necessary for fusion to occur.
- In the fusion stage, isotopes of hydrogen, usually deuterium and tritium, undergo a nuclear reaction that releases a tremendous amount of energy.
- Hydrogen bombs are significantly more powerful than atomic bombs and are capable of producing explosions with yields in the megaton range, equivalent to millions of tons of TNT.
4. Tracing the arc of American ‘exception-ism’ for India
Topic: GS2 – International relations.
Context:
- Prime Minister’s visit to USA is seen as a massive success and has opened multiple avenues for future cooperation between India and USA.
- In this context, it is important to understand how the relation has grown in recent decades.
Exponential growth of India – US relationship:
- The relationship between India and the United States has grown significantly in recent couple of decades. Especially after the setback when the U.S. imposed sanctions on India after its nuclear weapons tests in 1998.
- The relationship has been built by five American Presidents and three Indian Prime Ministers over the first two decades of the 21st century.
- Mutual cooperation: Different administrations have focused on various aspects of diplomacy, including summit-level diplomacy, nuclear diplomacy, trade, and military diplomacy.
- Take aways from recent visit of Prime Minister: The recent meetings between Prime Minister Modi and President Biden have resulted in advancements in technology diplomacy, including the promise of transfer of technology from the U.S. to India for the production of fighter jet engines.
- Waivers from USA for India:
- The exceptions made by the U.S. for India, such as the civil nuclear deal and waivers on regulations dealing with Russia, have been crucial for strengthening the relationship.
- These exceptions have been made despite India’s non-membership in the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty and its ties with U.S. adversaries like Russia and Iran.
- The exceptions have been granted due to the promise of ties with India, its economic potential, its strategic location in Asia, and the influence of the Indian-American diaspora.
- However, challenges to the relationship lie in the reversibility of these exceptions and the one-directional nature of certain issues like investment and technology transfer.
- A transformation of the relationship into one between equal partners, respecting each other’s strategic autonomy, would require a change in the rules governing the relationship.
For Enquiry
28 June 2023 : Daily Quiz
28 June 2023 : Indian Express
28 June 2023 : PIB
28 June 2023 : The Hindu Editorial
28 June 2023 : Daily Current Affairs
27 June 2023 : Daily Quiz
27 June 2023 : Indian Express
27 June 2023 : PIB
27 June 2023 : The Hindu Editorial
27 June 2023 : Daily Current Affairs
Daily Quiz 28 June 2023 : Daily Quiz 28 June 2023 : Daily Quiz…
Indian Express 28 June 2023 : Indian Express Indian Express
28-June-2023
The Indian Express, CSE candidates can stay informed about current events…
PIB 28 June 2023 : PIB PRESS INFORMATION BUREAU
28-June-2023
Daily Current Affairs For UPSC ,The PIB ( Press Information Bureau…
The Hindu 28 June 2023 : The Hindu Editorial The Hindu Editorial
28-June-2023
Daily Current Affairs For UPSC ,The Hindu Editorial Summary
Facebook-f
Twitter
Youtube
1. Pay…
Daily Current Affairs 28 June 2023 : Daily Current Affairs DAILY CURRENT AFFAIRS
28-June-2023
Daily Current Affairs For UPSC ,Daily Current affairs of The hIndu…
Daily Quiz 27 June 2023 : Daily Quiz 27 June 2023 : Daily Quiz…
Indian Express 27 June 2023 : Indian Express Indian Express
27-June-2023
The Indian Express, CSE candidates can stay informed about current events…
PIB 27 June 2023 : PIB PRESS INFORMATION BUREAU
27-June-2023
Daily Current Affairs For UPSC ,The PIB ( Press Information Bureau…
The Hindu 27 June 2023 : The Hindu Editorial The Hindu Editorial
27-June-2023
Daily Current Affairs For UPSC ,The Hindu Editorial Summary
Facebook-f
Twitter
Youtube
1. A…
Daily Current Affairs 27 June 2023 : Daily Current Affairs DAILY CURRENT AFFAIRS
27-June-2023
Daily Current Affairs For UPSC ,Daily Current affairs of The hIndu…
