29 March 2025 : The Hindu Editorial Analysis

1. India’s geopolitical vision should be larger

(Source – The Hindu, International Edition – Page No. – 6)

India’s Limited Political Role in Global Conflicts

• Russian President Vladimir Putin recently thanked Prime Minister Narendra Modi for India’s efforts in ending the Russia-Ukraine war.
• Despite India’s past active role in conflicts, such as Bangladesh in 1971, the Maldives in 1988, and Sri Lanka in 2009, India has refrained from a similar role in recent international conflicts.
• India has contributed to global welfare through initiatives like ‘Vaccine Maitri,’ the International Solar Alliance, and disaster relief efforts.

India’s Reticence and Economic Priorities

• Over the past two decades, India has focused on economic growth, becoming the world’s fifth-largest economy.
• There is a belief that engaging in conflicts could hinder economic progress and upset bilateral relations.
• India has preferred to let regional powers handle conflicts, such as in West Asia, where Gulf countries have taken the lead.

Expectations from India on the Global Stage

• Historically, India led the Non-Aligned Movement to empower developing nations.
• Today’s multi-alignment policy strengthens India’s bilateral ties but lacks broader global leadership.
• As a major democracy and an aspiring permanent UNSC member, India is expected to take a more active role in shaping global decisions.

India’s Influence in the Russia-Ukraine Conflict

• India’s decision to abstain from UNSC votes on the Ukraine war encouraged developing countries to take a balanced stance.
• PM’s statement that “this is not an era of war” and his advice against nuclear arms showcased India’s diplomatic influence.
• Putin’s gratitude signals that India has credibility with both Russia and Ukraine, making it a potential player in conflict resolution.

The Risk of Losing Influence to Other Nations

• Countries like Türkiye, Saudi Arabia, and Qatar have taken proactive roles in mediating conflicts.
• Türkiye hosted Ukraine-Russia talks, Saudi Arabia mediated U.S.-Russia discussions, and Qatar facilitated Congo peace talks.
• If India remains passive, it risks losing geopolitical influence to these nations.

Global Power Shifts and India’s Strategic Needs

• The U.S. and parts of Europe are shifting politically to the right, leading to possible reduced engagements in Asia and Europe.
• India must expand its influence to counter China’s growing power and its trade dependence on China.
• With a changing global balance, the Quad (India, Japan, Australia, U.S.) may lose strategic relevance, putting pressure on India.

Time for a Policy Shift

• India needs a regional strategy beyond bilateral ties, particularly in West and Central Asia.
• It must re-engage with European nations and reform its economy to boost competitiveness and trade relations, especially with the U.S.
• Being proactive does not mean mediating conflicts but signaling readiness to shape global affairs.

Historical Precedents and Lessons for Today

• In the Korean War (1951-52), India played a key role in the UN despite being a newly independent and impoverished nation.
• During its recent UNSC tenure (2021-22), India acted as a bridge for divergent views.
• India must balance economic growth with active geopolitical engagement to secure its role as a major power in a fragmented world.

Conclusion 

• India must actively shape the evolving world order while balancing economic growth and geopolitical engagement.
• Strengthening multi-alignment beyond bilateral ties will enhance its global influence and safeguard national interests in a fragmented world.

2. Advantage China in Africa’s nuclear energy market race

(Source – The Hindu, International Edition – Page No. – 6)

Importance of Energy Security Post Russia-Ukraine War

• The Russia-Ukraine war highlighted the need for energy security, as many European countries had to develop new energy partnerships.
• Africa also faced severe economic consequences due to the war, prompting its leaders to rethink their energy strategies.
• Nuclear energy is emerging as a key driver in Africa’s energy transformation, helping to ensure reliable electricity access.

Current Status of Nuclear Energy in Africa

• At present, Africa has only one nuclear power plant, located in South Africa, which was built by a French consortium.
• Several African countries, including Ghana, Nigeria, Sudan, Rwanda, Kenya, and Zambia, are planning to adopt nuclear energy.
• Africa is expected to generate 15,000 MW of nuclear energy by 2035.
• The nuclear energy sector in Africa represents a $105 billion investment opportunity, attracting global interest.

Growing Global Interest in Africa’s Nuclear Market

• France has historically dominated Africa’s nuclear energy market, but its influence is declining.
• The United States has initiated the US-Africa Nuclear Energy Summit, but its future approach remains uncertain.
• Russia has signed nuclear agreements with several African nations, including Egypt, Mali, Burkina Faso, and Burundi.
• South Korea has also expressed interest in developing nuclear projects in Africa.
• China has emerged as the leading player in Africa’s nuclear energy expansion.

China’s Rising Influence in Africa’s Nuclear Sector

• China’s involvement in Africa’s nuclear sector is relatively recent but growing rapidly.
• A scholarship program was launched in 2012 to train African students in nuclear technology and familiarize them with Chinese equipment.
• China operates more than 50 nuclear reactors and has become an attractive partner for African nations.
• Two major Chinese state-owned corporations are leading nuclear expansion in Africa.
• Recent agreements include nuclear development projects with Nigeria and Uganda.
• Kenya is also exploring nuclear power, while Ghana has selected U.S. firms for small modular reactors but will rely on China for large reactors.
• Pro-Russian governments in Burkina Faso, Niger, and Mali have signed agreements with Russia’s nuclear sector, but financial constraints may push them toward China.

Potential Impact on India’s Energy Security

• Africa is likely to continue developing nuclear energy, even with concerns about debt dependency on China.
• China’s ability to finance nuclear plants and transmission networks strengthens its leadership in Africa’s clean energy market.
• India’s current nuclear generation capacity is 8,180 MW, with a goal of reaching 100 GW by 2047.
• To meet this target, India needs African uranium and has signed nuclear cooperation agreements with Namibia and Niger.
• However, China’s growing dominance in Africa’s nuclear sector may make it harder for India to secure uranium, affecting its long-term energy security.

Conclusion 

• Africa’s nuclear energy expansion is reshaping global energy geopolitics, with China emerging as a dominant player.
• India must strategically engage to secure uranium resources and strengthen its position in the evolving energy landscape.

Read more- 28 March 2025 : The Hindu Editorial Analysis