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These articles were published in The Hindu.

1. The Protracted Global Struggle Against Terrorism

Background:

• The fight against terrorism, exemplified by events in Afghanistan and Pakistan, has persisted for over two decades.
• Despite efforts, the global threat of terrorism remains significant and continues to impact various regions.
• The international community, including the United Nations Security Council (UNSC), has been engaged in counter-terrorism efforts.
• However, challenges remain in achieving lasting peace and stability in terrorism-affected areas.
• The rise of groups like the Taliban in Afghanistan and the presence of other terrorist organizations pose ongoing threats.
• The global landscape has become increasingly complex, with various actors and interests involved in the fight against terrorism.

• The spread of terrorism is not limited to specific regions; it has affected areas like Africa's Sahel and Mozambique.
• The COVID-19 pandemic is reported to have exacerbated existing vulnerabilities and potentially fueled further instability.
• The Financial Action Task Force (FATF) continues to monitor and assess countries' efforts in combating terrorism financing.
• Distinctions are being made between state-sponsored terrorism and other forms of terrorist activity.
• The international community faces challenges in effectively addressing terrorism that originates from or is supported by certain states.
• India has been a long-standing victim of cross-border terrorism, particularly from Pakistan.
• Despite international pressure, concerns persist regarding the alleged support for terrorist groups operating from Pakistani soil.
• The Indus Waters Treaty between India and Pakistan has remained intact despite ongoing tensions, highlighting its resilience.
• However, there are calls for increased international pressure on countries perceived to be supporting terrorism.
• The situation in Afghanistan, particularly under the Taliban, raises concerns about the potential resurgence of terrorist groups.
• The conflict in Ukraine has further complicated the global security landscape and diverted attention and resources.
• There is growing concern about the potential for religiously motivated terrorism and the spread of extremist ideologies.
• The role of technology and online platforms in the dissemination of extremist content is also a significant challenge.
• Despite setbacks, international efforts to counter terrorism continue, with a focus on disrupting financing, recruitment, and operational capabilities of terrorist organizations.

• A sustained and coordinated global effort is essential to effectively combat terrorism.
• The international community needs to address the root causes of terrorism, including political grievances, socio-economic factors, and extremist ideologies.
• Increased pressure should be exerted on states that provide safe havens or support to terrorist groups.
• Strengthening international legal frameworks and cooperation mechanisms is crucial for effective counter-terrorism efforts.
• Addressing the challenges posed by new technologies and online radicalization is vital.
• A long-term strategy that encompasses political, economic, social, and security dimensions is necessary to achieve lasting stability in terrorism-affected regions.
• The focus should remain on preventing future terrorist attacks and building resilience in vulnerable communities.
• Continued vigilance and intelligence sharing are essential to counter evolving terrorist threats.
• Ultimately, a comprehensive and multi-faceted approach is required to effectively address the complex and enduring challenge of global terrorism.

2. Enhancing National Preparedness Against Terrorism

Background:

• For the first time in over 50 years, a significant exercise focusing on readiness for terrorist incidents is being conducted across India.
• These drills aim to prepare the populace for large-scale disruptive events, beyond the scope of typical law and order situations.
• Civil defense preparedness is highlighted as a crucial element of national security strategy.
• These exercises are designed to equip ordinary citizens, key civic personnel, and trained responders to effectively manage the aftermath of a crisis.
• The government, led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has emphasized national mobilization and preparedness for various threats.
• Efforts ranging from sanitation drives to infrastructure projects are cited as contributing to overall national resilience.
• The need to enhance grid resilience against disruptions like blackouts is also being addressed.

• Simulated scenarios involving conflict and large-scale disruptions are being used to raise public awareness and foster social cohesion.
• These exercises aim to prepare communities to support vulnerable individuals and maintain morale during challenging times.
• The potential for significant destruction and loss of life in such events underscores the importance of preparedness.
• The article draws parallels to past terror incidents in India, such as the 1993 Mumbai bombings and the 2008 Mumbai attacks, as well as the 2001 attack on the World Trade Center, to emphasize the scale of potential threats.
• A view is presented that Pakistan is seemingly aligned with non-state actors employing terrorism.
• The response to the 2008 Mumbai attacks is noted, where India's non-military reaction and focus on the perpetrators' origins are highlighted.
• The current government's stance suggests a more assertive approach towards terrorism emanating from across its borders.
• Conducting civil defense preparedness drills is seen as a significant step in demonstrating India's readiness to handle future threats.
• These exercises could also serve as a signal to neighboring countries regarding India's seriousness in addressing terrorism.

• India needs to be prepared for large-scale emergencies that could destabilize normal life.
• Enhancing civil defense capabilities and training a wide range of personnel are crucial steps.
• Regularly testing preparedness through realistic drills is essential to identify and address vulnerabilities.
• India needs to position itself as a responsible and capable power in a complex global landscape.
• While demonstrating readiness is important, avoiding escalatory actions remains a key consideration.
• India must carefully consider its options in responding to cross-border terrorism to maintain regional stability.
• Focusing on the origins of terrorism and holding perpetrators accountable remains a central tenet of India's policy.
• Continued emphasis on national resilience and preparedness will be vital in safeguarding the country against future threats.

NEWS IN NUMBERS

India and U.K. Conclude Landmark Trade Deal

India and the United Kingdom have finalized a historic Free Trade Agreement (FTA). The deal will see 99% of Indian exports to the U.K. benefit from zero duties, potentially doubling bilateral trade by 2030. The U.K. will see reduced tariffs on goods like whisky and automobiles.

India Climbs Three Spots in HDI, but Inequality Remains a Concern

India has improved its Human Development Index (HDI) ranking, moving up three spots to 130 among 193 nations in 2022. While there's progress in HDI value and a reduction in multidimensional poverty, persistent inequalities in health, education, and income continue to pose challenges.

Security Heightened in Delhi for City-Wide Mock Drills

Delhi has heightened security as it prepares for extensive mock security drills at 55 locations across the national capital on Wednesday and Thursday. The drills, codenamed "Operation Abhyas," aim to assess preparedness for various threats and will involve police, civil defence, fire services, and health authorities.

SC Sets Aside Punjab's Denotification of SYL Canal Land

The Supreme Court has quashed Punjab's 2016 denotification of land acquired for the Sutlej-Yamuna Link (SYL) canal, deeming it "unilateral" and a violation of a 1981 water-sharing agreement with Haryana and Rajasthan. The court has ordered Punjab to maintain the status quo on the land and directed a hearing on August 13 for further proceedings.

Power and Pitfalls of Digital Influence: Regulating Misinformation

The article explores the complex landscape of digital influence in India, where social media's reach amplifies both valuable content and misinformation. It discusses the need for regulations to combat misleading health information and endorsements by influencers, emphasizing transparency, accountability, and the role of expert verification to safeguard consumer interests.

In Push Towards Transparency, SC Publishes Assets of 21 Judges

Twenty-one Supreme Court judges, including Chief Justice of India Sanjiv Khanna, have made their financial disclosures public on the court's website. This move aims to increase transparency within the judiciary following recent criticism regarding the opacity of judges' assets. The published information includes details of property, investments, and liabilities.

PM Speaks to Qatar Emir Amid India's Diplomatic Outreach

Prime Minister Modi spoke with the Emir of Qatar, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, who conveyed his full support against terrorism and for bringing the perpetrators of the Pahalgam attack to justice. This outreach occurs as India steps up diplomatic efforts in the region following the attack.

Gaganyaan Manned Mission Likely in First Quarter of 2027: ISRO Chief

ISRO anticipates launching its first manned Gaganyaan mission, sending Indian astronauts into space, in the first quarter of 2027. This follows successful uncrewed test flights and significant progress in developing necessary infrastructure and propulsion systems for the human-rated launch vehicle. The delay from the initial 2022 target was due to the pandemic.

News in Numbers

• 21: Number of Supreme Court judges who have made their assets public.
• 130: India's rank in the 2025 UN Human Development Report.
• 12,000: Number of refugees allowed entry into the U.S. by court order.
• 13 million: Number of electric vehicles India is projected to have by 2032.
• ₹565 crore: Worth of allegedly dubious redevelopment projects under investigation in Mumbai.