NEWSPAPER NOTES

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Referred articles were published in The Hindu.

Background:

• India conducted a swift and decisive military action targeting terrorist infrastructure within Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK).
• The operation involved 24 precision strikes on terrorist camps situated across the border.
• The strikes were reportedly carried out within a short timeframe of just 25 minutes on Wednesday.
• India stated that this action was a response to the growing threat of terrorism emanating from Pakistani territory.
• The operation, codenamed "Operation Sindoor," was described by Indian military officials as a necessary measure to protect its soil.

• Indian armed forces successfully targeted 24 locations used by terrorists in Pakistan and PoK.
• Air force networks were reportedly placed on high alert in anticipation of a counter-response from Pakistan.
• India asserted that the strikes were conducted with "precision, pre-caution, and compassion" to avoid civilian casualties and damage.
• Defence Minister Rajnath Singh confirmed the operation, stating that the targets were selected to avoid harming the civilian population.
• The Indian military emphasized its right to act in self-defense against cross-border terrorism.
• Pakistan's Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri addressed the media, acknowledging the Indian action and terming it "non-escalatory" and "pre-emptive."
• According to India, the operation was carefully calibrated and targeted only at terrorist camps and infrastructure used for training terrorists.
• India maintained that it has provided considerable evidence to Pakistan regarding the presence and activities of terrorist groups operating on its soil.
• The Border Roads Organisation (BRO) was reportedly put on alert during the operation.
• India claimed that no Pakistani military facilities were targeted.
• Tragically, in a separate incident in the Pahalgaon area of Jammu and Kashmir, one soldier and at least 12 civilians, including three women and three children, were killed. India attributed these casualties to heavy mortar shelling originating from Pakistani forces in areas close to the Line of Control (LoC). Pakistan reportedly termed this shelling a "proportionate response."
• India's spokesperson for the Ministry of External Affairs condemned the civilian killings in Pahalgaon.
• Reports indicated that 31 people were injured in the Pahalgaon incident.

• India has conveyed its firm resolve to take necessary measures to counter terrorism originating from Pakistan.
• The air force remains on high alert, indicating a continued state of vigilance.
• India has stated its commitment to acting responsibly and with precision in its counter-terrorism efforts.
• The international community will likely be monitoring the situation closely for any signs of escalation.
• Diplomatic channels between India and Pakistan will likely be active in managing the aftermath of these events.
• India has emphasized its willingness to engage in dialogue while maintaining its right to self-defense.
• The focus will likely be on de-escalating tensions while India continues to address the threat of cross-border terrorism.

Background:

• Following the Soviet-Afghan War, a complex network of militant organizations, often supported by intelligence agencies, evolved in the region.
• These groups, initially fostered to counter Soviet influence, later became involved in regional conflicts and terrorism.
• The U.S. invasion of Afghanistan after 9/11 further complicated the landscape, leading to the rise of new militant factions and alliances.
• Pakistan, due to its geographical location and historical involvement, became a key hub for these organizations.
• Several prominent terrorist outfits, with regional and international reach, have operated within or from Pakistani territory.
• These groups have been implicated in numerous attacks in neighboring countries, including India and Afghanistan.
• The organizational structures of these networks are often intricate, involving ideological indoctrination, military training, and logistical support.
• Funding for these activities has reportedly come from various sources, including state sponsorship, charitable donations, and illicit activities.

• Pakistan is under increasing international scrutiny regarding the presence and operations of these terrorist networks.
• Despite claims of taking action against these groups, concerns persist about their continued existence and activities.
• The Financial Action Task Force (FATF) has placed Pakistan on its grey list for several years due to deficiencies in its anti-money laundering and counter-terrorism financing regimes.
• While Pakistan has made some progress in implementing FATF recommendations, it has struggled to fully address the underlying issues.
• Terrorist infrastructure, including training camps and operational hubs, reportedly continues to exist within Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK).
• These networks are involved in cross-border terrorism, targeting neighboring countries.
• The operational capabilities of these groups are evolving, with some demonstrating increased sophistication in their attack planning and execution.
• There are concerns about the potential for these groups to exploit new technologies and communication channels.
• The rise of groups like the Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) and their increasing attacks within Pakistan pose a significant internal security challenge.
• Afghanistan under the Taliban also presents a complex security environment, with concerns about the presence of various international terrorist groups.
• International pressure on Pakistan to dismantle these networks and take concrete action against terrorism financing remains significant.
• Recent statements from Pakistani officials indicate a renewed commitment to addressing these concerns.

• Pakistan needs to take verifiable and irreversible steps to dismantle terrorist infrastructure within its borders.
• Full compliance with the FATF action plan is crucial for Pakistan to regain international trust and exit the grey list.
• Enhanced monitoring and regulation of financial flows are necessary to curb terrorism financing.
• Effective prosecution of individuals and entities involved in terrorism is essential.
• Addressing the root causes of extremism and radicalization within Pakistani society is a long-term imperative.
• Cooperation with neighboring countries and international partners is vital for tackling cross-border terrorism.
• The international community must continue to exert pressure on Pakistan to fulfill its commitments.
• Transparent and credible actions demonstrating the dismantling of terror networks are necessary to build confidence.
• The future stability of the region depends, in part, on Pakistan's success in effectively countering these terrorist organizations.

Background:

• A sense of unresolved identity, ideological rigidity, and selective amnesia has seemingly plagued Pakistan since its inception.
• This has led to recurring fundamental questions about the nation's character and direction.
• Early leaders of Pakistan emphasized a two-nation theory based on religious identity.
• However, the linguistic and cultural diversity within Pakistan, particularly the distinctiveness of Bengali identity, challenged this unified narrative.
• The struggle for linguistic and cultural recognition by East Pakistan (now Bangladesh) ultimately led to its independence in 1971.
• The legacy of the 1971 war and the atrocities committed during it continue to be a source of pain and unresolved issues.
• There's an ongoing debate within the region about historical narratives, particularly regarding the role of religion and national identity.

• Pakistan continues to grapple with questions of its core identity, often oscillating between different interpretations of its foundational ideology.
• A dominant narrative, seemingly emphasizing religious uniformity, often marginalizes or overlooks the country's diverse ethnic and cultural heritage.
• This has contributed to internal tensions and a sense of alienation among certain segments of the population.
• The two-nation theory, while initially used to justify Pakistan's creation, is now viewed by some as a source of division and historical revisionism.
• Bangladesh, having established its identity based on language and culture, has largely moved away from the religious nationalism that defined its former association with Pakistan.
• However, Bangladesh also faces its own challenges related to historical narratives and societal divisions.
• The rise of religious extremism and intolerance remains a concern in both Pakistan and Bangladesh.
• The ideological orientation that emerged in Bangladesh post-independence represents a significant departure from the religious nationalism of Pakistan.
• However, Bangladesh still confronts internal struggles related to secularism and religious identity.
• The author suggests that Pakistan's persistent emphasis on a singular religious identity has hindered the development of a more inclusive and cohesive national consciousness.
• This has also impacted its relationships with neighboring countries, particularly Bangladesh.
• There's a noticeable difference in the national trajectories of Pakistan and Bangladesh, with Bangladesh seemingly more focused on its linguistic and cultural roots.

• Pakistan needs to confront its complex history and engage in a more honest and inclusive dialogue about its national identity.
• Acknowledging and embracing its diverse cultural and ethnic heritage is crucial for fostering greater national unity.
• Moving beyond a singular, rigid ideological framework could pave the way for a more tolerant and pluralistic society.
• Reconciling with the past, particularly regarding the events of 1971, is essential for improving relations with Bangladesh.
• Both Pakistan and Bangladesh need to address the challenges posed by religious extremism and promote inclusive narratives.
• For Pakistan, a critical re-evaluation of its foundational ideology and its impact on national development and regional relations is necessary.
• Bangladesh needs to continue strengthening its secular and democratic values while addressing internal societal divisions.
• Ultimately, both nations need to strive for a future based on mutual respect, inclusivity, and a more nuanced understanding of their respective identities and histories.

Background:

• The leaders of the United States and India have recently emphasized the importance of bilateral cooperation in energy and defense.
• A key focus is on building resilient and secure supply chains, particularly for critical minerals and technologies.
• The global landscape presents challenges, including geopolitical instability and disruptions to established supply routes.
• India's growing energy needs and its commitment to a clean energy transition necessitate diversification of its energy sources and secure access to essential minerals.
• The U.S. seeks to reduce its reliance on potentially vulnerable supply chains and strengthen partnerships with trusted allies.
• The development of a strong Indo-U.S. partnership in these sectors is seen as mutually beneficial and strategically important.

• The U.S. recognizes India as a crucial partner in diversifying global supply chains for critical minerals.
• Both nations are committed to deepening energy and technology collaboration.
• India's energy security will be guided by its need for affordable, clean, and stable energy sources.
• The focus is on ensuring access to critical minerals essential for clean energy technologies, advanced electronics, and defense applications.
• In 2024, the U.S. and India established a cooperation framework centered on three key principles: diversification, transparency, and sustainability of critical mineral supply chains.
• This includes promoting a digital exchange platform for critical minerals.
• Both countries advocate for the adoption of international standards for responsible mining, processing, and recycling of these resources.
• The partnership aims to leverage each other's strengths in research, development, and commercialization of relevant technologies.
• India's goal is to achieve 50% of its installed electricity capacity from non-fossil fuel sources by 2030 and achieve net-zero emissions by 2070.
• This ambitious target necessitates a significant increase in the deployment of renewable energy technologies, which rely heavily on critical minerals.
• The U.S. is also exploring engagement with India on advanced energy technologies, including small modular reactors.
• The Civil Liability for Nuclear Damage Act of 2010 in India is being considered in the context of potential U.S. investments in nuclear energy projects.
• Several U.S. and Indian companies are already collaborating on energy and technology projects.
• The IMF's 2023 report highlights global uncertainties and the need for strong bilateral economic ties between major economies like the U.S. and India.

• The Indo-U.S. partnership in critical minerals and energy is expected to deepen further.
• Both nations will likely focus on creating transparent and reliable supply chains for essential resources.
• Increased investment and technological collaboration in areas like renewable energy, energy storage, and advanced materials are anticipated.
• Addressing regulatory hurdles and fostering a conducive investment environment will be crucial.
• The development of joint ventures and research initiatives in the critical minerals sector is likely to be prioritized.
• Cooperation on establishing international standards for responsible resource management will continue.
• The partnership aims to contribute to a more secure and sustainable global energy future.
• Continued dialogue and strategic alignment between the two countries will be essential for navigating the evolving global landscape.

Background:

• India conducted precise military strikes across the Line of Control in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) on Wednesday.
• These operations targeted key terrorist infrastructure, including the headquarters of Jaish-e-Mohammed and Lashkar-e-Taiba.
• India stated that these groups were actively planning attacks within Indian territory.
• The strikes were described as a pre-emptive measure to disrupt these terrorist plots.
• India emphasized that the operation was carefully calibrated, non-escalatory, proportionate, and responsible.
• This action follows a recent terrorist attack in Pahalgaon on April 22, where 26 people were reportedly killed.
• India's military has conducted similar surgical strikes in the past, such as in 2019 following the Pulwama attack.

• The recent military action is seen as a continuation of India's strategy to counter cross-border terrorism.
• India's military response is characterized as precise and targeted, focusing on terrorist infrastructure.
• The government asserts that its actions are aimed at dismantling terrorist capabilities and deterring future attacks.
• While India has undertaken military action, it has also emphasized its commitment to a measured and responsible approach.
• The point is being made that India has the capacity for a more significant military response but is choosing a calibrated approach.
• Overt military action by India against Pakistan-sponsored terrorism marks a shift in Prime Minister Narendra Modi's strategy.
• This approach aims to alter Pakistan's behavior regarding its support for terrorist groups.
• India seeks to hold Pakistan accountable for the activities of terrorist organizations operating from its soil.
• The international community is being urged to exert pressure on Pakistan to take responsible action against these groups.
• India's political parties have largely supported the government's stance on national security and counter-terrorism.

• India is expected to continue its strategy of responding firmly to cross-border terrorism.
• The investigation into the Pahalgaon attack is likely to be pursued vigorously to its logical conclusion.
• India will likely remain prepared for potential escalatory moves by Pakistan and will respond militarily and diplomatically as needed.
• The emphasis will likely be on targeted actions against terrorist infrastructure while avoiding broader conflict.
• Strengthening domestic security measures and maintaining national consensus on counter-terrorism efforts will remain priorities.
• India will likely continue to engage with the international community to build support for its stance on cross-border terrorism.
• The focus will be on ensuring that any response is strategic, well-calibrated, and avoids unintended escalation.

Background:

• The global development landscape faces a concerning slowdown, accompanied by an increasing gap between the wealthy and the impoverished.
• India's progress on the Human Development Index (HDI) is highlighted in the 2024 Human Development Report.
• The report, titled "People and Possibilities in the Age of AI," indicates India's HDI rank improved to 130 out of 193 countries in 2023, up from 133 in 2022.
• India's HDI value also increased from 0.633 in 2022 to 0.644 in 2023, continuing a positive trend from 0.627 in 2021.
• This improvement comes after setbacks caused by the recent global health crisis.
• India has shown progress in key areas measured by the HDI, including health, education, and standard of living.
• Life expectancy at birth in India reached 70.4 years in 2023, surpassing the index's pre-pandemic level of 69.8 years in 2019.
• Children are expected to stay in school for 12.6 years on average, a notable increase from 11.9 years in 1990.
• Gross National Income per capita has also seen significant growth, rising from $2,167.22 in 1990 to $9,046.76 in 2023.
• Government initiatives such as MGNREGA, the Right to Education Act, and the National Rural Health Mission are acknowledged for their positive impact on human development indicators.

• Despite the progress in HDI, the report also raises concerns about persistent and widening inequalities within India.
• The female labor participation rate has shown improvement, reaching 37.0% in 2023-24, up from 32.5% in the preceding period. However, a stronger ecosystem is needed to fully integrate women into the workforce.
• Significant political representation for women, as mandated by constitutional amendments reserving one-third of legislative seats, is yet to be fully realized.
• Underserved girls and boys continue to face challenges in accessing quality education, which could hinder overall HDI gains.
• The report highlights that 13.5 crore people in India escaped multidimensional poverty between 2015-16 and 2019-21, and income and gender inequalities have contributed to a 30.7% reduction in India's HDI, marking one of the highest losses globally.
• The increasing influence of Artificial Intelligence (AI) is noted as a factor that could further impact human development parameters.
• While AI has the potential to contribute significantly to development, it also carries the risk of exacerbating existing inequalities.
• India has a substantial pool of AI researchers, with nearly 20% of the global total residing in the country.
• Leveraging AI effectively across sectors like healthcare, education, and public service delivery presents a significant opportunity.

• It is crucial that appropriate policies and safeguards are implemented to mitigate the risk of AI deepening existing inequalities.
• India needs to focus on building a stronger ecosystem to support women's participation in the workforce.
• Addressing disparities in access to quality education for marginalized groups remains a key priority.
• Efforts to reduce income and gender inequalities must be intensified to ensure more equitable human development outcomes.
• India needs to strategically leverage the potential of AI for development while proactively addressing its potential negative impacts.
• Investments in human capital development, alongside responsible technological integration, will be essential for sustained progress.
• Policies should aim to ensure that the benefits of technological advancements are inclusive and reach all segments of society.
• Continuous monitoring of human development indicators and targeted interventions will be necessary to address emerging challenges and inequalities.

All-Party Meeting in Parliament Today on Operation Sindoor

Hours after Operation Sindoor, Prime Minister Modi briefed President Murmu and chaired a Cabinet meeting. The government has convened an all-party meeting in Parliament at 11 a.m. today to brief all political parties on the military strikes. The Cabinet lauded the "perfect" operations.

Following New Delhi's action against terrorists originating from Pakistan, India has temporarily closed the Kartarpur Corridor and increased security along the Punjab border. Schools in border districts are also closed as a precautionary measure. Pilgrims who crossed over yesterday morning are reportedly safe.

Mock Drills Conducted in Delhi to Enhance Emergency Preparedness

Delhi conducted large-scale mock emergency drills at 55 locations, including markets, schools, and hospitals, simulating scenarios like missile attacks, air raids, building collapses, and fires. The exercises aimed to assess and improve the city's readiness to respond to emergencies, with participation from various agencies and volunteers.

Cabinet Approves Cloud Seeding Trial to Combat Pollution

The Delhi Cabinet has approved a ₹3.21 crore project to conduct five cloud seeding trials on the city's outskirts in May-June to explore the feasibility of artificial rain for reducing air pollution and water scarcity. IIT-Kanpur will oversee the project, with the first trial covering a 100 sq km area.

Precautions Loom Large in Kashmir Valley Amid Border Concerns

The Kashmir Valley remains on alert, with heightened security and schools closed in border districts following recent tensions. While daily life continues with some normalcy, a sense of unease prevails, impacting tourism and daily routines. Srinagar airport will also remain closed tomorrow.

High Alert in Rajasthan Border Areas After Action Against Pakistan

Rajasthan is on high alert in its border areas following India's actions against Pakistan. Large-scale mock drills were conducted, schools in border districts are closed, and flight operations at Jodhpur and Bikaner airports have been suspended as a precautionary measure.

India Briefs UNSC Members on Cross-Border TerrorismIndia has briefed key UNSC members, including the US, UK, and France, on the cross-border terrorism emanating from Pakistan following the Pahalgam attack. India emphasized Pakistan's continued support for terror groups and the need for Islamabad to take credible action against them.

Shah Asks Border States to Stock Up on Essential GoodsUnion Home Minister Amit Shah has directed the Chief Ministers of states bordering Pakistan, including Punjab, Rajasthan, Gujarat, and West Bengal, to ensure sufficient stock of essential goods and maintain robust emergency services in light of the recent security situation and Operation Sindoor.

At Least 12 Civilians and One Soldier Killed in Pak. Shelling in J&K

Heavy mortar shelling and firing by Pakistani forces along the Line of Control (LoC) in Jammu and Kashmir on Wednesday resulted in the deaths of at least 12 civilians, including children, and one Indian soldier. Over 50 others were injured in the Poonch, Rajouri, Kupwara, and Baramulla districts. The Indian Army stated it was responding in a "proportionate manner."

Trump Urges India and Pakistan to Halt Border Clashes

U.S. President Trump has called on India and Pakistan to cease their border clashes, stating he wants to see peace between the two nations and offering to help if needed.

Yemen's Houthis Vow to Attack Israeli Ships Despite U.S. Deal

Yemen's Houthi rebels have declared their intention to continue targeting Israeli ships in the Red Sea, despite a ceasefire that followed weeks of intense U.S. strikes on their positions. The Houthis stated their attacks on ships linked to Israel would persist until the offensive on Gaza stops.

News in Numbers

• 23,000: Facebook pages and accounts removed by Meta in March for engaging in coordinated inauthentic behavior targeting people in Brazil and India.
• 16: Indian YouTube news channels blocked by Pakistan, along with 31 YouTube links and 32 websites, for allegedly threatening national security and Pakistan's digital ecosystem.
• ₹1.8 lakh crore: Amount India is expected to save on its import bill in the fiscal year ending March 31, 2026, due to increased domestic production meeting a larger share of its oil and LNG needs.
• 16: People arrested in the U.S. in a fentanyl drug bust operation where authorities seized 11.5 kilograms of fentanyl and significant quantities of other drugs.
• 42: Number of political prisoners pardoned in Belarus as part of a pre-anniversary amnesty.