R2R SSB BATCHES START EVERY 1ST & 15TH of month.

Referred articles were published in The Hindu.

1.  Analyzing India's Approach to the Manipur Issue

Background:

• The situation in Manipur is described as complex and deeply concerning, marked by significant loss of life and displacement.
• The unrest is attributed to long-standing ethnic tensions and grievances within the state.
• The central government's response to the crisis has faced criticism for perceived delays and inadequacy.
• The need for a comprehensive and sensitive approach to address the underlying issues is emphasized.

• The article highlights the strategic importance of the Northeast region, bordering multiple countries.
• The ongoing conflict in Manipur is seen as a potential threat to regional stability and security.
• There are concerns about the humanitarian impact of the violence, including the displacement of a large number of people.
• The security situation remains fragile, despite the presence of central forces.
• The article points to the complex interplay of ethnic identities, historical grievances, and political dynamics in the state.
• There are allegations of inadequate and delayed responses from both the state and central governments.
• The involvement of various armed groups and the proliferation of weapons have exacerbated the conflict.
• The challenges of restoring trust and fostering reconciliation between the affected communities are significant.
• The article underscores the need for a nuanced understanding of the local context and the grievances of all stakeholders.

• A long-term and multi-faceted strategy is required to address the root causes of the conflict in Manipur.
• This strategy should prioritize dialogue, reconciliation, and inclusive governance.
• Restoring peace and security is paramount, but it must be accompanied by efforts to address the underlying political, economic, and social grievances.
• Building trust between communities and ensuring accountability for the violence are crucial steps.
• The central and state governments need to work collaboratively and demonstrate a genuine commitment to finding a lasting solution.
• Engaging with civil society organizations, community leaders, and all stakeholders is essential for a participatory approach.
• Addressing the humanitarian needs of the displaced population and facilitating their safe return and rehabilitation is a priority.
• Strengthening local governance structures and promoting equitable development can help to address long-term grievances.
• A sustained and sensitive approach, focusing on healing and reconciliation, is necessary to bring lasting peace to Manipur.

Background:

• During his first term, former U.S. President Donald Trump claimed that Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi had requested U.S. mediation between India and Pakistan on the Kashmir issue.
• Washington initially appeared to support a role in facilitating dialogue between the two countries.
• However, this stance was later seemingly walked back by the U.S. State Department.
• Trump had also announced a ceasefire agreement between India and Pakistan on social media, suggesting a U.S. role in its facilitation.
• Additionally, Trump claimed that the U.S. had "mediated" an end to the conflict.

• The U.S. State Department has clarified that Washington was not looking to play a part in the Kashmir issue.
• The U.S. now emphasizes the need for direct bilateral discussions between India and Pakistan to preserve regional stability.
• India has consistently maintained that the Kashmir issue is a bilateral matter and has resisted third-party intervention.
• India has pointed to Pakistan's alleged support for cross-border terrorism and illegal occupation in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) as the primary obstacles to resolving the issue.
• India has also highlighted its decades-long efforts to diplomatically isolate Pakistan on the global stage.
• India's national power is now considered significantly stronger as it navigates the post-Trump global order.
• The article notes that Trump's foreign policy has been marked by inconsistencies and shifts in positions on various global issues.
• Despite the uncertainties of the global landscape, Delhi is advised to maintain its current stance on Kashmir and not overreact to Trump's previous claims.
• Delhi is urged to continue to watch and wait, while firmly upholding its position on the Kashmir issue.

• India should continue to insist on direct bilateral talks with Pakistan to address the Kashmir issue.
• Maintaining a firm stance against third-party mediation remains crucial for India's policy.
• India needs to continue to highlight the issue of cross-border terrorism emanating from Pakistan as a key impediment to dialogue.
• Strengthening its diplomatic efforts to counter Pakistan's narrative on Kashmir on the global stage remains important.
• India should leverage its growing national power and influence in its engagement with the international community on this issue.
• Remaining vigilant and adaptable to shifts in U.S. foreign policy will be necessary.
• Delhi should clearly and consistently communicate its position on Kashmir to the U.S. administration.
• While avoiding overreaction to past statements, India must steadfastly reiterate its stance on bilateral resolution.

Background:

• The Indus Waters Treaty (IWT), signed in 1960, governs the sharing of water from the Indus River system between India and Pakistan.
• For over six decades, this agreement has been a crucial framework for managing a vital shared resource in a water-scarce region.
• The treaty allocated the waters of the eastern rivers primarily to India and the western rivers mainly to Pakistan.
• Despite periods of significant political tension and conflict between the two nations, the IWT has largely endured.

• The Indus Basin region is facing increasing water stress due to a combination of factors, including population growth, agricultural demands, and the impacts of climate change.
• Both India and Pakistan are experiencing the consequences of these pressures on their water resources.
• Pakistan's population has grown significantly since the treaty's signing, increasing the demand for water for various sectors.
• Similarly, India's growing population and agricultural needs are also placing greater demands on the shared water resources.
• Climate change is exacerbating water scarcity in the region, leading to altered river flows, increased glacial melt, and more frequent extreme weather events.
• These changes are impacting agricultural productivity, water availability for domestic and industrial use, and overall water management strategies in both countries.
• There have been instances of disagreements and disputes between India and Pakistan regarding the interpretation and implementation of the IWT.
• Concerns have been raised by Pakistan regarding certain water infrastructure projects undertaken by India on the western rivers.
• The treaty includes mechanisms for resolving such disputes through bilateral discussions and, if necessary, the involvement of neutral experts or the World Bank.

• The IWT faces new challenges in the context of increasing water scarcity and climate change impacts.
• Both India and Pakistan need to adapt their water management strategies to cope with these evolving realities.
• Strengthening bilateral communication and cooperation on water-related issues is crucial for maintaining the effectiveness of the treaty.
• Exploring opportunities for more efficient water use in agriculture, industry, and domestic sectors in both countries is essential.
• Investing in climate-resilient water infrastructure and management practices will be increasingly important.
• Addressing concerns and resolving disputes related to the treaty through the established mechanisms is vital for preserving its integrity.
• Considering potential adaptations to the treaty framework, through mutual agreement, to address the long-term challenges of climate change and water scarcity may be necessary.
• The future of the Indus Basin's water security depends on the ability of India and Pakistan to work together constructively within the framework of the IWT to ensure sustainable and equitable water management.

NEWS IN SHORTS

• Put Pak. nuclear arsenal under IAEA watch: India: India has called for Pakistan's nuclear arsenal to be put under the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) watch, citing concerns over the security of the country's weapons in the wake of alleged irresponsible conduct and its role in cross-border terrorism.
• T.N. CM slams Presidential Reference to top court on timeline to act on State Bills: Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M.K. Stalin has strongly criticized the Presidential Reference to the Supreme Court seeking its opinion on the timeline for Governors to act on State Bills, deeming it a desperate attempt to weaken democratically elected state governments.
• Pakistan calls for probe into Indian nuclear 'black market': Responding to India's concerns, Pakistan has called for an investigation into an alleged Indian nuclear "black market," raising concerns about missing radioactive materials and suggesting illicit trafficking involving radioactive elements.

• New beginning: Syria should dismantle armed groups and adopt inclusive constitution: The article discusses the return of Abu Mohammad al-Jolani (now known as Ahmed al-Sharaa) to the political scene in Syria after years of being a wanted terrorist, suggesting that for Syria to recover, it must dismantle armed extremist groups and adopt an inclusive constitution.

• Does Article 21 include right to eat and sleep?: This article explores the interpretation of Article 21 (Right to Life and Personal Liberty) of the Indian Constitution, particularly in the context of the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (RPWD) Act, 2016, and discusses whether it encompasses the right to essential aspects of life like eating and sleeping for individuals with disabilities.

• UN launches inquiry over Rohingya 'cast into the sea': The United Nations has launched an inquiry into reports that Rohingya refugees were forced off an Indian naval vessel into the Andaman Sea, with a UN expert calling for a full accounting from the Indian government and urging it to refrain from inhumane treatment.
• Shah visits AIIMS, meets injured security forces: Union Home Minister Amit Shah visited the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) in Delhi to inquire about the health of security personnel injured in the recent anti-Naxal operation in the Chhattisgarh-Telangana border region.
• 10 extremists shot dead in Manipur encounter: Security forces in Manipur reportedly gunned down 10 armed extremists in the state's Chandel district during an operation. Officials stated that the identity of the extremist group and the specifics of the encounter are still being ascertained.

• Restored faith: The Pollachi verdict brings closure to the rape survivors: This editorial likely continues the discussion from a previous article about the Pollachi sexual assault case, focusing on the significance of the court's verdict in bringing closure and restoring faith in the justice system for the survivors.

• Trumpeting claims: Donald Trump's exaggerated claims undermine India's Kashmir policy: This article likely continues to critique the statements made by the former US President regarding Kashmir, arguing that his inaccurate pronouncements complicate India's diplomatic stance and policy on the region.

• Justice B.R. Gavai takes over as CJI for a six-month tenure: This article likely provides more details about Justice B.R. Gavai assuming the position of Chief Justice of India, highlighting his background, expected focus areas during his short tenure, and the significance of his role in the judiciary.
• CJI-led Bench to hear arguments on Waqf law the entire day on May 20: A bench led by the Chief Justice of India is scheduled to hear arguments on the provisions of the Waqf (Amendment) Act, 2025, for the entire day on May 20, indicating the importance and complexity of the legal challenge.
• Bench to hear pleas against Waqf law today: A separate report mentions that a Bench of Chief Justice of India B.R. Gavai and Justice Augustine George Mashih is scheduled to hear pleas challenging the Waqf (Amendment) Act, 2025, on the current day.

• India should sanction Turkiye, says RSS outfit: This article likely elaborates on the Swadeshi Jagran Manch's (SJM) demand for economic sanctions against Turkey and a boycott of Turkish goods, providing further context and reasons for their stance.
• Indian team in UN to present evidence on Pahalgam attack: This report likely gives more details about the Indian technical team's mission to the United Nations to present evidence related to the Pahalgam terror attack to the 1267 Sanctions Committee, including the expected focus and objectives.
• Govt. postpones credentials ceremony featuring new Ambassador of Turkiye: The Indian government has reportedly postponed the credentials ceremony for Turkey's new Ambassador, amidst the calls for sanctions and a boycott from the RSS-affiliated SJM.
• Govt. revokes security clearance for Turkish ground handling firm: The government has also revoked the security clearance for a Turkish ground handling service provider operating at Indian airports, citing national security concerns in light of the SJM's campaign and broader diplomatic tensions.

• Diplomatic outreach to woo the government and civil society groups to present India's case: The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) is reportedly undertaking a multi-pronged diplomatic outreach to engage with governments and civil society groups across various countries to present India's perspective on recent developments, likely including the situation on the border and counter-terrorism efforts.
• Jaishankar speaks with Taliban's Acting Foreign Minister: India's External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar reportedly had a conversation with the Taliban's Acting Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi, discussing the situation in Afghanistan and matters of mutual concern, indicating a continued engagement despite the lack of formal recognition.

• ISRO set to launch Earth observation satellite using PSLV rocket on Sunday: The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) is scheduled to launch its EOS-09 Earth observation satellite aboard a PSLV-C61/EOS-09 rocket on Sunday from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota. The satellite aims to enhance India's surveillance capabilities. ISRO is also collaborating with JAXA (Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency) on the Chandrayaan-5/LUPEX lunar exploration mission.

• U.S. close to a deal on Iran's nuclear programme: Reports suggest that the U.S. and Iran are nearing a deal regarding Iran's nuclear programme, with discussions focusing on Tehran limiting its highly enriched uranium in exchange for some sanctions relief.
• Israeli air strikes in Gaza kill 103, say rescue workers: Palestinian rescue workers reported that Israeli air strikes on Gaza have killed 103 people following a U.S.-backed ceasefire. Gaza's civil defence agency stated that a large number of casualties remain under the rubble.

• ₹49.8 lakh: Amount approved to reconstruct fire-gutted shops at Dilli Haat.
• 187: Number of startups approved for income tax exemption benefits.
• 0.5%: The drop in U.S. wholesale prices in the month of April.
• ₹1,400 crore: Amount approved by the Delhi Cabinet for the CM Delhi Infrastructure Development Fund.
• 200: Number of training jets Japan grounded after a crash.
• 10 million euros: The amount pledged by France for the repair of Chernobyl.
• 1.023 billion dollars: Amount Pakistan received from the IMF in its second tranche.
• 190: Drivers to undergo disaster management training in Himachal Pradesh.
• 24%: Managerial positions held by women in India's private sector.
• 31: Maoists killed in the 21-day action at Karregutta hills.