R2R NEWSPAPER NOTES

BATCHES START EVERY 1ST & 15TH of month. Referred articles were published in The Hindu.

• Global Economic Landscape:
  • The global economy is undergoing a significant transformation marked by shifts in trade policies and continuing geopolitical tensions.
  • Bilateral trade agreements are under review, leading to uncertainty.
  • Global trade dynamics are evolving rapidly, impacting investment and trade.
  • Businesses need to adapt to long-term uncertainties in the supply chain and higher transaction costs.
• India's Economic Position:
  • India is the fifth-largest destination for nearly one-fifth of U.S. merchandise exports.
  • Uncertainties in the tariff regime impact businesses exporting sectors like garments, gems and jewellery, pharmaceuticals, auto components, and electronics.
  • India's dependence on the U.S. market is very high.
  • MSMEs (Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises) face challenges in making their exports viable.
• Possible Issues and Solutions:
  • India's reciprocal tariffs remain uncertain, impacting its negotiating position in trade deals.
  • The U.S. imposition of reciprocal tariffs is a concern.
  • New Delhi's assessment of whether Indian exporters receive competitive advantages from various trade regimes is crucial.
  • Mr. Harsha Vardhan Agarwal, President of the Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce & Industry (FICCI), highlights the expected limited impact of these tariffs due to India's external economy, high contribution of services exports, high remittances, adequate forex reserves, and low current account deficit.
  • Policy planning by exporters needs to consider these uncertainties.
  • Medium-to-long term opportunity involves developing global supply chains, requiring a restructuring of trade offers.
  • India needs a three-pronged strategy to manage external shocks, ensure domestic economic resilience, and leverage its window of opportunity.
  • Bilateral Trade Agreement (BTA) negotiations with the U.S. are crucial, ensuring no tariffs on sectors critical to India's interests.
  • Addressing non-tariff barriers (NTBs) is critical for bilateral trade balance.
• Expedite Reforms:
  • Production Linked Incentive (PLI) schemes should be expanded to include other potential sectors like wearables and wearables IoT devices, and battery raw materials.
  • Scaling up manufacturing, attracting investment, and building self-reliance are key.
  • Strategic trade negotiations and structural reforms are crucial for weather disruptions.
  • India aims to become a global manufacturing hub and an integral part of global supply chains.

• Background and Objective:
  • Operation Sindoor, launched after the 22 April 2025 terror attack and India's response, is a proactive diplomatic and political strategy.
  • Its goal is to mobilize global support for India's counter-terrorism efforts and strengthen its international standing.
  • The initiative seeks to correct false narratives and ensure global understanding of India's position.
  • Shashi Tharoor, a renowned Indian politician, highlights India's evolving global outreach.
• Diplomatic Engagements:
  • India has engaged in bilateral and multilateral diplomacy across 57 countries, including the G-7, European Union, BIMSTEC, ASEAN, and others.
  • Prominent diplomatic visits by President Droupadi Murmu and External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar have occurred.
  • The strategy involves emphasizing India's resilience and right to self-defense against terrorism.
  • India is keen to foster deeper engagement with countries like Paraguay, Bolivia, Colombia, Brazil, and the UN General Assembly.
• Core Principles and Outcomes:
  • India's foreign policy is characterized by pragmatism, realism, and a focus on national interests.
  • The "T' and Indian Strategy" outlines a future-forward approach, emphasizing technology, innovation, and global collaboration.
  • India aims to promote itself as a knowledge economy and contributor to global stability.
  • The initiative seeks to strengthen economic partnerships and address security concerns.
  • India advocates for a just and equitable global order.
  • Prime Minister Narendra Modi's energy has driven diplomatic efforts.
  • The "Voice of Diplomacy" has been key, enabling India to communicate its position effectively.

• Expansion of Higher Education:
  • The post-Second World War saw a massive expansion in higher education, leading to a growing number of young people attending college.
  • The physical infrastructure and human capital of higher education institutions (HEIs) struggled to keep pace.
  • The 21st century is witnessing a renewed focus on quality and access to higher education.
• Opportunities for Foreign Universities in India:
  • The UGC (Setting Up and Operation of Campuses of Foreign Higher Educational Institutions in India) Regulations, 2023 (FHED) enable foreign universities to establish campuses in India.
  • Seven universities from the U.S., U.K., Australia, and Canada are reportedly in the process of obtaining necessary approvals.
  • GIFT City and Navi Mumbai are potential locations for these campuses.
  • Benefits include increased competition, diverse educational opportunities, and potential to improve the quality of Indian HEIs.
• Challenges and Concerns:
  • India's young population and a relatively low gross enrollment ratio (GER) for higher education pose challenges.
  • Less than 30% of students currently pursue higher education.
  • India has a mixed record with previous experiences of foreign universities.
  • First-tier universities in the U.S., U.K., and Canada, along with Australian and European countries, have historically been reliant on international students for revenue.
  • Australia and Canada have seen a significant reduction in international student numbers due to stricter visa regulations.
  • Redundancies in their home campuses have prompted them to seek new revenue sources in India.
  • Pushkar, the International Centre Goa (IGC) director, suggests that branch campuses will offer foreign degrees at home.
  • The immediate to medium-term impact on foreign students is expected to be limited.
• Key Figures:
  • In 2023, 27% of total enrollments at U.K. universities were international students.
  • 24% in Australia and 30% in Canada were international.
  • Only 6% of enrollments at U.S. universities were international students.
  • The global North embarked on a massive expansion of higher education in the post-Second World War.

• U.S. Military Action:
  • The U.S. attacked Iran, striking three nuclear sites in response to Iran's "cross a red big line."
  • President Donald Trump asserted the U.S.'s right to self-defense.
  • B-2 Spirit Stealth bomber was used in the attacks.
  • The strikes involved a combination of "fully obliterated" and "completely obliterated" three nuclear sites.
  • The targets included Iran's Natanz, Fordow, and Isfahan enrichment sites.
  • On June 13, 2025, a significant escalation occurred in the Middle East conflict between Israel and Iran, with Israel launching a large-scale military operation against Iranian nuclear and military facilities. This operation, dubbed "Operation Rising Lion," involved numerous Israeli fighter jets and resulted in strikes on Iranian nuclear enrichment facilities, missile factories, and the deaths of several Iranian military commanders, including the head of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps. Iran retaliated with missile and drone strikes on Israeli territory, according to news reports.
  • The attacks were reported to involve 💣 GBU-57 MOP (Massive Ordnance Penetrator) dropped from B-2 bombers. 
    
• Iran's Response and Status:
  • Iran's Foreign Minister stated there was "no immediate signs of radioactive contamination".
  • Iran declared it would continue its right to self-defence.
  • Iran's parliament voted to close the Strait of Hormuz in response to the attacks.
  • The Strait of Hormuz is one of the world's most important oil trade routes.
  • PM Calls for "Immediate De-escalation" of Conflict.
• International Reactions:
  • The UN nuclear watchdog had been monitoring Iran's nuclear program.
  • There were mixed reactions to the strikes, with some advocating for peace and others for war.
  • President Trump faced criticism for his actions against Iran.
  • Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu supported the strikes, highlighting the need to halt Iran's nuclear program.
• Key Nuclear Sites and Features:
  • Fordow: Iran's most heavily fortified nuclear site, built deep beneath a mountain.
  • Natanz: Iran's largest uranium enrichment facility.
  • Isfahan: Iran's nuclear research site.

• Donald Trump's Foreign Policy:
  • Donald Trump is characterized as a "warmonger" and "global aggressor" rather than a peacemaker.
  • His policies have made the world more dangerous.
  • Trump unilaterally withdrew from the Iran nuclear agreement (JCPOA).
  • He escalated tensions with Iran, including military strikes on Iranian nuclear facilities on June 13.
  • His administration implemented sanctions and engaged in bellicose rhetoric against Iran.
  • Trump's actions are seen as leading to a "catastrophic worse" for the region.
• Consequences of Trump's Policies:
  • The withdrawal from the JCPOA led to Iran restarting its nuclear program.
  • The situation has pushed Iran to rebuild its nuclear program, making it more dangerous.
  • The region has plunged into a "catastrophic abyss".
  • Trump's actions have undermined international stability.
  • His policies are seen as contributing to global disarray.
• Specific Incidents and Claims:
  • Trump claimed the Ukraine war would never have started under his watch.
  • He deployed U.S. troops to the Middle East and Iran.
  • The killing of General Qassem Soleimani was a key event.
  • He also mentioned interventions in Afghanistan, Libya, and Iraq.
  • Trump's administration claimed that Iran did not have an active weapons program in 2003.

NEWS IN SHORTS

1. Indian Economy's Resilience and Challenges Amidst Global Headwinds

This article discusses the Indian economy's resilience despite global challenges like supply chain disruptions and geopolitical tensions. While India has shown robust growth, concerns persist regarding inflation, trade deficits, and the need for structural reforms to sustain momentum. The article highlights the government's efforts in boosting manufacturing and infrastructure, but also points out challenges such as job creation and income inequality. Experts emphasize the importance of policy consistency and attracting foreign investment to maintain India's position as a growing economic power.

2. Boosting Tourism in India: Challenges and Opportunities

This news piece focuses on the efforts to boost tourism in India, particularly highlighting the potential of lesser-known destinations and the need for improved infrastructure. The article mentions initiatives to promote cultural and eco-tourism, but also addresses challenges like limited connectivity, lack of proper facilities in some regions, and the need for better marketing strategies. Stakeholders are optimistic about India's diverse offerings attracting more international and domestic tourists with sustained government and private sector collaboration.

3. Fintech Revolutionizing India's Financial Landscape

This article explores the rapid growth of the fintech sector in India, driven by increasing digital adoption and supportive government policies. It highlights how fintech companies are democratizing financial services, offering innovative solutions for payments, lending, and investment, especially to underserved populations. While acknowledging the immense potential, the article also touches upon challenges such as regulatory complexities, data security concerns, and the need for financial literacy to ensure equitable growth and protect consumers in the evolving digital financial ecosystem.

4. India's Digital Public Infrastructure: A Global Model

This article praises India's digital public infrastructure (DPI), particularly initiatives like Aadhaar, UPI, and the Open Network for Digital Commerce (ONDC), as a global model for financial inclusion and digital transformation. It highlights how these platforms have facilitated seamless digital transactions, expanded access to credit, and fostered innovation. While acknowledging the successes, the article also notes challenges such as ensuring data privacy, bridging the digital divide, and scaling these initiatives to reach every citizen effectively, ensuring equitable access and benefits.

5. Decoding India's Economic Trajectory

This article provides an in-depth analysis of India's economic trajectory, discussing both its strengths and areas needing improvement. It highlights India's robust consumption, growing digital economy, and significant foreign direct investment inflows. However, it also points out challenges like persistent inflation, global supply chain disruptions, and the need for sustained structural reforms. The article emphasizes that while India is poised for continued growth, addressing issues like unemployment and increasing private investment will be crucial for achieving its long-term economic aspirations.

6. India's Position in Global Geopolitics: Balancing Acts and Strategic Partnerships

This article examines India's evolving role in global geopolitics, highlighting its strategic partnerships and its approach to maintaining a balance amidst major power rivalries. It discusses India's engagement in various international forums and its efforts to diversify its alliances while safeguarding its national interests. The article also touches upon the challenges India faces, such as regional security concerns, economic pressures, and the need to navigate complex diplomatic terrains to assert its influence effectively on the global stage.

7. Advancements in Indian Healthcare: Challenges and Opportunities

This article discusses significant advancements in India's healthcare sector, particularly in digital health, telemedicine, and medical tourism. It highlights initiatives aimed at improving accessibility and affordability, especially in remote areas. However, challenges persist, including inadequate public health spending, shortage of skilled professionals, and disparities in healthcare access between urban and rural regions. The article emphasizes the need for continued investment, policy reforms, and public-private partnerships to build a more robust and equitable healthcare system for all.

8. India's Energy Transition: Navigating Renewable Goals and Fossil Fuel Dependence

This article explores India's complex energy transition, focusing on its ambitious renewable energy targets alongside its continued reliance on fossil fuels. It highlights the rapid growth in solar and wind power capacity and the government's push for green hydrogen. However, challenges include the intermittency of renewables, grid modernization, and the financial viability of transitioning away from coal. The article underscores the need for balanced policies and significant investment to meet India's energy demands sustainably while achieving its climate goals.