24 April Newspaper Notes

Jai Hind Warriors!

Here are the important article notes for the day.

1. Indus Waters Treaty Put on Hold Amid Tensions

Background

• India and Pakistan have followed the Indus Waters Treaty since 1960, concerning river water sharing.
• In light of the recent Pahalgam terror attack that killed 26, the Indian government reassessed its diplomatic stance.

The Situation Now

• India has suspended the treaty “with immediate effect,” citing cross-border terrorist linkages.
• Measures include:

1. Closure of the Attari border checkpost.
2. Suspension of visa exemptions for Pakistani nationals.
3. Pakistani citizens in India asked to return by May 1.
4. Withdrawal of diplomatic and advisory staff from both countries.

• An all-party meeting was convened to discuss the developments.

Way Forward

• India awaits credible and irreversible action from Pakistan to curb terrorism.
• Diplomatic engagements will be limited until further notice.
• Long-term water-sharing policies may undergo strategic revision.

2. Air Pollution in India — Breaking Down the Sources

Background

• India suffers from severe air pollution, causing over a million premature deaths annually.
• Primary pollutants include sulphur dioxide (SO₂), nitrogen oxides (NOₓ), black carbon, and methane.

The Situation Now

• Key emission contributors:
• Sulphur dioxide: Industry and energy production.
• Nitrogen oxides: Transport and energy sectors.
• Black carbon: Building heating and fossil fuel usage.
• Methane: Agriculture and waste.
• Ammonia: Agricultural fertilizers.
• Domestic sources play a significant role in urban air degradation.

Way Forward

• Shift towards clean energy sources.
• Regulate agricultural practices and vehicular emissions.
• Invest in public awareness and pollution-control infrastructure.

3. Teen Mental Health Crisis: Digital Overload and No Play

Background

• A global mental health crisis is unfolding among teens, worsened by post-COVID pressures and academic stress.
• Social isolation, exam anxiety, and climate fear are fueling anxiety.

The Situation Now

• Key factors:
• Disappearance of unsupervised play.
• High exposure to smartphones and social media.
• Constant family conflict over screen time.
• Experts advocate limiting phone usage before high school and promoting reading and independence.

Way Forward

• Encourage reading habits to nurture imagination and emotional IQ.
• Make children’s books affordable and accessible.
• Foster a culture of balanced tech use and outdoor activities.

4. Global Condemnation of Pahalgam Terror Attack

Background

• A deadly terrorist attack in Pahalgam, J&K claimed 26 Indian lives, including tourists.
• Global leaders reacted swiftly in support of India.

The Situation Now

• Condolences and condemnations poured in from leaders of the US, UK, Russia, Australia, France, and Sri Lanka.
• Leaders labeled the attack as “brutal,” “devastating,” and “cowardly.”
• Countries expressed solidarity and called for justice and accountability.

Way Forward

• Strengthened international cooperation on counter-terrorism.
• Diplomatic channels to remain engaged to pressurize enablers of terrorism.
• Continued support to victims’ families and internal security tightening.