R2R NEWSPAPER NOTES

R2R SSB BATCHES START EVERY 1ST & 15TH of month. Referred articles were published in The Hindu.

1. Assam, Mizoram Draft Rules to Curb Illegal Immigration

• Identity Documents for Myanmar Nationals: North-eastern states are toughening identification documents to curb cross-border movements of Bangladeshi and Myanmar nationals.
• Aadhaar Card Issuance: Assam's government decided to allow District Commissioners (DCs) to issue Aadhaar cards to adult citizens only, after verifying their identity and eligibility.
• Preventing Illegal Immigration: Mizoram's government plans to retain identity cards of Myanmar nationals to regulate movement across the border, aimed at preventing individuals from acquiring identity documents for illegal immigration.
• Challenges in Detection: Detecting and pushing back illegal immigrants will be difficult if they don't possess valid documents.
• Past Influx: In September 2024, four Assam districts had more Aadhaar cardholders than their projected population, indicating a significant influx of illegal immigrants. 30,000 more illegal Bangladeshi immigrants were pushed back previously.
• Aadhaar Saturation: Already 100% Aadhaar coverage achieved in adult populations of North-eastern states.
• Mizoram's Stance: Mizoram Chief Minister Lalduhoma proposed the confiscation of identity cards from Myanmar nationals who crossed over due to the civil war. He advocated for a clear policy on handling these immigrants.

• SDG Ranking: India ranks 110th out of 157 countries in the Sustainable Development Report, an improvement from 159 countries in 2016. This indicates progress but also the need for sustained efforts.  According to the latest Sustainable Development Report (SDR) 2025 by the UN Sustainable Development Solutions Network, India ranks 99th in the SDG Index out of 167 countries, marking its first time in the top 100. This is a significant improvement from its previous rankings, such as 109th in 2024, 112th in 2023, 121st in 2022, and 120th in 2021.
• Poverty Reduction (SDG 1): India has shown better progress in poverty reduction compared to its GDP estimation. However, proxy data suggests a considerable poverty reduction (22% in 2022 based on NSSO data, 12% in 2012 based on World Bank).
• Zero Hunger (SDG 2): Remains a concern due to disparities in income and access to nutritious diets. 35.5% of Indian women (2019-21) were stunted, a slight improvement from 38.4% (NFHS-4, 2015-16). Obesity in the working age population has almost doubled between 2006 and 2021.
• Clean Energy (SDG 7): India has achieved near universal household electrification. The country is the fourth largest renewables capacity deployer, especially in solar and wind.
• Infrastructure & Digital Payments: Significant improvements in physical infrastructure and UPI-linked digital payments have been made.
• Governance (SDG 16) Lagging: India's performance in governance and independent institutions has been lagging, which is crucial for achieving overall SDG targets.

• China-Pakistan-Bangladesh Nexus: The article highlights the emergence of a China-Pakistan-Bangladesh trilateral engagement, posing a new challenge for India's foreign policy.
• Deepening Ties: This trilateral engagement has seen deepening military, economic, and political ties.
• Chinese Influence: China's influence is growing through its Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), with significant investments in Pakistan and Bangladesh. Bangladesh has borrowed over $20 billion from China, and over 80% of Pakistan's arms imports are from China.
• Security Concerns for India: This nexus raises concerns for India's security, particularly regarding counter-terrorism platforms and potential encirclement.
• Historical Context: The 1962 war between India and China shaped regional alignments. Pakistan's consistent hostility towards India has further complicated regional dynamics.
• India's Response: India aims to strengthen its own capabilities and foster strong bilateral ties with neighboring countries to counter this challenge.
• Economic Aspects: The China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) is a key component of this trilateral, linking China to Pakistan and enhancing regional connectivity.
• Nepal's Role: Nepal's shifting foreign policy, influenced by China, is a concern for India.
• Outlook: The emergence of this trilateral is seen as a long-term challenge for India, requiring careful diplomatic and strategic engagement to prevent further erosion of its regional influence.

NEWS IN SHORTS

1. India Trying for U.S. Trade Deal by July 8 Deadline

India and the U.S. are negotiating a "mini trade deal" with a July 8 deadline, focusing on reciprocal tariffs. Key issues include India's retaliatory tariffs on US products like almonds and apples, and US tariffs on steel and aluminium. Both sides aim to remove trade barriers, with discussions covering agricultural goods and dairy. The deal is expected to ease trade tensions, although experts express concerns about potential negative impacts on Indian farmers and the dairy sector.

2. India, China to Continue Dialogue to Achieve Progress on Border Issues

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh met with his Chinese counterpart, Admiral Dong Jun, at the SCO Defence Ministers' meeting in Qingdao. Discussions focused on easing tensions along the LAC and other border-related issues. Both ministers acknowledged the need for continued dialogue to resolve outstanding issues and maintain peace. The meeting aimed to build trust and strengthen bilateral ties, with a focus on resolving border disputes and enhancing regional stability.

3. Missed Opportunity: India Should Convince SCO to Take a Strong Stance Against Terrorism

India opted out of a joint communiqué at the SCO Defence Ministers' meeting due to concerns about references to Pakistan in the context of terrorism. India advocates a strong stance against terrorism, emphasizing that the SCO charter supports "mutual intra-regional efforts to curb terrorism." The decision highlights India's ongoing diplomatic efforts to counter cross-border terrorism and ensure its concerns are adequately addressed in international forums.

4. 'I Saved Iran's Khamenei From Ignominious Death': Trump

President Donald Trump claimed he saved Iranian Ayatollah Ali Khamenei from an "ignominious death," declaring he would order more bombing if Iran continues to enrich nuclear-weapons-grade uranium. Trump criticized Iran's ingratitude despite his alleged actions. Iran's Foreign Minister is set to resume nuclear talks, with Trump indicating negotiations could begin soon. The statements come amidst heightened tensions and ongoing efforts to de-escalate the situation.

5. Practising Equality in Constitutional Courts

A recent Supreme Court decision on judicial appointments aims to promote equality in constitutional courts, addressing concerns about the lack of diversity. The ruling emphasizes fair representation for women, marginalized groups, and other disadvantaged sections. The decision also calls for transparency and accountability in the appointment process. While challenges remain, the move is seen as a significant step towards a more inclusive judiciary, addressing historical imbalances in the legal profession.

6. Cong. Seeks Clarity on Trade Talks After Trump's Remarks

The Congress party has sought clarity from the Union government regarding trade negotiations with the U.S. after President Donald Trump's remarks about a "very big deal." Opposition leaders are questioning the extent of the agreement and its potential impact on India. They are pressing the government to disclose details about the negotiations and ensure transparency in the trade deal, especially concerning agricultural products.

7. Israeli Strike Kills at Least 18 Palestinians in Central Gaza & U.S. Supreme Court Curbs Judges' Power on Citizenship

An Israeli strike in central Gaza killed at least 18 Palestinians, many of whom were seeking food aid. The incident sparked turmoil and protests over humanitarian conditions in Gaza.Separately, the U.S. Supreme Court curbed the power of federal judges to grant broad legal relief, specifically overturning a directive that allowed Trump's executive order on citizenship to take effect immediately. The ruling specifies a 30-day delay, impacting over 50,000 newborns annually who would otherwise gain citizenship.

8. Three Men Held for Gang Rape on Law College Campus in Kolkata

Three men, including a former student and a current student, have been arrested in connection with the alleged gang rape of a law student on a college campus in Kolkata. The incident occurred on June 25, and the victim filed a complaint leading to the arrests. The National Commission for Women has taken cognizance of the crime. The incident has sparked protests and raised concerns about safety and security for women in public spaces and educational institutions.