Feb 20th 2025 Current Affairs

Index:

1. Eroding Federalism – Central Funding & NEP

Context

The Union Government withheld Tamil Nadu’s share of Samagra Shiksha funds for rejecting the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020.
Tamil Nadu has long opposed the three-language formula, adhering instead to a two-language policy (Tamil & English).
The issue raises concerns about cooperative federalism and State autonomy in education policy.

Key Issues

Samagra Shiksha Scheme & Withholding of Funds

Samagra Shiksha (since 2018-19) merged:
Sarva Shiksha Abhiyan (SSA)
Rashtriya Madhyamik Shiksha Abhiyan (RMSA)
Teacher Education programmes
Tamil Nadu has been denied ₹2,152 crore in funds, affecting 40 lakh students & 32,000 staff members.
The Centre insists that funds will be released only if Tamil Nadu implements NEP in “letter and spirit”.

Three-Language Formula & Tamil Nadu’s Opposition

Tamil Nadu follows a two-language policy (Tamil & English) since 1968.
Successive governments in Tamil Nadu have opposed the imposition of Hindi, citing cultural and linguistic autonomy.
The Centre’s insistence on adopting Tamil, English, and a regional language has sparked resistance.

Federalism & Constitutional Concerns

Education is in the Concurrent List, requiring flexibility & cooperation between Centre and States.
Tamil Nadu questions which constitutional provision mandates the three-language formula.
Allegations that the Centre is using financial control to force States into compliance, undermining cooperative federalism.

Arguments & Implications

Undermining Cooperative Federalism

States are equal stakeholders in central schemes, and coercive policies foster resentment.
A one-size-fits-all approach in education disregards regional diversity & autonomy.

Linking Central Funds with NEP Implementation

Risk: Setting a precedent where Centre controls States through financial allocations.
Alternative Approach: Decoupling Samagra Shiksha from NEP and linking funds to performance indicators

Policy Recommendations for Tamil Nadu

Tamil Nadu should finalize its State Education Policy to present an alternative to NEP.

Strengthening education infrastructure & quality without relying solely on Central funding.

2. U.S.-Russia Talks on Ending the Ukraine War

Context

Russia and the U.S. agreed to initiate talks aimed at ending the war in Ukraine and improving diplomatic and economic ties.
The meeting took place in Riyadh, attended by S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov.

Key Objectives of the Talks

Restoring embassy staffing in Washington and Moscow.
Creating a high-level team to support Ukraine peace talks.
Expanding diplomatic and economic cooperation between the U.S. and Russia.

Statements from Officials

S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio emphasized that the talks were a starting point and more discussions would be needed.
Russian Foreign Minister Lavrov called the talks “very useful” and stressed the need for regular consultations on Ukraine.

Ukraine’s Absence & Concerns

No Ukrainian representatives attended the meeting.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy stated that Kyiv would not accept any outcome if it is not included in the negotiations.
European allies expressed concerns about being sidelined in the discussions.

Geopolitical Implications

The U.S. sees potential economic and geopolitical cooperation with Russia if the war ends in a way beneficial to global stability.
Strategic realignment could impact global power structures, trade, and security alliances.

3. KIIT Row – Death of Nepalese Student & Eviction of Foreign Students

Context

A third-year B.Tech student Prakriti Lamsal from Nepal was found dead at Kalinga Institute of Industrial Technology (KIIT), Bhubaneswar.
The incident led to protests by Nepalese students, followed by their alleged forced eviction from the campus.
Odisha government ordered a probe into the circumstances of the death and university’s actions.

Key Issues

Death of the Student

The student’s body was found in her hostel room under mysterious circumstances.
Police registered two cases—one related to the girl’s death and another on the assault and harassment of foreign students by private security personnel and others.

Eviction of Nepalese Students

Over 500 students from Nepal were allegedly forced to leave KIIT and dropped at Cuttack railway station.
This led to a widespread outcry and demands for action against KIIT authorities.

Government Action

Three-member probe committee was set up to investigate the death and university’s handling of the situation.
Odisha Higher Education Minister Suryabanshi Suraj placed some university officials under suspension.
KIIT was directed to facilitate the return of evicted students and provide counseling.

Nepal Government’s Reaction

Nepal’s Ministry of Education, Science, and Technology warned that it may stop issuing No-Objection Certificates (NOC) for Nepalese students to study in Odisha if the issue is not resolved fairly.
Nepal’s diplomatic officials are engaging with Indian authorities for a just resolution.

Key Concerns & Implications

Human Rights & Student Safety

Allegations of assault on foreign students raise concerns about the safety of international students in Indian private universities.
Due process was allegedly not followed in handling the student’s death or the eviction.

Diplomatic & Bilateral Relations

Nepal’s protest over the treatment of its students could strain India-Nepal educational ties.
The issue could impact foreign student admissions in Indian institutions.

Education & Institutional Autonomy

Highlights concerns over accountability in private universities in India.
Raises the need for better regulations on handling international students in private institutions.

4. Agricultural Protectionism & India's Import Tariffs

Context

India’s import tariffs are five times higher than the U.S. and the highest among BRICS nations.
The average import tariff in India (2023) was 17%, compared to 3.3% in the U.S.
Protectionist policies in agriculture contribute to higher tariff rates.

Key Highlights

India’s Import Tariff Trends

India has the highest tariff rates among BRICS nations:
India – 17%
Brazil – 11%
South Africa & China – 7%
Russia – 6.6%
EU – 3%
The number of tariff lines (categories taxed) remains comparable to the U.S.

Sector-wise Tariff Analysis

Agriculture: Import tariffs remain very high (39%) to protect domestic farmers.
Non-Agriculture: Tariffs have fallen to 13.5% but remain twice the U.S. level.
Highest Tariff Sectors (2023):
Beverages & tobacco (74.5%)
Oils, fats (60.1%)
Sugars & confectionery (51.5%)
Dairy products (37.8%)

Trade Relations & Impact on Exports

India’s exports to the U.S. have increased, reaching 6% of total exports.
Higher import tariffs discourage foreign investment and limit India’s global competitiveness.
Donald Trump’s administration pressured India to lower tariffs, particularly on dairy and agricultural products.

Arguments For & Against High Import Tariffs

Arguments in Favor:

Protects domestic industries & farmers.
Encourages self-reliance (Atmanirbhar Bharat).
Reduces dependency on foreign goods.

Arguments Against:

Hinders global trade & competitiveness.
Raises costs for consumers.
Affects foreign investment & WTO compliance.

Way Forward

Gradual Tariff Reduction for non-essential agricultural products.
Bilateral Trade Agreements with the U.S. & EU to ease tariff barriers.
Boost Domestic Production through technology & infrastructure rather than protectionism.
Strengthen WTO Negotiations to balance self-sufficiency & trade liberalization.

5. India-Qatar Strategic Partnership

Key Highlights

India and Qatar signed an agreement to elevate their relationship to a strategic partnership.
The agreement aims to enhance cooperation in trade, investment, energy, and security.
Both sides are exploring the possibility of a Bilateral Free Trade Agreement (FTA) between India and the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC).
A Double Taxation Avoidance Agreement (DTAA) was signed.

Context and Background

Qatar is a major energy supplier to India.
The meeting between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Emir Sheikh Tamim Bin Hamad Al-Thani covered various regional and global issues, including the Israel-Palestine conflict.

India-GCC FTA

Ongoing negotiations for an India-GCC Free Trade Agreement.
India is considering a bilateral FTA with Qatar, separate from the larger GCC agreement.

Bilateral Trade Relations

Total bilateral trade stands at $28 billion.
38 Qatari entities from sectors like retail, finance, and energy participated in discussions.

Security and Strategic Component

The agreement includes a security component, though the timeline for implementation remains unclear.

Challenges

The case of Purnendu Tiwary, an ex-Indian Navy commander, who remains in Qatari custody despite the release of seven other detainees from the same case.

Significance

Strengthens India’s energy security and trade relations with the Gulf region.
Expands India’s diplomatic and strategic footprint in West Asia.
Potential economic benefits through trade agreements.

6. Reciprocal Tariffs & US-India Trade Relations

Context and Background

The U.S., under President Donald Trump, introduced reciprocal tariffs to address what it viewed as unfair trade practices.
The policy aimed to ensure that if a country imposed high tariffs on American goods, the U.S. would impose equivalent tariffs on that country’s exports.
India, as a key trade partner of the U.S., was specifically mentioned in Trump’s announcement.

Key Features of the Reciprocal Tariff Policy

Concept: If a foreign country imposes a tariff on U.S. goods, the U.S. will impose an equal tariff in return.
Objective: To create a level playing field for American businesses and reduce trade imbalances.
Implementation: The U.S. government would evaluate tariff rates of trading partners and adjust U.S. tariffs accordingly.

U.S.-India Trade Relations and Tariff Issues

India’s Tariff Structure

India has historically imposed high tariffs on certain U.S. imports, especially in sectors like automobiles and electronics.
For instance, high tariffs on American motorcycles (such as Harley-Davidson) were a point of contention between Trump and Modi.

U.S. Response

Trump argued that India’s high tariffs were unfair to U.S. businesses.
The U.S. sought a reciprocal trade deal with India to reduce trade barriers.
India, while engaging in negotiations, expressed concerns over potential economic disruptions.

Political and Economic Implications

For the U.S.

Strengthens Trump’s “America First” trade policy.
May boost American manufacturing by reducing dependency on imports.
However, could invite retaliatory tariffs from affected countries, harming American exporters.

For India

Increased tariffs on Indian exports to the U.S. could hurt industries like textiles, pharmaceuticals, and IT services.
May push India to seek alternative trade alliances or strengthen domestic manufacturing.
Could affect diplomatic relations with the U.S., a key strategic partner.

For Global Trade

Signals a shift towards protectionism, moving away from free trade agreements.
Other countries may adopt similar policies, leading to potential trade wars.
Could slow down global economic growth by disrupting supply chains.

Strategic Considerations for India

Short-Term Approach

Negotiations: Engage in talks with the U.S. to secure trade exemptions or reduced tariffs.
Diversification: Expand trade partnerships with other major economies like the EU and China.

Long-Term Strategy

Self-Reliance (Aatmanirbhar Bharat): Strengthen domestic industries to reduce dependency on exports.
Trade Agreements: Focus on bilateral and regional trade deals to reduce tariff risks.

WTO Involvement: Use international trade bodies to challenge unfair tariff policies.

7. Myanmar, Manipur, and Strained Borders

Context and Background

Northeast India has historically faced insurgency but has seen relative peace in recent years.
The Myanmar military coup in February 2021 led to widespread unrest and armed resistance by the People’s Defence Forces (PDFs) and Ethnic Armed Organisations (EAOs).
The instability in Myanmar has caused an influx of refugees into India, particularly in Manipur and Mizoram.

Key Issues
a) Refugee Influx and Border Security

The India-Myanmar border (1,643 km) is porous, allowing free movement of people, particularly ethnic groups like the Mizo-Chin-Kuki.
Many refugees from Myanmar, especially from Chin, Kachin, and Sagaing regions, have entered Mizoram and Manipur.
This has led to diverse reactions:
Mizoram: Displays empathy towards refugees due to shared ethnic ties.
Manipur: Faces ethnic tensions, as many refugees belong to groups involved in local conflicts.

b) Border Trade and Economic Challenges

The border areas, particularly Moreh in Manipur, were once bustling trade centers. However, the violence and border restrictions have disrupted trade.
The India-Myanmar-Thailand trilateral highway project has also been affected, delaying India’s plans to enhance connectivity to Southeast Asia.

c) Security Concerns

The crisis in Myanmar has strengthened criminal networks, including drug trafficking and arms smuggling, affecting Northeast India’s security.
Armed groups on both sides of the border are using the conflict to expand their influence.
The Government of India has attempted to control refugee movement by reducing the Free Movement Regime (FMR) from 16 km to 1 km.

Diplomatic and Strategic Concerns

India officially communicated to Myanmar about its withdrawal from the Land Border Crossing Agreement, restricting people’s movement.
China’s Role:
China is also witnessing refugee spillover.
It has a strong strategic and economic relationship with Myanmar.
China’s engagement in Myanmar affects India’s regional influence.

Policy Recommendations and Way Forward

Short-Term Measures

Humanitarian Aid: Provide basic healthcare, education, and relief to refugees.
Security Management: Strengthen border control while ensuring a humanitarian approach.
Diplomatic Engagement: Collaborate with Myanmar’s stakeholders to stabilize the region.

Long-Term Solutions

Economic Development: Invest in border trade infrastructure to create economic opportunities.

8. Concerns Over Translocation of African Cheetahs to India

Context and Background

Project Cheetah aims to introduce African cheetahs (Acinonyx jubatus) into India to revive the extinct species in the region.
Under this project, 20 cheetahs (8 from Namibia in September 2022 and 12 from South Africa in February 2023) were relocated to Kuno National Park (KNP), Madhya Pradesh.
The initiative has been met with criticism regarding ecological, ethical, and welfare challenges.

Key Concerns Raised by the Centre for Wildlife Studies (CWS)
a) High Mortality Rate and Health Issues

40%-50% mortality rate in the first phase, much lower than the expected 85% survival rate.
Cheetahs are experiencing high levels of stress, requiring over 90 chemical immobilisations and frequent veterinary interventions.
This raises concerns about their physical and mental health.

b) Ethical and Sustainability Challenges

Cheetah populations in Africa are already under stress, with only around 6,500 mature individuals left in the wild.
The project relies on a continuous supply of cheetahs from Africa, which is neither ecologically sustainable nor ethical.
Keeping all imported cheetahs in captivity before release further adds to their distress.

c) Ignoring Local Ecological Factors

Kuno National Park may not be an ideal habitat due to factors such as prey base, climatic differences, and competition from other predators.
The project does not sufficiently account for the ecological interactions within the Indian environment.

Policy Recommendations and Way Forward
a) Inclusive Conservation Approach

Conservation decisions should be more participatory, involving local communities, ecologists, and wildlife experts.
Understanding the perceptions of local people and their interactions with wildlife is crucial for long-term success.

b) Focus on Shared Spaces and Coexistence

Instead of forcing artificial conservation efforts, policies should promote coexistence between humans and wildlife.

A more holistic conservation strategy should be developed to restore natural ecosystems and protect existing species.