22nd November 2024
Article: 22nd November, 2024
Topic: India-Italy Relations
Relevance: GS Paper: 2 – International Relations
Source: PIB
Context
- On the fringes of the G20 Summit, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his Italian colleague announced the Joint Strategic Action Plan 2025-29.
Important Aspects of the Strategy
- It is a five-year strategic action plan that outlines their goals for working together in several important areas.
- Defense:
- Organizing annual Joint Staff Talks and Joint Defence Consultative sessions.
- Interactions aimed at fostering greater cooperation and interoperability within the context of Italy’s rising interest in the Indo-Pacific area.
- improved collaborations on technology between public and private parties.
- Work with the two countries to negotiate a defense industrial roadmap.
- Economic:
- To boost bilateral trade, take advantage of the efforts of the Italy-India Joint Working Group on Food Processing and the Joint Commission for Economic Cooperation.
- Encourage business alliances, technology hubs, and reciprocal investments in sophisticated manufacturing, semiconductors, infrastructure, and automobiles.
- Connectivity: Enhancing cooperation in land and maritime infrastructure as part of the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor.
- Science and Innovation: Increasing collaboration on important and cutting-edge technologies, creating technology value chain alliances in both nations in areas like telecommunications, AI, and service digitization.
- Space: Increasing collaboration between ISRO and the Italian Space Agency to encompass initiatives of shared interest in heliophysics, space exploration, and Earth observation with a focus on lunar science.
- Energy Transition: Make the International Solar Alliance and the Global Biofuels Alliance stronger.
- Migration & Mobility: Encourage lawful migration routes and equitable and open hiring and training practices.
– The training of medical professionals in India and their subsequent employment in Italy would be covered under a pilot project.
India-Italy Strategic Alliance
- Strategic and diplomatic relations: Ancient civilizations with rich cultural legacies, Italy and India, established diplomatic ties in 1947.
– In 2023, Italy and India upgraded their relationship to a strategic partnership. - Indo-Pacific Region: Following France, Germany, and the Netherlands, Italy is the next European nation to show a strong interest in engagements in the Indo-Pacific region.
- The “India-Italy-Japan” trilateral was established in 2021 with the goal of promoting the Indo-Pacific region’s security, stability, prosperity, and multilateralism.
- Global Forums: Italy joined the “India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor” and the “Global Biofuel Alliance,” two important projects that were introduced on the fringes of the G20 Summit.
- In 2021, while Italy co-chaired COP26 and served as G20 President, the country also became a member of the “International Solar Alliance” (ISA).
- Economically speaking, Italy ranks as India’s fourth-largest commercial partner in the EU. In 2022–2023, bilateral trade reached $14.253 billion, which included $8.691 billion in exports from India. In terms of FDI inflows into India from April 2000 to March 2023, Italy comes in at number 17.
- With shared interests in the maritime realm, the two nations are eager to expand their collaboration in space, marine security, and defense technologies.
- China relations: Italy is becoming increasingly concerned about China in the broader European and Indo-Pacific region.
- Another notable change in policy is Italy’s withdrawal from China’s Belt and Road Initiative.
- Future Prospects: Recent events indicate that both parties are once again interested in the relationship.
- To advance connectivity, stability, energy security, and freedom of navigation in the two maritime regions—and therefore in the larger Indo-Pacific region—India and Italy may take advantage of their strategic locations in the Indian Ocean and the Mediterranean, respectively.
Also Read Topics & Concepts:
Prelims Practice Questions
Q. Consider the following statements
1. India’s third-largest trading partner in Europe is Italy.
2. Metals including steel and iron, leather, chemicals, jewels, and jewellery are among India’s top exports to Italy.
3. The International Solar Alliance counts Italy among its members.
Which of the above statements are correct?
- 1 only
- 2 and 3
- 1 and 2
- 1, 2, 3
Ans: b
Explanation
With FDI hitting the US$2 billion milestone in 2020, Italy ranks as India’s 12th largest foreign investor and its fourth-largest trading partner in Europe.
Metals including steel and iron, leather, chemicals, jewels, and jewelry are among India’s top exports to Italy. Italy joined the successful India-France-led International Solar Alliance in 2021, and the two countries signed a Strategic Partnership on Energy Transition to further cooperation in fields including green hydrogen and biofuels.
Mains Model Questions
Q. In what ways may the Indo-Mediterranean region’s overall geopolitical stability be enhanced by the defense cooperation between India and Italy? Provide pertinent instances to support your points.
| Introduction: In order to handle security issues and increase their geopolitical influence, both countries can benefit from the expanding strategic alliance between Italy and India in the field of defense. Given that both nations operate in vital areas—the Mediterranean Sea and the Indian Ocean—their collaboration, especially in the areas of maritime security and defense technology, fosters reciprocal advantages. As both nations collaborate to address shared issues, this alliance is essential to improving stability in the Indo-Mediterranean area. Body: India-Italy Defense Alliance Defense Agreements: A foundation for closer military relations between the two countries was established in October 2023 with the signing of the bilateral defense cooperation agreement. Joint Naval Exercises: Passage Exercises (PASSEX) improve maritime security capabilities and fortify naval collaboration. Defence Industry Collaboration: To strengthen India’s naval defence manufacturing capabilities, Italian firms like Fincantieri have been working with Cochin Shipyard. Medical and Humanitarian Aid: Defense alliances encompass more than just military cooperation; they also include humanitarian initiatives.Cultural Diplomacy through Defense: The two countries’ cultural exchanges have been made easier by defense cooperation. Maritime Domain Awareness (MDA): By exchanging real-time data, Italy’s participation in the Information Fusion Centre for the Indian Ocean Region (IFC-IOR) improves maritime security. Contribution to geopolitical stability in the Indo-Mediterranean region India and Italy’s cooperation in anti-piracy operations helps to secure important maritime commerce routes in the Indian Ocean and Mediterranean regions. Alignment of Regional Development: By supporting stability and sustained progress in the region, Italy’s Mattei Plan for Africa complements India’s developmental programs. Security in Critical maritime routes: The two navies’ collaboration improves the security of maritime routes of communication, especially in the Indian and Red Seas, which are essential for international trade. Collaboration in safeguarding infrastructure, such as the Blue-Raman Submarine Cables, is essential for maintaining stable digital connectivity between Genoa and Mumbai, which is essential for international communication. Conclusion: By tackling common security issues through maritime cooperation, technology transfer, and cooperative humanitarian efforts, the Italy-India defense collaboration fosters peace and regional development while fortifying geopolitical stability in the Indo-Mediterranean area. |
Article: 22nd November, 2024
Topic: Is imposing tariffs on Chinese imports a good idea?
Relevance: GS Paper: 2 – International Relations
Source: The Hindu
Context
- President Donald Trump intends to resolve the trade deficit between the United States and China and cut unfair subsidies by enacting tariffs of up to 60% on Chinese imports and 10% on EU goods after the United States election.
What effects do tariffs on imports from China have on the economy?
- Higher Domestic Prices: Because tariffs increase the cost of imported goods, American consumers pay more for them. Domestic inflation may result from this, particularly if tariffs are imposed widely on consumer items.
- Impact on Trade Deficit: Tariffs can raise domestic manufacturing costs, which may not entirely offset the higher prices for consumers, but they can also assist close the trade deficit by deterring imports.
- Changes in Consumption: Tariffs have the potential to cause consumers to favor domestically produced goods over imported ones. If output satisfies demand, this could support domestic supply and local industry, hence reducing inflation.
- Global Trade Relations: When tariffs are imposed, impacted nations may respond with retaliatory actions, sparking trade wars that could upset global supply chains and have a detrimental effect on the dynamics of international trade.
What possible reactions might China have to higher tariffs?
- Retaliatory Tariffs: In the past, China has responded to American tariffs by imposing duties on American imports. To increase political effect, this can entail focusing on goods from politically delicate areas or industries in the US.
- Currency manipulation: In order to offset the effects of the U.S. and make its exports more affordable, China may permit the yuan to weaken.
- Increased Domestic Support: To support domestic industries impacted by U.S. tariffs, the Chinese government could enact fiscal stimulus measures, such as exporter subsidies and incentives for home manufacturing.
- Trade Partner Diversification: To lessen its dependency on American markets, China may increase its trade diversification by fortifying its relations with other nations and taking part in regional trade accords that do not include the United States.
Do tariffs accomplish their stated objectives?
- Improvement of the Trade Balance: Tariffs are intended to improve the trade balance by lowering imports, but their effectiveness depends on how consumers behave and if domestic manufacturers can satisfy demand without raising prices significantly.
- Political Repercussions: China’s retaliation may negate the tariffs’ intended benefits, creating a vicious cycle of escalation that might hurt both economies.
- Long-Term Economic Impact: If nations like China are able to successfully react through actions like changing their currency or locating new markets for their products, the long-term economic impact might be minimal.
The way ahead:
- Strengthen Manufacturing and Exports: Increase domestic manufacturing capacity through programs like PLI and concentrate on exporting products that the US needs, like textiles, electronics, and medications.
- Attract International Investments: Make doing business easier, provide tax breaks, and position India as a trustworthy substitute for China in international supply chains and foreign direct investment inflows.
Also Read Topics & Concepts:
Prelims Practice Questions
Q. Consider the following statements
1. Tariffs can be applied as a foreign policy weapon or to safeguard national interests.
2. Tariffs increase the price of imported goods for customers by adding a cost.
Which of the above statements are correct?
- 1 only
- 2 only
- Both 1 and 2
- Neither 1 nor 2
Ans: c
Explanation
By raising the cost of imported items, enticing customers to purchase native goods, and maybe enhancing safety in the event that imports are not adequately regulated, tariffs safeguard domestic consumers.
Tariffs can be applied as a foreign policy weapon or to safeguard national interests. For instance, the United States applied economic pressure during the conflict in Ukraine by imposing tariffs on Russian imports.
Tariffs increase the price of imported goods for customers by adding a cost. This effectively discourages the purchase of foreign goods by shifting consumer spending away from imports and toward home products.
Mains Model Questions
Q. The USA is facing an existential threat in the form of China, that is much more challenging than the erstwhile Soviet Union.” Explain. (UPSC PYQ 2021)
| Introduction: A new Cold War between the two economic superpowers is being discussed as a result of China’s ascent to prominence as a significant global power that threatens the US’s hegemonic position. As a result, the threat that the US faces from China is being compared to the menace that the Soviet Union posed. Body: China’s challenges to the United States in comparison to the former Soviet Union 1. During the Cold War, the Soviet Union’s military superiority and ideological clout allowed it to dominate the Eastern bloc. China, however, competes in governance and administrative structures. 2. Many developing nations find China’s development model and real-world accomplishments more appealing than the Soviet Union’s primarily theoretical promises of communism. Meanwhile, for the previous fifteen years, democracy and freedom have been steadily eroding globally. 3. The Soviet Union could barely coexist with the United States, which it publicly and plainly viewed as its enemy. With the US, China aims to establish a “new model of major-country relationship.” Consequently, the threat becomes more severe and subtle. 4. Unlike the US, China has worked with ruling elites, providing trade and investment opportunities without condemning them for authoritarianism, corruption, or human rights abuses. This is in contrast to the Soviet Union, which sought to promote revolution and regime change. China now has a large number of allies throughout the developing world as a result. 5. The modern global economy is more linked than it was during the Cold War, particularly with China being the top trading partner of many countries, thus an indispensable unit of global trade. 6. China’s economy has continued to grow and is on track to surpass the US as the greatest economy, whereas the Soviet Union depleted its economy while competing with the US in space and defense. 7. While the Soviet Union lost the fight on the technological front long before it ended, China is strategically positioned to benefit from new technology. |
Article: 22nd November, 2024
Topic: The State of the World’s Children 2024
Relevance: GS Paper: 1 – Social Issues
Source: unicef.org
Context
- The State of the World’s Children (SOWC) report was just released by UNICEF.
About Report
- Since its initial publication in 1980, it has made a substantial contribution to the welfare of children worldwide.
- Every SOWC report looks at important topics that affect kids, like early childhood development, urbanization, child labor, disability, and war.
- It offers a thorough examination of worldwide patterns that impact kids.
- Population changes, the climate catastrophe, and disruptive technology are the three main worldwide factors affecting children’s lives that are examined in the most recent flagship study.
Important findings
- Environmental and Climate Risks: Almost 1 billion children reside in nations with significant environmental and climatic hazards.
- Children are especially susceptible to infections (such as dengue, malaria, and Zika), pollution, and harsh weather conditions.
- The effects of climate change include food insecurity, tainted water sources, and mental health conditions including trauma and anxiety.
- Global neonatal survival rates are predicted to increase to nearly 98% by the 2050s.
- There is a 99.5% chance of living until age five.
- Girls are predicted to live to 81 years of age, while boys are expected to live to 76 years.
- Impact of harsh Weather: Since 2022, 400 million kids have experienced school closures as a result of harsh weather, which has hampered economic growth and learning.
- Global Child Population Trends: It is anticipated that there will be about 2.3 billion children worldwide by the 2050s.
- Technological Developments: New vaccines, neurotechnology, renewable energy, and artificial intelligence could all enhance childhoods.
- Socioeconomic Situation: By the 2050s, 23% of children worldwide will reside in low-income nations, more than doubling the percentage from the 2000s.
- Urbanization: Compared to 44% in the 2000s, almost 60% of youngsters will reside in urban areas by the 2050s.
- The digital divide refers to the fact that whereas just 26% of individuals in low-income nations have internet connection, over 95% of people in high-income countries have.
- Particularly in areas where the number of children is increasing quickly, this digital exclusion makes already-existing disparities worse.
Suggestions
- According to UNICEF, the choices made by world leaders now will influence the future that children will inherit.
- The research emphasizes that in order to address upcoming issues and guarantee ongoing advancement, child rights must continue to be at the center of all plans, laws, and initiatives.
- Investments in sustainable urban development, health care, and education must all be increased.
- Bolster infrastructure and critical services’ ability to withstand climate change.
- Make sure all kids have access to technology and can use it safely.
Also Read Topics & Concepts:
Prelims Practice Questions
Q. The news frequently features the “State of the World’s Children Report,” which is published by?
- UNICEF
- UNEP
- UNDP
- WHO
Ans: a
Explanation
“The State of the World’s Children 2024” is the title of UNICEF’s global flagship report.
The most thorough examination of worldwide trends impacting children may be found in this UNICEF report.
Mains Model Questions
Q. How India’s children’s outdoor play opportunities are diminished by climate change.
| Introduction: Children’s opportunities to play outside are being diminished by climate change. It draws attention to the risks posed by extreme weather conditions, such as heat waves, and stresses the necessity of improved urban design and neighbourhood initiatives to guarantee secure play areas for all kids. Body: For children, what is the significance of play? Children’s overall growth depends on play, which improves their creativity, physical and mental health, and social skills. By declaring June 11 to be the International Day of Play, the UN emphasizes how important it is for kids to have the opportunity to play. UNICEF asserts that every child has the fundamental right to play, which is safeguarded under Article 31 of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the child. According to the “Value of Play” research, one in five kids worldwide don’t get enough playtime, and one in ten don’t play outside at all. What Impact Does Climate Change Have on Kids’ Play? Children’s play is greatly impacted by climate change because extreme weather events like heat waves and floods make outdoor spaces dangerous and inaccessible. India’s high sensitivity to climate impacts is indicated by its ranking of 26 out of 163 on UNICEF’s Children’s Climate Risk Index (CCRI) 2021, which puts children at greater risk. According to a UNICEF report, the majority of children in South Asia are exposed to harsh temperatures, which restricts their chances of playing outside and interacting with peers—two activities that are essential for their growth and mental well-being. What Needs to Be Done? Create safe, climate-adapted play places by incorporating bioclimatic design ideas into playground infrastructure. Increase the availability of green areas in metropolitan areas to mitigate the urban heat island effect and facilitate outdoor recreation. Enhancing playground conditions and establishing shaded spaces in parks so that kids may play on warmer days should be the main goals of community projects. When constructing playgrounds and public areas, adapt and maintain historic architectural techniques for natural cooling. |
Article: 22nd November, 2024
Topic: 2nd India-Australia Annual Summit
Relevance: GS Paper: 2 – International Relations
Source: mea.gov
Context
- On the fringes of the Group of 20 (G20) Summit in Rio de Janeiro, the prime ministers of India and Australia convened the second India-Australia Annual Summit.
Outcomes of the India-Australia Summit:
- Both Prime Ministers recognized notable advancements in bolstering bilateral relations in areas such as people-to-people interactions, trade, investment, defense, education, renewable energy, and climate change.
- Economic Cooperation:
- Trade and market access are being increased via the India-Australia Economic Cooperation and Trade Agreement (ECTA).
- A more thorough Comprehensive Economic Cooperation Agreement (CECA) is being negotiated.
- To improve business ties, the Australia-India Business Exchange (AIBX) program was extended for a further four years.
- Energy and Environment: The India-Australia Renewable Energy Partnership (REP) was established to foster collaboration in the fields of solar photovoltaics, green hydrogen, energy storage, and workforce development for renewable energy.
- Space Cooperation: Expanding space cooperation through collaborative initiatives including the 2026 launch of Australian satellites on Indian spacecraft and assistance for Gaganyaan missions.
- Defense and Security: The Joint Declaration on Defense and Security will be renewed in 2025 with an emphasis on improved cooperation.
– enhanced interoperability and defense drills under the Mutual Logistics Support Arrangement.
– To maintain peace and stability in the region, reciprocal information-sharing agreements and maritime security are essential. - Parliamentary Cooperation: The strategic alliance places a strong emphasis on ongoing interparliamentary cooperation.
- Education, Interpersonal Relationships, and Mobility: The MATES mobility program and the Working Holiday Maker visa program are designed to improve professional mobility and interpersonal relationships.
- Shared interests in regional peace, stability, and sovereignty underpin regional and multilateral cooperation, which is dedicated to an Indo-Pacific that is free, open, and inclusive.
– support for the Quad’s infrastructure, security, health, and climate change programs.
– reinforcement of ASEAN’s collaboration and centrality within regional institutions such as the Indo-Pacific Oceans Initiative and the East Asia Summit.
– dedication to Pacific Island nations’ climatic, health, and educational needs as well as to Indian Ocean cooperation, notably the Indian Ocean Rim Association (IORA). - Global Issues and Counter-Terrorism: Both presidents reaffirmed their dedication to fighting terrorism and discussed potential collaboration on Financial Action Task Force (FATF) projects and terrorism financing.
- Looking Ahead: Both presidents hailed the 2025 celebration of the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership’s fifth anniversary and pledged to further strengthen bilateral ties.
Also Read Topics & Concepts:
Prelims Practice Questions
Q. Consider the following statements regarding India- Australia relations
1. India recently established the India-Australia Agri Tech Forum (IAATF) in New Delhi.
2. Australia and India are both participants in the Trilateral Supply Chain Resilience Initiative and the Indo Pacific Economic Forum for Prosperity.
3. May 2011 marked the beginning of the Comprehensive Economic Cooperation Agreement (CECA) negotiations.
Which of the above statements are correct?
- Only one
- Only two
- Only three
- None
Ans: b
Explanation
Australia recently established the India-Australia Agri Tech Forum (IAATF) in New Delhi.
Indian agricultural stakeholders, including the government, industry, and research institutions, are represented in the forum.
Australia and India are both members of the Trilateral Supply Chain Resilience Initiative (SCRI) and the 14-nation Indo Pacific Economic Forum for Prosperity (IPEF).
In May 2011, Australia and India began negotiating a Comprehensive Economic Cooperation Agreement.
With two-way commerce in products and services of USD 46.5 billion in 2022, India ranks as Australia’s sixth-largest trading partner.
Mains Model Questions
Q. Examine how India-Australia ties have changed over the past ten years, emphasizing the major forces behind and important turning points.
| Introduction: Over the past ten years, India and Australia’s relationship has seen a dramatic change as both countries have come to understand the value of bilateral partnerships. Body: Which factors have influenced India-Australia relations the most in the past ten years? Increased Bilateral Cooperation: India and Australia have collaborated on significant projects in trade, education, investment, and defense. They have taken steps to strengthen their collaboration since they both recognize the benefits of working together. Strategic Convergence: To address regional issues like supply chain resilience, climate change, and maritime security in the Indo-Pacific area, India and Australia work together in multilateral institutions such as the Indian Ocean Rim Association, the G7, the G20, and the Quad.Commercial Cooperation: India and Australia now have far stronger trade and commercial relations. The signing of a trade agreement and the investigation of prospects in the clean energy, aerospace, semiconductor, and defense sectors are the outcomes of initiatives to increase two-way trade and investment. Which significant turning points in this process are there? PM 2014 trip to Australia: A major turning point in bilateral relations was reached in 2014 when the prime minister visited Australia. It drew record audiences and brought attention to the expanding Indian community in Australia. Cooperation in Education: An important aspect of India-Australian relations has been education. The recent agreement on mutual recognition of qualifications and the growing number of Indian students studying in Australia show the dedication to deepening educational linkages. Way Ahead: Economic Engagement: In addition to reaching a Comprehensive Economic Cooperation Trade Agreement, both nations should work to establish specific goals for boosting investment and trade. The partnership’s long-term viability will be enhanced by fortifying economic links. People-to-People interactions: To strengthen relationships between the societies of Australia and India and to increase mutual understanding, cultural ties and people-to-people interactions should be fostered. Regional Cooperation: To address shared issues and advance a rules-based order in the Indo-Pacific area, India and Australia should keep working together in multilateral organizations such as the Quad, G7, and G20. Conclusion: The 3Cs—cooperation, convergence, and collaboration—have marked a dramatic change in the relationship between Australia and India. This change has laid a strong foundation for further advancement and has played a role in promoting peace, stability, and prosperity in the region. |
