International Affairs

Context The outcomes of COP29 in Baku concerning the New Collective Quantified Goal (NCQG) for climate finance have drawn criticism for falling short of addressing principles of climate justice and equitable burden-sharing. Key Takeaways from COP29 Origin of NCQG: Conceptualized at COP21, the NCQG builds on the $100 billion annual …

Context The Rajya Sabha recently approved the Oilfields (Regulation and Development) Amendment Bill, 2024, aiming to enhance efficiency in oil and gas exploration across India. Rationale for the Bill Addressing Energy Needs: Aims to bridge the gap between domestic oil and gas production and consumption. Improving Business Environment: Modernizes outdated …

The global trend towards de-dollarisation refers to the efforts by various countries to reduce their reliance on the US dollar in international trade and finance. This editorial, based on the article Why ‘De-Dollarisation’ is Imminent, explores the causes and consequences of this shift, with a particular focus on the role …

Context The Israel-Lebanon ceasefire is rooted in UN Security Council (UNSC) Resolution 1701, which was initially established to manage the conflict between Israel and Hezbollah following the 2006 hostilities. Key Components of UNSC Resolution 1701 and the Ceasefire Significance Seeks to establish enduring peace and stability in the region. Offers …

Context (TH): At COP29, activists and experts called for holding fossil fuel-exporting nations accountable for emissions generated abroad, particularly in developing countries. This issue has gained global attention as the environmental impact of fossil fuel exports is increasingly recognized in climate negotiations. Advantages of Fossil-Fuel Exports Economic Growth: Fossil fuel …

Context At COP29, the Fossil Fuel Non-Proliferation Treaty (FF-NPT) gained significant momentum. Inspired by the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty, this initiative seeks to regulate fossil fuel production as a targeted approach to combat climate change. Activists and countries are increasingly advocating for its adoption to address the climate crisis effectively. Need …

Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to visit Nigeria, Africa’s most populous nation and its second-largest economy.   Historical Background of India-Nigeria Bilateral Relations Decades of Partnership India and Nigeria have shared a robust bilateral relationship for over 60 years, rooted in common values such as democracy, pluralism, and economic …

Context: The recent agreement between India and China aims to address border issues along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) that intensified after 2020. This agreement focuses on easing tensions, disengaging troops, and lowering military presence. Here are the key points: Patrolling Protocols: The agreement restores patrolling routes to their …

Context: New initiatives aim to improve the quality of the Indian workforce in Saudi Arabia, supporting economic collaboration and labor reforms. Importance of Saudi Arabia to India Historic Partnership: India and Saudi Arabia established relations in 1947, building on long-standing economic, diplomatic, and cultural ties. Indian Expatriate Community: Over 2.7 …

Context: The Bilateral Investment Treaty (BIT) 2024 between India and the UAE has replaced the earlier Bilateral Investment Promotion and Protection Agreement (BIPPA), aimed at fostering stronger economic cooperation between the two nations. The UAE, accounting for 3% of India’s total FDI, has invested around $19 billion in India between …

The Silk Road was a complex network of ancient trade routes linking China in the East to the Mediterranean in the West. This extensive web of routes facilitated the exchange of goods like silk, spices, gold, and gemstones, connecting various civilizations. Zhang Qian is often recognized as the “Father of …

Context Recently, North Korea announced that over 1.4 million people had volunteered to join the military, while it destroyed infrastructure along the border in response to South Korean drone operations and propaganda. Current Issues in the Korean Peninsula: Destruction of Infrastructure: North Korea has destroyed roads and railways near the …

Context: India and Canada have had a longstanding relationship marked by economic and cultural ties. However, the recent assassination of a Khalistani separatist in Canada has triggered a significant diplomatic dispute. Historical Ties: Colonial Connections: Both countries were part of the British Empire, forming early links between them. Freedom Struggle: …

Context In October 2024, the Indian Prime Minister is attending the ASEAN and East Asia Summits in Vientiane, Laos, which marks the 10th anniversary of India’s “Act East Policy.” This engagement highlights ASEAN’s critical role in India’s foreign policy. Significance of ASEAN in India’s Foreign Policy Countering Chinese Influence: India …

Context (DTE): The World Meteorological Organization (WMO) published the State of Global Water Resources Report, highlighting that 2023 marked the driest year for global rivers. Contributing Factors Increased Water Demand: The report pointed out that growing agricultural and industrial demand placed added pressure on river systems, worsening the already low …

Context: The sixth Quad Leaders’ Summit took place in Wilmington, Delaware, focusing on international cooperation, security, climate, health, and technological innovation. Major Discussions: UN Security Council Reform: Emphasis on making the UNSC more representative and inclusive by expanding both permanent and non-permanent members. Support for Rules-Based International Order: Reaffirmation of …

Context: The Prime Minister’s recent visits to both Moscow and Kyiv mark a shift towards a more active diplomatic involvement, moving beyond India’s traditional non-aligned stance and emphasizing its strategic autonomy in international relations. India’s Changing Diplomatic Approach Initial Position: At the outset, India maintained a distance from the conflict, …

Context: The ongoing conflict between the Sudan Armed Forces (SAF) and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) has resulted in widespread destruction, significant displacement of populations, and a severe humanitarian crisis. Background Enduring Legacy of Conflict: Since gaining independence in 1956, Sudan has experienced 15 military coups, endured two civil wars, …

Context: Recently, India’s External Affairs Minister met with the Sri Lankan President to discuss collaboration across various sectors, highlighting the ongoing partnership between the two nations. Recent Developments in India-Sri Lanka Relations: Maritime Rescue Coordination Centre (MRCC): India and Sri Lanka jointly launched the MRCC with a $6 million grant …

Context: According to the Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation’s report titled “Women and Men in India 2023,” there is a notable shortage of women in executive roles. Below are some key insights from the report: Underrepresentation in the Corporate Sector: Disparity in Senior Management: In 2023, only 34,879 women …