DAILY NEWS ANALYSIS

A recent study has highlighted the positive effects of the indigenous rotavirus vaccine in India, showing significant reductions in rotavirus-based gastroenteritis across various sites in the country. This is particularly important as gastroenteritis is a leading cause of illness and death among children, and rotavirus is one of the primary viral causes.

What is Gastroenteritis?

Gastroenteritis refers to the inflammation of the lining of the stomach and intestines. While it is often not serious in healthy individuals, it can lead to complications like dehydration and more severe symptoms, particularly in vulnerable populations such as young children, the elderly, and immunocompromised individuals.

Causes of Gastroenteritis

Gastroenteritis can be caused by a variety of pathogens:

• Viruses: The most common cause, including:

  • Noroviruses

  • Rotaviruses (common in children)

• Bacteria: Such as Salmonella, E. coli, and Campylobacter.

• Parasites: Like Giardia lamblia and Entamoeba histolytica.

• Chemicals: Contaminants in food or water.

• Reactions to medicines and food: Some medications or food allergies can cause gastroenteritis symptoms.

Transmission and Spread

• Food Poisoning: When gastroenteritis is caused by consuming food or drinks contaminated with viruses, bacteria, parasites, or chemicals, it is referred to as food poisoning.

• Person-to-Person Spread: The viruses, bacteria, and parasites responsible for gastroenteritis can also spread through direct contact with an infected person or via contaminated surfaces.

Symptoms of Gastroenteritis

• Diarrhea

• Abdominal pain or cramping

• Nausea and vomiting

• Occasional fever (especially with viral causes)

The symptoms can vary in intensity, but severe cases may require medical intervention, particularly to address dehydration and other complications.

Treatment and Management

• Mild Cases: Gastroenteritis often resolves on its own, with individuals recovering by staying hydrated and resting. The use of electrolyte solutions is essential to prevent dehydration, especially in children and the elderly.

• Probiotics: Studies have suggested that probiotics may help shorten the duration of diarrhea in some cases.

• Medications:

  • For more severe symptoms, medications to control nausea or vomiting may be used.

  • Antibiotics are prescribed for bacterial infections (e.g., bacterial gastroenteritis).

  • Antiparasitic medicines may be necessary in case of parasitic infections.

Rotavirus and Its Impact on Gastroenteritis

Rotavirus is one of the leading causes of severe gastroenteritis in children under five years of age, especially in developing countries like India. It leads to high rates of diarrhea and dehydration among young children, which can be fatal if not treated promptly.

The Indigenous Rotavirus Vaccine in India

In response to the high incidence of rotavirus-related gastroenteritis, India introduced an indigenous rotavirus vaccine, which has shown positive results in reducing rotavirus-based gastroenteritis. This vaccine is part of India’s broader efforts to control diarrheal diseases in children, particularly in rural and underprivileged areas where access to medical care may be limited.

Key Findings of the Recent Study:

• The study found that the rotavirus vaccine has led to marked reductions in rotavirus infections and subsequent hospitalizations across various regions in India.

• This development is a major step toward reducing the burden of childhood diarrhea and improving overall child health outcomes in India.

Conclusion

While gastroenteritis itself is a common and often self-limiting illness, its impact on vulnerable populations, especially children, can be severe. The introduction of the indigenous rotavirus vaccine in India has shown significant promise in reducing the number of severe rotavirus infections, contributing to the fight against diarrheal diseases.

Mount Lewotobi Laki-laki, located on Flores Island in eastern Indonesia, recently erupted, sending volcanic ash approximately 10 kilometers (about 6.21 miles) into the sky.

About Mount Lewotobi

Mount Lewotobi is a twin-peaked active volcano situated in the Ring of Fire, a major area in the Pacific Ocean where tectonic plates meet and volcanic activity is prevalent. This particular volcano is known for its frequent activity and stands as one of the most notable geological features on Flores Island.

• Location:

  • Mount Lewotobi is located on the tourist island of Flores in eastern Indonesia.

  • Flores Island is part of the Lesser Sunda Islands, an area that is prone to seismic and volcanic activity due to its position on the Ring of Fire.

• Twin Peaks:

  • The volcano has two peaks arranged in a northwest-southeast line, separated by a 2 km distance and connected by a 1232-meter high saddle.

  • The twin volcanoes are named Lewotobi Lakilaki ("man") and Lewotobi Perempuan ("woman"), symbolizing the concept of "husband and wife" in the local culture.

• Elevation:

  • Lewotobi Lakilaki stands at 1584 meters and has a 400-meter diameter summit crater open to the north.

  • Lewotobi Perempuan is the taller peak at 1703 meters, with a 700-meter wide crater.

Volcanic Activity History

• Lewotobi Lakilaki:

  • This peak has been frequently active during the 19th and 20th centuries, with numerous eruptions recorded in historical times. The volcanic activity has contributed to the growth of small lava domes within its summit crater.

• Lewotobi Perempuan:

  • In contrast, the Lewotobi Perempuan peak has been less active. It has erupted only twice in recorded history despite being the taller of the two.

• Recent Eruption:

  • The eruption of Lewotobi Laki-laki is part of its more recent activity, showing that the volcano remains highly active. The eruption sent ash clouds into the sky, affecting air travel and local life in the surrounding areas.

A recent report has highlighted the uncertain long-term survival of dugongs in the Gulf of Kutch and the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, pointing to significant challenges for their conservation in these areas. The dugong, a marine herbivorous mammal, faces mounting threats to its habitat, primarily due to the degradation of its seagrass beds and other environmental pressures.

About Gulf of Kutch

The Gulf of Kutch is a biologically rich region located along the west coast of India, in the Jamnagar district of Gujarat. This inlet of the Arabian Sea serves as an important ecological zone for various marine species, including the dugong.

• Geography:

  • It stretches 99 miles and divides the Kutch and Kathiawar regions of Gujarat.

  • The Gulf is famous for its coral reefs and 32 islands, many of which are surrounded by mangroves and living corals.

• Marine Environment:

  • The region is known for its high tidal range, generating strong currents of about 2.5 meters per second.

  • The Gulf of Kutch is also one of the most productive and diversified marine habitats in India, covering an area of 7300 sq.km.

• Marine National Park:

  • Situated on the southern shore of the Gulf, the Marine National Park is India’s first national marine park and plays a crucial role in preserving the region’s biodiversity.

Dugongs

Dugongs (Dugong dugon), often referred to as sea cows, are large, herbivorous marine mammals that live in shallow waters, primarily feeding on seagrasses. Despite their iconic status, dugongs are under severe threat due to habitat loss, human activities, and environmental changes.

• Physical Characteristics: Dugongs resemble a cross between a seal and a whale. They are the only herbivorous mammals in India’s marine ecosystems.

• Distribution: Dugongs can be found in 37 Indo-Pacific countries, but their numbers have dwindled significantly, and they have disappeared from many of their former habitats. In India, they are primarily found in:

  • The Andaman and Nicobar Islands.

  • Gulf of Mannar and Palk Bay.

  • The Gulf of Kutch, where their populations are facing increasing pressure.

• Habitat: Dugongs rely heavily on seagrass beds for both food and shelter. They primarily feed on seagrass species such as Cymodocea, Halophila, Thalassia, and Halodule, all of which thrive in shallow coastal waters.

• Longevity: Dugongs can live up to 70 years, making them long-lived creatures, but they reproduce at a slow rate, making it challenging for populations to recover from significant losses.

• Conservation Status: According to the IUCN Red List, dugongs are classified as Vulnerable, with a declining population trend. The Gulf of Kutch is considered a key habitat, but threats like seagrass destruction, marine pollution, and illegal hunting have led to a diminishing dugong population in the region.

Challenges to Dugong Conservation in the Gulf of Kutch

The Gulf of Kutch, despite its ecological richness, faces several challenges that threaten the survival of dugongs:

1. Seagrass Habitat Loss: Seagrass beds are vital for dugongs, providing both food and shelter. However, pollution, coastal development, and human activities such as trawling have led to the destruction of these critical habitats.

2. Tidal Energy Projects: The region has high potential for tidal energy generation, but this could disrupt the delicate marine ecosystem, affecting dugong habitats and food sources.

3. Marine Pollution: Increased industrial and agricultural activities in the region contribute to marine pollution, which can degrade water quality and harm marine life, including dugongs.

4. Lack of Awareness and Enforcement: Despite the presence of the Marine National Park, enforcement of conservation laws and raising awareness about the dugong's vulnerable status remains a challenge.

Conclusion

The future of dugongs in the Gulf of Kutch is indeed uncertain, as their habitat faces significant threats from both human activities and environmental changes. Protecting the dugong, along with the broader marine ecosystem of the Gulf, will require sustained efforts from government bodies, conservation organizations, and local communities

A headless Vishnu idol, measuring seven feet tall, at the Javari Temple in Khajuraho, Madhya Pradesh, has recently gained attention following a remark by the Chief Justice of India during a hearing on a petition seeking its restoration.

About Javari Temple

The Javari Temple is part of the Khajuraho Group of Monuments, a UNESCO World Heritage Site located in Madhya Pradesh, India. The temple is an important representation of India's ancient architectural and religious heritage.

• Historical Significance: The temples of Khajuraho were built by the Chandella dynasty, which reached its peak between 950 and 1050 AD.

• Notable Features: Khajuraho temples are known for their nagara-style architectural design, as well as their distinctive erotic sculptures that depict a range of human emotions and relationships.

The Javari Temple specifically was built between 1075 and 1100 AD and is dedicated to Lord Vishnu.

Javari Temple Architecture

• Nagara Style: The temple is constructed in the nagara style, a prominent North Indian architectural style characterized by a high, curving spire (shikhara) and a rectangular layout.

• Temple Layout:

  • It consists of a sanctum, vestibule, mandapa (hall), and portico, but it does not have a pradakshinapatha (circumambulatory path).

  • The temple sits on a plinth and features intricate carvings, particularly a Makara Torana (Capricorn Arch).

• Idol of Lord Vishnu: The sanctum houses a four-armed idol of Lord Vishnu, which unfortunately is now broken and headless.

• Sculptural Decorations: The temple has sculptures of Hindu gods and the Navagrahas (nine planetary deities). The walls are adorned with intricate carvings of men and women, displaying various themes of religious and cultural significance.

The Headless Vishnu Idol

The headless Vishnu idol has become a focal point in recent discussions about preserving India's heritage. A petition has been filed to restore the idol, and the Chief Justice of India made a remark during a hearing, emphasizing the importance of the issue and drawing attention to the preservation of India's cultural treasures.

• Cultural Significance: The Vishnu idol is not just a religious icon but a key piece of the artistic and historical heritage of India, symbolizing the rich traditions of the Chandella dynasty and the artistic legacy of Khajuraho.

• Restoration Concerns: The temple and its idols are vulnerable to damage due to age, weathering, and possibly human intervention over the centuries. This situation has raised questions about how to restore and protect these heritage sites without compromising their historical integrity.

Javari Temple and Khajuraho: Global Importance

• UNESCO World Heritage Status: The Khajuraho Group of Monuments, which includes the Javari Temple, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is recognized for its exceptional artistic and architectural value.

• Architectural and Artistic Symbolism: The temples of Khajuraho, including the Javari Temple, are renowned for their symbolic sculptures that blend spiritual, cultural, and artistic elements, making them a significant part of India’s cultural and religious history.

Conclusion

The Javari Temple and its headless Vishnu idol are key components of India’s cultural and architectural heritage. The recent legal attention surrounding the idol's restoration underscores the need to protect and preserve India’s ancient monuments. As discussions about the restoration progress, the temple remains a symbol of India’s rich history, attracting scholars, tourists, and cultural enthusiasts from around the world.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi recently launched the ‘Swasth Nari, Sashakt Parivar’ (SNSP) Abhiyaan in Dhar, Madhya Pradesh, aimed at strengthening healthcare services for women and children across India. The initiative focuses on improving access to healthcare, ensuring quality care, and raising awareness on health issues related to women and children.

About the SNSP Abhiyaan

The Swasth Nari, Sashakt Parivar Abhiyaan is a collaborative initiative between two key ministries:

• Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (MoHFW)

• Ministry of Women and Child Development (MoWCD)

The campaign aims to address gaps in women's healthcare, with a particular focus on:

• Ensuring better healthcare access for women and children.

• Providing comprehensive healthcare services, including screening and maternal and child care.

• Raising awareness about health issues impacting women, particularly those related to family well-being.

Objectives of the SNSP Abhiyaan

1. Enhance Women’s Health Through Comprehensive Screening and Services:

   • Offering widespread screening for early detection of health issues, improving women’s overall health and well-being.

2. Promote Family Well-Being via Maternal and Child Care:

   • Ensuring that mothers and children receive adequate medical attention, with a special emphasis on maternal health and child development.

3. Foster Behaviour Changes Through Education:

   • Educating families and communities to adopt healthier lifestyles and better healthcare practices.

4. Encourage Community Participation and Public Awareness:

   • Promoting community involvement in healthcare delivery and spreading awareness about health initiatives and the importance of preventive care.

Implementation Strategy of the SNSP Abhiyaan

1. Nationwide Health Camps with Real-Time Monitoring:

   • The Abhiyaan will organize more than one lakh health camps across Ayushman Arogya Mandirs and Community Health Centres (CHCs).

   • These camps will be coordinated and tracked through the SASHAKT portal, ensuring real-time monitoring and efficient delivery of services.

2. Multi-Platform Outreach for Awareness:

   • The campaign will utilize multiple media platforms to maximize outreach:

     • Doordarshan and All India Radio (AIR) for nationwide broadcasting.

     • Social media campaigns to target younger audiences and promote active participation.

3. Volunteer and Nikshay Mitra Engagement:

   • The Nikshay Mitra initiative, focused on tuberculosis (TB) eradication, will be integrated into the SNSP Abhiyaan, involving volunteers and local community members in supporting TB eradication efforts and other community health initiatives.

Significance of the SNSP Abhiyaan

• Holistic Approach: The program focuses on not just healthcare, but also on changing health-seeking behavior in communities. By involving both private and public sectors, the initiative fosters inclusive healthcare delivery.

• Health Equity: The focus on women’s and children’s health aims to reduce health disparities and ensure that the most vulnerable sections of society have access to quality care.

• Collaboration Across Ministries: The involvement of multiple ministries (Health, Women and Child Development) and various stakeholders, including private hospitals and healthcare professionals, strengthens the initiative's impact.

Conclusion

The Swasth Nari, Sashakt Parivar Abhiyaan is a comprehensive initiative designed to promote better health for women and children while engaging communities in improving overall family well-being. By leveraging technology, media outreach, and community participation, the campaign aims to make healthcare services more accessible and inclusive across the country

India and Brazil have recently agreed to expand their existing trade agreement between India and the MERCOSUR bloc, marking a significant step in strengthening economic and trade relations between India and South America.

About MERCOSUR Group

The Southern Common Market, or MERCOSUR (from its Spanish acronym Mercado Común del Sur), is a regional economic organization in South America.

• Established: 1991 through the Treaty of Asunción.

• Objective: The primary goal of MERCOSUR is the free movement of goods, services, capital, and people. It operates as a customs union, meaning it applies common external tariffs and has an integrated internal market.

• Customs Union: MERCOSUR became a customs union in January 1995.

Members and Associates:

• Founding Members: Argentina, Brazil, Paraguay, and Uruguay.

• Later Additions: Bolivia and Venezuela (Venezuela was suspended in December 2016).

• Associate Members: Chile, Colombia, Ecuador, Guyana, Peru, and Suriname.

• Headquarters: Montevideo, Uruguay.

• Official Languages: Spanish and Portuguese.

Governance of MERCOSUR:

• Common Market Council (CMC): This is the highest decision-making body within MERCOSUR, where foreign and economic ministers of member countries meet to coordinate policies. Decisions are made by consensus among members.

• Presidency: The presidency of MERCOSUR rotates every six months among the full member countries.

India's Relationship with MERCOSUR:

• Preferential Trade Agreement (PTA): India signed a Preferential Trade Agreement with MERCOSUR in 2004 to foster trade and cooperation.

• Expanded Cooperation: The recent agreement between India and Brazil focuses on expanding this trade partnership, reflecting India's growing interest in strengthening its economic ties with South American nations.

Significance of India-MERCOSUR Trade Expansion:

The expanded trade agreement between India and MERCOSUR opens up new opportunities for:

• Market Access: Indian goods and services will have better access to the MERCOSUR market, which is one of the largest integrated markets in the world after the European Union (EU), NAFTA, and ASEAN.

• Economic Diversification: This trade expansion allows India to diversify its trade relations with countries outside its traditional trading partners, particularly in the Latin American region.

• Strategic Growth: The agreement is strategically important as Brazil and India share similar interests in global trade, investment, and economic growth.

Importance of MERCOSUR as a Trade Bloc:

MERCOSUR is the fourth largest integrated market globally, after the EU, NAFTA, and ASEAN. It plays a crucial role in the South American economic landscape:

• Trade Facilitation: By establishing common external tariffs and creating a single economic space, MERCOSUR facilitates smoother and more efficient trade among its member states.

• Investment Opportunities: The bloc has become an attractive destination for investment, benefiting from its large consumer market and collective economic strength.

Conclusion:

The agreement between India and MERCOSUR reflects the growing importance of South-South trade partnerships and India's deepening engagement with Latin America. With India’s expanding market access to the MERCOSUR region, the trade and economic relationship between India and South America is poised for significant growth in the coming years.

The IN-RoKN Exercise is a significant step in strengthening the naval ties between India and South Korea.

IN-RoKN Exercise Overview:

• Participants: Indian Navy (IN) and Republic of Korea Navy (RoKN).

• Location: The exercise is taking place in Busan Naval Harbour, South Korea.

• Date: The Indian Naval Ship (INS Sahyadri) arrived on 13 October 2025, marking the beginning of this inaugural bilateral naval exercise.

• Purpose: The exercise aims to:

  • Deepen interoperability between the two navies.

  • Enhance coordination in maritime operations.

  • Promote professional exchanges between the Indian and Republic of Korea naval forces.

Phases of the Exercise:

1. Harbour Phase:

   • Cross-deck visits: Personnel from the Indian Navy and Republic of Korea Navy will visit each other’s ships and facilities.

   • Best practices sharing: Officers will exchange knowledge on operational procedures and maritime security.

   • Cross-training sessions: This will enhance mutual understanding and improve skills.

   • Sports fixtures: To foster camaraderie and teamwork between the two navies.

   • The Commanding Officer of INS Sahyadri will also interact with senior officials of the Republic of Korea Navy, local dignitaries, and representatives from the Indian community in South Korea, showcasing India's diplomatic goodwill.

2. Sea Phase:

   • The INS Sahyadri will conduct joint exercises with the ROKS Gyeongnam, a Republic of Korea Navy ship. This phase will focus on operational training at sea, enhancing coordination in various maritime scenarios.

Key Facts About INS Sahyadri:

• Commissioned: 2012.

• Class: Third ship of the Shivalik Class of Guided Missile Stealth Frigates.

• Design & Construction: Built indigenously by Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited (MDL) in Mumbai.

• Capabilities:

  • Advanced stealth features.

  • Equipped with state-of-the-art weapon systems and cutting-edge sensors.

  • Capable of conducting multi-dimensional warfare (surface, subsurface, and air).

  • A versatile asset for India’s blue-water naval strategy.

• Homeport: Visakhapatnam, under the Eastern Fleet of the Eastern Naval Command.

Strategic Significance:

The IN-RoKN Exercise aligns with India's broader Indo-Pacific strategy, strengthening relationships with key regional partners like South Korea. This exercise enhances maritime security cooperation and builds interoperability between the two navies, critical for ensuring peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific region.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi recently hosted Singaporean Prime Minister Lawrence Wong in New Delhi, signaling a continued strengthening of bilateral ties between the two nations. The discussions covered a wide array of areas, ranging from economic cooperation to defense and security, with several important initiatives and agreements being laid out.

Key Outcomes of the India-Singapore Summit

1. Economic and Trade Cooperation

• Review of CECA and ASEAN FTA: India and Singapore are reviewing the Comprehensive Economic Cooperation Agreement (CECA) and the ASEAN Free Trade Agreement (FTA), focusing on enhancing trade and investment flows.

• National Centre of Excellence (CoE): A Centre of Excellence for advanced manufacturing skills is being set up in Chennai with Singapore's assistance, reflecting efforts to enhance India's manufacturing capabilities.

2. Technology and Digital Cooperation

• Digital Innovation: A Joint Working Group (JWG) on Digital Technologies will foster collaboration in areas like Artificial Intelligence (AI), with applications in sectors like agriculture, healthcare, and education.

• Semiconductor Policy Dialogue: India and Singapore are collaborating on supporting India's growing semiconductor ecosystem.

3. Sustainability and Connectivity

• Green & Digital Shipping Corridors: Efforts are underway to develop green and digital shipping corridors, including projects like the JNPA Bharat Mumbai Container Terminal Phase-2, developed in collaboration with the Port of Singapore Authority (PSA). The Jawaharlal Nehru Port Authority (JNPA) handles 54% of India's container cargo, showcasing the importance of this partnership.

4. Defense and Security Cooperation

• Maritime Security: Both sides are deepening cooperation in maritime security, submarine rescue, and Maritime Domain Awareness (MDA), with India’s role in the Malacca Straits Patrol (MSP) being acknowledged.

Significance of India-Singapore Relations

1. Historical and Civilizational Ties

India and Singapore share a millennia-old cultural and trade relationship, rooted in shared history and strong diaspora links. Singapore was governed from Kolkata under British rule until 1867, which established deep institutional ties. India was one of the first countries to recognize Singapore in 1965.

2. Geopolitical and Strategic Importance

• India's Act East Policy: Singapore plays a pivotal role in India's Act East Policy and its Indo-Pacific vision. The country is a key partner in facilitating India's strategic outreach to ASEAN and beyond.

• Comprehensive Strategic Partnership (CSP): In September 2024, India and Singapore upgraded their relationship to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership (CSP) with a detailed roadmap for cooperation in 8 key areas, including economy, defense, and digitalization.

3. Geo-Economic and Trade Relations

• Trade and Investment: Singapore is India’s largest ASEAN trade partner and a leading source of FDI. Bilateral trade reached USD 34.3 billion in 2024–25, while Singapore’s FDI in India stood at USD 14.9 billion (24% of total FDI in India).

• Comprehensive Economic Cooperation Agreement (CECA): Signed in 2005, the CECA covers trade, services, and investments between the two countries.

Challenges in the India-Singapore Relationship

1. Trade Imbalances

• Trade Deficit: Despite the strong trade ties, India faces a trade deficit of USD 8.3 billion with Singapore, indicating structural imbalances in their economic relationship.

2. Market Access Challenges

• Limited Access for Indian Services: Indian service providers face hurdles in licensing, certification, and the recognition of qualifications under the CECA. The prolonged review of the agreement has resulted in unresolved regulatory mismatches.

3. Overreliance on Singaporean FDI

• Vulnerability: India’s heavy reliance on Singapore for FDI (USD 14.9 billion in 2024–25) makes it vulnerable to fluctuations in Singapore’s financial flows.

4. Geopolitical Balancing

• China and the U.S.: Singapore’s balanced approach to its ties with both China and the United States requires careful diplomatic navigation by India, particularly on sensitive issues like the South China Sea and Taiwan.

5. Implementation Bottlenecks

• Infrastructure Delays: Projects like JNPA Phase-2 face delays due to challenges such as land acquisition issues, regulatory hurdles, and inter-agency coordination problems.

6. Domestic Sensitivities

• Labor Market Concerns: In Singapore, there have been concerns over job market competition from Indian professionals. In India, there are fears that outsourcing and financial flows disproportionately benefit Singapore.

Way Forward for Strengthening India-Singapore Ties

1. Addressing the Trade Imbalance

• Accelerate CECA and FTA Review: To address the structural imbalances, both countries need to accelerate the review process of the CECA and ASEAN FTA, especially to secure better market access for Indian goods and services, particularly in the IT, pharma, and agriculture sectors.

2. Expanding Market Access for Services

• Easing Licensing and Certification Rules: Negotiating mutual recognition of professional qualifications and easing licensing rules will help enhance Indian service exports, particularly in sectors like healthcare, education, and fintech.

3. Speeding Up Infrastructure Projects

• Faster Execution of Projects: Efforts must be made to speed up infrastructure projects such as JNPA Phase-2 and the proposed Green & Digital Shipping Corridors. Reducing bureaucratic delays and regulatory hurdles will help ensure timely project execution.

4. Diversifying FDI Sources

• Reducing Overreliance: While retaining Singapore as a key partner, India should also aim to attract FDI from other ASEAN countries and global funds to reduce overreliance on a single partner.

5. Enhancing Strategic and Security Cooperation

• Leveraging Singapore’s Strategic Location: India should deepen its defense and maritime security cooperation with Singapore, especially leveraging its strategic location at the Strait of Malacca, which is vital for global trade and energy security.

Conclusion

India and Singapore share a robust and multifaceted relationship, marked by historical, geopolitical, economic, and cultural ties. As both nations continue to deepen their engagement in areas like trade, defense, technology, and sustainability, addressing existing challenges such as trade imbalances and market access will be key to ensuring that this partnership remains strong and mutually beneficial in the years to come

India’s external debt has risen to USD 747.2 billion by the end of June 2025, marking a 1.5% increase from the previous quarter, according to the latest data from the Reserve Bank of India (RBI). Despite this increase, India’s external debt remains manageable due to various stabilizing factors.

Current Status of India’s External Debt

1. Valuation Effects:

   • The increase in external debt was primarily due to valuation effects resulting from currency fluctuations.

   • A depreciation of the US dollar caused a valuation loss of USD 5.1 billion.

2. Debt Coverage:

   • 93% of India’s external debt is covered by foreign exchange reserves, offering a solid cushion and ensuring strong external resilience.

   • The external debt-to-GDP ratio is 18.9%, which indicates a moderate and sustainable level of external liabilities.

3. Debt Maturity Profile:

   • Long-term debt (with a maturity of more than one year) accounts for the bulk of the debt, standing at USD 611.7 billion.

   • Short-term debt has reduced to 18.1% of the total external debt, improving the short-term debt-to-reserves ratio and reducing rollover and liquidity risks.

4. Currency-wise Composition:

   • US Dollar: 53.8% – Dominates India’s external debt, exposing it to fluctuations in global currency markets.

   • Indian Rupee: 30.6% – Reflects a substantial share of domestic-currency debt.

   • Japanese Yen: 6.6% – A minor share.

   • Special Drawing Rights (SDRs): 4.6% – A small portion.

   • Euro: 3.5% – A relatively smaller portion.

5. Sector-wise Distribution:

   • Non-financial Corporations: 35.9% – The largest share, indicating a rise in private-sector external borrowings.

   • Government & Financial Institutions: The remaining portion of the external debt.

Key Features of External Debt

1. Liability to Repay: External debt encompasses the principal and interest to be repaid.

2. Currency Exposure: If external debt is denominated in foreign currencies, exchange rate fluctuations can increase the repayment burden.

3. Sectoral Distribution: External debt can be owed by the government, financial institutions, or private corporations.

4. Instruments: External debt is raised through loans, trade credits, bonds, deposits, etc.

Key Challenges Associated with Rising External Debt

1. Exchange Rate Risk:

   • As much of India’s external debt is denominated in foreign currencies, fluctuations in exchange rates can make the debt more expensive to service.

2. Interest Burden:

   • Increased external debt raises the interest burden, straining fiscal resources. This leaves fewer funds for development and social welfare programs.

   • Higher inflation can lead to rising interest rates, slowing economic growth and worsening the external debt-to-GDP ratio.

3. Vulnerability to Global Shocks:

   • The global economy faces threats like stagflation, which can reduce demand for India’s exports and negatively affect the debt service ratio, complicating debt repayment.

4. Crowding Out Domestic Investment:

   • Significant funds directed toward debt servicing may divert resources away from productive domestic investments in infrastructure and social welfare.

Key Measures to Manage External Debt

1. Diversify Currency Exposure:

   • India can reduce its reliance on the US dollar by promoting the use of the rupee for external borrowings (rupee-denominated debt). This strategy would help mitigate risks related to currency fluctuations and enhance financial stability.

2. Adopt Sustainable Debt Practices:

   • Borrowed funds should be channeled into productive investments, such as infrastructure projects and other development initiatives. This approach will help generate long-term economic returns and ensure that the debt remains sustainable.

3. Extend Loan Maturities:

   • Opting for long-term loans would allow India to spread the repayment burden over a longer period, reducing the immediate pressure on public finances and easing liquidity concerns.

4. Strengthen Fiscal Policies:

   • Robust fiscal policies focused on reducing budget deficits, controlling inflation, and ensuring economic stability will help reduce the vulnerability to external debt. This will also foster confidence among foreign investors and lenders, leading to more favorable borrowing terms in the future.

Conclusion

India’s external debt has been rising, primarily driven by valuation effects due to currency fluctuations. However, despite the increase, the debt remains manageable, as it is largely covered by the country’s foreign exchange reserves. The external debt-to-GDP ratio of 18.9% indicates that the level of external liabilities is moderate and sustainable.

The Forest Rights Act (FRA), 2006, officially known as the Scheduled Tribes and Other Traditional Forest Dwellers (Recognition of Forest Rights) Act, was enacted with the aim of recognizing and vesting forest rights to communities historically dependent on forests. These communities, especially Scheduled Tribes and Other Traditional Forest Dwellers, faced long-standing marginalization and denial of their rights over forest resources.

Objectives of the Act

The FRA seeks to:

• Correct historical injustices faced by forest-dwelling communities.

• Secure livelihoods, habitat, and food security through legal recognition of traditional forest rights.

Key Provisions of the Act

1. Recognition of Forest Rights:

   • Individual Rights: These include rights to self-cultivation, habitation, and rehabilitation for those displaced from forests.

   • Community Rights: These cover grazing livestock, fishing, access to water bodies, rights over minor forest produce (MFP), and traditional knowledge. Communities can also play a role in forest conservation and maintaining traditional practices.

2. Eligibility Criteria:

   • Any individual or community residing in and depending on forests for at least three generations (75 years) before 13th December 2005 is eligible to claim rights under the Act.

3. Critical Wildlife Habitats (CWHs):

   • The Act ensures inviolability of wildlife habitats within National Parks and Wildlife Sanctuaries. Relocation from these areas can only happen with free, prior, and informed consent and proper rehabilitation of forest-dwelling communities.

4. Institutional Mechanism for Granting Forest Rights:

   • Gram Sabha (village council) is the primary authority for determining individual and community forest rights.

   • The Sub-Divisional Level Committee (SDLC) examines the claims and forwards them for verification.

   • District Level Committee (DLC) provides final approval for the recognition of rights.

Key Findings from the UNDP Report on FRA Implementation

The UNDP Report titled "Securing Rights, Enabling Futures" reviewed nearly 20 years of the FRA’s implementation and highlighted the following:

1. Persistent Gaps in Implementation:

   • Uneven implementation due to historical conflicts, weak policy execution, and jurisdictional overlaps.

   • Missing land titles, especially in Chhattisgarh, indicating poor record-keeping.

2. Sunset Clause Debate:

   • Some states (e.g., Chhattisgarh, Odisha, Maharashtra) have proposed an end date for recognizing forest rights, but the report suggests Gram Sabhas should decide when the process reaches saturation instead of setting arbitrary deadlines.

3. Incorrect Recognition of Titles:

   • Problems like inaccurate mapping, insufficient verification, and weak coordination between departments have led to incorrect title recognition.

4. Institutional Challenges:

   • Ongoing conflicts between the Tribal Welfare and Forest Departments, causing delays in the process.

   • Unclear integration of Gram Sabha Forest Management Plans with official Forest Working Plans.

5. Record-Keeping Issues:

   • The absence of a centralized, updated database of FRA titleholders, making monitoring and verification difficult.

Key Recommendations from the UNDP Report

To address the gaps and improve the implementation of the Forest Rights Act, the UNDP report made the following recommendations:

1. Strengthen Governance After Recognition:

   • Set up inter-departmental committees to resolve conflicts and improve coordination between tribal, forest, and revenue authorities.

2. Improve Record-Keeping:

   • Establish accurate, digitized, and centralized records of FRA titleholders at both the state and national levels.

3. Promote Gender Equity:

   • Ensure women’s leadership in Community Forest Resource (CFR) management plans and collect gender-disaggregated data.

   • Link FRA with the National Rural Livelihood Mission (NRLM) to create gender-sensitive livelihood options for forest dwellers.

4. Mainstream Forest Rights:

   • Include FRA beneficiaries in all government welfare and livelihood schemes.

   • Formulate a National Tribal Policy for a 5-year period to coordinate tribal welfare and forest governance.

5. Sustaining Progress:

   • Mission-mode schemes like PM JANMAN and DAJGUA have shown progress, but long-term, sustainable programs are needed for inclusive growth.

6. Unused Provisions:

   • Section 3(1)(k) of the FRA, which provides community rights over biodiversity, intellectual property, and traditional knowledge, remains largely unutilized. The report suggests tapping this provision for community-led income generation.

7. Minor Forest Produce (MFP):

   • The report stresses the need for clarification on the ownership, harvesting, transport, and sale of MFP, ensuring that forest dwellers receive a fair share of income from forest-based resources.

Conclusion

The Forest Rights Act, 2006 is a landmark law aimed at securing the rights of forest-dwelling communities in India. While the implementation has faced several challenges, the UNDP's recommendations underscore the importance of better governance, improved record-keeping, gender equity, and the inclusion of FRA beneficiaries in broader welfare schemes to ensure long-term success and inclusive development for these communities.