India Proposes Tariffs Against U.S.
Subject: International Relation
Topic: Trade Policy

India and the United States are currently engaged in trade negotiations, but new tensions have arisen following India's notification to the World Trade Organization (WTO) regarding a proposed imposition of tariffs on $7.6 billion worth of U.S. imports. This move is in retaliation for the U.S. raising its import duties on steel and aluminum to 25%. India announced that these retaliatory measures could take effect 30 days after notifying the WTO on May 9.

The background of this issue dates back to the first term of former U.S. President Donald Trump, who initiated higher tariffs on steel and aluminum imports in 2018. In his second term, starting in March 2025, he enforced a 25% tariff on these imports and eliminated exemptions previously granted to various countries. Although the U.S. rejected India's attempts to discuss the tariffs in April, arguing they were implemented for national security reasons rather than as safeguard measures, India maintains that these tariffs violate international agreements.

India asserted that the U.S. measures are not consistent with the General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade (GATT) of 1994 and the Agreement on Safeguards (AoS). Furthermore, since the U.S. did not hold mandatory consultations under the AoS, India believes it has the right to retaliate. The proposed Indian measures would involve suspending concessions or obligations on certain products from the U.S., effectively increasing tariffs on those items.

The hope is that these measures would result in equivalent duty collections from U.S. products, matching the financial impacts of the U.S. tariffs on Indian imports. India highlighted that the U.S. tariffs affect around $7.6 billion worth of Indian imports, with an expected duty collection amounting to $1.91 billion.

In the past, India has also retaliated; for instance, in June 2019, it raised tariffs on 28 U.S. products following the U.S. exclusion of India from the Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) and the continuance of steel and aluminum tariffs. These duties, however, were halted in September 2023 after Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to Washington.

Key Points:

  • India notified the WTO of proposed tariffs on $7.6 billion of U.S. imports in response to U.S. steel and aluminum tariffs.
  • The tariffs could take effect 30 days after the notification sent on May 9, 2025.
  • The initial tariffs were imposed by the U.S. in 2018 under President Trump, claiming national security reasons.
  • India argues that U.S. tariffs violate international trade agreements, claiming they are indeed safeguard measures.
  • The proposed Indian tariffs aim to mirror the impact of U.S. duties, potentially totaling $1.91 billion.
  • Past retaliatory measures included higher tariffs on 28 U.S. products in June 2019, which were suspended in September 2023 following diplomatic efforts.
  • There remains an ongoing need for dialogue between India and the U.S. amidst these tensions.
Key Terms, Keywords and Fact Used in the Article:
  • World Trade Organisation - Notified of India's proposals
  • General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade 1994 - Referenced in trade dispute
  • Agreement on Safeguards - Legal basis for measures
  • India Proposes Tariffs Against U.S.
    India Proposes Tariffs Against U.S.
    Subject: International Relation
    Topic: Trade Policy

    India and the United States are currently engaged in trade negotiations, but new tensions have arisen following India's notification to the World Trade Organization (WTO) regarding a proposed imposition of tariffs on $7.6 billion worth of U.S. imports. This move is in retaliation for the U.S. raising its import duties on steel and aluminum to 25%. India announced that these retaliatory measures could take effect 30 days after notifying the WTO on May 9.

    The background of this issue dates back to the first term of former U.S. President Donald Trump, who initiated higher tariffs on steel and aluminum imports in 2018. In his second term, starting in March 2025, he enforced a 25% tariff on these imports and eliminated exemptions previously granted to various countries. Although the U.S. rejected India's attempts to discuss the tariffs in April, arguing they were implemented for national security reasons rather than as safeguard measures, India maintains that these tariffs violate international agreements.

    India asserted that the U.S. measures are not consistent with the General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade (GATT) of 1994 and the Agreement on Safeguards (AoS). Furthermore, since the U.S. did not hold mandatory consultations under the AoS, India believes it has the right to retaliate. The proposed Indian measures would involve suspending concessions or obligations on certain products from the U.S., effectively increasing tariffs on those items.

    The hope is that these measures would result in equivalent duty collections from U.S. products, matching the financial impacts of the U.S. tariffs on Indian imports. India highlighted that the U.S. tariffs affect around $7.6 billion worth of Indian imports, with an expected duty collection amounting to $1.91 billion.

    In the past, India has also retaliated; for instance, in June 2019, it raised tariffs on 28 U.S. products following the U.S. exclusion of India from the Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) and the continuance of steel and aluminum tariffs. These duties, however, were halted in September 2023 after Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to Washington.

    Key Points:

    • India notified the WTO of proposed tariffs on $7.6 billion of U.S. imports in response to U.S. steel and aluminum tariffs.
    • The tariffs could take effect 30 days after the notification sent on May 9, 2025.
    • The initial tariffs were imposed by the U.S. in 2018 under President Trump, claiming national security reasons.
    • India argues that U.S. tariffs violate international trade agreements, claiming they are indeed safeguard measures.
    • The proposed Indian tariffs aim to mirror the impact of U.S. duties, potentially totaling $1.91 billion.
    • Past retaliatory measures included higher tariffs on 28 U.S. products in June 2019, which were suspended in September 2023 following diplomatic efforts.
    • There remains an ongoing need for dialogue between India and the U.S. amidst these tensions.
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    The Danish East India Company Tale

    The article narrates the remarkable historical connection between the Danish King Christian IV and Raghunatha Nayak, the ruler of Thanjavur, India, highlighting their efforts to establish trade relations during the early 17th century. Their intertwining stories reflect an unexpected but significant alliance that emerged through a series of events rooted in international trade dynamics.

    Summary

    • Christian IV of Denmark sought to boost his kingdom's economy by establishing the Danish East India Company to tap into the lucrative sea trade with India and Sri Lanka, particularly for black pepper.

    • Raghunatha Nayak, the ruler of Thanjavur, was keen to seek new trade partners due to growing Portuguese control of local trade routes. His reign was marked by notable political and architectural achievements, leading him to look for alternatives to Portuguese dominance.

    • Captain Roland Crappé, the trade director of the Danish East India Company, embarked on a perilous journey aboard the ship Øresund, which culminated in a significant maritime encounter with the Portuguese navy. After enduring shipwreck and casualties, Crappé, along with a few survivors, landed on the shores of Thanjavur.

    • Recognizing a potential partnership, Raghunatha Nayak agreed to the establishment of Danish commerce in Thanjavur, allowing the Danes to build a fort and create a trading post in Tharangambadi (later known as Tranquebar).

    • The king wrote a letter in ancient Tamil script on gold foil, formally inviting King Christian IV to engage in trade. This letter contained detailed instructions and generous offerings to the Danish King.

    • Meanwhile, the remaining Danish ships reached Sri Lanka, only to discover that the Portuguese had preemptively secured exclusive trading agreements there. However, news from Crappé about acceptance into Thanjavur revitalized their hopes.

    • The Danish trading post grew and thrived for over 200 years, facilitating international commerce until it was sold to the British in 1845 CE. This partnership left behind historical artifacts and sites, notably the gold foil letter preserved in Copenhagen.

    • A notable historian, R. Nagaswamy, played a significant role in interpreting the contents of the ancient letter which exemplified an early instance of international cooperation and goodwill.

    • A recent journey to Denmark allowed for a rare glimpse at the remarkable gold foil letter at the Royal Library, which showcased exquisite Tamil inscriptions and bore witness to an important chapter in global history.

    • The intricate details inscribed on the foil, such as the date in the Hindu calendar and Raghunatha Nayak's signature in Telugu, underline the diplomatic intent and cultural exchanges of the era.

    Important Sentences

    • Christian IV established the Danish East India Company in a bid to boost his kingdom's economy.
    • Raghunatha Nayak sought new trading partners to counteract Portuguese dominance in maritime trade.
    • Captain Crappé's perilous journey ended in Thanjavur after a violent encounter with the Portuguese navy.
    • The establishment of a trading post in Tharangambadi marked the beginning of significant Danish involvement in the region.
    • Raghunatha Nayak wrote a letter on gold foil to Christian IV, extending his invitation to trade.
    • The Danish trading post flourished for over 200 years, influencing commerce until the British takeover.
    • Artifacts from this historical alliance, like the gold foil letter, remain preserved in Denmark.
    • The letter exemplifies a pioneering instance of international diplomacy and cultural exchange between the two regions.

    This historical narrative highlights the global interconnectedness of trade and diplomacy as far back as the early 17th century, demonstrating venture, collaboration, and cultural significance spanning vast geographical distances.

    International Relation

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    Ghosh Appointed UN Climate Envoy

    Arunabha Ghosh, the leader of the Delhi-based climate and energy think tank CEEW (Council on Energy, Environment and Water), has been appointed as the South Asia envoy for this year's UN climate conference, COP-30, scheduled for November in Brazil. As one of eight international envoys representing key regions globally, Ghosh will play a vital role in amplifying the representation and concerns of South Asia at this critical climate meeting. The envoy group includes notable figures like Jacinda Ardern, former Prime Minister of New Zealand, and Patricia Espinosa, former Executive Secretary of the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC).

    In his response to the appointment, Ghosh articulated the urgent need to address accelerating climate disruptions, influenced by geopolitical dynamics and technological changes. He emphasized the critical realities of rising debt, catastrophic disasters, stagnating development progress, and the pressing requirement for decarbonization. Highlighting the themes for COP-30, Mr. Ghosh called for a transformative approach to climate action, advocating for a shift from rigid centralised mechanisms to adaptive, decentralized methods that promote resilience and cooperation.

    The voluntary role of the international envoys is focused on improving dialogue and ensuring that diverse perspectives and experiences are effectively communicated at the conference. This initiative is expected to foster rapid and meaningful interactions between various stakeholders involved in addressing climate challenges.

    Key Points:

    • Arunabha Ghosh appointed as South Asia envoy for COP-30 in Brazil.
    • He is one of eight international envoys, including notable leaders like Jacinda Ardern and Patricia Espinosa.
    • Ghosh emphasizes the accelerating global climate disruptions and the urgent need for new approaches to address them.
    • He points to severe issues such as rising debt, disasters, and the need for decarbonization.
    • At COP-30, the focus will be on building resilient systems through collaborative approaches rather than centralized policies.
    • The envoys will facilitate communication of diverse regional perspectives at the climate conference.

    International Relation

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    US India's Kashmir Mediation Controversy

    The news article addresses the ongoing tensions and diplomatic intricacies between the U.S., India, and Pakistan, primarily focusing on President Donald Trump's controversial claims regarding the U.S.-mediated ceasefire of May 10, and his references to the Kashmir dispute. Despite Trump's assertions of mediation, the Indian government, led by External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar, firmly rejected his statements, citing established foreign policy principles that seek to avoid third-party mediation and emphasize terrorism as the core issue in the India-Pakistan relationship.

    Key Points of the Article:

    • Trump's Claims: Trump claimed he facilitated a ceasefire between India and Pakistan, a statement denied by India. His comments also involved references to Kashmir as a dispute that is "a thousand years old," misrepresenting historical context.

    • India’s Foreign Policy Concerns: The Indian government maintains firm stances against third-party mediation in Kashmir and seeks to resolve issues bilaterally, viewing Trump's mediation offers as crossing established diplomatic red lines.

    • Historical Context: The Kashmir conflict, originating in 1947, has seen various wars and unresolved issues over the years. Notably, the Simla Accord of 1972 aimed at resolving the conflict bilaterally but failed to achieve lasting resolution.

    • Past U.S. Involvement: Historically, the U.S. has attempted to facilitate dialogue, notably during the 1965 war and the Kargil conflict, but has shifted its position towards encouraging bilateral discussions without direct mediation, until Trump's recent offers.

    • Impact of 2019 Events: After India's revocation of the special status of Jammu and Kashmir, Pakistan attempted to resurrect internationalizing the Kashmir issue but has largely been unsuccessful. India's position has further hardened post-2019, focusing only on the return of Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) in any future talks.

    • Diplomatic Responses: Trump's remarks drew criticism as they conflict with India's strategic diplomatic narrative. Indian authorities emphasize combating terrorism as a priority over discussing Kashmir’s political status. While Pakistan's Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif extends calls for talks, India maintains a stringent stance.

    • Current Communication Channels: Direct dialogue between India and Pakistan has been nearly severed since 2015, reducing communication primarily to security matters at the border. The Indian government adamantly states that negotiations will only concern terrorism and the PoK.

    • Future Diplomatic Stalemate: The article suggests that while not engaging in direct talks hasn’t solved ongoing issues, other nations often feel compelled to step in and attempt mediation. India aims to focus on international collaboration against terrorism without bringing Kashmir into the international conversation.

    This intricately woven narrative highlights the complexities of the India-Pakistan dynamic, how external influences, particularly from the U.S., complicate established bilateral relations, and the long-standing implications of Kashmir in regional stability.

    In summary, the article underscores the importance of historical context in understanding contemporary diplomatic stances and the potential pitfalls of international interventions in local disputes, particularly concerning sensitive regional issues like Kashmir.

    International Relation

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    Afrikaner Refugees Resettlement in USA

    In a significant development regarding refugee admissions, the United States has initiated a program to resettle Afrikaners, a white minority group from South Africa alleging racial discrimination. The program was formalized under an executive order signed by President Donald Trump following South Africa's controversial land reclamation act. On May 12, the first group of 59 Afrikaner refugees arrived in the U.S., marking an expedited processing timeline that has raised concerns and garnered mixed responses domestically and internationally.

    Summary

    • Launch of Refugee Program: The U.S. began resettling Afrikaners under a new policy, claiming they face racial discrimination in South Africa. The first group of 59 refugees landed at Dulles Airport, welcomed by U.S officials.
    • Eligibility Criteria: To be eligible, individuals must be South African nationals of Afrikaner ethnicity or belonging to a racial minority, having faced past persecution or fearing future persecution.
    • Expedited Process: The U.S. implemented a quick processing initiative for these refugees, with reports indicating applications were processed within three months.
    • Government Support: The U.S. government plans to provide assistance for employment, housing, and basic needs for the resettled refugees. This includes essential household items, groceries, and clothing.
    • Executive Order Background: Trump's executive order accused the South African government of racial discrimination and violation of citizens' rights, specifically targeting land rights which adversely affect the Afrikaners.
    • Allegations of Discrimination: The program emerged from narratives around “white genocide” in South Africa, where farmers and Afrikaners claim to be facing violence and discrimination.
    • Controversy and Criticism: Many argue that the claims of discrimination are exaggerated or unfounded. The South African government disputes these allegations, emphasizing ongoing struggles for racial equality in land ownership.
    • Refugee Processing Changes: The fast-track processing of Afrikaner refugees contrasts sharply with the typical lengthy isolation of asylum seekers and refugees in the U.S., drawing criticism from refugee rights organizations and some governmental bodies.
    • Political Reactions: South African President Cyril Ramaphosa has expressed concern over this U.S. development, affirming that Afrikaners do not meet typical refugee criteria related to political persecution, and is engaged in ongoing diplomatic discussions with the U.S.
    • Position of Refugee Agencies: Various refugee organizations have condemned the preferential treatment afforded to Afrikaners while other vulnerable groups wait longer for resettlement. Critics note this undermines broader refugee policy aimed at aiding those most in need.
    • Demands for Equity: Groups representing Afrikaners are internally divided, with some rejecting the refugee offer for fear of losing their cultural identity while others are actively seeking support against what they describe as discriminatory laws.
    • Land Reform and Wealth Disparity: A contextual backdrop highlights the historical injustices of apartheid, where wealth and land ownership disparities remain sharp, with the white minority maintaining significant advantages even in post-apartheid South Africa.

    Important Sentences

    • The U.S. began resettling Afrikaners claiming racial discrimination, with the first 59 refugees arriving on May 12.
    • Eligibility criteria require applicants to demonstrate past or future persecution based on their ethnicity.
    • The swift processing of these refugees marks a stark contrast to traditional refugee admission timelines.
    • Trump's executive order cites South Africa's land reform as discriminatory against the Afrikaners.
    • There is significant skepticism regarding claims of "white genocide" from various quarters, including the South African government.
    • Refugee rights organizations criticize the U.S. for prioritizing one demographic while many others face perilous conditions.
    • Division exists among Afrikaners regarding emigration, with concerns about cultural identity and systemic oppression.
    • The historical context of apartheid in South Africa underpins current land ownership and racial equity debates.

    This scenario unfolds against a complex background of historical legacies of racial segregation and contemporary geopolitical discourses on immigration, asylum, and human rights.

    International Relation

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    Indus Waters Treaty Suspended Indefinitely

    Summary of the News Article

    The Indian government has suspended the Indus Waters Treaty (IWT) with Pakistan due to ongoing cross-border terrorism, specifically following a terror attack on civilians in Pahalgam attributed to Pakistan. The suspension will remain in place until Pakistan unequivocally renounces its support for terrorism. This significant development was conveyed by Debashree Mukherjee, the Secretary of the Department of Water Resources, River Development and Ganga Rejuvenation, in a report to the Cabinet Secretary, T.V. Somanathan.

    The Indus Waters Treaty, established in 1960 with the involvement of the World Bank, regulates the allocation and use of the Indus River and its tributaries between India and Pakistan. While there had been indications from the Pakistani Water Resources Secretary, Syed Ali Murtaza, that Pakistan was ready to engage in discussions regarding India’s concerns, the Indian government remains steadfast in its decision to keep the treaty in abeyance. This decision highlights the increasing tensions between the two nations, particularly regarding issues of national security and water resources.

    Key Points:

    • The Indus Waters Treaty between India and Pakistan is suspended due to Pakistan’s support for cross-border terrorism.
    • The decision follows a terror attack on civilians in Pahalgam, which India attributed to Pakistan.
    • Debashree Mukherjee of the Indian Jal Shakti Ministry communicated this to Cabinet Secretary T.V. Somanathan.
    • The suspension will persist until Pakistan "credibly and irrevocably" abjures support for terrorism.
    • The IWT was brokered by the World Bank in 1960 and regulates the use of the Indus River and its tributaries.
    • The river system's importance is critical for both nations' water needs.
    • Pakistan's Water Resources Secretary expressed a willingness to discuss India's concerns, but India remains firm on the treaty suspension.
    • The Indus River system includes eastern rivers (Ravi, Beas, and Sutlej) and western rivers (Indus, Jhelum, and Chenab), which are vital for the two countries.

    International Relation

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    Israeli Airstrikes Continue in Gaza

    On May 14, 2025, intensified Israeli airstrikes in both northern and southern Gaza resulted in the deaths of at least 60 individuals, including around 22 children, as reported by local hospitals and health officials. This surge in violence follows a statement from Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu indicating that no cessation of military operations would occur until Hamas is defeated.

    Key details include:

    • Casualty Figures: The airstrikes, particularly around Jabaliya in northern Gaza, led to the majority of the fatalities, with a reported 50 individuals losing their lives there. Khan Younis in the south saw an additional ten deaths.

    • Context of Violence: The strikes occurred after Hamas had released an Israeli-American hostage, a development that had fueled speculation about the possibility of a ceasefire. However, Netanyahu firmly rejected any truce, even if further hostages were released, quelling hopes for a diplomatic resolution.

    • Evacuation Warning: Prior to the strikes, the Israeli military had warned residents in Jabaliya to evacuate, citing militant infrastructure in the area, which included rocket launchers.

    • Ongoing War: The conflict, ignited by a Hamas-led attack in 2023 that resulted in approximately 1,200 deaths in Southern Israel, has since escalated with more than 52,800 Palestinians killed, although the exact number of civilians versus combatants remains unclear.

    • Humanitarian Crisis: The ongoing Israeli campaign has resulted in the destruction of significant parts of Gaza’s urban areas and has left roughly 90% of its population displaced. International food security experts have warned that Gaza faces imminent famine unless the blockade is lifted and military operations are halted.

    • International Response: French President Emmanuel Macron condemned Netanyahu’s blockade on aid entering Gaza, characterizing it as a disgrace that exacerbates the humanitarian disaster. He described the lack of medical care and access for doctors as unacceptable and called for the border to be reopened for humanitarian efforts. He believes that while demilitarizing Hamas is necessary, there must also be a push for a political solution.

    • Extreme Food Insecurity: Reports indicate that almost half a million Palestinians are at risk of starvation, and approximately a million others are barely obtaining the food they require. The severe restrictions placed by Israeli forces on food, medicine, and aid for the past ten weeks have worsened the conditions for the 2.3 million people living in Gaza.

    This escalation of violence and the humanitarian crisis unfolding in Gaza has attracted significant international scrutiny, with calls for action to alleviate the suffering of the civilians caught in the conflict.

    Key Points:

    • Israeli airstrikes in Gaza result in at least 60 deaths, including children.
    • Netanyahu rejects calls for a ceasefire, insisting on defeating Hamas.
    • Casualties primarily reported in Jabaliya and Khan Younis.
    • Ongoing hostilities stem from a deadly 2023 attack by Hamas.
    • Humanitarian situation described as catastrophic, risking famine for hundreds of thousands.
    • Macron condemns blockade, calls for immediate humanitarian aid access.
    • International community calls for resolution and aid to civilians affected by the violence.

    International Relation

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    India's Evolving Ties with Afghanistan

    The article discusses India's cautious approach to engaging with the Taliban after their takeover of Afghanistan in August 2021 and the subsequent developments in bilateral relations. The Indian government initially withdrew its diplomatic presence in Kabul but later recognized the impracticality of completely severing ties. Here are the key points from the article:

    • Initial Withdrawal and Caution: Following the Taliban's takeover, India reacted by withdrawing its ambassador and diplomatic staff from Kabul, suspending all direct engagement.

    • Gradual Reopening of Communication: India began gradually re-establishing communication, leading to the reopening of its embassy in June 2024 and a public meeting between Indian Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri and Afghan Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi in January 2024.

    • Humanitarian Aid to Afghanistan: Since August 2021, India has provided numerous forms of aid to Afghanistan, including wheat, medical supplies, and pesticides. The Union Budget for 2024-25 allocated Rs 100 crore for further assistance.

    • Ministerial-Level Conversation: The recent phone call between External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar and Muttaqi represents a significant milestone in India’s outreach, marking the first-ever ministerial-level conversation since the Taliban's resurgence.

    • Context of Regional Tensions: This engagement coincided with a ceasefire announcement between India and Pakistan following a terror attack that the Taliban condemned. The relationships between the Taliban and Pakistan have been deteriorating due to conflicts involving groups like the Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan.

    • Pakistan's Role and Propaganda Efforts: Pakistan has been trying to undermine Indo-Afghan relations through misinformation, but Jaishankar publicly endorsed Muttaqi's rejection of these attempts.

    • Strategic Concerns for India: Amid the fractious ties between the Taliban and Pakistan, India's goal is to maintain open communication to prevent Afghanistan from being a haven for anti-India terror groups.

    • Human Rights Considerations: Despite increasing engagement, India refrains from recognizing the Taliban regime officially due to its authoritarian nature and disregard for human rights, notably concerning women's rights.

    • Risks of Engagement vs. Non-Engagement: While increased engagement poses moral dilemmas for India, complete disengagement also carries risks, especially given China's growing investment in Afghanistan, including a notable $540 million oil extraction deal with the Taliban.

    • Geopolitical Implications: A potential alliance between Kabul and Beijing raises concerns within South Asia, especially regarding the China-Pakistan-Bangladesh axis, steering India towards the need to navigate its interactions with the Taliban carefully.

    In summary, India faces a complex geopolitical situation with the Taliban in Afghanistan, balancing humanitarian concerns and national security interests while navigating regional power dynamics, particularly with Pakistan and China.

    International Relation

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    Indus Waters Treaty Tensions Rise

    On April 22, a terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Kashmir, resulted in the deaths of 26 civilians, prompting a response from the Indian government that included the suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty (IWT). The treaty, signed in 1960, has historically been a vulnerable political tool amidst India-Pakistan relations, often invoked during conflicts such as the Mumbai, Uri, and Pulwama attacks.

    Key Points:

    • The Indus Waters Treaty (IWT): A pivotal agreement that has survived numerous political crises but is now under scrutiny due to recent violence.

    • Indus River Basin: Spanning India, Pakistan, Afghanistan, and China, it is vital for both India and Pakistan, with Pakistan controlling 61% of the basin and India 29%.

    • Historical Significance: The Indus River has roots dating back to the ancient Indus Valley Civilization (circa 3000-1500 BCE), signifying its long-standing importance in regional history and culture.

    • Colonial Era: British colonial rule saw significant advancements in irrigation technology and water management, setting the stage for the contentious distribution of water resources post-1947 independence.

    • Partition Consequences: The partition left unresolved disputes regarding control and allocation of the river's waters, leading to the IWT's establishment in 1960 under World Bank mediation, dividing river use between India and Pakistan.

    • Disputed Control: India controls the eastern tributaries, while Pakistan governs the western rivers; however, the treaty's allocation has faced criticism for being unequal and not addressing modern challenges like climate change.

    • Climate Change Impact: The Indus River Basin is under increasing stress from climate change, population growth, and water demand. Issues such as glacial melt threaten long-term water availability, which disproportionately affects Pakistan and its agricultural economy.

    • Environmental Challenges: Agriculture uses in both countries exacerbate water management issues, and Pakistan's reliance on the Indus leaves it vulnerable to external control of water flow, particularly from India.

    • Potential for Cooperation: Environmental concerns may necessitate increased dialogue and cooperation between India and Pakistan over water management. Historical data suggests that nations often pursue treaties during politically tense times, which could offer pathways to peace rather than conflict.

    Overall, the narrative encompasses the intricate history and current vulnerabilities surrounding a river that is not only a geographical asset but also a symbol of the geopolitical tensions between two nuclear-armed neighbors. As climate change poses enhanced risks, the need for effective cooperation and shared management of the Indus River's resources becomes increasingly critical for ensuring water security for both nations.

    International Relation

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    India-Pakistan Indus Waters Treaty Dispute

    On April 24, India's Jal Shakti Ministry Secretary Debashree Mukherjee addressed her Pakistani counterpart regarding modifications to the Indus Waters Treaty (IWT) of 1960. The Indian government highlighted the need for reassessment of treaty obligations due to significant geopolitical changes over the past 65 years. This move is prompted by ongoing cross-border terrorism from Pakistan, particularly impacting the rights India holds under the treaty, especially in light of a recent terror attack that claimed 26 lives in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir. Consequently, India has decided to put the treaty "in abeyance" stating that it could not fully utilize its rights under the current treaty framework.

    Key Developments:

    • Notices Sent to Pakistan: India has formally sought modifications to the IWT due to changes in the geopolitical landscape and terrorism-related incidents.
    • Immediate Actions Post-Terror Attack: Following the terrorist attack on tourists, India’s leadership emphasized the need to address terrorist activities stemming from Pakistan.
    • Ceasefire Agreement: Hostilities between India and Pakistan culminated in a ceasefire on May 17.
    • Concerns over Water Flow Management: Discussions about the impacts on river flows—Indus, Jhelum, Chenab—are ongoing, but India lacks the necessary infrastructure for long-term water management.

    Analysis of Current Circumstances:

    • The existing water management frameworks are under strain due to the dramatic population growth and urbanization in both countries since 1960. India’s population has significantly increased from 445 million to 1.46 billion, while Pakistan’s has gone from 45.7 million to 255 million.
    • Economic indicators also show a shift, with India’s per capita GDP now at $2,698 compared to Pakistan’s $1,647.
    • Past agricultural practices, particularly post-Green Revolution, have exacerbated water scarcity, especially in the Punjab regions of both nations. Water tables are declining rapidly, adding urgency to the need for sustainable management practices.

    Challenges and Recommendations:

    • Rethinking Management Practices: Both countries have focused on supply increase rather than managing water demand or quality, which can no longer sustain agricultural and energy needs.
    • Need for a Modernized Treaty: The IWT, which focuses solely on surface water, fails to address critical issues such as groundwater, water quality, climate change, and rising temperatures affecting water availability.
    • Recent climate trends indicate an increase in droughts and extreme heat, compounding existing water challenges. Notably, heatwaves have reached unprecedented levels in both countries, influencing higher energy demands for cooling, thus increasing water requirements for power generation.

    Future Directions:

    • Although Pakistan has expressed openness to re-discuss concerns regarding the IWT, both nations must urgently re-evaluate their approaches to water management.
    • A framework for a living treaty that allows for adjustments to meet changing circumstances is advocated, yet there is currently a lack of institutions in both countries conducting necessary research for renegotiation.

    Concluding Remarks:

    The future of the IWT and bilateral relations hinges on collaborative water management strategies; the current state of affairs highlights the dire need for updated practices that align with the realities of the modern world. Both water scarcity and agricultural demands necessitate a comprehensive overhaul of existing frameworks to ensure sustainability in the region.

    Important Points:

    • India seeks reforms in the IWT citing terrorism and geopolitical shifts.
    • The recent terror attack influenced India's treaty status.
    • Economic growth and population increases heighten water demand in both countries.
    • Existing treaty frameworks are outdated and insufficient for contemporary challenges, including climate change.
    • Urgent need for sustainable water management practices and a modern treaty model.

    International Relation

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    UN Inquiry into Rohingya Refugee Crisis

    The United Nations has initiated an inquiry concerning reports that Rohingya refugees were forced off an Indian naval vessel into the Andaman Sea. This investigation follows allegations of unconscionable and unacceptable treatment of these refugees by Indian authorities. The UN has emphasized the need for the Indian government to refrain from repatriating Rohingya refugees to Myanmar, where conditions remain perilous.

    Highlights of the situation include:

    • UN Inquiry: The United Nations has launched an inquiry after reports emerged of Rohingya refugees being pushed off a naval vessel into the Andaman Sea.
    • Appointment of Expert: A UN expert has been appointed to investigate these reports, highlighting the seriousness of the claims.
    • UN's Strong Statements: Tom Andrews, the UN Special Rapporteur on human rights in Myanmar, condemned the actions, stating: “The idea that Rohingya refugees have been cast into the sea from naval vessels is nothing short of outrageous.”
    • Call for Accountability: Andrews is seeking additional information regarding the events and has urged India to account for the refugees' experiences.
    • Previous Concerns: On March 3, Andrews communicated with the Indian government regarding concerns over the arbitrary detention of refugees, including Rohingya from Myanmar.
    • Refoulement Allegations: The inquiry also addresses allegations of refoulement, the forced return of refugees to places where they face serious threats to their life or freedom.
    • Demands for Action: The UN is calling on India to cease any deportations to Myanmar and has insisted on the end of arbitrary detentions of refugees.
    • International Obligations: Andrews urged the Indian government to uphold its international responsibilities regarding the treatment of refugees.

    This situation continues to develop, with the international community closely monitoring India's treatment of Rohingya refugees and the resulting implications for human rights. The UN's proactive stance signals ongoing concern for refugee rights and aims to shed light on the critical circumstances faced by the Rohingya people.

    International Relation

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