16 June 2025 : Indian Express Editorial Analysis

1. Tracking the Monsoon
(Source: Editorial Page, The Indian Express)

Topic: GS1 – Geographical Phenomena, GS3 – Agriculture & Food Security

Context

The editorial highlights the stalled progress of the 2025 southwest monsoon after an early onset. It warns that although oceanic conditions remain favorable, disrupted land heating and weather anomalies may affect rainfall distribution — directly impacting agriculture and food inflation in India.

Monsoon Onset and Stagnation

• The monsoon arrived in Kerala on May 24 (8 days early), reached Mumbai by May 26, but has since stalled.

• The rain-bearing front hasn’t advanced since May 29.

• This early and wet May led to cooler-than-normal temperatures across India, disrupting the creation of heat lows that help draw in monsoon winds.

Rainfall Deficit Trends

• June rainfall so far has been 31% below normal.

• Out of 36 meteorological subdivisions in India, 30 recorded deficits exceeding 15%.

Oceanic Conditions: Favorable but Insufficient

• IMD still predicts an above-normal monsoon.

• No El Niño and a neutral or weak negative Indian Ocean Dipole suggest a favorable oceanic environment.

Agricultural and Economic Concerns

• Delayed monsoon progression may affect sowing of kharif crops (like rice, pulses).

• Commodity prices could rise if rainfall remains erratic, impacting inflation and food security.

Conclusion/Way Forward

• Policymakers should not assume favorable monsoon predictions alone ensure price stability.

• Need to monitor commodity markets, ensure buffer stocks, and prepare for possible crop insurance payouts.

• Revival of the monsoon in the coming weeks is critical for agriculture and rural demand.

Practice Question: (GS-3 | 10 Marks | 150 Words) “Discuss the factors responsible for the variability in the southwest monsoon and its implications for food security and inflation in India.” (250 words)

Also Read: The Hindu Editorial Analysis- 16 June 2025

2. A Stabilising Force

(Source: Editorial Page, The Indian Express)

Topic: GS2 – International Relations; GS3 – Economy (Global Trade)

Context

The editorial discusses India–Europe relations in light of External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar’s recent engagements. It highlights how India and Europe are forming a stable partnership amidst shifting global power equations, rising protectionism, and China–US strategic tensions.

Changing Global Order

• The rules-based global order is weakening; institutions like WTO and UN are under pressure.

• Amid this flux, India and Europe are natural partners in creating a multipolar, stable global framework.

India–EU Trade and Technology Council (TTC)

• Set up to deepen cooperation on critical technologies, supply chains, and data protection.

• Aims to reduce dependency on China-centric manufacturing.

Economic and Strategic Significance

• India is diversifying away from China; Europe is reducing reliance on Russia and the US.

• India–EU trade negotiations and connectivity initiatives (e.g., India–Middle East–Europe Economic Corridor) gain momentum.

Diplomatic and Political Alignment

• Shared values of democracy, sustainability, and economic resilience bind the two.

• Common concerns about regional instability, Indo-Pacific security, and technology governance.

Conclusion/Way Forward:

• The India–EU axis may become a stabilising force in a fragmented world.

• India should continue balancing strategic autonomy with deeper economic integration with the West.

Practice Question: (GS-2 | 10 Marks | 150 Words) Discuss the growing significance of India–Europe relations in the context of emerging global multipolarity. What role can this partnership play in ensuring a stable world order? (250 words)

Read more – 14 June 2025 : Indian Express Editorial Analysis