07 July 2025: The Hindu Editorial

1. India’s Strategic Push for Global South Solidarity through BRICS and Bilateral Engagements

Source – Page 8, The Hindu Editorial

Topic: GS2 – International Relations

Context

PM Narendra Modi’s visits to Ghana, Trinidad and Tobago, Argentina, and participation in the BRICS Summit mark a strategic effort to reinforce South-South cooperation, reimagine global governance, and build alternative frameworks of economic partnership.

. Strategic Outreach

• Strengthening bilateral ties across Africa, Latin America, and the Caribbean with focus on pharmaceuticals, food security, digital technology, and rare minerals.

• India promoted equitable development by leveraging soft power and diaspora links.

. BRICS as a Multilateral Tool

• India pushed for inclusive global governance at BRICS, welcomed Indonesia as a new member.

• The Declaration acknowledged India’s concerns on terrorism and endorsed UNSC reform.

. Promotion of Indian Initiatives

• Expansion of India-led platforms like CDRI and ISA, pitched as low-cost solutions for developing nations.

Way Forward:

• Deepen institutional ties and push for rule-based multilateralism that reflects today’s geopolitical realities.

Practice Question: Examine the evolving China-Pakistan military nexus and its implications for India’s defence preparedness and foreign policy. Suggest strategic measures for India to manage this dual threat.

2. Khelo Bharat Niti 2025: A Strategic Blueprint to Transform Indian Football and Grassroots Sports

Source – Page 8, The Hindu Editorial

Topic: GS2 – Governance; GS1 – Sports and Society

Context

The Khelo Bharat Niti 2025 reflects India’s long-term vision of becoming a global sporting nation. The editorial highlights its relevance to football, grassroots development, diaspora inclusion, and integration with education policy.

. Five-Pillar Policy Architecture

• Sports Excellence, Social Development, Economic Contribution, Community Sports, and Education Integration.

• Framework aligns with India’s ambition to host the 2036 Olympics.

. Football-Specific Reforms

• Grassroots programs begin at U8, structured competitions for U13-U20.

• Collaboration with FIFA through Football for Schools (F4S) reaching 1.5 lakh schools.

. Diaspora Talent Inclusion Challenges

• OCI athletes cannot represent India under current FIFA/Indian citizenship rules.

• Policy hints at exploring legal and diplomatic solutions to integrate diaspora talent.

. Education-Sports Link

• NEP aligned with Sports Policy ensures institutional support at school level.

Way Forward:

• Legal reforms for OCI integration and structured monitoring of athlete development needed.

Practice Question: Critically evaluate the provisions of the Khelo Bharat Niti 2025 in transforming India into a global sports powerhouse, with special reference to Indian football and diaspora participation.

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