03 May 2025 : Indian Express Editorial Analysis

1. Restore the Flow

(Source: Page 8, The Indian Express)

Topic: GS3 – GS Paper 3 – Environment and Ecology, Pollution Control, Urban Governance

Context

Delhi’s Yamuna River faces severe pollution challenges. Recent initiatives aim to rejuvenate the river by enhancing sewage treatment infrastructure and ensuring ecological flow.

Current Scenario:

• • • The Yamuna River in Delhi is heavily polluted, primarily due to untreated sewage and industrial effluents.

    • Approximately 50% of Delhi’s sewage treatment plants (STPs) fail to meet operational standards, leading to direct discharge of waste into the river.

Government Initiatives:

• • • Plans to upgrade existing STPs and construct new ones to enhance treatment capacity.

    • Introduction of decentralized wastewater treatment systems to manage sewage at the community level.

    • Implementation of real-time monitoring systems to track pollution levels and STP performance.

Challenges:

• • • Encroachments along the riverbanks hinder restoration efforts.

    • Lack of coordination among multiple agencies leads to fragmented implementation.

    • Public awareness and participation remain low, affecting the sustainability of initiatives.

Way Forward:

• • • Strengthen institutional frameworks for integrated river basin management.

    • Promote community engagement through awareness campaigns and participatory programs.

    • Ensure strict enforcement of environmental regulations to prevent industrial pollution.

Practice Question: Discuss the challenges in rejuvenating urban rivers in India, with a focus on the Yamuna River in Delhi. Suggest integrated approaches for effective river restoration. (250 Words /15 marks)

2. The Opening Salvo

(Source: Page 8, The Indian Express)

Topic: GS3 – GS Paper 2 – International Relations, Security Challenges

Context

The recent Pahalgam attack has escalated tensions between India and Pakistan, prompting discussions on diplomatic and strategic responses.

Background:

• • • A terrorist attack in Pahalgam resulted in significant casualties, with evidence pointing towards cross-border involvement.

    • The incident has strained India-Pakistan relations, leading to international concern.

Diplomatic Response:

• • • India has engaged in diplomatic efforts to isolate Pakistan internationally, highlighting its role in supporting terrorism.

    • Calls for Pakistan’s re-listing in the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) grey list have been intensified.

Strategic Considerations:

• • • Debate over limited military action versus sustained diplomatic pressure.

    • Concerns about potential escalation and regional stability.

International Dynamics:

• • • Global powers urge restraint while acknowledging India’s right to self-defense.

    • The incident tests the effectiveness of international mechanisms in addressing state-sponsored terrorism.

Way Forward:

• • • Strengthen intelligence and counter-terrorism capabilities.

    • Enhance international cooperation to combat terrorism financing and support.

    • Pursue a balanced approach combining diplomatic, economic, and strategic tools.

Practice Question: Analyze the implications of cross-border terrorism on India’s foreign policy. How should India balance diplomatic and strategic responses to such challenges? (250 Words /15 marks)

Read more – 2 May 2025 : Indian Express Editorial Analysis