24 June 2025: The Hindu Editorial

1. Federalism under Strain: The Growing Centralisation of Power in India

Source – Page 10, The Hindu Editorial

Topic: GS Paper 2 – Polity and Governance (Centre-State Relations)

Context

The editorial highlights the weakening of India’s federal structure due to increased centralisation, especially in financial and legislative domains, affecting state autonomy and cooperative governance.

Content:

Background:

• India’s federal setup is increasingly tilted in favour of the Centre, especially after the implementation of GST and increased political intervention in states.

Key Points:

• Fiscal Centralisation: States’ financial autonomy reduced; they rely heavily on central transfers.

• Legislative Intrusion: Overuse of the Concurrent List and ordinances undermines state authority.

• Political Overreach: Governors and central agencies are often misused for political gains.

Analysis:

• Governance Impact: Central dominance disrupts implementation of welfare and regional development programs.

• Constitutional Framework: Article 1 of the Constitution envisages a ‘Union of States’, not a unitary system.

• Judicial Silence: Courts often refrain from addressing clear encroachments on state powers.

Way Forward:

• Empower the Inter-State Council and NITI Aayog for consultative federalism.

• Rework financial sharing formulas to ensure equity.

• Limit central agencies’ interference in state matters.

Practice Question: Critically examine the impact of increasing centralization on India’s federal structure. Suggest reforms to strengthen cooperative federalism in the country.

 

2. India’s Climate Crisis: Rising Vulnerability to Extreme Weather Events

Source – Page 10, The Hindu Editorial

Topic: GS Paper 3 – Environment (Climate Change, Disasters)

Context

The editorial addresses how India’s unpreparedness and policy lag are making it increasingly vulnerable to climate-induced extreme weather like floods, heatwaves, and cyclones.

Background:

• Background:

  • Recent months saw devastating floods and heatwaves across several states, exposing weaknesses in India’s disaster preparedness and climate policies.

  Key Points:

  • Inadequate Warning Systems: Gaps in real-time data and communication from IMD and NDMA.

  • Urban Fragility: Informal settlements, poor drainage, and overbuilding exacerbate disaster impacts.

  • Policy Ineffectiveness: State climate action plans are outdated or poorly implemented.

  Analysis:

  • Climate Inequity: Poor and marginalized communities suffer most.

  • Economic Disruption: Crop damage, migration, and infrastructure collapse affect long-term development.

  • Need for Systemic Reform: Climate policy must move beyond tokenism.

  Way Forward:

  • Upgrade early warning tech and institutional coordination.

  • Implement city-level climate resilience strategies.

  • Prioritize climate justice and inclusive adaptation.

Practice Question: Discuss the impact of climate-induced extreme weather events on India’s economy and society. Suggest measures for strengthening India’s climate resilience framework.(GS2 | 250 words | 15 marks)

Read more about – 23 June 2025: The Hindu Editorial Analysis