What to Read in Indian Express Editorial( Topic and Syllabus wise)

Editorial 1 : The Trump tarrif deadline is here. Here’s what India should do

Introduction: The Indian stock markets experienced a downturn on Tuesday, with the BSE Sensex closing 1.8% lower. This decline was largely driven by investor concerns over the impending April 2 deadline set by US President Donald Trump for imposing reciprocal tariffs. Trump has positioned this day as "Liberation Day," signaling a significant shift in US trade policies aimed at reducing reliance on foreign goods. The global implications of these tariffs, particularly on India, have created economic uncertainties that necessitate strategic policy responses.

Key Points:

1. US Reciprocal Tariffs and Global Trade Impact:
   1. Trump’s tariffs will affect all countries, diminishing hopes for exemptions or concessions.
   2. The US administration aims to use tariffs as a geopolitical tool, including proposed secondary tariffs on Russian oil buyers, impacting India directly.
   3. A recent 25% tariff on automobiles and parts has already been implemented.
2. Challenges in Managing Reciprocal Tariffs:
   1. The US has extensive trade relationships, with 200 trading partners and over 12,500 tariff categories.
   2. Managing a large-scale reciprocal tariff system would be complex and challenging for the US.
   3. India, previously labeled a "tariff king" by Trump, faces significant hurdles.
3. India’s Trade Position and Policy Considerations:
   1. The US Trade Representative’s 2025 National Trade Estimate report highlights India’s high average tariff rate of 17%, the highest among major economies.
   2. India retains flexibility in adjusting tariff rates due to differences between WTO bound and applied rates, contributing to trade uncertainty.
   3. The report also underscores various non-tariff barriers in India, affecting its trade openness.
4. Strategic Trade Agreements and Policy Reforms:
   1. India and the US have recently concluded discussions on a Bilateral Trade Agreement framework.
   2. India must expedite trade agreements with the EU and the UK to enhance global trade integration.
   3. The Indian government should reassess its trade policies, particularly tariff and non-tariff barriers, to strengthen participation in global supply chains.
   4. Previous trade agreements with Australia and the UAE signal progress in India’s trade liberalization efforts.

Conclusion: The evolving global trade landscape, driven by Trump’s aggressive tariff policies, presents both challenges and opportunities for India. While uncertainties loom, India must proactively navigate these changes by finalizing key trade agreements and reassessing its trade barriers. Embracing globalization and free trade has historically benefited India, and a continued focus on economic openness will be essential for sustained growth and integration into global markets.

 

Editorial 2 : Express View: Extended spells of intense heat are likely to be the new normal

 

Introduction: The effects of global warming on Indian summers have become increasingly evident over the past decade. Rising temperatures are extending the summer season, reducing the duration of spring, and impacting regions that were not traditionally prone to extreme heat. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has predicted above-normal temperatures for most of the country from April to June, with heat waves expected to last longer than in previous years. This changing climate pattern has significant implications for public health, infrastructure, and urban planning.

Key Points:

1. Worsening Heat Wave Conditions:
   1. Heat waves are no longer confined to northern, central, and eastern India; they now affect the Konkan region and parts of Karnataka.
   2. IMD has warned of prolonged heat wave episodes, with durations exceeding 10 days in some regions.
   3. In 2023, some areas experienced extreme heat spells lasting over two weeks.
2. Health and Safety Concerns:
   1. Mortality data from heat waves vary across agencies like IMD, National Disaster Management Agency, and the National Crime Records Bureau.
   2. Heat action plans exist in most states but mainly focus on emergency responses such as water availability, shelters, and altered work schedules.
   3. Research suggests broader solutions, including expanding cooling access, providing insurance for heat-related work losses, improving fire management, and upgrading electricity grids.
3. Localized Impacts and Urban Heat Islands:
   1. Heat wave alerts must consider local conditions, such as humidity, which played a role in past sunstroke incidents in Navi Mumbai.
   2. Urban heat islands (UHIs) exacerbate temperature rises in densely built areas with limited heat dissipation.
   3. For example, March temperatures in Mumbai suburbs like Vasai and Ghatkopar exceeded those in greener areas like Powai by up to 13°C.
4. Long-Term Strategies and Policy Recommendations:
   1. Policymakers must prioritize heat-proofing cities by reducing heat-retaining infrastructure and increasing green spaces.
   2. Future urban planning should incorporate measures to mitigate rising temperatures, such as improved ventilation, reflective surfaces, and increased vegetation.
   3. The IMD’s alert serves as a call for immediate and long-term action to combat the effects of extreme heat on India’s population and economy.

Conclusion: The intensification of heat waves and rising temperatures due to global warming pose serious challenges for India. While emergency measures are essential, a shift towards long-term climate resilience is necessary. Policymakers and urban planners must proactively address heat stress through sustainable infrastructure, urban greening, and community-based interventions. As extreme heat becomes the new normal, it is imperative to take comprehensive steps to mitigate its adverse effects on both rural and urban populations.

 

 

Editorial 3 : The Third Edit: Patna University Students’ Union is now a young women’s club

 

Introduction:
 Women’s political participation in India has seen a steady rise over the years, with student politics often serving as a launchpad for future leaders. A recent milestone in this journey was achieved in the Patna University Students’ Union (PUSU) elections, where women secured three of the top five positions for the first time in history. This landmark victory reflects the changing socio-political landscape in Bihar, a state where female representation in politics has traditionally been limited.

Key Points:

1. Significance of the PUSU Elections:
   1. Women secured top positions in PUSU, marking a historic shift.
   2. Reflects increased female political engagement in Bihar.
2. Factors Driving Women’s Empowerment in Bihar:
   1. Government initiatives like the Jeevika programme under the Bihar Livelihood Scheme.
   2. 50% reservation for women in panchayat elections.
   3. Kumar’s cycle scheme boosting female enrolment in education.
3. Growing Female Political Participation:
   1. In the 2020 Bihar Assembly elections, female voter turnout (59.7%) surpassed male voter turnout (54.6%).
   2. Despite higher turnout, only 26 out of 371 female candidates won seats.
4. Historical Importance of PUSU Elections:
   1. PUSU has been a stepping stone for major leaders like Lalu Prasad and the late Sushil Kumar Modi.
   2. The success of women candidates signals a broader trend of increasing representation.
5. National Context and Future Implications:
   1. The victory aligns with national discussions on women’s rights, particularly after the Women’s Reservation Bill, 2023.
   2. The success of these young leaders sets a precedent for future political participation by women.

Conclusion:
 The recent PUSU elections have sent a strong message about the growing role of women in politics. While significant strides have been made in terms of political participation, much work remains in ensuring greater representation in legislative bodies. The achievement of these young women not only marks personal victories but also highlights a broader societal shift toward a more inclusive and diverse political landscape.