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

 

Article 1: Decline of Globalisation

Why in News: Rising protectionism, tariff wars, supply-chain realignments, and geoeconomic rivalries are signalling the decline of cooperative globalisation and the emergence of competitive economic nationalism.

Key Details

The traditional belief that international trade promotes peace and cooperation is being challenged by rising geopolitical tensions.

Countries increasingly view economic interdependence as a vulnerability rather than a stabilising factor.

Global trade is witnessing tariffs, export controls, technology restrictions, and supply-chain restructuring.

The shift reflects a transition from globalisation to geoeconomic competition and strategic trade policies.

Concept of “Gentle Trade”

Philosophical Origin: The concept of doux commerce was proposed by the Enlightenment thinker Montesquieu. It suggested that commerce encourages peaceful behaviour by promoting mutual dependence and reducing incentives for war.

Trade as a Civilising Force: During the era of globalisation, trade was viewed as a mechanism that would soften political tensions and create shared economic interests among nations.

Institutional Framework: Global institutions such as the World Trade Organization promoted the idea that rules-based trade could stabilise international relations.

Economic Interdependence Theory: Liberal economic theory argued that countries trading extensively would avoid conflicts because war would disrupt mutually beneficial economic exchanges.

Rise of Globalisation (1990s–2010s)

Expansion of Global Trade: After the end of the Cold War, global trade expanded rapidly. The establishment of the World Trade Organization in 1995 institutionalised a multilateral trading system.

Integration of Major Economies: Countries such as China integrated deeply into global supply chains, particularly after joining the WTO in 2001, becoming a manufacturing hub.

Efficiency-Driven Supply Chains: Corporations pursued offshoring and global production networks, prioritising cost efficiency and comparative advantage.

Trade and Economic Growth: International trade contributed significantly to global GDP growth and poverty reduction, especially in developing economies.

Emergence of Geoeconomic Competition

Trade Wars and Tariffs: Recent years have witnessed tariff disputes such as the trade conflict between the United States and China, signalling a shift from cooperation to economic rivalry.

Weaponisation of Trade: Countries increasingly use trade policies such as export controls, sanctions, and technology restrictions to achieve geopolitical objectives.

Technology Rivalry: Strategic sectors such as semiconductors, artificial intelligence, and telecommunications have become central to global power competition.

Strategic Resource Control: Nations are competing for control over critical minerals, rare earth elements, and energy resources, which are vital for modern industries.

Supply Chain Vulnerabilities

Lessons from the Pandemic: The COVID-19 pandemic exposed weaknesses in global supply chains, causing disruptions in manufacturing, logistics, and medical supplies.

Geopolitical Shocks: Events such as the Russia–Ukraine War highlighted the risks of dependence on foreign energy and commodities.

Shift to Strategic Trade Policies: Countries are increasingly adopting industrial policies and domestic manufacturing incentives to reduce dependence on foreign suppliers.

Economic Security Concerns: Trade policy is now closely linked with national security considerations, particularly in sectors like energy, defence, and digital infrastructure.

Fragmentation of Global Trade

Friend-shoring and Near-shoring: Nations are relocating supply chains to politically trusted partners or geographically closer countries to reduce risk.

Decline of Multilateralism: The influence of global trade institutions is weakening as countries prefer regional and bilateral trade agreements.

Rise of Protectionism: Policies such as “Buy National” campaigns and tariff barriers are being used to protect domestic industries.

Emergence of Trade Blocs: Global trade is increasingly organised around regional alliances and strategic partnerships, reducing the universality of the global market.

Implications for India

Strategic Trade Partnerships: India is diversifying its trade relations through agreements with partners such as the European Union and other regional blocs.

Supply Chain Integration: India aims to position itself as an alternative manufacturing hub through initiatives like Production Linked Incentive (PLI) schemes.

Balancing Protection and Integration: While protecting domestic industries, India must maintain integration with global trade networks to sustain economic growth.

Role in Emerging Global Order: As a major developing economy, India has the opportunity to shape a more balanced and inclusive global trade architecture.

Conclusion

The transition from cooperative globalisation to competitive geoeconomics reflects deep structural changes in international politics. While economic security concerns are legitimate, excessive protectionism could undermine global growth and cooperation. The challenge for the international community is to rebuild trust in the global trading system while ensuring resilience and strategic autonomy. A balanced approach combining multilateral cooperation, diversified supply chains, and responsible economic policies is essential to prevent the global economy from descending into a destructive “law of the jungle”.

EXPECTED QUESTIONS FOR UPSC CSE

Prelims (MCQ)

1. The concept of “doux commerce”is associated with which thinker?
   a) Adam Smith
   b) Montesquieu
   c) David Ricardo
   d) John Locke

Answer: b

Descriptive Question

1. “Economic interdependence once promoted global cooperation, but today it is increasingly viewed as a strategic vulnerability.” Discuss in the context of emerging geoeconomic competition. (150 Words, 10 Marks)

 

Article 2: “Black Rain” in Tehran

Why in News: Recent airstrikes on oil facilities in Tehran during the ongoing West Asia conflict triggered toxic “black rain” caused by atmospheric pollution mixing with rainfall.

Key Details

Israeli airstrikes reportedly targeted oil storage depots and refinery infrastructure in Tehran and Alborz province on March 7.

Massive fires released hydrocarbons, sulfur oxides, and nitrogen compounds into the atmosphere.

Rainfall passing through polluted air absorbed these chemicals and fell as oily, soot-laden “black rain.”

The World Health Organization (WHO) warned of severe respiratory and environmental risks for the population.

Black Rain: Scientific Mechanism

Atmospheric Pollution Interaction: Black rain forms when rain droplets interact with suspended particulate matter, soot, and chemical pollutants in the atmosphere. These pollutants dissolve or attach to water droplets, leading to contaminated precipitation.

Release of Toxic Pollutants: Explosions at oil facilities release large amounts of hydrocarbon vapours, sulfur oxides (SOx), nitrogen oxides (NOx), and particulate matter. These compounds combine with atmospheric moisture to form polluted rain.

Similar Environmental Phenomena: A comparable event occurred after the 1945 Hiroshima bombing, where radioactive particles mixed with rainfall, producing “black rain.” Industrial disasters and large fires can also trigger similar precipitation.

Chemical Composition: Petroleum products contain thousands of hydrocarbons including benzene and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), many of which are toxic and carcinogenic.

Air Pollution and Urban Geography of Tehran

Topographical Constraints: Tehran is surrounded by mountain ranges such as the Alborz Mountains, which restrict air circulation and trap pollutants within the city.

Temperature Inversion Effect: During certain weather conditions, cooler air becomes trapped beneath warmer air, preventing the upward movement of pollutants and intensifying smog accumulation.

Existing Air Quality Crisis: Tehran already experiences high pollution levels due to vehicle emissions, industrial activity, and fossil fuel use, making it highly vulnerable to atmospheric contamination.

Urban Density Impact: With a population of around 9 million people in the city and over 15 million in the metropolitan region, pollutant concentration and health exposure risks are significantly amplified.

Environmental Consequences of Military Conflicts

War-Induced Environmental Damage: Modern warfare often damages oil infrastructure, chemical plants, and industrial zones, leading to widespread air, soil, and water contamination.

Historical Examples:
The 1991 Gulf War oil fires in Kuwait released millions of barrels of oil into the atmosphere, causing severe regional air pollution and acid rain.

Damage to Ecosystems: Pollutants from oil fires and explosions can contaminate vegetation, water bodies, and agricultural lands, affecting biodiversity and food security.

Conflict and Environmental Monitoring: Reports by environmental monitoring groups indicate over 200 conflict-related incidents with environmental risks during the ongoing West Asia conflict.

Health Risks from Toxic Black Rain

Respiratory Illness: Exposure to pollutants like sulfur dioxide and nitrogen oxides can cause breathing difficulty, asthma attacks, and lung inflammation, particularly among vulnerable populations.

Skin and Eye Irritation: Acidic compounds present in polluted rainwater may cause chemical burns, rashes, and eye irritation upon direct contact.

Long-Term Toxic Effects: Hydrocarbon compounds such as benzene are carcinogenic, increasing the risk of cancer and chronic diseases after prolonged exposure.

Public Health Advisory: Authorities advised residents to stay indoors, avoid direct contact with rainwater, and use protective masks to minimise health risks.

Environmental Persistence and “Forever Chemicals”

Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS): Flame retardants and industrial chemicals released during fires may include PFAS, commonly called “forever chemicals” due to their resistance to degradation.

Groundwater Contamination: These chemicals can seep into soil and groundwater, persisting for decades and affecting drinking water supplies.

Food Chain Bioaccumulation: Toxic compounds deposited on vegetation may enter the food chain through livestock and crops, posing long-term ecological and health risks.

Infrastructure Corrosion: Acidic precipitation can accelerate corrosion of buildings, metal structures, and transport infrastructure, especially in polluted urban environments.

Environmental Security and Global Governance

Environmental Dimension of Warfare: Increasingly, conflicts are evaluated not only by humanitarian impacts but also by environmental damage and ecological destruction.

International Environmental Norms: International humanitarian law and environmental agreements aim to minimise environmental harm during armed conflicts.

Role of International Organisations: Agencies such as WHO and environmental monitoring groups provide early warnings and technical guidance to mitigate environmental disasters.

Climate and Conflict Linkage: Environmental degradation during wars exacerbates climate vulnerability, public health crises, and humanitarian emergencies.

Conclusion

The black rain episode in Tehran highlights the often-overlooked environmental consequences of modern warfare. Beyond immediate military impacts, conflicts can trigger large-scale pollution, ecological damage, and long-term health risks for civilians. Strengthening international norms on environmental protection during conflicts, improving urban pollution management, and enhancing environmental monitoring systems are essential to mitigate such disasters. Sustainable peace and environmental security must be viewed as interconnected pillars of global stability.

EXPECTED QUESTIONS FOR UPSC CSE

Prelims MCQ

1. Which of the following pollutants commonly contribute to acid rain?

Sulfur dioxide

Nitrogen oxides

Methane

Select the correct answer using the code below:

(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 1 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3

Answer: (a)

Descriptive Question

1. Modern conflicts increasingly have environmental consequences. Discuss the environmental and public health impacts of warfare with suitable examples. (250 Words, 15 Marks)

 

Article 3: End-of-Life Care Governance

Why in News: The Supreme Court decision on withdrawal of life support for Harish Rana (March 2026) allowed withdrawal of life-supporting treatment for a patient in a long-term vegetative state, highlighting the legal and procedural framework for passive euthanasia in India.

Key Details

The Supreme Court permitted withdrawal of life support for Harish Rana, who had remained in a vegetative state for several years.

India allows passive euthanasia (withdrawal of life-support) but prohibits active euthanasia.

The Union Health Ministry issued draft guidelines in 2024 based on earlier Supreme Court directions to streamline the procedure.

The process involves two medical boards, consent of family or nominee, and intimation to a magistrate before withdrawing treatment.

Concept of Euthanasia: Ethical and Medical Dimensions

Active vs Passive Euthanasia: Active euthanasia involves intentionally ending a patient’s life through a lethal drug or injection administered by a physician. Passive euthanasia, in contrast, allows death by withdrawing or withholding life-sustaining treatment such as ventilators or dialysis.

Global Legal Practices: Active euthanasia is legal in several jurisdictions such as Canada, parts of the United States, Belgium, and the Netherlands, where strict regulatory safeguards exist. India, however, permits only passive euthanasia under judicial guidelines.

Medical Ethics and Autonomy: The debate centres on patient autonomy, dignity in death, and medical ethics. Many medical professionals argue that prolonged artificial life support in irreversible conditions may cause unnecessary suffering.

Human Rights Perspective: Supporters link euthanasia debates to the right to die with dignity, which stems from the broader right to life and personal liberty under Article 21 of the Constitution.

Evolution of Legal Framework on Passive Euthanasia in India

2011 Judicial Precedent: In the landmark Aruna Shanbaug v. Union of India case (2011), the Supreme Court of India allowed passive euthanasia under strict judicial supervision. Hospitals were required to seek approval from the High Court before withdrawing life support.

Recognition of Living Wills (2018): In Common Cause v. Union of India (2018), the Supreme Court recognised advance medical directives or living wills, allowing individuals to specify their medical preferences in case they become incapable of decision-making.

Procedural Simplification (2023): The Court further simplified the process in 2023 by allowing decisions through two medical boards, eliminating the earlier requirement of High Court approval to reduce delays.

Draft Guidelines (2024): The Union Health Ministry issued draft guidelines detailing procedures hospitals must follow for withdrawing life-support systems, making the process more structured and transparent.

Procedure for Withdrawal of Life-Supporting Care in India

Assessment by Treating Physician: The treating doctor first evaluates whether the patient has any reasonable chance of recovery or meaningful quality of life with continued medical intervention.

Primary Medical Board Review: A primary medical board, consisting of the treating physician and two subject experts with at least five years of experience, examines the medical condition and prognosis.

Consultation with Family or Nominee: Doctors must discuss the patient’s condition and treatment options with the family members or the nominated decision-maker to ensure shared and informed consent.

Secondary Medical Board Approval: A second board including doctors nominated by the district’s Chief Medical Officer reviews the request and must take a decision within 48 hours.

Magistrate Intimation: Hospitals are required to inform a magistrate before withdrawing life support. However, judicial approval is no longer mandatory, which helps expedite the process.

Living Wills and Advance Medical Directives

Definition and Legal Validity: A living will is a legal document through which individuals specify the medical treatments they wish to accept or refuse if they become incapable of making decisions.

Empowering Patient Autonomy: It ensures that patients retain control over medical decisions even when unconscious or terminally ill, thereby strengthening the principle of informed consent.

Scope of Directives: Living wills can specify refusal of procedures such as ventilator support, artificial nutrition, resuscitation, or dialysis, depending on the patient’s preferences.

Nomination of Decision-Maker: The document also allows patients to appoint a trusted representative who can take healthcare decisions on their behalf when they are unable to do so.

Institutional and Practical Challenges

Shortage of Medical Experts: Many hospitals lack the required number of specialists to constitute the two medical boards, especially in smaller cities and rural healthcare institutions.

State-Level Implementation Gaps: Only a few states such as Maharashtra, Goa, and Karnataka have started preparing official lists of doctors who can serve on secondary medical boards.

Fear of Legal Liability: Private hospitals often hesitate to withdraw life-support measures due to concerns over litigation or allegations of medical negligence.

Emotional and Ethical Dilemmas: Families frequently face guilt and emotional distress when making such decisions. Counselling and clear communication from healthcare professionals are crucial.

Conclusion

India has gradually developed a legal and ethical framework for passive euthanasia through judicial interpretation rather than legislation. While the recognition of living wills and simplified procedures represent significant progress, implementation challenges remain. Strengthening awareness about advance directives, training medical professionals in palliative care, and enacting comprehensive legislation can ensure that patients receive dignified end-of-life care while safeguarding ethical and legal accountability.

EXPECTED QUESTION FOR UPSC CSE

Prelims MCQ

1. Which of the following statements regarding euthanasia in India is correct?

Active euthanasia is legal in India under certain conditions.

Passive euthanasia is permitted under judicial guidelines.

Living wills are legally recognised in India.

Select the correct answer:
(a) 1 only
(b) 2 only
(c) 2 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3

Answer: (c)