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

 

Article 1: Human–Wildlife Coexistence

Why in News: The success and challenges of Tadoba-Andhari Tiger Reserve highlight the need for community-based conservation and human–wildlife coexistence in India.

Key Details

Tadoba has around 100 tigers and is among India’s most successful tiger reserves.

It faces significant human–tiger conflict, with ~10 human deaths annually.

The Forest Department ensures quick compensation and local livelihood integration.

Tourism revenue (~₹40 crore annually) is partly shared with local communities.

Tiger Conservation in India

Project Tiger (1973): Launched to protect declining tiger populations, it now covers 58 tiger reserves across India, making India home to nearly 75% of the world’s wild tigers (All India Tiger Estimation).

Rising Tiger Population: India’s tiger population reached 3,167 (2022 estimate), reflecting successful conservation, but also increasing pressure on habitats and human settlements.

Tadoba as a Model Reserve: Tadoba’s rising tiger density indicates ecological success, but also necessitates better management of dispersal and territorial expansion.

Constitutional & Legal Framework: Wildlife protection is governed by the Wildlife Protection Act 1972 and supported by Article 48A and Article 51A(g) promoting environmental protection.

Human–Wildlife Conflict: A Growing Challenge

Nature of Conflict: Expansion of tiger populations beyond core areas leads to attacks on humans and livestock, especially in buffer zones with human habitation.

Tadoba Case Study: Around 45 tiger-related deaths annually in Chandrapur district highlight the severity of conflict despite conservation success.

Economic and Social Impact: Loss of life, cattle deaths, and crop damage create fear, resentment, and livelihood insecurity among local communities.

Pan-India Scenario: Similar conflicts are seen in Nagarahole Tiger Reserve and other reserves, leading to protests and tourism disruptions.

Community Participation in Conservation

Stakeholder-Based Approach: Successful conservation depends on active involvement of local communities, as forests and wildlife directly impact their lives.

Livelihood Integration: In Tadoba, locals are employed as safari guides, forest staff, and eco-tourism workers, ensuring economic incentives for conservation.

Revenue Sharing Model: A portion of tourism revenue (₹40 crore annually) is redistributed, promoting inclusive growth and reducing hostility.

Forest-Based Livelihoods: Activities like honey and amla collection and zero-waste initiatives empower communities, especially women.

Role of Eco-Tourism and Sustainable Development

Eco-Tourism as a Tool: Tourism generates employment and awareness, making conservation economically viable for local populations.

Diversification of Tourism: Tadoba is expanding into agro-tourism, stargazing, cycling, and biodiversity-based tourism, reducing dependence solely on tiger sightings.

Sustainable Practices: Initiatives like plastic-free tourism, water bottling plants, and waste management systems promote environmental sustainability.

Balancing Conservation and Tourism: Regulated tourism ensures that ecological integrity is maintained while providing economic benefits.

Conservation Strategies: Core–Buffer Model

Core Area Protection: Strictly protected zones (e.g., 625 sq km in Tadoba) ensure undisturbed habitat for wildlife, with voluntary relocation of villages.

Buffer Zone Management: Buffer zones allow controlled human activity, balancing conservation with livelihood needs.

Landscape-Level Conservation: Wildlife corridors and habitat connectivity are essential for safe tiger dispersal and reducing conflict.

Policy Framework: The National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA) promotes scientific management and monitoring of tiger reserves.

Issues in Current Conservation Model

Artificial Interventions: Excessive use of waterholes and prey augmentation may distort natural ecosystems and increase predator density.

Conflict Compensation Delays: While Tadoba performs well, many regions face delays in compensation, reducing trust in authorities.

Restricted Forest Access: Limits on collection of minor forest produce (like mahua) create livelihood concerns for tribal communities.

Carrying Capacity Concerns: Rising tourism may lead to ecological stress if not properly regulated.

Coexistence Model: Tadoba’s Lessons

Compensation Mechanism: Quick and fair compensation builds trust between locals and administration, reducing conflict intensity.

Decentralised Governance: Financial decentralisation ensures that benefits reach grassroots levels, improving acceptance of conservation policies.

Win–Win Strategy: Combining conservation with livelihood generation creates a mutually beneficial system.

Behavioural Acceptance: Locals increasingly accept trade-offs (restricted access vs stable income), showing social adaptation to conservation goals.

Conclusion

India must adopt a coexistence-based conservation model that balances ecological sustainability with human welfare. Strengthening community participation, improving compensation systems, promoting sustainable eco-tourism, and ensuring scientific management are key. Tadoba demonstrates that conservation cannot succeed without compromise and cooperation, making it a replicable model for India’s biodiversity governance.

EXPECTED QUESTIONS FOR UPSC CSE

Prelims MCQ

1. With reference to Project Tiger, consider the following statements:

It was launched in 1973.

It is implemented by NTCA.

India hosts the largest tiger population in the world.

Which of the above is/are correct?

1 only

1 and 2 only

1 and 3 only

1, 2 and 3

Answer: d

Descriptive Question

1. “Human–wildlife conflict is a major challenge to biodiversity conservation in India.” Discuss with reference to tiger reserves like Tadoba. (150 Words, 10 Marks)

 

Article 2: Counter-Terror Security Shift

Why in News: The first anniversary of the Pahalgam terror attack (April 2025) highlights a major transformation in India’s counter-terrorism strategy in Jammu & Kashmir.

Key Details

The Pahalgam attack (2025) targeted tourists, killing 26 civilians, exposing new vulnerabilities.

Security forces shifted from urban-centric deployment to terrain-dominant strategy.

Increased focus on intelligence-led operations, surveillance technology, and local integration.

Despite improvements, infiltration and intelligence gaps remain key challenges.

Nature of Terrorism in Jammu & Kashmir

Cross-border Terrorism: Terrorism in J&K is largely linked to infiltration across the Line of Control (LoC), supported by external actors. Groups like Lashkar-e-Taiba have historically targeted civilians and security forces.

Shift to Soft Targets: The Pahalgam attack marked a shift from targeting security forces to civilians and tourists, aiming to disrupt normalcy and economic revival.

Hybrid Militancy: The emergence of “hybrid militants” (locals with no prior record) complicates identification and intelligence gathering.

Psychological Warfare: Attacks on tourists aim to damage India’s image globally and undermine confidence in governance and stability.

Security Lapses & “Soft Frontier” Concept

Expansion without Security: Around 70–75 new tourist destinations were opened post-pandemic without proportional expansion of the security grid.

High-Altitude Vulnerability: Areas in the Pir Panjal range lie close to infiltration routes, making them strategically sensitive despite being tourist hubs.

Faulty Assumptions: Security agencies assumed militants would continue urban attacks, underestimating threats to remote civilian targets.

Soft Frontiers: These newly opened areas became “soft frontiers” — accessible but insufficiently secured, exposing gaps in preparedness.

Shift in Security Strategy: ‘Road to Ridge’ Doctrine

Terrain Dominance: Security forces shifted from road-based deployment to controlling high-altitude ridges, denying militants safe hideouts.

Temporary Operating Bases (TOBs): Establishment of 40+ TOBs at altitudes up to 9,000 feet enhances surveillance and rapid response capability.

Area Domination Exercises: Increased patrols in forests and mountains aim to disrupt the infiltration–hide–attack cycle of militants.

Integrated Deployment: Forces like Central Reserve Police Force and Rashtriya Rifles are now deployed in a coordinated manner.

Intelligence-Led Counter-Terrorism

Intel-First Approach: Operations are now based on real-time intelligence rather than reactive engagement.

Precision Operations: Example: Operation Mahadev (2025) successfully neutralised attackers using drones and human intelligence.

Network-Based Targeting: Focus has shifted from individual militants to dismantling entire terror ecosystems and recruitment modules.

Inter-Agency Coordination: Improved coordination between Army, police, and intelligence agencies reduces response time and enhances effectiveness.

Role of Technology in Internal Security

Drone Surveillance: Deployment of surveillance and combat drones enhances monitoring in inaccessible terrains and reduces human risk.

Facial Recognition & QR Systems: Aadhaar-linked QR identification for 50,000+ tourism workers help verify identity and prevent infiltration of overground workers.

Counter-Drone Systems: Advanced systems counter aerial threats, reflecting lessons from recent operations and evolving warfare.

Smart Surveillance: Integration of sensors, satellite inputs, and AI-based analytics improves situational awareness in real time.

Community Integration & ‘Human Firewall’

Local Participation: Integration of locals like guides, pony handlers, and vendors strengthens grassroots intelligence networks.

Trust-Building Measures: Community involvement enhances cooperation and reduces alienation, which is critical in counter-insurgency.

Human Firewall Concept: A verified network of locals acts as a protective layer against militant infiltration in tourist zones.

Economic Linkages: Revival of tourism ensures livelihoods, aligning economic stability with security objectives.

Persistent Challenges in Internal Security

Infiltration through LoC: Despite surveillance, infiltration continues due to porous terrain and adverse weather conditions.

Intelligence Gaps in Forest Areas: Dense forests of Pir Panjal limit human intelligence and allow militants temporary concealment.

Technological Limitations: Drones and sensors are affected by extreme weather and terrain constraints.

External Support: Continued cross-border support to terrorism remains a structural challenge for India’s security apparatus.

Broader Internal Security Implications

Internal Security: Highlights evolving nature of terrorism and need for adaptive strategies.

Border Management: Emphasises importance of integrated border management systems and surveillance.

Role of Technology: Demonstrates increasing reliance on AI, drones, and digital identification in governance.

Development-Security Nexus: Tourism and economic development must be balanced with robust security frameworks.

Conclusion

India must adopt a multi-layered counter-terrorism approach combining technology, intelligence, community participation, and diplomatic pressure. Strengthening border surveillance, enhancing human intelligence, and maintaining a balance between security and civil liberties are essential. The Pahalgam attack underscores that internal security is dynamic and requires continuous adaptation and vigilance.

EXPECTED QUESTION FOR UPSC CSE

Prelims MCQ

1. Which of the following best describes “soft frontier” in internal security?

(a) Militarised border zones

(b) Areas opened without adequate security

(c) International trade zones

(d) Coastal regions

Answer: (b)

 

Article 3: Rupee Volatility & Forex Management

Why in News: The Indian Rupee has witnessed high volatility due to the West Asia conflict, global dollar strength, and capital outflows, prompting active intervention by the Reserve Bank of India.

Key Details

Rupee volatility increased to 8.4% recently, compared to 5.2% earlier, reflecting global uncertainty.

The rupee crossed ₹95 per dollar but is currently range-bound between ₹92.5–₹93.5.

RBI has intervened through forex reserves, forward market operations, and regulatory measures.

FPI outflows (~$17 billion) and rising crude oil prices have exerted pressure on the rupee.

Exchange Rate Determination

Demand and Supply of Foreign Exchange: The rupee’s value depends on demand for dollars (imports, capital outflows) and supply (exports, remittances). A higher demand for dollars leads to rupee depreciation.

Market-Determined Exchange Rate: India follows a managed floating exchange rate system, where the market determines the rate but the RBI intervenes to prevent excessive volatility.

Role of Current Account: A higher Current Account Deficit (CAD) increases demand for foreign currency, weakening the rupee.

Capital Account Influence: Foreign investments (FPI/FDI) affect rupee stability. Sudden capital outflows can lead to sharp depreciation.

Causes of Recent Rupee Volatility

Geopolitical Tensions (West Asia Conflict): Escalation increases crude oil prices, raising India’s import bill and weakening the rupee due to higher dollar demand.

Global Dollar Strength: A strong US dollar, driven by higher interest rates by the Federal Reserve, leads to depreciation of emerging market currencies like the rupee.

Speculative Market Behaviour: Exporters may delay dollar sales while importers rush to buy dollars, creating short-term imbalances and volatility.

Capital Outflows: FPI outflows of around $17 billion reflect risk aversion, putting downward pressure on the rupee.

Role of RBI in Forex Management

Forex Market Intervention: The RBI uses spot market operations (buying/selling dollars) to stabilize the rupee and prevent excessive volatility.

Forward Market Operations: By taking positions in forward contracts, RBI manages expectations and reduces speculative pressures.

Regulatory Measures: Measures like capping net open positions of banks reduce speculative currency trading and stabilize markets.

Forex Reserves Buffer: India’s forex reserves (around $600+ billion range) act as a cushion against external shocks and ensure confidence.

Impact of Crude Oil & Trade Balance

Oil Import Dependency: India imports nearly 85% of its crude oil needs, making the rupee highly sensitive to oil price fluctuations.

Trade Deficit Pressure: Rising oil prices widen the trade deficit, increasing demand for dollars and weakening the rupee.

Export Performance: Global uncertainty reduces export demand, affecting forex inflows and worsening external balance.

Commodity Price Linkages: Apart from oil, fluctuations in gold and other commodities also influence India’s import bill and exchange rate.

External Sector Indicators & Trends

Current Account Deficit (CAD): A sustainable CAD (generally below 2–2.5% of GDP) is crucial for rupee stability.

FPI vs FDI Flows: While FDI is stable, FPI flows are volatile and react quickly to global uncertainties.

Dollar Index Movement: A weakening dollar index (below 100 recently) can provide temporary relief to the rupee.

Global Financial Conditions: Interest rate trends, inflation, and geopolitical developments shape capital flows and currency movements.

Short-Term Outlook of Rupee

Range-Bound Movement: The rupee is expected to remain between ₹92–₹94 per dollar in the short term.

Risk of Depreciation: Escalation in geopolitical tensions or oil price spikes may push it towards ₹95 per dollar.

Uncertainty in Global Markets: Lack of clarity on US interest rates and geopolitical developments will keep volatility high.

Investor Sentiment: Stability in global markets and revival of capital inflows can strengthen the rupee.

Implications for Indian Economy

Inflationary Pressures: A weaker rupee makes imports costlier, leading to imported inflation, especially in fuel and commodities.

Export Competitiveness: Depreciation can boost exports, but global demand conditions limit this benefit.

Fiscal Impact: Higher subsidy burden (fuel, fertilizers) may strain government finances.

Corporate Sector Impact: Companies with foreign debt face higher repayment costs due to currency depreciation.

Conclusion

India needs a balanced forex management strategy combining RBI intervention, stable macroeconomic fundamentals, and export competitiveness. Diversifying energy sources, maintaining adequate forex reserves, and ensuring stable capital inflows are essential. The rupee’s trajectory will depend on global factors, but strong domestic fundamentals can help India navigate volatility effectively.

EXPECTED QUESTION FOR UPSC CSE

Descriptive Question

1. Discuss the factors responsible for recent volatility in the Indian Rupee. How does the RBI manage exchange rate fluctuations? (150 Words, 10 Marks)