What to Read in The Hindu Editorial( Topic and Syllabus wise)

Editorial 1 : Talking mode: On U.S. Vice-President J.D. Vance’s visit to India

 

Introduction:

 

U.S. Vice-President J.D. Vance’s recent visit to India came under a shadow of tragedy due to the terror attacks in Pahalgam. Nonetheless, his messages of solidarity and decision to continue his visit despite the circumstances were noted positively in New Delhi. As the first American Vice-President to visit India in 12 years, Vance’s largely private trip included key political and strategic discussions, set against a backdrop of rising global tensions and evolving Indo-U.S. relations.

 

Key Notes from the Visit:

 

• Nature of the Visit:
  • The visit was primarily personal, featuring Vice-President Vance, his Indian-origin wife Usha Chilukuri Vance, and their children.
  • The family toured key Indian destinations: Delhi, Jaipur, and Agra, including a visit to the Taj Mahal.
• Political Engagements:
  • Vance met with Prime Minister Narendra Modi for a brief review of decisions made during Modi’s U.S. visit in February.
  • While no major outcomes were announced, the terms of reference for the Bilateral Trade Agreement (BTA) were finalized.
• Discussion Points:
  • Possible coordination ahead of U.S. President Donald Trump’s upcoming visit to India for the Quad Summit.
  • Dialogue on the Indo-Pacific strategy and regional geopolitical developments.
• Outstanding Issues (Possibly Raised):
  • India’s concerns over U.S. tariffs, immigration policies, and recent visa revocations affecting Indian students were likely topics, though not officially confirmed.
• Public Address Highlights (Jaipur):
  • Vance defended Trump’s trade policies, stating that the aim was to rebalance global trade, not start a trade war.
  • Described the BTA as a “final deal” focused on “fairness”.
  • Called on India to eliminate non-tariff barriers, especially in agriculture and dairy, which are politically sensitive areas in India.
• Defence Cooperation:
  • Reaffirmed India as a trusted partner in U.S. defence co-production.
  • Reiterated Trump’s offer to sell F-35 fighter jets to India.
• Energy and Nuclear Sector Cooperation:
  • Advocated Trump’s “drill, baby, drill” policy, promoting increased Indian imports of U.S. fossil fuels.
  • Emphasized the need to amend India’s nuclear liability law to enable U.S. companies to invest in nuclear power projects.

 

Conclusion:

 

Vice-President J.D. Vance’s visit, though marked by personal and ceremonial elements, reinforced strategic messaging from the Trump administration. While highlighting American expectations from India, particularly in trade and defence, Vance’s remarks mirrored President Trump’s assertive global agenda. New Delhi, which has so far adopted a cautious and observant approach, must now weigh its own strategic interests and articulate what it seeks in return—especially amid pressing international issues and economic shifts affecting both nations.

 

Editorial 2 : Unity and resolve: On the Pahalgam terror attack

 

Massacre in Pahalgam: A Wake-Up Call for National Unity and Strategic Clarity

 

Introduction:

 

The heinous massacre of 26 people—mostly tourists—in Pahalgam, Kashmir, by Islamist terrorists has shocked the conscience of India and the global community. This chilling act of brutality, in which victims were reportedly identified by religion before being executed, marks a horrifying escalation in Pakistan-sponsored terrorism. It serves as a grim reminder of the persistent threat that terrorism poses to peace, unity, and national security.

 

Key Notes:

 

• Nature of the Attack:
  • 26 people were killed in a calculated terrorist assault.
  • Attackers allegedly targeted victims based on their religious identity.
  • The incident represents one of the most brutal examples of cross-border terrorism in recent years.
• Political and Public Response:
  • Home Minister Amit Shah visited the site and affirmed, “Bharat won’t bend to terrorism.”
  • Prime Minister Modi cut short his visit to Saudi Arabia to return and lead the national response.
  • Widespread protests erupted across Kashmir, condemning the violence and showing public solidarity against terror.
• Symbolic Acts of Courage and Unity:
  • A local Muslim man lost his life while trying to protect tourists, exemplifying communal harmony and human compassion.
  • Victims came from across India, underlining the inclusive and diverse nature of those drawn to Kashmir’s beauty and peace.
• Impact on Kashmir:
  • Beyond the human tragedy, the attack has shaken Kashmir’s tourism-driven economy.
  • It threatens to derail the region’s steady revival as a safe and welcoming tourist destination.
• Strategic Dimensions:
  • India’s recent policy shift in Kashmir post-2019 focused on infrastructure development and deeper integration.
  • The volatile global backdrop—with growing instability and conflict—adds complexity to India’s internal and external security challenges.
• Diplomatic and Strategic Imperatives:
  • India must communicate with multiple audiences: the Kashmiri people, the Indian public, Pakistan, and the world.
  • New Delhi’s message must be firm, rational, and focused on isolating Pakistan’s terror apparatus without inflammatory rhetoric.
  • The government must ensure swift justice and reaffirm the national commitment to peace, security, and unity.

 

Conclusion:

 

The Pahalgam massacre is not just a tragedy—it is a call to action. India must stand united, resist internal polarization, and reaffirm its commitment to justice and national security. Strategic patience, unity in diversity, and a clear-eyed foreign policy are essential to countering terrorism and ensuring lasting peace in Kashmir. The world is watching, and India's response must exemplify the strength, compassion, and resolve of its people.