The Study IAS

Month: June 2025

  • South Asia Regional Centre of International Potato Centre (CIP) in India

    Centre approves South Asia unit of International Potato Centre at Agra

    Context: The Union Cabinet has approved the establishment of the South Asia Regional Centre of the International Potato Center (CIP) in Singna, Agra district, Uttar Pradesh. 

    About CIP

    • Founded in 1971 and headquartered in Lima, Peru.
    • CIP is a leading research-for-development organisation dedicated to improving the productivity and nutritional quality of potato, sweetpotato, and Andean roots and tubers. 
    • Its mission is aligned with improving global food systems through innovation and partnerships.
    • Notably, China established its CIP regional centre — the China Center for Asia Pacific (CCCAP) — in Yanqing, Beijing in 2017, which serves the entire East Asia and Pacific region. India’s CSARC is expected to play a similar role for the South Asia region, driving agricultural innovation and development across borders.

    CSARC Project Overview

    • Objective: This initiative aims to significantly bolster food and nutrition security, improve farmers’ income, and generate employment opportunities by advancing potato and sweetpotato productivity, refining post-harvest management, and promoting value addition in the sector.
    • Land Allocation: 10 hectares provided by the Uttar Pradesh government
    • Primary Beneficiaries: Farmers in potato-belt states such as Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, and West Bengal
    • Regional Impact: Will serve farmers across South Asian countries

    Current Research Ecosystem

    • Currently, tuber crop research in India is primarily conducted at two ICAR centres:
      • ICAR-CPRI (Central Potato Research Institute) in Shimla – focuses on potato.
      • ICAR-CTCRI (Central Tuber Crops Research Institute) in Thiruvananthapuram focuses on sweetpotato.
    • CSARC will become the second major international agricultural research institute to operate in India, following the establishment of the International Rice Research Institute – South Asia Regional Centre (IRRI-SARC) in Varanasi in 2017. 

    India in Global Potato Economy & Scientific Focus of CSARC 

    • India’s Role in Global Potato Production: India ranks as the second-largest producer and consumer of potatoes globally. 
      • In 2020, India produced 51.30 million tonnes, while China led the world with 78.24 million tonnes. 
      • Together, the two countries accounted for over one-third of global potato production, which stood at 359.07 million tonnes in 2020.
      • Among Indian states, Uttar Pradesh and West Bengal were top producers with 15 million tonnes each during 2020-21, followed by Bihar (9 MT). Other significant producers include Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh, and Punjab.
    • CSARC will focus on developing high-yielding, nutrient-rich, and climate-resilient varieties of potato and sweetpotato, contributing to sustainable agricultural development not only in India but throughout the South Asia region.

  • Enabling voting rights for migrants

    Enabling Voting Rights for Migrants: A Critical Step Towards Inclusive Democracy

    Context: Bihar, a State with one of the highest out-migration rates in India, is set to go to the polls later this year. Given that over half of Bihar’s households are impacted by migration, this low turnout is likely linked to the significant number of migrant workers, underscoring the urgent need for migrant-inclusive electoral reforms.

     

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    What are the international examples of migrant voting?

    Many democracies enable absentee or remote voting:

    • United States: Absentee voting by mail for domestic and overseas citizens.
    • Philippines: Overseas absentee voting for citizens abroad.
    • Estonia: Internet voting (i-Voting) system. These models provide learnings in security, verification, and logistics.

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    What is the issue with migrant voting in India?

    • India has a large and growing migrant population, yet a significant proportion of inter- and intra-State migrants are unable to vote, effectively disenfranchising millions of citizens.
    • According to the 2021 Census estimates, the migration rate in India was 28.9%, with around 10% migrating for work.
    • For instance, in the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, Bihar — a State with one of the highest out-migration rates — saw a voter turnout of just 56%, well below the national average of 66%, indicating the disenfranchisement due to migration.

    Why are migrants unable to vote in large numbers?

    • Physical absence: Migrants are often away from their registered constituencies on polling day.
    • Lack of transport: Many cannot afford or manage travel back home to vote.
    • Informal employment: Migrants often work in the unorganised sector and cannot afford to lose a day’s wage.
    • Lack of address proof: Many do not have proper documentation to register as voters in the new location.

    Who are the affected migrants and how are they categorised?

    • Migrants can broadly be divided into:
      • Intra-State migrants (about 85%): They move within the same state, often from rural to urban areas.
      • Inter-State migrants: They move from one state to another, often from poorer states like Bihar, UP, Odisha to richer states like Maharashtra, Gujarat, and Delhi.
    • Further, migrants can be short-term, long-term, or permanent, and this affects their ability to register and vote in new constituencies.

     

     

     

    How can intra-State migrant voting be facilitated effectively?

    Intra-State migrants, especially those in informal sectors, can be enabled through:

    • Enforcement of paid statutory holiday on polling day.
    • Special transport facilities, such as state buses, on polling eve and day.
    • Awareness campaigns encouraging travel back home to vote.

    These are relatively easier to implement due to shorter distances involved.

    Where can permanent voter registration be improved for migrants?

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    When did the Election Commission start taking steps on migrant voting?

    • The issue gained policy traction post-2019.
    • In 2023, the ECI demonstrated RVMs as a pilot project.
    • In 2024, a concrete proposal was floated, but full-scale implementation has not yet occurred

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    • Destination states — by allowing and encouraging voter registration based on proof of residence.
    • Workplaces — where informal and semi-formal sectors could serve as registration hubs.Urban local bodies and municipal councils — to enrol newly-settled migrants, especially women post-marriage.

    Why is this issue important for Indian democracy?

     

     

     

    • The right to vote is a constitutional right under Article 326.
    • A large migrant population being disenfranchised undermines the representative nature of democracy.
    • States with large out-migration (e.g., Bihar, Odisha, UP) suffer underrepresentation, while host states (Delhi, Maharashtra) do not reflect migrant political presence.
    • Migrant-sensitive policy demands (e.g., housing, health, minimum wages) remain neglected due to poor political voice.

  • India’s Crude Oil and Natural Gas Consumption: A Growing Energy Security Risk

    India’s Crude Oil and Natural Gas Consumption Crisis: Why Import Dependency Hurts

    Context: India’s energy security challenge has become more pressing in the backdrop of renewed geopolitical tensions in West Asia. In June 2025, Brent crude prices surged to $81.40 per barrel, following US airstrikes on Iranian nuclear facilities—raising fears of a potential disruption in oil flows through the Strait of Hormuz.

    What is the current status of India’s crude oil and natural gas consumption and production?

     

     

    • Crude Oil: In FY2025, India consumed 265.7 million tonnes of crude oil but produced only 28.7 million tonnes, resulting in an import dependence of around 89%.
    • Natural Gas: India’s total natural gas demand stood at 195.4 million metric standard cubic meters per day (mmscmd), while domestic production was only 97.5 mmscmd—leading to an import dependency of 50%.

    Why is India so heavily dependent on oil and gas imports?

    • Rising Energy Demand: Economic growth, urbanisation, and industrial activity are driving up energy needs. India ranks third globally in oil consumption, after the USA and China.
    • Limited Domestic Resources: Domestic reserves are either limited, underexplored, or uneconomical to extract in large volumes.
    • Stagnant Domestic Output: Crude oil production has remained stable or marginally declining over recent years.
    • Slow Green Energy Transition: Alternatives such as renewables or hydrogen are still in transition and need time to scale up.

    Where does the risk lie in India’s energy import routes?

    • Strait of Hormuz: 45% of India’s crude and 54% of LNG imports pass through this narrow maritime chokepoint. Any disruption (e.g., Iran blocking the Strait) can sharply reduce supply and push up prices globally.
      • It handles 20 million barrels/day, about 20% of global oil trade.
      • 83-84% of oil and LNG passing through the Strait is bound for Asia.
    • Other Routes:Imports are also routed via the Suez Canal, Cape of Good Hope, and alternative sea lanes, but these are longer and more costly.

    When is the energy security risk most acute?

    • During geopolitical conflicts: For example, in June 2025, Brent crude hit $81.40/barrel after US airstrikes on Iranian nuclear facilities, exposing India’s vulnerability to Middle East tensions.
    • In case of sudden supply shocks: India has only 74 days’ worth of oil in combined strategic and commercial inventories—insufficient in case of a prolonged disruption.

    How is India responding to the risk of import dependence and route vulnerability?

    • Diversifying Sources: Expanding purchases from Russia, Brazil, US, and West Africa reduces over-reliance on Middle Eastern suppliers.

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    What is the likely future trajectory of demand and import dependency?

    • Crude Oil Demand: Expected to grow by 3-4% in FY2026. Domestic production is likely to stay flat, keeping import dependence high.
    • Natural Gas Demand: Anticipated to grow by 4-6% in FY2026. Domestic production will rise marginally to 100 mmscmd, still leaving 52% of demand to be met through LNG imports.

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    • Strategic Reserves: India has built Strategic Petroleum Reserves (SPR) in three locations—Visakhapatnam, Mangaluru, and Padur—with additional capacity in the pipeline.
    • Boosting Domestic Production: While difficult in the short term, efforts are underway to incentivise upstream oil and gas exploration.
    • Expanding Renewables: India targets 500 GW of non-fossil fuel capacity by 2030 under its Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs).

    Why is risk diversification so important now?

    • Price Volatility: Even if supply isn’t disrupted, speculative price surges (due to tensions or blockades) can heavily impact India’s import bill and inflation.
    • Import Bill Stress: India’s oil import bill rose to $137 billion in FY2025, up from $133.4 billion in FY2024—a growing burden on forex reserves.
    • Strategic Vulnerability: With 88% of crude and 45% of natural gas consumption dependent on imports, India is exposed to global shocks.

  • India’s Middle-Class Conundrum

    The middle class seems missing from our growth story

    Context: India’s economy posted a strong 7.4% year-on-year growth in Q4 of FY 2024–25, and is expected to grow at 6.5% for the full fiscal year. 

    More on News

    • While this marks a moderation from the 9.2% expansion recorded in 2023–24, India remains one of the fastest-growing major economies. 
    • Amid this backdrop, a key question arises: can India’s expanding middle class fuel a sustained consumption-led growth trajectory, similar to China’s boom from 2000 to 2010?

    What is the Present Status?

    • According to research group PRICE, India’s middle class includes individuals earning between ₹1.09 lakh and ₹6.46 lakh annually (2020–21 prices), or households with incomes between ₹5 lakh and ₹30 lakh. 
    • This demographic is set to grow from 432 million in 2020–21 to 715 million by 2030–31, and surpass 1 billion by 2047—accounting for 61% of India’s projected population.

    India’s Labour Market and Middle-Class Growth

    • As per the Periodic Labour Force Survey (PLFS), unemployment rose to 5.6% in May from 5.1% in April 2025, with urban youth (aged 15–29) facing 17.9% joblessness. 
      • Most new jobs are informal or gig-based, offering limited income security or career progression.
    • Private estimates by CMIE reveal even deeper concerns. Its labour force participation rate estimate—40–45%—is significantly lower than PLFS’s 50–55%, owing to stricter definitions that exclude unpaid or marginal work. 
      • This gap highlights the fragile foundation on which many middle-class livelihoods rest, making families hesitant to spend on high-ticket items.

    Credit Growth and Its Discontents

    • While digital lending has grown, it is skewed toward small-ticket, high-cost personal loans. 
    • As per a Fitch Ratings report (January 2025), the rise in unsecured lending poses asset-quality risks to banks. 
    • Moreover, lack of formal employment and income proof makes it harder for middle-class households to access affordable, large-scale loans.

    What are the Challenges Associated with the Middle Class in India?

    • Rising Inflation and Cost of Living: Inflation has eroded the real income of the middle class, making it difficult to afford basic necessities.
    • Stagnant Incomes and Increasing Debt: This has forced many middle-class families to take on more debt, with household debt reaching 38% of GDP in FY23.
    • Job Losses Due to Automation: Automation and technological advancements, including AI, are replacing traditional middle-class jobs in both manufacturing and white-collar sectors, leading to job insecurity and underemployment.
    • Unemployment and Underemployment: High levels of unemployment or underemployment contribute to financial insecurity and limit stable income sources for many middle-class families.
    • Limited Access to Quality Education and Healthcare: Privatisation and rising costs have made quality education and healthcare less affordable, impacting the middle class disproportionately.
    • Social and Structural Issues: The heterogeneous nature of the middle class, including public sector employees, gig workers, and informal workers, makes it difficult to design targeted policies.
    • Lower Political Participation and Representation: Middle-class concerns are often underrepresented in policymaking due to lower voter turnout and lack of organised pressure groups.

    Government Measures to Address Middle-Class Challenges

    • Income Tax Reforms and Financial Relief: The government has raised income tax exemption thresholds and introduced a simplified tax regime, allowing individuals earning up to ₹12 lakh (₹12.75 lakh with standard deduction) to pay no income tax under the new regime.
    • Affordable Housing Initiatives: Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (PMAY) aims to make home ownership affordable for the middle class.
      • The Special Window for Affordable and Mid-Income Housing (SWAMIH) Fund 2 with ₹15,000 crore to complete stressed housing projects and support middle-class families paying EMIs or rent.
    • Support for Entrepreneurs and MSMEs: Enhanced Mudra loans scheme to provide greater financial support to small and micro entrepreneurs.
    • Subsidies and Sustainable Energy: PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana subsidises solar panel installation, providing free electricity to middle-class households, reducing their energy costs.
    • Social Security and Healthcare for Gig Workers: Registration and identity cards for gig workers on the e-Shram portal, with healthcare coverage under PM Jan Arogya Yojana, benefiting about 1 crore gig workers.

    What is the Way Forward?

    India has the demographic strength and economic momentum needed for a consumption-led revival. But unlocking this potential requires:

    • Mass job creation with formal contracts and career mobility
    • Affordable urban housing for first-time buyers
    • Wider access to credit through reforms in financial inclusion and income verification
    • Wage growth driven by skilled employment, not informal gigs

  • The need for gender equity in urban bureaucracy

    The Need for Gender Equity in Urban Bureaucracy: A Powerful Step Toward Inclusive and Safer Cities

    Context: As India rapidly urbanises, with over 800 million people expected to live in cities by 2050, ensuring inclusive urban governance has become critical. Despite rising political representation of women at the local level, recent data highlights a stark gender gap in urban administrative roles — raising urgent concerns about equity, planning, and safety in India’s cities.

     

     

    What is the issue with gender equity in India’s urban bureaucracy?

    While women have made significant gains in grassroots politics due to constitutional mandates (73rd and 74th Amendments), urban administrative cadres remain male-dominated, particularly in key roles like planning, policing, engineering, and municipal governance. This imbalance severely limits how urban policies respond to women’s unique needs. 

    Why does gender equity in urban bureaucracy matter?

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    When did India begin formal efforts toward gender mainstreaming in governance and budgeting?

    India formally adopted Gender Budgeting in 2005-06 through the Gender Budget Statement (GBS). Since then:

    • Kerala, Tamil Nadu, and Delhi have emerged as leaders in GRB implementation.
    • Tamil Nadu implemented GRB across 64 departments in 2022-23.
    • Delhi introduced women-only buses and improved public lighting through gender-sensitive budgeting.

    However, implementation remains weak, especially in smaller cities due to lack of institutional capacity and monitoring mechanisms.

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    Gender-diverse bureaucracies lead to better governance outcomes:Empathetic enforcement: Women officers tend to bring lived experiences that shape priorities such as health, sanitation, safety, and mobility.

    • Public trust: Studies show higher trust in law enforcement when women are part of the police force.
    • Inclusive planning: Cities become more responsive when planning reflects the realities of women’s lives, such as multitasking journeys or the need for neighborhood-level infrastructure.
      • According to the Institute for Transportation and Development Policy, 84% of women in Delhi and Mumbai rely on public or shared transport vs. 63% of men, highlighting different urban needs that require gender-sensitive planning.

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    What are some model initiatives India can build on?

    • Kudumbashree (Kerala): A women-led self-help movement that influences urban planning and service delivery in Kerala.
    • People’s Plan Campaign: Kerala’s decentralized planning approach that embeds gender goals in budget and planning cycles.
    • Delhi’s Safe City Plan: Includes gender audits, women’s safety apps, and better lighting.

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    Where does India currently stand in terms of women’s representation in urban administration?

    • Indian Administrative Service (IAS): Only 20% women (IndiaSpend, 2022).
    • Urban Planning & Engineering Roles: Even lower female representation.
    • Police Services: Merely 11.7% women, often in non-field desk roles (BPRD, 2023).
    • Local Elected Bodies (ULGs): 46% women representation, a direct impact of reservation policies.This stark contrast between political representation and bureaucratic underrepresentation highlights a critical disconnect in governance structures.

     

     

    How does underrepresentation of women impact urban development?

    A male-dominated bureaucracy often overlooks gendered needs, resulting in:

    • Inadequate lighting: Over 60% public spaces poorly lit across 50 cities (Safetipin audit).
    • Unsafe mobility: Lack of last-mile connectivity and neighborhood-level planning disproportionately affects women.
    • Policy mismatches: For instance, heavy spending on highways may neglect pedestrian safety or childcare centres.

  • Two billion people don’t have safe drinking water

    Two Billion People Lack Safe Drinking Water: Alarming Global Health Crisis Demands Urgent Action

    Context: Despite global development strides, over two billion people still lack access to safe drinking water, exposing them to deadly diseases and deepening cycles of poverty. The issue has gained renewed urgency in 2025, as climate-induced droughts, urban water stress, and infrastructure gaps threaten progress toward SDG 6 on clean water for all.

    How Does Access to Safe Water Vary Across Populations?

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    What is meant by “safe drinking water,” and how is it defined globally?

    • Safe drinking water is water that is:
      • Free from contamination — including biological (like bacteria), chemical (like arsenic), and radiological pollutants.
      • Available on premises — within a person’s home or immediate surroundings.
      • Available when needed — not just seasonally or for a few hours a day, but consistently.
    • According to the WHO/UNICEF Joint Monitoring Programme (JMP), these three conditions define “safely managed drinking water.”

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    • Majority Have Access, But Not Always at Home: Nearly 6 billion people have access to drinking water, but 2 billion still do not have safe water at their residence.
    • Reliance on Unsafe Sources: Around 1.4% of the global population continues to collect water from unsafe sources like rivers and lakes. 
    • Disparities by Income and Geography: People in low-income or rural areas are disproportionately affected. In regions like Sub-Saharan Africa and South Asia, many still depend on open water sources, increasing their risk of exposure to contaminants.

    What Are the Public Health Impacts of Unsafe Water?

    • Spread of Waterborne Diseases: Unsafe water is a major cause of diarrhoeal diseases such as cholera, dysentery, polio, and hepatitis A.
    • High Mortality Rates: Over 800,000 deaths annually are attributed to waterborne illnesses, especially in low-income countries with inadequate sanitation.
    • Child Mortality and Malnutrition: Contaminated water contributes significantly to malnutrition and child wasting. In India, about 21% of children under five suffer from wasting, with poor water and sanitation as key factors.
    • Healthcare and Economic Burden: Frequent illnesses overwhelm public health systems and reduce workforce productivity. For instance, India loses over 4% of its GDP annually due to health and productivity issues linked to poor water and sanitation.

    What is the global goal for clean water, and are we on track?

    • The Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 6 aims to: “Ensure availability and sustainable management of water and sanitation for all by 2030.”
    • However, current progress is off-track: Hundreds of millions will still lack safe drinking water by 2030 unless major investments are made. Climate change and urban population growth are worsening the crisis.

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    What steps has the government taken?

    • Jal Jeevan Mission (JJM): Aims to provide safe and adequate tap water to all rural households by 2024; over 13 crore households have already received connections.
    • Swachh Bharat Mission & Water Quality Monitoring: Focuses on reducing open defecation and water contamination through improved sanitation and hygiene.
    • AMRUT: Targets universal water supply in urban areas, especially for underserved communities; cities like Surat and Nagpur have improved 24×7 piped water access.

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    What Technologies Can Help Solve the Safe Water Crisis?

    • Desalination: Adopted in countries like Israel, desalination provides a significant portion of the water supply but is energy-intensive and costly.Solar Water Disinfection (SODIS): Widely used in rural Africa and India, SODIS is a low-cost, household-level solution but is limited by capacity and sunlight availability.
    • Atmospheric Water Generators (AWG): Deployed in places like Rajasthan and the UAE, AWGs can provide water in humid conditions but are expensive and dependent on atmospheric moisture.

    What Is the Way Forward to Ensure Universal Access?

    • Infrastructure Expansion: Strengthen last-mile delivery by expanding household-level water connections, especially in rural and remote regions, and ensure regular water quality checks.
    • Community-Based Management: Promote local governance, such as Panchayats and self-help groups, to manage water resources and encourage safe water handling practices.
    • Awareness and Education: Increase public awareness about the importance of safe water practices to reduce contamination and health risks.

  • CAR T-Cell Therapy

    Technique to make CAR T-cells in vivo could transform cancer care

    Context: A recent study published by US and international researchers introduced a novel in vivo approach that engineers T cells inside the body using lipid nanoparticles (LNPs) carrying messenger RNA (mRNA), bypassing the need for lab-based cell modification and chemotherapy.

     

     

    What is CAR T-cell therapy?

    • CAR T-cell therapy is an advanced immunotherapy that retrains a patient’s own T cells to recognise and destroy cancer cells, particularly in aggressive blood cancers unresponsive to standard treatments.
    • Originally developed in the early 1990s, it involves extracting T cells, genetically engineering them to express chimeric antigen receptors (CARs) that target specific proteins like CD19 on B cells, and infusing them back into the patient’s body.
    • This therapy has led to remissions lasting months or years in some acute leukaemias and is being explored for severe autoimmune diseases such as lupus to reset the immune system.

    Who Benefits from CAR T-Cell Therapy?

    • Patients with aggressive B cell-driven cancers like diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL), follicular lymphoma, and acute lymphoblastic leukaemia (ALL), which are prevalent in India.
    • Patients with severe autoimmune disorders where B cells mistakenly attack the body, as early trials suggest potential benefits.
    • Frail, elderly, or comorbid patients who may not tolerate conventional CAR T-cell therapy due to its complexity and side effects.

    What Are Its Limitations?

    • In India, the therapy costs approximately ₹60-70 lakh, with about half the cost attributed to manufacturing personalised CAR T cells and the rest for hospitalisation and supportive care.
    • Limitations include high cost, complex manufacturing, slow process, requirement for chemotherapy-based lymphodepletion, and risks such as cytokine release syndrome (CRS), infections, and neurological complications.

     

     

    Why is the New In Vivo CAR T-Cell Therapy Significant?

    • It delivers CAR genetic instructions directly to circulating CD8+ T cells using CD8-targeted lipid nanoparticles (CD8-tLNP), avoiding personalised cell processing and viral vectors.
    • This approach induces temporary CAR expression via mRNA, reducing risks of permanent genetic side effects.
    • It eliminates the need for lymphodepleting chemotherapy, lowering the risk of secondary infections and prolonged hospital stays.
    • The therapy showed strong efficacy in mice and cynomolgus monkeys, depleting B cells across tissues and causing tumour regression without complex infrastructure.

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    How Does the New Platform Work?

    • The CD8-tLNP formulation includes Lipid 829, a biodegradable carrier with improved tolerability and faster liver clearance, reducing inflammation compared to earlier nanoparticles.
    • Two or three intravenous infusions spaced 72 hours apart induced CAR expression in up to 85% of CD8+ T cells and nearly all related immune cells in monkeys.
    • The treatment led to near-complete depletion of B cells in blood and tissues, with repopulation by naïve B cells, suggesting an immune reset similar to that observed in lupus patients after conventional CAR T therapy.

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  • Global SDG Index 2025

    India breaks into top 100 in global SDG rankings

    Context: India has made a significant leap in its journey toward sustainable development, securing the 99th spot out of 167 countries in the 2025 Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) Index, released by the United Nations Sustainable Development Solutions Network. 

    What are the Key Findings?

    • First time in 100: This marks India’s first-ever entry into the top 100, with a score of 67, reflecting steady improvement across multiple indicators.
    • India and South Asia: Among South Asian nations, Maldives ranked 53rd, Bhutan at 74th, followed by Nepal 85th, Sri Lanka 93rd, Bangladesh 114th, and Pakistan 140th.
    • Global Powers: On the global scale, Finland retained its top position, followed closely by Sweden and Denmark, underlining the continued dominance of European countries — which hold 19 of the top 20 positions. 
      • Major global economies such as the United States (44th, 75.2) and China (49th, 74.4) also featured prominently in the index.
    • Stalling Global Progress: Only 17% of SDG targets are on track to be met by 2030, citing setbacks from geopolitical conflicts, economic vulnerabilities, and constrained fiscal space. 
      • Notably, even high-ranking countries face persistent challenges, especially regarding climate action and biodiversity, driven by unsustainable consumption patterns.

    What are the steps taken in India to achieve SDGs?

      • Institutional Coordination and Governance: 

        • NITI Aayog as the Nodal Agency: NITI Aayog maps existing government schemes to SDG targets, identifies lead and supporting ministries for each target, and monitors progress through the SDG India Index.
        • State Governments’ Role: States and Union Territories (UTs) play a crucial role in localising and implementing the SDGs, as they are best positioned to address local needs and ensure inclusive development. 
        • UN Support: The UN Country Team in India supports government efforts by providing technical assistance, advocating for adequate financing, and fostering partnerships.

      • Policy Integration and Program Implementation: India has aligned its national development programs with SDG targets, focusing on key sectors:

        • Poverty Eradication (SDG 1): Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (PMAY), National Rural Livelihood Mission (NRLM) and Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana (PMJDY).
        • Zero Hunger and Food Security (SDG 2): Implementation of the National Food Security Act covering over 800 million people to ensure food access.
        • Health and Well-being (SDG 3): Ayushman Bharat – Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (PMJAY).
        • Clean Water and Sanitation (SDG 6): Jal Jeevan Mission, Swachh Bharat Mission (SBM).
        • Affordable and Clean Energy (SDG 7): National Solar Mission, Ujjwala Yojana, Energy efficiency programs like Perform, Achieve, and Trade (PAT) scheme.
        • Decent Work and Economic Growth (SDG 8): Make in India, Startup India and MGNREGA.
        • Climate Action (SDG 13): National Action Plan on Climate Change (NAPCC), Commitments under the Paris Agreement to reduce carbon intensity and increase non-fossil fuel energy to 50% by 2030 and Afforestation programs like the Green India Mission.

    • Monitoring and Reporting: 

      • SDG India Index: Launched by NITI Aayog with UN support, it tracks progress across states and UTs using over 100 indicators covering 16 SDGs. 
        • The 2023-24 edition shows India’s overall score improving from 66 to 71, with significant gains in clean energy, climate action, poverty reduction, and health.
        • States like Uttarakhand, Kerala, and Tamil Nadu are top performers, while others like Bihar and Jharkhand are working to catch up.

  • Fallout of the Israel-US Strikes on Iran

    A reset in West Asia, a ‘de-escalation’ for the world

    Context: The geopolitical landscape of West Asia has undergone a dramatic transformation following joint Israeli and U.S. airstrikes on Iran’s nuclear facilities.

    More on News

    • These coordinated attacks — carried out with either explicit or tacit approval from most global and regional powers — mark a strategic turning point in the balance of power in the Middle East.
    • While European nations issued contradictory and ineffectual statements, key powers like Russia and China, despite their high-profile strategic agreements with Iran, remained passive observers.

    A New Strategic Reality: One Nuclear Power, One Dominant Bloc

    • Sole Nuclear Power: With Iran’s nuclear ambitions effectively neutralised, Israel now stands as the region’s sole dominant nuclear power. 
    • Concern of Gulf Nations: Iran’s expanding network of proxies and ideological assertiveness was perceived as a serious strategic threat. 
      • In response, many Arab states deepened security ties with Israel and the United States, leading to the Abraham Accords and broader normalisation efforts. 
      • This created the conditions for Israel to take aggressive steps against Iranian proxies in Lebanon, Syria, and Gaza.
    • Iran’s Influence: With much of Iran’s regional influence rolled back — except in Yemen and parts of Iraq — the Gulf states may no longer feel the need to tolerate unchecked Israeli power. Yet, their capacity to influence the unfolding dynamics remains uncertain.

    Ceasefire: A Tactical Pause or the Start of Diplomacy?

    • In a rare moment of restraint, Washington announced an immediate ceasefire between Israel and Iran. 
      • This move offers a face-saving off-ramp for Iran, having demonstrated its willingness to retaliate. 
      • Iran’s ability to target American military assets likely played a role in pushing the U.S. to rein in Israel.
    • This ceasefire may also serve as a wake-up call for Gulf nations, revealing their vulnerability. 
      • Crucially, it opens a window to return to diplomatic dialogue, potentially reviving nuclear negotiations between Iran and the West. 
      • The Gulf states would do well to support this path to avoid further regional instability, particularly threats like the closure of the Strait of Hormuz or Iran’s potential withdrawal from the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT).

    Israel’s Next Move: Annexation and the “New Middle East”

    • Another Crisis: Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s long-standing goal of dismantling Iran’s nuclear capacity has been fulfilled, bolstering his political standing.
      • His next target appears to be the annexation of the West Bank and potentially Gaza, as outlined in the controversial “New Middle East” map unveiled at the UN.
    • Palestinian Cause: The Gulf countries have largely deprioritised the Palestinian cause in exchange for normalisation deals with Israel and closer U.S. ties. 
      • However, believing that this transactional peace will bring lasting security may prove to be a dangerous miscalculation.

    India’s Strategic Silence: Balancing Iran and Israel

    • India has maintained a studied silence on the Israel-Iran conflict, echoing its long-standing policy of non-interference. 
      • While New Delhi shares strategic ties with Israel — notably their support during India’s Operation Sindoor — it also has vital interests with Iran, particularly through the Chabahar Port project that provides access to Central Asia.
    • India’s official response has been a carefully worded call for “de-escalation” — ironically similar to the advice it received during its own military stand-offs. 
      • In a world increasingly indifferent to questions of aggression and legality, India appears focused on safeguarding its energy security and regional connectivity rather than taking sides.

  • India’s Cyber Forensics Push Since 2020

    India’s Cyber Forensics Push Since 2020: Building National Capacity for Digital Investigations

    Context: Since 2020, India has intensified its cyber forensics capabilities to combat rising cybercrimes, enhancing national security through advanced labs, specialised training, and legal reforms to ensure robust digital investigations.

    What Prompted India’s Push for Cyber Forensics Since 2020?

    • Surge in Cybercrime: India recorded 65,893 cybercrime cases in 2022 alone, marking a sharp 24.4% increase from the previous year, highlighting the urgent need for robust digital investigative infrastructure.
    • Types of Cybercrimes: These include online financial fraud, identity theft, ransomware attacks, and distribution of child sexual abuse material (CSAM).
    • Digital Transformation: With one of the world’s largest digital populations, the nature of crime itself has transformed, often originating in cyberspace.

    What Are the Key Institutions and Initiatives Driving India’s Cyber Forensics?

    • Indian Cyber Crime Coordination Centre (I4C): Operational since January 2020 under the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA), I4C is the national nodal agency for cybercrime prevention and response.
    • National Cyber Forensic Laboratory (NCFL): A core initiative under I4C, providing advanced forensic capabilities and divided into specialized divisions.
    • Central Forensic Science Laboratories (CFSLs): Now equipped with mobile forensics, cryptocurrency tracking, and secure cloud data analysis, linked through a national e-Forensics IT platform.
    • Cyber Crime Prevention against Women and Children (CCPWC) Scheme: Funds forensic labs and training across 33 States and Union Territories, with over 550 mobile forensic vans deployed for on-site investigations.
    • National Forensic Sciences University (NFSU): Upgraded to national status in 2020, offering courses and research in digital forensics and cyber investigations.

    What Legal and Policy Frameworks Support Cyber Forensics in India?

    • Section 65B, Indian Evidence Act: Supreme Court clarified that digital records must be properly certified under Section 65B, providing legal clarity for digital evidence in courts.
    • CERT-In Rules: Under Section 70B of the IT Act, service providers must retain user activity records for 180 days, and VPN/cloud providers must store subscriber details for five years, improving traceability.
    • Content Takedown and Data Preservation: I4C, since 2024, is a notified agency under Section 79(3)(b) of the IT Act, allowing it to issue takedown and preservation notices.
    • Sahyog Portal: Streamlines legal coordination among law enforcement, service providers, and digital platforms, reducing bureaucratic delays.

    What are the main challenges facing India’s cyberforensics ecosystem?

    • Uneven Development: Disparities exist in lab equipment, software, and skilled personnel across states, especially in rural and remote areas.
    • Shortage of Qualified Professionals: Many labs face acute shortages of trained forensic examiners, with high attrition due to better private sector opportunities.
    • Legal and Procedural Hurdles: Frequent technical objections in courts and challenges in procedural compliance for digital evidence admissibility, despite clarifying legal precedents.
    • Cross-Border and Encrypted Data: Investigators often face difficulties accessing encrypted or cross-border data, with mutual legal assistance treaties (MLATs) involving bureaucratic delays.
    • Conviction Rates: Despite rising cybercrime cases, enforcement outcomes remain low—for example, only 22.6% of Bengaluru’s cases resulted in a chargesheet in 2022.

    What Are the Technology and Infrastructure Enhancements?

    • National e-Forensics IT Platform: Integrates over 117 state and central forensic labs, enabling encrypted data transfer and real-time collaboration.
    • Mobile Forensic Vans: Over 550 vans equipped for on-site data extraction, device cloning, and digital triage, especially useful in rural areas.
    • High-End Tools and Software: States receive assistance to procure advanced forensic tools and software under various central schemes.

    What Is the Strategic Direction and Outlook for India’s Cyber Forensics?

    • Convergence of Standards and Skills: The focus is on standardising protocols, enhancing skilled human resources, and building secure digital infrastructure.
    • Inter-Agency Coordination: Improved coordination among law enforcement, forensic labs, and judicial bodies is gradually creating a national ecosystem for cyber investigations.
    • Sustained Investment and Oversight: Continued political will, funding, and rigorous oversight are essential for transitioning from fragmented readiness to a robust, harmonized cyber forensic regime.

  • Asia Warming Twice as Fast as Global Average: WMO Report Warns of Deadly Climate Crisis

    Asia warming nearly twice as fast as global average: WMO report

    Context: The State of the Climate in Asia 2024 report by the World Meteorological Organisation (WMO) reveals that Asia is warming nearly twice as fast as the global average. This accelerated warming is causing more frequent and intense heatwaves, glacier retreat, sea-level rise, and extreme weather events like floods and cyclones.

    Why is Asia warming faster than the global average?

    • According to the WMO, land areas warm faster than oceans, and Asia has the largest continental landmass, covering over 44.58 million square kilometers. This makes the continent especially vulnerable to land-based temperature increases. 
    • Additionally, proximity to the rapidly warming Arctic further exacerbates temperature rises in northern Asia.
      • Global average temperature has already risen by approximately 1.2°C above pre-industrial levels. In Asia, the increase has been twice this rate since the 1990s.

    Where are the most concerning changes occurring?

    • High-Mountain Asia (HMA) — including the Himalayas, Tian Shan, and Hindu Kush — witnessed continued glacier mass loss in 23 out of 24 glaciers.
    • Northern Indian Ocean, Yellow Sea, and East China Sea saw record-high sea surface temperatures and severe marine heatwaves.
    • Central Asia (Kazakhstan and southern Russia) faced the worst flooding in 70 years, displacing over 118,000 people.
    • UAE experienced one of its most extreme rainfall events since 1949, receiving 259.5 mm of rain in just 24 hours.
    • The Wayanad landslide in Kerala, India, caused by record-breaking one-day rainfall, killed over 220 people, and was linked to a 10% increase in rainfall intensity due to climate change.

    Who is affected by these climate changes in Asia?

    Everyone — but especially:

    • Low-lying coastal communities in South and Southeast Asia, who face rising sea levels and storm surges.
    • Mountain communities depending on glaciers for freshwater, facing glacial lake outburst floods (GLOFs) and reduced snowmelt.
    • Farmers facing altered rainfall patterns and droughts, particularly in regions like Afghanistan, Mongolia, and parts of Russia.
    • Urban populations, as seen in New Delhi and Dubai, are hit by record heatwaves and flooding.

    How are these changes impacting the economy and environment?

    • Water stress due to reduced glacier mass impacts agriculture, hydropower, and drinking water availability.
    • Floods and landslides destroy infrastructure, displace communities, and strain disaster relief resources.
    • Heatwaves reduce labour productivity, particularly in outdoor sectors like construction and agriculture.
    • Droughts affect crop yields, raising food insecurity and inflation risks in vulnerable economies.

    How are governments and institutions responding to these challenges?

    • The WMO highlights the importance of early warning systems, citing Nepal as a success case for anticipatory climate action.
    • National Meteorological and Hydrological Services across Asia are playing a critical role in forecasting and public preparedness.
    • However, international cooperation is under strain. For instance, budget cuts under the Trump administration to US agencies like NOAA may undermine global climate modelling and data sharing efforts.

  • India’s Inflation and Unemployment

    Inflation falls but not unemployment

    Context: India’s inflation fell to 2.8% in May 2025, earning the RBI praise for economic management. However, rising unemployment and slowing GDP growth paint a more troubling picture.

    What are the Impacts?

    • Inflation Drops, But Unemployment Rises: According to the Periodic Labour Force Survey (PLFS), India’s unemployment rate rose from 5.1% in April to 5.8% in May 2025—even as inflation cooled. 
    • Decline in Economic Growth: India’s growth rate slowed from 9.2% in FY 2023–24 to 6.5% in FY 2024–25, as per the provisional estimates released by the National Statistical Office (NSO). 
      • Sector-wise, only agriculture showed a strong performance, while other sectors—excluding Public Administration—registered a slowdown. 
    • Drivers: The shift in inflation appears to be structurally linked to supply-side improvements, especially in agriculture.

    [stextbox id=’info’]

    Inflation

    Inflation is the rate at which the general level of prices for goods and services rises over a given period, leading to a decrease in the purchasing power of money.  Headline inflation refers to the total inflation within an economy, measured by the overall change in the price of a broad basket of goods and services, including volatile items such as food and energy. It reflects the actual rise in the cost of living that consumers experience and is the most commonly reported inflation figure in the media. Core inflation is a measure of the long-term trend in the price level that excludes items with highly volatile prices, mainly food and energy. By removing these components, core inflation provides a clearer view of underlying, persistent inflationary pressures in the economy.

    [/stextbox]

    What is RBI’s Role in Inflation Control?

    The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) is the primary institution responsible for managing inflation in India. Its main goal is to maintain price stability while supporting economic growth. The RBI achieves this through a range of monetary policy tools and frameworks:

    • Repo Rate Adjustments: The repo rate is the rate at which RBI lends money to commercial banks. 
    • Reverse Repo Rate: By increasing the reverse repo rate, RBI attracts banks to park their excess funds with the central bank, absorbing surplus liquidity from the system and thus controlling inflation.
    • Cash Reserve Ratio (CRR) and Statutory Liquidity Ratio (SLR): RBI can increase the CRR (the percentage of deposits banks must hold with the RBI) and SLR (the percentage of deposits banks must maintain in liquid assets), both of which reduce the money available for banks to lend, thereby tightening the money supply and containing inflation.
    • Open Market Operations (OMO): RBI buys or sells government securities in the open market. Selling securities absorbs excess liquidity, while buying injects liquidity. During inflation, RBI sells securities to reduce money supply.
    • Inflation Targeting: Since 2016, RBI has formally adopted an inflation targeting framework, aiming to keep inflation within a 2–6% band, with a target of 4%. 
      • The Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) meets bi-monthly to assess inflation trends and adjust policy accordingly.
    • Market Stabilisation Scheme (MSS): RBI issues government bonds under the MSS to absorb excess liquidity, further helping to control inflation.

     

     

    What are the Challenges Faced by RBI in Controlling Inflation?

    • Balancing Inflation and Growth: Raising interest rates can control inflation but may also slow down economic growth and increase unemployment. Striking the right balance is a persistent challenge, especially when external shocks or domestic slowdowns occur.
    • Weak Policy Transmission: The effect of RBI’s policy rate changes on the broader economy is often delayed or muted due to structural issues in India’s financial system, making inflation control less effective and predictable.
    • Supply-Side Shocks: Many inflationary pressures in India stem from supply-side factors such as volatile food and fuel prices, which are less responsive to monetary policy. RBI’s tools are more effective against demand-driven inflation than supply shocks.
    • Data and Structural Constraints: Accurate and timely macroeconomic data is sometimes lacking, complicating policy decisions. Structural issues like inadequate infrastructure also limit the effectiveness of monetary interventions.
    • Exchange Rate Volatility: Monetary policy actions can lead to fluctuations in the rupee’s value, impacting imports, exports, and inflation, especially in an open economy.
    • Managing Expectations and Credibility: Public skepticism due to a history of high and variable inflation can undermine the effectiveness of inflation targeting. Building and maintaining credibility requires consistent policy actions and clear communication.
    • Global Economic Conditions: External factors such as global commodity prices, geopolitical tensions, and international financial market volatility can influence domestic inflation and complicate RBI’s policy choices.

  • India’s Oil Import Strategy

    India’s oil imports from Russia, Africa, US and Latin America

    Context: With escalating tensions between Israel and Iran and a renewed threat from Tehran to close the Strait of Hormuz, Indian refiners are accelerating efforts to diversify crude oil supplies away from West Asia. 

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    • Industry experts and data suggest a clear pivot toward Russia, West Africa, the United States, and Latin America, whose shipping routes remain unaffected by potential disruptions in the Persian Gulf.
    • The shift comes in response to the U.S. airstrikes on Iranian nuclear sites, after which Iran’s Parliament approved a motion calling for the closure of the Strait. 
      • While the actual closure remains unlikely, the risk perception has already begun to impact oil prices and shipping strategies globally.

    Why the Strait of Hormuz Matters to India

    • The Strait of Hormuz is a narrow but vital maritime corridor linking the Persian Gulf with the Gulf of Oman and Arabian Sea. 
      • According to the U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA), it is the world’s most critical oil transit chokepoint, with nearly 20% of global oil flows passing through.
    • For India — the world’s third-largest oil consumer — the stakes are even higher. 
      • The country imports over 85% of its crude oil and, according to Indian Express analysis, 45% of May’s crude imports likely passed through this strait. 
      • Any disruption here could severely impact India’s energy security, trade balance, and inflation control.

    Russian Oil Gains Due to Logistics and Pricing

    • According to Sumit Ritolia, Lead Research Analyst at Kpler, Russian crude continues to dominate India’s oil imports due to:
      • Attractive pricing
      • Non-dollar payment mechanisms
      • Routes detached from the Strait of Hormuz, such as via the Suez Canal, Red Sea, or Cape of Good Hope
    • Additionally, despite Red Sea attacks by Houthi rebels, tankers carrying Russian oil have largely been spared, maintaining stable logistics for Indian refiners.

    Energy Prices and Supply Chain Risks on the Rise

    • While oil continues to transit the Strait of Hormuz, war risk premiums for cargo ships have surged. 
      • This has led to a rise in delivered crude prices, particularly for West Asian oil bound for Asia, including India.
    • India’s refiners say that even if freight costs increase, they are preferable to the scenario of outright supply disruption. 
      • Analysts warn that if Iran actually closes the strait, oil prices could soar to $120–130 per barrel, compared to the current $77–78 levels.

    Strategic Recalibration and Contingency Planning

    • Executives from India’s refining sector confirm they are actively planning for different risk scenarios. 
      • This includes buying more spot cargoes from outside West Asia, rerouting logistics, and ensuring margin protection.
    • While Iran’s oil export infrastructure remains largely intact, a major supply loss — even if indirect — could tighten the global market. 
      • For instance, if Chinese refiners currently buying Iranian crude are forced to turn elsewhere, it could lead to higher global competition for alternative barrels, thereby impacting India.
    • Any significant rise in crude prices will exert inflationary pressure on India, widen the trade deficit, reduce foreign exchange reserves, and weaken the rupee. 
      • With over 85% energy import dependency, India is especially vulnerable to global oil market volatility.

  • Military Strikes and Iran’s Nuclear Programme

    Iran’s n-programme, the illusion of a surgical strike

    Context: Amid renewed tensions in West Asia, both Israel and the United States have launched airstrikes on Iran’s nuclear infrastructure, targeting key facilities and top scientists. 

    More on News

    • Iran has retaliated with drone and missile attacks, some of which breached Israel’s Iron Dome air defence system. 
    • As the conflict escalates, a critical question arises: Can Iran’s nuclear programme be eliminated through military force? The short and strategic answer is no — at least, not easily.

    What is the Current Status?

    • Iran’s Nuclear Sites: Iran’s uranium enrichment facilities, notably Fordow and Natanz, are not only shielded but are strategically hardened to withstand air attacks.
    • While the United States possesses powerful bunker-busting weapons, Israel does not have access to such weaponry or aircraft like the B-2 Spirit or B-52 bomber required to deliver them.
    • Military Strikes: Even if Israel were to succeed in damaging facilities like Natanz or Fordow, Iran could rebuild — potentially faster than before. 
      • After the 2010 Stuxnet cyberattack, Iran not only repaired its centrifuges but increased its enrichment capabilities.
    • Risky U.S. Involvement: This is why Israel has long sought U.S. backing for any major strike on Iran. While there have been discussions — especially during Donald Trump’s presidency — about supplying MOP-class weapons to Israel, no formal transfer has occurred.
      • Iran has already proven its retaliatory capabilities. In April 2024, it launched over 300 drones and missiles in response to an Israeli airstrike in Damascus.

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    Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA)

    The Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), commonly known as the Iran nuclear deal, is a landmark multilateral agreement reached in July 2015 between Iran and six major world powers—the P5+1 (United States, United Kingdom, France, Russia, China, and Germany)—along with the European Union. The JCPOA was designed to ensure that Iran’s nuclear program remained exclusively peaceful, preventing the development of nuclear weapons. Key restrictions included limits on uranium enrichment, reductions in Iran’s stockpile of enriched uranium, redesigning nuclear facilities, and enhanced monitoring by the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA). However, in 2018, the United States withdrew from the JCPOA under President Donald Trump, reimposing sanctions on Iran and prompting Iran to scale back its compliance with the deal’s terms. Efforts to restore or renegotiate the agreement have since faced significant challenges, and as of 2023, the future of the JCPOA remains uncertain, with some provisions beginning to expire and ongoing concerns about Iran’s nuclear activities.

    [/stextbox]

    How is this going to be solved? 

    • A regional war over Iran’s nuclear facilities could disrupt global oil markets, destabilise fragile states, and embroil the U.S. and its allies in a prolonged conflict. 
      • Importantly, it still may not achieve its primary objective — the complete elimination of Iran’s nuclear capability.
    • The 2015 Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) had successfully capped Iran’s enrichment levels and subjected it to international inspections. 
      • But after the U.S. withdrawal in 2018, Iran expanded its enrichment to 60%, stockpiled uranium 30 times above permitted levels, and reduced cooperation with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA).
    • Reviving a nuclear deal will be challenging amid the current hostilities and mutual distrust, but it remains more realistic than a military solution. 
      • Continued airstrikes will likely provoke more retaliation, pushing the region toward an uncontrollable spiral of violence.
    • For both Israel and the U.S., a long-term diplomatic strategy — backed by multilateral pressure, rigorous verification, and robust deterrence — offers the only sustainable path forward. 
      • Iran’s nuclear programme is architecturally resilient and strategically layered, making war a high-cost gamble with low odds of success.

  • US Strikes Iranian Nuclear Sites

    Pakistan’s role in the U.S.-West Asia calculus

    Context: On June 22, 2025, U.S. President Donald Trump announced a military strike on three Iranian nuclear facilities, escalating tensions in an already volatile West Asia. 

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    • This unprecedented move could reshape the region’s geopolitical dynamics for decades. 
    • Echoing previous U.S. interventions in Iraq (1991, 2003) and Libya (2011), quick military gains may lead to long-term destabilisation — not just for Iran, but across the region, including South Asia.
    • Following the strikes, President Trump warned of “far greater” attacks unless Iran agrees to “make peace.” 

    Why the U.S. Is Turning to Pakistan 

    • Though the meeting between Pakistan’s Chief of Army Staff and President Trump was publicly framed in the context of India-Pakistan relations, the timing and context suggest otherwise.
      • With the India-Pakistan conflict cooling off, there was no pressing reason for such urgency — unless Pakistan’s role in West Asia was being quietly recalibrated.
    • In early June, U.S. CENTCOM Commander Gen. Michael Kurilla praised Pakistan in Senate hearings, especially for its counter-terrorism cooperation and for aiding in the capture of Sharifullah, accused of killing 13 U.S. soldiers during the 2021 Kabul airport bombing.
    • While surprising, this shift may reflect the U.S.’s broader West Asia strategy. 
      • Despite past tensions — including Pakistan’s undermining of U.S. objectives in Afghanistan while receiving $20 billion in aid — Washington may now view Islamabad as a useful counterweight to Iran, especially as regional war looms.

    How Complicated and Volatile are Iran-Pakistan Relations? 

    • Pakistan and Iran have long had a tense relationship marked by border skirmishes, proxy conflicts in Afghanistan, and sectarian divides. 
      • In early 2024, the two countries exchanged missile strikes after attacks on Iranian security personnel by groups based in Pakistan’s Balochistan.
    • Pakistan is also one of the few Muslim-majority nations with nuclear weapons, a status it is keen to preserve. It likely views Iran’s nuclear ambitions as a direct challenge to its strategic standing.
    • On June 15, coinciding with General Munir’s U.S. visit, Pakistan abruptly closed all but one of its land borders with Iran, citing security concerns. 
      • This marked a significant break — especially considering Iran’s past support for Pakistan, including in the 1965 Indo-Pak war when the Shah offered sanctuary to the Pakistan Air Force.

    A Bigger Strategic Bargain?

    • The renewed U.S.-Pakistan engagement seems part of a larger bargain. 
      • During recent Indo-Pak tensions, the IMF approved a fresh $1.4 billion climate resilience loan to Pakistan. 
      • This was in addition to the release of $1 billion from a $7 billion IMF package, even as Pakistan’s economy teeters on the brink.
    • Pakistan’s defence budget for FY 2025–26, unveiled on June 10, reflects this renewed military focus. 
      • Defence spending rose by 17% to PKR 3.29 trillion ($11.65 billion), while development spending was slashed by 50%. 
      • With debt servicing costs consuming 74% of federal revenue, Pakistan’s economy is now almost entirely dependent on foreign aid and loan rollovers from friendly nations.

    Balochistan, Gwadar, and the Iran Connection

    • Balochistan borders Iran’s Sistan-Balochistan province, home to the strategic Chabahar port, a competitor to China-backed Gwadar port in Pakistan.
    • In an April speech, Munir reiterated Pakistan’s ideological stance — referencing the two-nation theory, calling Kashmir its “jugular vein,” and branding the Pakistani ideology as “superior.” 
      • But his primary thrust was clear: to crush Baloch resistance, which continues to challenge Pakistan’s nationhood.
    • The Pakistan Army has long used Sunni extremist groups to counter Baloch nationalism. 
      • These groups have increasingly targeted Shia pilgrims traveling to holy sites in Iran and Iraq, further straining Iran-Pakistan ties. 
      • These same groups may now be used to weaken Iran’s influence under a tacit understanding with the U.S.