August 29th Current Affairs
Table of Contents
Operation Sindoor
July 21st Current Affairs Home / Operation Sindoor Why in News? Parliament’s Monsoon Session, starting July 21, 2025, is expected to feature
Alaska Earthquakes
July 21st Current Affairs Home / Alaska Earthquakes Why in News? On July 21, 2025, Alaska Peninsula was struck by
August 2, 2027 Solar Eclipse
July 21st Current Affairs Home / August 2, 2027 Solar Eclipse Why in News? A total solar eclipse is set
India’s milestone in clean energy transition
July 21st Current Affairs Home / India’s milestone in clean energy transition Why in News? India achieved a milestone by
‘Baby Grok’, child-friendly AI app
July 21st Current Affairs Home / ‘Baby Grok’, Child-friendly AI app Why in News? Elon Musk’s AI company xAI has announced
Impeachment proceedings against Justice Yashwant Verma
July 22nd Current Affairs Home / Impeachment proceedings against Justice Yashwant Verma Context On July 22, 2025, impeachment proceedings against
Urjit Patel Appointed as IMF Executive Director
Context
India has appointed Urjit Patel, former RBI Governor, as the IMF’s Executive Director for a three-year term. This decision follows the abrupt termination of the previous incumbent, Krishnamurthy Subramanian, six months ahead of schedule.It is a significant shift in India’s representation at a key global financial institution, the IMF, with the appointment of former RBI Governor Urjit Patel.
Background
Urjit Patel succeeds Krishnamurthy Subramanian, whose tenure as the IMF’s Executive Director for India, Bangladesh, Bhutan, and Sri Lanka was cut short. Patel’s appointment marks his return to prominent policy roles after his resignation as RBI Governor in December 2018.
Government Schemes and Policies
Patel’s appointment aligns with the government’s approach of leveraging experienced domestic economic leaders on the global stage. This move strengthens India’s representation and is part of a broader strategy to exert greater influence on international economic policy discussions. His expertise will be crucial in navigating complex global financial challenges and advocating for India’s interests.
Rules and Laws
Appointments to such high-level international posts are made by the Appointments Committee of the Cabinet (ACC), which is a key body under the Government of India. The ACC is responsible for all major appointments and is governed by the Rules of Business of the Government of India. The notification explicitly mentions that the appointment is for a period of three years or “until further orders,” highlighting the government’s prerogative in managing such roles.
Economists' Views
Economists generally view Patel’s appointment as a positive step. His tenure at the RBI was marked by a focus on inflation targeting and a more cautious approach to monetary policy, which aligns with the IMF’s preference for fiscal discipline. His deep understanding of India’s macroeconomic landscape and global financial markets will be invaluable. Some analysts believe he will bring stability to the position after the previous tumultuous exit. Other economists might point out that his past role, particularly during demonetization, could also be a point of debate.
Significance
The appointment of a figure of Patel’s stature at the IMF is highly significant. It ensures that India’s voice is heard at the highest levels of global economic governance. As the world faces economic slowdowns and inflationary pressures, Patel’s expertise will be critical in shaping the IMF’s policy recommendations, particularly those affecting emerging economies. His appointment strengthens India’s position as a rising economic power with a significant role in global financial architecture.
Definition of Technical Terms
- Executive Director (ED) at the IMF: The ED represents a group of member countries on the IMF’s Executive Board. This board is responsible for conducting the day-to-day business of the IMF. The ED for India also represents Bangladesh, Bhutan, and Sri Lanka.
- International Monetary Fund (IMF): An international organization comprising 190 countries, working to foster global monetary cooperation, secure financial stability, facilitate international trade, promote high employment and sustainable economic growth, and reduce poverty around the world.
Global Fiscal Aspects
Patel’s role comes at a time of significant global fiscal challenges. Many countries are grappling with high public debt accumulated during the pandemic. There is a global trend towards fiscal consolidation, but the pace and method remain contentious. The IMF advocates for prudent fiscal policies, which can sometimes clash with a country’s domestic political and social needs. Patel will have to navigate these complex discussions, ensuring that India’s interests and the nuances of other emerging economies are adequately represented.
Impacts on the IMF's Policies
Patel’s appointment is unlikely to lead to a radical shift in IMF policies. However, his strong understanding of emerging market dynamics could influence the institution’s stance on issues like capital controls, exchange rate management, and the design of structural adjustment programs. He could advocate for more flexible and country-specific policy prescriptions, moving away from a one-size-fits-all approach. His insights on inflation targeting and monetary policy in developing economies could also shape the IMF’s recommendations.
Challenges
Patel will face several challenges. The global economy is at a crossroads, with geopolitical tensions, supply chain disruptions, and the persistent threat of inflation. He will need to balance the interests of the diverse group of countries he represents, including India, Bangladesh, Bhutan, and Sri Lanka. He will also need to deal with the political dynamics within the IMF, where developed nations often hold significant sway. The legacy of his previous tenure at the RBI, particularly around demonetization, could also be a point of scrutiny.
Way Forward
Patel’s tenure offers an opportunity for India to cement its role in global economic governance further. He should focus on building consensus and advocating for policies that promote sustainable and inclusive growth. His deep expertise can be used to champion the cause of emerging economies, ensuring their unique challenges and perspectives are central to IMF discussions. His success will depend on his ability to navigate the complex geopolitical and economic landscape and build strong relationships with other member countries.
Prelims MCQ
Q. Consider the following statements regarding the appointment of India’s Executive Director at the International Monetary Fund (IMF): 1. Urjit Patel has been appointed as the Executive Director at the IMF to represent India, Bangladesh, and Sri Lanka. 2. The appointment of an Executive Director at the IMF is an administrative decision approved by the Appointments Committee of the Cabinet (ACC). Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
Mains Question
Q. Analyze the significance of India’s representation at global financial institutions, using the appointment of Urjit Patel at the IMF as a case study. (10 marks)
Govt. weighs relief package for companies battling Trump tariffs
Context
India’s government is considering a relief package for exporters following the US imposition of a steep 50% tariff on certain Indian goods. The move aims to mitigate a short-term liquidity crunch and maintain export competitiveness.It is India’s strategic response to significant trade protectionism from the US, with the government considering a relief package to support domestic companies impacted by steep tariffs.
Background
The US imposed a 50% tariff on a range of Indian goods, a measure that followed an existing 25% tariff. The additional 25% was imposed by the US in response to India’s continued purchase of discounted Russian oil, leading to a significant trade challenge for Indian exporters.
Government Schemes and Policies
The government is evaluating a relief package to help exporters. This could include a reintroduction of a scheme similar to the now-defunct Merchandise Exports from India Scheme (MEIS). MEIS was a rewards-based scheme that provided duty credit scrips to exporters but was phased out because it was deemed non-compliant with World Trade Organization (WTO) rules. The current request from industry is to share the tariff burden, with a proposal for the government to absorb a part of the hit. The government is also looking at long-term measures under the proposed Export Promotion Mission to diversify export markets and create resilient supply chains. Other measures include expediting the rollout of the Remission of Duties and Taxes on Exported Products (RoDTEP) scheme, which is WTO-compliant and aims to reimburse exporters for embedded taxes and duties.
Constitutional Provisions, Rules and Laws
The government’s power to regulate foreign trade and commerce is derived from Entry 41 of the Union List in the Seventh Schedule of the Constitution. The government’s actions are governed by various trade-related laws, most notably the Foreign Trade (Development and Regulation) Act, 1992. The WTO’s ruling against MEIS is a critical legal and regulatory constraint, highlighting the need for India to design any new schemes in a manner that adheres to international trade agreements and avoids a legal challenge.
Trade Expert's
Trade experts believe the tariffs, while significant, may not be a long-term loss if the government acts decisively. They suggest that the immediate challenge is to prevent a complete loss of market share to competitors like Vietnam and Bangladesh, which enjoy lower tariffs. Experts advocate for a two-pronged strategy: first, providing immediate fiscal and credit support to affected industries, and second, aggressively pursuing market diversification through Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) with other countries, such as the UK and the EU. Some also point out that the tariffs may be a “wake-up call” for India to reduce its over-reliance on a single market like the US.
Significance
The imposition of these tariffs and India’s response is highly significant. It represents a major test of India’s economic resilience and its ability to navigate a global trade landscape marked by rising protectionism. The tariffs directly impact labor-intensive sectors like textiles, gems and jewelry, and leather, which are crucial for employment and foreign exchange earnings. The government’s actions will determine whether these industries can weather the storm or face a significant decline in competitiveness. The outcome will also influence future trade negotiations with the US and other countries.
Definition of Technical Terms
- Tariff: A tax or duty to be paid on a particular class of imports or exports. Tariffs are used to restrict trade, as they increase the price of imported goods, making them less competitive with domestically produced goods.
- Liquidity Crunch: A situation where a company or a sector faces a shortage of cash to meet its short-term obligations, such as paying for raw materials or labor. This can be caused by a sudden drop in sales or delayed payments from buyers.
- WTO-compliant: Adhering to the rules and regulations of the World Trade Organization. The WTO aims to promote free trade by reducing barriers and ensuring that trade policies are non-discriminatory.
Economic Aspects
The tariffs will lead to a rise in the final cost of Indian goods in the US, potentially making them uncompetitive against exports from countries like Vietnam and Bangladesh. This could lead to a decline in export volumes, a slowdown in manufacturing, and job losses, particularly in labor-intensive sectors. The government’s relief package, if implemented, will have economic costs but is intended to prevent a more severe economic downturn. The proposed measures, such as providing credit lines or a moratorium on loans, are aimed at injecting liquidity and supporting the operational viability of affected companies.
Impacts on Bilateral Relations
The tariffs have strained the India-US bilateral relationship, particularly the trade aspect. The US’s rationale for the additional tariffs is India’s energy trade with Russia, a move New Delhi has defended as a matter of its sovereign interest and economic necessity. While official engagement continues, the immediate resumption of a trade deal seems unlikely until the tariff issue is resolved. This highlights the complex interplay between geopolitics and trade policy, and how non-trade issues can disrupt economic relations.
Challenges
The primary challenge is to provide effective, timely relief without violating international trade rules. Relaunching a non-WTO-compliant scheme like MEIS could invite further legal challenges and retaliatory measures from other countries. The government also faces the challenge of diversifying exports quickly enough to absorb the shock from the US market. The tariffs are a wake-up call for India to build greater resilience into its supply chains and reduce its dependence on any single country.
Way Forward
The government should focus on a multi-pronged strategy. Firstly, it must provide targeted and WTO-compliant support to the most affected sectors. This could involve enhanced RoDTEP benefits or interest subvention schemes. Secondly, it should intensify efforts to find new markets for its products by expediting ongoing FTA negotiations and launching export promotion campaigns. Lastly, it must continue diplomatic engagement with the US to resolve the trade dispute and resume negotiations for a comprehensive trade deal.
Prelims MCQ
Q. Consider the following statements regarding India’s export promotion schemes and trade measures: 1. The Merchandise Exports from India Scheme (MEIS) was phased out as it was found to be non-compliant with the World Trade Organization (WTO) rules on export subsidies. 2. The US tariffs on India are solely a result of trade imbalances and do not involve geopolitical considerations. 3. The Remission of Duties and Taxes on Exported Products (RoDTEP) scheme is a WTO-compliant initiative to refund embedded taxes and duties to exporters. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
Mains Question
Q. Critically analyze the government’s policy options to mitigate the impact of rising global protectionism on India’s exports. (15 marks)
Monsoon Mayhem Continues
Context
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a forecast for continued above-normal rainfall in north, west, and central India throughout September. This follows a monsoon season that has already seen significant excess rain in many of these regions, leading to widespread disruption.
Background
The monsoon has so far shown a significant regional imbalance, with northwest India receiving 23% excess rainfall, while the east and northeast have an 18% deficiency. This forecast suggests that this disparity is likely to persist, with a “wet September” particularly for the already saturated northern and central parts of the country.
Government Schemes and Policies
The government’s response to this situation primarily falls under disaster management. Key schemes and policies include:
- National Disaster Management Plan (NDMP): This plan provides a framework for all aspects of disaster management, including prevention, mitigation, and response. The ongoing rainfall requires activation of these plans at both national and state levels.
- National Disaster Response Fund (NDRF) and State Disaster Response Fund (SDRF): These funds are the primary financial resources for states to respond to natural calamities. The central government contributes to the SDRF, and the NDRF supplements it for disasters of a “severe nature.” They provide for immediate relief measures such as food, medical aid, and temporary shelters.
- Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana (PMFBY): This crop insurance scheme provides financial support to farmers who suffer crop loss or damage due to unseasonal rainfall, floods, or other natural disasters. It is crucial in mitigating the economic impact on the agricultural sector.
- Flood Management Programme: This program, implemented by the Ministry of Jal Shakti, provides central assistance to states for flood control and anti-erosion works, which are vital in regions experiencing a high intensity of rainfall.
Constitutional Provisions, Rules, and Law
Disaster management in India is a shared responsibility of the Union and State governments, as per the constitutional scheme. The Disaster Management Act, 2005, provides the legal framework for this. It mandates the creation of the National, State, and District Disaster Management Authorities (NDMA, SDMA, and DDMA) to implement the response.
IMD
According to IMD officials, the sustained rainfall in North and Central India is a result of a western disturbance interacting with monsoon winds. While western disturbances are typically a winter phenomenon, their interaction with the monsoon trough is causing unseasonal and extreme rainfall. IMD’s extended range forecast (ERF) models show that while the intensity in some regions like Jammu & Kashmir may decrease, the overall wet spell will continue across a large part of the country due to the formation of successive low-pressure areas.
Climate Scientists
Climate scientists view this weather pattern as a symptom of a broader trend of increasingly erratic and extreme weather events influenced by climate change. The increased frequency and intensity of western disturbances during the monsoon season and the concurrent occurrence of heavy rainfall in some regions while others face a deficit point to a breakdown in predictable weather patterns. They emphasize the need for long-term climate adaptation strategies, as these events are likely to become more common and severe.
Significance
The continuation of monsoon “mayhem” in September is highly significant for several reasons. Firstly, it poses a severe threat of flash floods, landslides, and infrastructure damage, particularly in the Himalayan states. Secondly, it disrupts the agricultural cycle, impacting both the standing kharif (monsoon) crops and the sowing of the upcoming rabi (winter) crops. Finally, it highlights a worrying trend in weather patterns, which has serious long-term implications for India’s water management and food security.
Definition of Technical Terms
- Extended Range Forecast (ERF): A weather forecast that predicts conditions for a period beyond the short-to-medium range, typically covering 15 to 30 days. It provides a broader outlook on weather patterns.
- Western Disturbance: An extratropical storm originating in the Mediterranean region that brings sudden winter rain and snow to the northwestern parts of the Indian subcontinent. Their interaction with monsoon winds is atypical and can lead to extreme rainfall.
- Low-Pressure Area: A region where the atmospheric pressure is lower than its surrounding areas. This causes air to converge and rise, leading to cloud formation and precipitation. The formation and movement of these systems are key drivers of the monsoon.
Geographical aspects
The geographical impact is highly uneven. While north, west, and central India are experiencing excess rainfall and the associated risks of flooding, east and northeast India continue to face a significant rainfall deficiency. This disparity underscores the regional vulnerabilities within India, where one region’s surplus rainfall can be another’s drought. The impact on rivers is also critical, with major northern rivers like the Chenab and Tawi in spate, posing a significant flood threat to downstream areas.
Impacts on Agriculture
The unseasonal and excessive rainfall in the latter half of the monsoon season presents a mixed but generally negative picture for agriculture. For regions with deficient rainfall, the September rains could be a boon for late-sown crops. However, for areas already saturated, the continued downpour can cause severe damage to standing kharif crops such as paddy, soybeans, and cotton due to waterlogging and flooding. It also delays the harvesting of these crops and can damage the quality of the produce. Moreover, it hinders the timely preparation of land for the sowing of rabi crops like wheat and mustard, potentially leading to lower yields in the next cropping season.
Challenges
The primary challenges are disaster management and climate adaptation. Authorities face the immediate challenge of managing flood situations, providing relief to affected populations, and preventing loss of life. In the medium term, there’s a need to address the agricultural crisis, including providing financial aid to farmers and ensuring food security. The long-term challenge is to develop robust infrastructure, such as improved drainage systems and flood-resistant housing, and to implement climate-resilient agricultural practices to cope with the “new normal” of unpredictable weather patterns.
Way Forward
Moving forward, India must adopt a comprehensive strategy. This includes strengthening the early warning systems of the IMD and other bodies, enhancing the capacity of the NDRF and SDRF, and investing in sustainable flood mitigation infrastructure. The government should also focus on promoting climate-resilient agriculture through research into drought and flood-tolerant crop varieties and by encouraging crop diversification. A nationwide water management plan that addresses both flood and drought situations is also essential for a more secure future.
Prelims MCQ
Q. Consider the following statements regarding weather systems and disaster response mechanisms in India:
1. Western Disturbances are extratropical storms originating in the Mediterranean region that primarily cause rainfall in Northwest India during the winter season.
2. The India Meteorological Department's Long Period Average (LPA) for the southwest monsoon season is calculated based on the average rainfall from the period 1971-2020.
3. The National Disaster Response Fund (NDRF) is the primary fund for disaster response, while the State Disaster Response Fund (SDRF) supplements it.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
Mains Question
Q. Discuss the socio-economic and environmental impacts of extreme weather events, using the recent monsoon patterns in India as a case study. (15 marks)
Programmed Cell Revival Discovery
Context
Indian researchers at CSIR-CCMB have identified a molecular mechanism that allows cells to recover from a near-death state, a process they named “Programmed Cell Revival.” This landmark discovery challenges the long-held belief that programmed cell death is irreversible. This is a groundbreaking discovery by Indian scientists at CSIR-CCMB, who have identified a mechanism called “Programmed Cell Revival” (PCR). This finding challenges the conventional understanding of programmed cell death (PCD) as an irreversible process.
Background
The study directly contrasts the widely accepted biological principle of programmed cell death (PCD), or apoptosis, which is a genetically controlled, irreversible process essential for development and disease prevention. The discovery of a revival mechanism provides a new perspective on cellular fate.
Government Schemes and Policies
The discovery is a testament to the success of government policies that support scientific research. The Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR), which funds the CCMB, is a major driver of this. Other key government initiatives include the National Mission on Interdisciplinary Cyber-Physical Systems (NM-ICPS), which promotes research in cutting-edge technologies, and the Scheme for Promotion of Academic and Research Collaboration (SPARC), which facilitates international collaboration. Continued funding and policy support are crucial for translating such foundational discoveries into clinical applications.
Rules and Laws
The government’s role in promoting scientific research is guided by the Fundamental Duties under Article 51A(h) of the Constitution, which obligates every citizen to “develop the scientific temper, humanism and the spirit of inquiry and reform.” The Biological Diversity Act, 2002, and rules governing genetic research and bio-safety, would apply as the research progresses toward practical applications, ensuring ethical and environmental considerations are met.
Global Resolutions
Globally, the scientific community operates under various guidelines and resolutions. The UNESCO Universal Declaration on the Human Genome and Human Rights (1997) and the Helsinki Declaration (1964), revised by the World Medical Association, lay down ethical principles for medical research involving human subjects. The discovery of Programmed Cell Revival (PCR), while currently at a fundamental research stage, would eventually have to adhere to these global ethical frameworks, especially if it leads to therapies.
Biologists
Biologists view this discovery as revolutionary. It opens up new avenues for understanding cellular fate and disease. While the concept of cells surviving stressors is known, a genetically encoded and regulated “revival” mechanism is unprecedented. This finding prompts a re-evaluation of established principles of cell biology. It could change how scientists view the progression of diseases like cancer, where cells resist death, or neurodegenerative diseases, where cell death is the central problem.
Significance
The discovery of a “Programmed Cell Revival” (PCR) is highly significant. It challenges the central dogma of programmed cell death (PCD) as irreversible. This finding could revolutionize our understanding and treatment of various diseases. For instance, in conditions like sepsis, stroke, or heart attacks, where a large number of cells die rapidly due to oxygen starvation, inducing PCR could be a viable therapeutic strategy. Conversely, in cancer, where cancer cells resist death, understanding the PCR mechanism could help in finding ways to block it, making cancer cells more susceptible to treatment.
Definition of Technical Terms
- Programmed Cell Death (PCD): A genetically controlled process of cell suicide. The most common form is apoptosis, which is a normal part of an organism’s development and helps maintain tissue homeostasis.
- Programmed Cell Revival (PCR): The newly discovered, genetically encoded survival mechanism that allows cells to recover from a “near-death” state. It is the molecular opposite of programmed cell death.
- Near-Death Stage: A state of severe cellular stress where cells are on the brink of death, but have not yet undergone irreversible structural changes associated with apoptosis.
Biotechnological aspects
This discovery holds immense biotechnological promise. The ability to control a cell’s fate—either to induce death or promote revival—is the holy grail for a range of therapies. In regenerative medicine, PCR could be harnessed to save cells from premature death, for example, in cases of spinal cord injuries or neurodegenerative disorders like Alzheimer’s. In contrast, in oncology, targeting and inhibiting PCR could make tumor cells more vulnerable to chemotherapy and radiation. The research into the specific molecular pathways of PCR will likely lead to the development of new drugs and therapeutic agents.
Impacts on Genetic Engineering
The discovery of PCR will profoundly impact genetic engineering. It provides a new target for gene-editing technologies like CRISPR-Cas9. By editing the genes responsible for the PCR mechanism, scientists could potentially:
- Enhance Cell Survival: In diseases where cell loss is a key problem, such as Type 1 Diabetes (loss of pancreatic cells), gene editing could be used to activate or enhance the PCR pathway.
- Promote Cell Death: In diseases like cancer, gene editing could be used to inhibit the PCR pathway, making cancer cells more susceptible to programmed cell death.
The ability to manipulate cellular survival with this precision would open up new frontiers in medicine.
Challenges
The challenges are significant. First, the discovery is at a foundational stage; extensive research is needed to understand the exact molecular pathways and to validate the findings across various cell types and organisms. Second, translating this discovery into a therapeutic application will require overcoming complex ethical and safety hurdles. Altering a cell’s fate could have unintended consequences, such as promoting uncontrolled growth or leading to other diseases. Ensuring that any therapy is safe, specific, and does not have off-target effects will be a major challenge.
Way Forward
The way forward involves a collaborative effort. Indian research institutions must be provided with continued and increased funding to explore the PCR mechanism in depth. International collaborations will be essential to validate the findings and share expertise. The scientific community must also initiate a robust ethical debate on the implications of controlling cellular fate. This landmark discovery provides a powerful tool; the challenge is to use it responsibly and for the benefit of humanity.
Prelims MCQ
Q. Consider the following statements regarding the recent discovery of Programmed Cell Revival (PCR):
1. Programmed Cell Revival (PCR) is a recently discovered molecular mechanism that allows cells to recover from a near-death state.
2. The discovery of Programmed Cell Revival (PCR) directly challenges the traditional understanding of apoptosis as an irreversible process.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
Mains Question
Q. Discuss the ethical and scientific implications of the discovery of Programmed Cell Revival and its potential applications in medicine. (15 marks)
Israeli Ministers' Gaza Annexation Proposal
Context
Israeli Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich has publicly advocated for the annexation of parts of Gaza if Hamas refuses to surrender. This controversial proposal is a significant escalation of Israeli rhetoric and policy, following nearly two years of conflict in the region.
Background
Smotrich’s call for annexation follows a sustained military campaign and a blockade that have created a severe humanitarian crisis in Gaza. His stance reflects the far-right elements within Israel’s government, which have long opposed a two-state solution and advocated for the expansion of Israeli control over Palestinian territories.
Government Schemes and Policies
Smotrich’s proposal, though not official government policy at this time, outlines a plan to “win in Gaza by the end of the year.” This includes a phased annexation process, cutting off humanitarian aid to areas where Hamas fighters are believed to be located, and displacing Palestinian civilians. It stands in stark contrast to the international community’s calls for a peaceful resolution and a two-state solution. While Israel’s government has not officially adopted this plan, it reflects a strong and influential political viewpoint within the ruling coalition.
Constitutional Provisions, Rules, and Laws
There are no specific constitutional provisions in Israel that directly address the annexation of foreign territory. However, any such move would be subject to Israeli domestic law and a vote in the Knesset. Internationally, the annexation of territory acquired by force is a direct violation of international law. The Fourth Geneva Convention prohibits an occupying power from making permanent changes to the occupied territory, including altering its legal status or transferring its population.
UN Resolutions
The international community, through the United Nations, has repeatedly affirmed the illegality of annexing occupied territories. Key UN Security Council Resolutions, such as UNSC Resolution 242 (1967), emphasize the “inadmissibility of the acquisition of territory by war.” The UN has consistently called for an end to Israel’s occupation of Palestinian territories, including the Gaza Strip. The International Court of Justice (ICJ) has also delivered an advisory opinion that Israel’s occupation is unlawful and that it must end.
Diplomat's
Diplomats globally would view Smotrich’s proposal with extreme concern. They would likely condemn it as a flagrant violation of international law and a serious threat to regional stability. The proposal’s explicitly stated goal of displacing Palestinian civilians and asserting permanent Israeli control would be seen as a death blow to any viable two-state solution. It would also further isolate Israel on the world stage and could lead to increased sanctions and diplomatic repercussions.
Significance
This proposal is highly significant because it signals a potential and severe escalation of the conflict. Should the Israeli government adopt such a policy, it would formalize a rejection of the two-state solution and could trigger a full-scale regional crisis. It would also undermine the authority of international institutions and norms, further entrenching the conflict and making a peaceful resolution far more difficult.
Definition of Technical Terms
- Annexation: The forcible acquisition of one state’s territory by another state, in violation of international law. It is a unilateral act where the occupying state asserts permanent sovereignty.
- Two-State Solution: A widely supported international proposal for resolving the Israeli-Palestinian conflict by establishing an independent Palestinian state alongside the State of Israel.
- Fourth Geneva Convention: An international treaty that protects civilians in a time of war. It explicitly prohibits an occupying power from annexing territory or altering the legal status of an occupied area.
Middle East and West Asia Peace aspects
Smotrich’s proposal directly contradicts all existing and proposed peace frameworks for the region. Plans like the Camp David Accords, the Oslo Accords, and the Arab Peace Initiative are all based on the principle of “land for peace,” which means Israel would withdraw from occupied territories in exchange for peace and recognition from Arab nations. An annexation would be the complete opposite, making a negotiated settlement virtually impossible and potentially leading to a wider regional conflict.
Impacts on India's Geopolitics
India’s geopolitical stance is complex, balancing its historical support for the Palestinian cause with its growing strategic and economic partnership with Israel. An annexation would place India in a difficult position. While India has been a strong supporter of a two-state solution and has voted in favor of UN resolutions condemning Israeli settlements, its close ties with Israel would be tested. India would likely have to navigate a delicate diplomatic tightrope, possibly condemning the annexation at the UN while trying to maintain its bilateral relationship with Israel, a major defense and technology partner.
Challenges
The challenges of implementing such a plan are immense. It would likely lead to increased armed resistance, widespread international condemnation, and a complete breakdown of any humanitarian efforts in Gaza. The long-term security implications for Israel are also significant, as a forced annexation would fuel an intractable insurgency and likely lead to a new era of conflict and violence. The humanitarian crisis in Gaza would worsen exponentially, as would the political instability in the entire region.
Way Forward
The only viable way forward for the region is a political one. The international community, including India, must continue to advocate for a two-state solution based on the 1967 borders, with East Jerusalem as the capital of a future Palestinian state. Diplomatic pressure, backed by international law, is the only way to prevent further escalation and to create the conditions for a lasting peace. This involves both holding Israel accountable for its actions and facilitating a credible and lasting political process between the Israeli and Palestinian leaderships.
Prelims MCQ
Q. Consider the following statements regarding international law and the Israeli-Palestinian conflict:
1. The annexation of territory by force is a direct violation of international law, as per the Fourth Geneva Convention.
2. The UN Security Council has repeatedly passed resolutions calling for an end to Israel's occupation of Palestinian territories.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
Mains Question
Q. Analyze the geopolitical consequences of Israel’s potential annexation of Gaza and its implications for India’s foreign policy. (10 marks)
