Content:
- A Land Where Ambition Grows Minus an Outbound Ticket
- New Delhi’s Perilous Recalibration with the Taliban
- A Jab in Time
A land where ambition grows minus an outbound ticket
Context : Recent detention of illegal immigrants by U.S.
- Large-scale deportation of undocumented Indian migrants from the U.S. raises concerns.
- Migrants were handcuffed and transported in military aircraft, evoking public outrage.
- Migration is not only a policy issue but a human story of ambition and survival.
Relevance : GS 2(Governance , International Relations)
Practice Question : The increasing trend of illegal migration from India reflects deeper socio-economic issues within the country. Discuss the factors driving this migration and suggest measures to make India a land of opportunity rather than a land of migration. (250 words)
Growing migration tendency in india
- India has the highest number of emigrants globally.
- Indian migrants excel abroad, leading Fortune 500 companies like Google and Microsoft.
- Migration has historically been a force multiplier, benefiting both migrants and host nations.
Twin story of Growth and Unemployment
- While India’s economy is growing, unemployment remains high.
- Many educated Indians still seek opportunities abroad.
- Remittances to India crossed $120 billion in 2023, showing migration’s economic impact.
Migration reasons
- Economic disparity, lack of dignified work, and social instability push migration.
- Human traffickers exploit aspirants with promises of Western riches.
- States like Gujarat and Punjab see high emigration despite economic growth.
- Some migrants pay up to₹1 crore to illegal agents, reflects aspirations and desperation at the same time.
The American Dream and its reality
- Many undocumented migrants live in fear of deportation .
- Migrants earnings also limited despiteexploitative work conditions.
- The American Dream is turning into an illusion for many.
- Migrants often face racism, hate and harsh deportation policies.
Ethical violations during Deportation Practices
- The U.S. deports thousands of Indians, but the process lacks dignity.
- Handcuffing and inhumane treatment for migrants violates human rights.
- Colombia and Mexico have protested similar treatment of their citizens.
- Diplomacy should ensure Indians abroad are treated with respect and dignity.
Why India should retain its talents
- India must offer better economic opportunities to prevent brain drain.
- A strong economy should ensure careers and growth at home, not just jobs.
- Migrants should return by choice, not force, bringing back skills and investments.
Path Forward
- India must prioritize inclusive growth, education, infrastructure, and entrepreneurship.
- Migration should be a choice, not a necessity for survival.
- India must evolve from a talent exporter to a talent magnet.
Facts and Figures :
As of May 2024, the total number of overseas Indians worldwide is approximately 35.42 million, which includes about 15.85 million non-resident Indians (NRIs) and nearly 19.57 million individuals of Indian origin (PIOs), according to India’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
New Delhi’s perilous recalibration with the Taliban
Background :
- India has been gradually strengthening its engagement with the Taliban since its takeover of Afghanistan in August 2021.
- In January 2024, India’s Foreign Secretary met Taliban’s acting ‘Foreign Minister’ in Dubai, indicating deeper political and economic connections.
- The latest reports suggest India might allow a Taliban-appointed envoy to take charge of the Afghan embassy in New Delhi.
- This move would amount to de facto recognition of the Taliban regime, despite global condemnation of its human rights violations.
Relevance : GS 2(International Relations)
Practice Question :Critically analyze India’s recent engagement with the Taliban in Afghanistan. Discuss the strategic advantages and potential risks involved in this recalibration of foreign policy. (250 words)
Possible Reasons for India’s Engagement
Countering Chinese Influence in Afghanistan
- China was the first country to accept a Taliban envoy and is funding infrastructure projects.
- Afghanistan is being considered for inclusion in the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), increasing Beijing’s strategic clout.
- India’s engagement may be aimed at balancing China’s growing influence in Kabul.
Taliban-Pakistan Rift
- Pakistan, once the Taliban’s key supporter, has seen its influence wane as the Taliban seeks independence from Islamabad.
- The Tehrik-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), an ally of the Afghan Taliban, has turned against Pakistan, leading to border clashes and military tensions.
- India might see an opportunity to weaken Pakistan’s strategic depth by improving ties with the Taliban.
Protecting India’s Strategic Interests in Afghanistan
- Afghanistan has historically been crucial for India’s regional security and connectivity plans (e.g., Chabahar port, INSTC).
- Engaging with the Taliban could help protect India’s investments and influence in the region.
- Humanitarian aid to Afghanistan allows India to maintain goodwill among Afghan citizens.
Security Risks & Challenges of Taliban Engagement
Rise of Terrorism & IS Threat
- The Taliban’s rule has not stabilized Afghanistan; instead, terrorist activities have surged.
- Islamic State Khorasan Province (ISKP) has repeatedly targeted Taliban officials, foreign interests, and embassies.
- IS claimed an attack on India’s consulate in Jalalabad, while the UN reported ISKP’s attempts to recruit ‘lone actors’ for attacks in India.
- Russia and China have already suffered IS-linked attacks, showing the risks of engaging with an unstable Taliban regime.
Taliban’s Links with Terror Groups in Pakistan
- The Taliban has been accused of harboring and supporting TTP, which has escalated attacks inside Pakistan.
- Pakistan launched airstrikes against terror camps in Afghanistan after suffering 147 attacks in February 2024 alone.
- Taliban’s ties with other extremist groups could lead to security blowback for India, including possible infiltration into Kashmir.
Human Rights & Legitimacy Concerns
- The Taliban has been accused of gender apartheid, with bans on girls’ education, employment, and public life.
- Most countries, including India’s traditional allies (U.S., EU), refuse to recognize the Taliban regime due to its regressive policies.
- India’s support might alienate its Western partners, affecting diplomatic relations.
Lessons from China & Pakistan: A Warning for India?
China’s Experience
- Despite early engagement, China has faced security threats, including the IS attack on a Kabul hotel popular with Chinese nationals.
- The Chinese embassy in Kabul was threatened by ISKP in 2023, showing how foreign investments are not shielded from Afghanistan’s instability.
Pakistan’s Experience
- Pakistan miscalculated Taliban loyalty, assuming it would serve Islamabad’s strategic interests.
- Instead, Taliban’s support for TTP led to increased terror attacks in Pakistan, forcing retaliatory airstrikes.
- This deterioration of ties suggests that Taliban engagements can be unpredictable and counterproductive.
Way Forward: India’s Cautious Approach
Avoid Hastened Recognition
- Allowing a Taliban envoy would be a de facto recognition of the regime, which may not align with India’s long-term interests.
- Instead, India should maintain non-official channels of engagement without formal diplomatic endorsement.
Conditional Engagement on Counter-Terrorism
- India must insist that the Taliban take concrete steps to curb ISKP and TTP activities before deepening ties.
- This includes verifiable actions against terror networks operating from Afghan soil.
Focus on Humanitarian & Economic Engagement
- India can continue aid and economic projects without legitimizing the Taliban politically.
- Protecting India’s investments in infrastructure, trade routes, and Afghan human capital remains crucial.
Rising Influenza Cases in India
Context : Rising Influenza Cases in India
- Recent increase in seasonal influenza cases in Delhi-NCR highlights the need for proactive measures.
- Predominant strains identified: Influenza A and Influenza B.
- Seasonal peaks in India occur twice a year:
- January–March
- August–October (post-monsoon)
Relevance : GS 2(Health)
Practice Question : Despite the availability of influenza vaccines, adult immunization remains a neglected aspect of public health in India. Discuss the challenges associated with adult vaccination and suggest measures to enhance vaccine coverage, especially among high-risk groups. (250 words)
Influenza vs. Common Cold
- Similar Symptoms: Cough, sore throat, fever, muscle pain, headaches, fatigue, nasal congestion.
- Key Differences:
- Influenza is more severe, requiring hospitalisation in some cases.
- Delayed treatment can lead to fatalities, particularly among vulnerable groups.
Existing Surveillance and Preparedness
- Real-time monitoring of Influenza-like Illness (ILI) and Severe Acute Respiratory Infections (SARI).
- Nationwide network of diagnostic laboratories strengthened post-COVID-19.
- Surveillance helps track circulating strains and align vaccinations accordingly.
High-Risk Groups Needing Urgent Attention
- Children and senior citizens (most vulnerable).
- People with chronic respiratory conditions (e.g., asthma, COPD).
- Lack of awareness and access to vaccines for adults, especially the elderly.
Importance of Adult Vaccination
- Underutilization of flu vaccines among adults despite their availability.
- Currently, vaccination focus is mainly on children; adult immunisation is neglected.
- Inconsistent policies across Indian states lead to unequal access to flu shots.
The Role of Government and Public Health Initiatives
- Challenges:
- Vaccine hesitancy and misinformation.
- Limited awareness about the benefits of flu shots for adults.
- Financial and logistical barriers in vaccine distribution.
- Recommendations:
- Targeted awareness campaigns stressing the importance of flu vaccines.
- Incorporate adult vaccination programs into national healthcare strategies.
- Subsidised or free flu vaccines for the elderly and high-risk groups.
- Strengthen surveillance systems to ensure timely vaccine updates based on emerging strains.
