Editorial Insights: September 11, 2025

Daily Editorial Analysis: 11 September 2025

This analysis reviews key editorials from The Hindu and Indian Express, focusing on important issues relevant to the UPSC exam.

The Way Forward on Katchatheevu and Palk Strait Disputes

Context
India’s foreign policy is rooted in peaceful coexistence, influenced by frameworks like Panchsheel and associations such as the Non-Aligned Movement. Current bilateral relations with Sri Lanka face challenges, particularly the long-standing fisheries conflict in the Palk Strait and Katchatheevu island’s sovereignty. Effective resolution requires balancing ecological sustainability with the livelihoods of fishing communities.

Fisheries Dispute
Fishing has been a communal practice between Tamil Nadu and Sri Lanka’s Northern Province for centuries; however, mechanised bottom trawling by Indian fishers poses ecological threats. This practice, despite being profitable, is destructive and has led to dwindling fish stocks, severely impacting traditional artisanal fishermen on both sides.

Sri Lankan Regulations
Sri Lanka banned bottom trawling in 2017, yet Indian trawlers frequently violate this, damaging marine ecosystems and jeopardizing local livelihoods. This conflict illustrates a deeper economic struggle among Tamil fishermen, underscoring the need for sustainable fishing practices.

Katchatheevu Island
Misconceptions surround Katchatheevu, often considered the crux of the conflict. The 1974 India-Sri Lanka Maritime Boundary Treaty legally established Sri Lankan sovereignty over the islet. Historical control, dating back to previous colonial powers, reinforces this claim. While fishing rights remain negotiable, resolving them must adhere to international law.

Models for Cooperation
India and Sri Lanka can learn from the Baltic Sea Fisheries Convention. Potential frameworks include establishing equitable fishing quotas, setting up a joint marine research station, and promoting deep-sea fishing to alleviate pressure on near-shore waters. These measures would not only protect resources but also foster bilateral trust.

Recommendations for a Good Neighbourhood Policy
India should embrace a multifaceted approach for conflict resolution: engaging in quiet diplomacy, legal negotiations, and community dialogues to address misinformation and foster empathy. Understanding the socio-economic hardships faced by fishermen from both nations is crucial for building cooperative relations.

Conclusion
A sustainable approach, rooted in legal frameworks and empathy, can convert current disputes into opportunities for partnership, reinforcing India’s Neighbourhood First Policy for regional stability and prosperity.

A Joint and New Journey Along the SCO Pathway

Context
At the recent SCO Summit in Tianjin, Prime Minister Narendra Modi joined leaders from 23 countries, marking a significant gathering aimed at enhancing cooperation and peace.

Key Outcomes from the SCO Summit
The summit resulted in the establishment of new security centres and the SCO Development Bank. A decade-long development strategy was adopted, emphasizing multilateral trade, energy cooperation, and sustainability efforts led by President Xi Jinping.

Celebrating 75 Years of China-India Ties
As India and China celebrate 75 years of diplomatic relations, both leaders highlighted their partnership, focusing on cooperation rather than rivalry. Modi and Xi stressed long-term perspectives and mutual respect, symbolizing a partnership akin to “a dragon and an elephant dancing together.”

Strengthening Bilateral Relations
India and China aim to consolidate trust, expand exchanges in various fields, and focus on the Five Principles of Peaceful Coexistence to maintain stability while addressing historical boundary issues.

Shared Global Role
As prominent members of the Global South, both nations envision cooperation in global governance and development, advocating for fairness and mutual support.

Conclusion
Through the SCO and bilateral engagements, India and China are positioned to foster a stable international order, embracing cooperation that reflects a commitment to mutual growth and global governance reforms.

FAQs

1. What is editorial analysis?

   • It is a critical examination of editorials to extract insights relevant for competitive exams, such as UPSC.

2. Why is community sensitization important in the fisheries dispute?

   • It fosters empathy and highlights shared struggles between Tamil fishers, countering adversarial narratives.

3. What major outcomes emerged from the Tianjin SCO Summit?

   • New security initiatives, a development bank, and enhanced cooperation in various sectors were major highlights.

This analysis highlights the need for constructive dialogue and sustainable practices in international relations and regional cooperation.

Source link