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- Why in News?
- Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s recent visit to the Maldives, at the invitation of President Mohamed Muizzu for the country’s 60th Independence Day, marked a strong revival of bilateral ties.
- Key Provisions:-
- Relations had seen strain in 2023, following Muizzu’s “India Out” campaign and India’s online backlash. However, the past year has seen improvement, with India offering economic support during Muizzu’s 2024 visit, including a $565 million line of credit and reducing Maldives' debt burden by 40%. Both leaders expressed mutual appreciation, and key agreements were signed covering trade, digital payments, fisheries, meteorology, and pharmaceuticals. Talks on a Free Trade Agreement also began. The visit reinforced India’s “Neighbourhood First” policy, as India manages multiple foreign challenges, from regional tensions to global conflicts. The Maldives’ commemorative stamp featuring both nations’ traditional boats symbolized shared heritage. As regional stability remains crucial, India’s proactive engagement with neighbours like the Maldives will play a vital role in its foreign policy outlook.
- Why in News?
- Former U.S. President Donald Trump’s declaration about deploying two nuclear submarines in response to remarks by Russia’s Dmitry Medvedev signals a troubling escalation in U.S.-Russia tensions.
- Key Provisions:-
- Medvedev, now Deputy Chair of Russia’s Security Council, had warned that Trump’s tariff threats were tantamount to a “step towards war.” While Trump did not clarify whether the submarines are nuclear-armed or conventionally equipped, his actions reflect deepening frustration with Russia’s stance on the Ukraine conflict. Initially offering Putin a 50-day deadline to end the war, Trump recently shortened it to just 10–12 days, adding threats of secondary sanctions on nations trading with Russia. Despite diplomatic overtures, including proposing a ceasefire and ruling out NATO membership for Ukraine, Trump secured only limited concessions. Russia continues to hold the upper hand militarily, while Ukraine remains on the defensive. Escalatory rhetoric, especially involving nuclear assets, risks catastrophic consequences. A return to dialogue and realistic diplomacy is urgently needed.
- Why in News?
- The legitimacy of any democracy rests on the fairness of its electoral process, especially in the eyes of the losing side. When the defeated believe the system was biased, it erodes public trust.
- Key Provisions:-
- Recent allegations by Leader of the Opposition Rahul Gandhi regarding irregularities in the 2024 general elections must be viewed in this light. While the specifics of his claims are awaited, this is not the first time the Election Commission of India (ECI) has faced criticism—leaders across the political spectrum, including Narendra Modi in the past, have raised concerns. However, rather than strengthening trust, the ECI’s lack of transparency on key issues, including VVPAT audits and voter roll discrepancies, has heightened suspicion. The Commission’s neutrality is under scrutiny across various stages of the election process. More than addressing political complaints, the ECI must work to restore the confidence of all citizens and uphold the credibility of Indian democracy.