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Introduction

The Indo-French partnership has evolved into a significant alliance amidst shifting global geopolitics, marked by cooperation in defense, nuclear energy, AI, and space exploration. This relationship traces its roots back to historical ties that date back to the colonial era, establishing a foundation for mutual respect and collaboration.

Key Areas of Cooperation

In recent years, defense cooperation has deepened through joint military projects and technology transfers, with France emerging as a key arms supplier to India. Notably, agreements on Rafale jets and Scorpene submarines underscore the strategic alignment between the two nations. Additionally, the civil nuclear collaboration is gaining momentum, with a focus on Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) that promise cost-effectiveness and rapid deployment. France’s expertise in nuclear technology positions it as a vital partner for India’s ambitious goal of generating 100 GW of nuclear power by 2047.

Space cooperation has also flourished, with collaborative projects like the TRISHNA satellite mission, enhancing India’s capabilities in climate monitoring and resource assessment. Furthermore, the recent roadmap for artificial intelligence highlights both nations’ commitment to ethical AI development, fostering innovation while ensuring data integrity.

Challenges and Areas of Friction

Despite the robust cooperation, several challenges persist. Delays in defense procurement and technology transfer have been a significant hurdle, with projects often facing bureaucratic bottlenecks. Moreover, trade imbalances and regulatory barriers create friction, complicating economic relations. Differences in strategic outlooks, particularly regarding NATO membership and relations with Russia, further add to the complexities of the partnership.

Way Forward

Strengthening Indo-French ties is crucial for both nations as they navigate an increasingly multipolar world. By addressing existing challenges and enhancing cooperation in key sectors, India and France can solidify their partnership and contribute to global stability and security.

The future of this alliance holds promise, particularly in areas like renewable energy and technological innovation, paving the way for a sustainable and cooperative international landscape.

Model Answer

Key Challenges Faced by India’s Livestock Sector

1. Low Productivity: Indigenous breeds have significantly lower productivity compared to foreign varieties, making them less beneficial for farmers .
2. High Incidence of Diseases: Cross-breeding programs have improved livestock quality but have also increased susceptibility to diseases like haemorrhagic septicaemia and swine fever, leading to economic losses for farmers .
3. Inadequate Infrastructure: There is a shortage of veterinary institutions, vaccines, cold storage facilities, and extension services, which hampers livestock health and productivity .
4. Lack of Institutional Credit: Farmers often struggle to access credit, which limits their ability to invest in better livestock management practices .
5. Informal Livestock Markets: The livestock market remains largely informal, making it difficult for farmers to get fair prices for their animals .
6. Shortage of Feed and Fodder: Only 5% of cropped area is used for fodder production, and the area under permanent pastures is decreasing, leading to feed shortages .
7. Lack of Inclusivity: Unconventional milk sources like camel and yak are not adequately included in policies and programs .
8. Globalization Challenges: Unfavorable food safety and quality norms hinder the potential for export growth in the livestock sector .

Proposed Measures to Overcome Challenges

1. Strengthening Market Linkages: Establish cooperatives and producers’ associations to improve connections between production and markets.
2. Promoting Automation: Implement livestock farm automation systems to enhance efficiency and product quality.
3. Increased Funding: Explore additional funding under schemes like Rashtriya Krishi Vikas Yojana (RKVY) to improve veterinary health services.
4. Mobile Veterinary Clinics: Establish a network of Mobile Veterinary Clinics (MVC) to provide services in remote areas.
5. Increase Veterinary Colleges: Expand the number of veterinary colleges to address the shortage of trained professionals.
6. Private Sector Investments: Encourage investments from private companies and cooperatives to enhance veterinary infrastructure.
7. One-Stop Centre for Livestock Issues: Create a centralized hub for information and solutions to livestock-related problems, aiding in disease eradication.

By addressing these challenges through the proposed measures, the livestock sector can significantly contribute to rural livelihoods and help achieve the goal of doubling farmers’ income.

Model Answer

Introduction

The shipbuilding industry is a crucial component of India’s maritime economy, contributing to both economic growth and national security. Despite substantial investments, such as the ₹5.8 lakh crore under the Sagarmala Programme, the sector remains stagnant, reflecting significant structural challenges that hinder its growth.

Key Structural Challenges

One of the primary challenges is the lack of a competitive ecosystem. Indian shipbuilders face long construction timelines and inconsistent quality, making them less competitive internationally. Additionally, high capital costs pose a barrier, as shipbuilding is capital-intensive and Indian manufacturers struggle to secure affordable financing compared to global competitors who benefit from state-backed support.

The sector also suffers from a heavy dependence on imported raw materials. Critical components like marine-grade steel and navigation systems are often sourced from abroad, which increases costs and vulnerability in supply chains. Furthermore, infrastructure bottlenecks hinder growth; many shipyards operate outdated machinery, while port congestion exacerbates logistical inefficiencies.

Another significant issue is the weak domestic market for new vessels. Indian shipping companies frequently prefer to purchase second-hand foreign ships due to high costs and longer delivery times for new builds. Lastly, the repair and maintenance ecosystem remains underdeveloped, with India’s share in the global ship repair market being less than 1%, leading to lost opportunities for Indian shipyards.

Policy Measures for Revival

To revitalize the shipbuilding sector, several policy measures can be implemented. First, strengthening domestic manufacturing of shipbuilding components is crucial. This can be achieved through the Production Linked Incentive (PLI) scheme to encourage local production.

Establishing a dedicated Shipbuilding and Maritime Financing Institution will provide low-interest loans and support exports, ensuring that shipbuilders have access to necessary capital. Moreover, revamping existing infrastructure through modernization of shipyards and the establishment of maritime Special Economic Zones (SEZs) will enhance operational efficiency.

Implementing a Buy Indian Policy can ensure that future government and defense orders are placed with Indian shipyards, promoting domestic demand. Additionally, integrating shipbuilding with renewable energy initiatives can align with India’s Net Zero 2070 goals by developing low-emission vessels.

Lastly, enhancing research and development through a National Maritime Innovation Hub will foster innovation and skill development, ensuring the industry remains competitive in advanced technologies.

Way Forward

The Indian shipbuilding sector holds immense potential for economic growth and security. However, overcoming existing structural challenges requires comprehensive policy interventions and coordinated efforts from the government and industry stakeholders. By addressing these challenges, India can strengthen its position in the global shipbuilding landscape and secure a sustainable maritime future.

Model Answer

Advantages of Commercial Coal Mining in India

1. Reducing Dependence on Imports: India currently imports about 20% of its coal requirements. The introduction of commercial coal mining is expected to reduce this import bill by at least one-third, enhancing energy security.
2. Modernization of the Coal Sector: The entry of new private players is anticipated to set benchmarks in mechanization and automation, leading to improved mining practices and efficiency.
3. Revenue Generation for States: Revenue from coal mine auctions will go directly to coal-bearing states, incentivizing them to invest in the development of backward areas. This is a significant shift from the previous captive mining model, where companies did not pay royalties to states.
4. Increased Productivity: Opening the sector to private and foreign investments will break the monopoly of Coal India Limited, fostering competition and encouraging higher production levels.
5. Economic Opportunities in Aspirational Districts: Many of the newly auctioned mines are located in aspirational districts, which will create jobs and stimulate local economies.

Challenges Faced by Commercial Coal Mining

1. Broad Eligibility Criteria: The new regime allows bidders without prior mining experience, raising concerns about non-serious bidders who may not intend to mine but rather leverage coal mines as assets.
2. Overexploitation of Resources: The absence of end-use restrictions may lead to excessive coal mining, prioritizing profit over sustainable practices.
3. Environmental Concerns: States like Jharkhand have expressed worries about potential destruction of forest cover and displacement of tribal communities due to increased mining activities.
4. Financial and Risk Management Challenges: Successful bidders must manage rehabilitation and resettlement, a task that requires significant financial resources and risk management capabilities, which many firms currently lack.

To ensure the success of the commercial coal mining regime, it is crucial to address state concerns regarding revenue sharing and establish a sustainable mining code to streamline regulatory processes.