The Hindu Editorial Analysis- 11th September 2024 | Current Affairs & Hindu Analysis: Daily, Weekly & Monthly - UPSC PDF Download

UAE-India ties are rooted in affinity, trust and respect

Why in News?

The recent visit of the UAE Crown Prince to India highlighted the enduring ties between the two nations, symbolised by the planting of trees at Rajghat.

• Despite differences in size and economy, both countries share a strong bond of mutual respect, trust, and collaboration across various sectors.

Growing Ties Between India-UAE 

• During a recent visit to Delhi, a symbolic gesture of planting a tree at Rajghat reflected the deep ties between two countries.
• This tradition has been carried out by three generations of the UAE’s leadership over three decades, marking a connection rooted in history but reaching towards the future.
• Despite differences in size, population, and economic focus, the countries’ relationship is based on shared values, mutual respect, and complementary strengths.

Roots of Affinity, Trust, and Respect 

• The UAE-India relationship is built on a foundation of trust, respect, and strong human connections  that have developed over a long period.
• Ancient trade links between the Arabian Gulf and India date back thousands of years, with archaeological evidence showing ties to the Indus Valley civilization  .
• Over time, many Emiratis travelled to India for medical treatment, and even today, Indian homoeopathic medicine is highly valued in the UAE.
• This deep-rooted relationship has been nurtured by generations, and like a tree, it draws strength from these shared human connections.

Contribution of the Indian Expatriate Community

• Over 3.5 million Indians live in the UAE, making them the largest group of foreigners in the country.
• The success of the UAE is based on values like tolerance, inclusion, and the empowerment of minorities, with Indian expatriates being essential to the country’s economy.
• There is a strong connection between the two nations, shown by the more than 1,500 weekly flights that operate between them.

Strong Bilateral Economic Ties

• The economic partnership between the UAE and India has resulted in important successes.
• In February 2022, India became the first nation to sign a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) with the UAE.
• This agreement was completed in just six months, which is much quicker than most trade talks that usually take years. This speed shows the strong trust between the two countries.
• Since the CEPA was signed, there has been a 15% rise in trade between the two nations in the first year.
• There are plans for more investments in the future.

Expanding Educational and Technological Cooperation

• The recent launch of a branch of a respected Indian university in Abu Dhabi emphasizes the strong educational connections between the UAE and India.
• Collaboration between these two nations also covers important areas such as health innovation and renewable energy, which are crucial for their future growth.
• The partnership is set to grow into civil nuclear technology, where India's knowledge in nuclear desalination could provide effective solutions for the UAE's water requirements.

Symbolism of the Tree Planting

• The Crown Prince planted an amaltas tree, which is known for its quick growth and represents opportunity and renewal.
• His father chose to plant the slower-growing moulsari tree, which symbolizes stability and patient trust.
• Together, these trees show the balance between innovation and stability in the partnership between the UAE and India.
• Both trees highlight a shared commitment to growth, renewal, and thriving together.

Conclusion: Confidence in Mutual Growth

PYQ: How will I2U2 (India, Israel, UAE and USA) grouping transform India’s position in global politics ? (UPSC CSE (M) GS-2 2022)

Montelukast: overused and dangerous

Why in News?

The article highlights the growing concerns about the unregulated and irrational use of montelukast in India, despite global warnings about its serious neuropsychiatric effects.

• It calls for regulatory intervention to curb misuse, raise awareness, and promote safer, guideline-based treatments for asthma and allergic rhinitis.

What is Montelukast?

• Montelukast is a medication taken by mouth that was created in 1998.
• It is used as a long-term preventive or controller for asthma and allergic rhinitis.
• Montelukast is less effective than inhaled corticosteroids when it comes to managing asthma.
• It is not considered a first-choice treatment for allergic rhinitis.

Issues Regarding Montelukast

• Neuropsychiatric Concerns: Serious side effects can include:
  • Aggression: Increased anger or hostility.
  • Nightmares: Disturbing dreams that can disrupt sleep.
  • Depression: Feelings of sadness or hopelessness.
  • Cognitive Impairment: Difficulties with thinking and understanding.
  • Anxiety: Feelings of worry or nervousness.
  • Insomnia: Trouble falling or staying asleep.
  • Suicide Risk: In some cases, these issues may lead to thoughts of self-harm.
• Global Warnings:
  • The U.S. FDA has issued a ‘black box warning’.
  • Health authorities in the U.K. have alerted the public about its neuropsychiatric effects.
• Scientific Studies:
  • Large studies from countries such as the U.S., Denmark, Korea, and the U.K. have confirmed the link between this drug and mental health problems.

Situation in India

• Widespread Use: Even with global alerts, montelukast is commonly prescribed in India, often alongside antihistamines.
• Public Perception: Many Indian patients prefer taking oral medications instead of inhalers. This choice is influenced by misunderstandings about the drug's safety and fears of addiction, which leads to improper usage.
• Over-the-Counter Sales: Montelukast is frequently sold without a prescription, which adds to the risk of misuse.
• Profit-Driven Prescriptions: Pharmaceutical companies actively promote montelukast in combination with other drugs, raising concerns about their focus on profits rather than patient care.
• Growth in Sales: In India, the sales of montelukast surpass ₹2,400 crore, with a significant portion coming from combinations that lack scientific backing.

Way Forward

• Regulatory Intervention: Authorities should take action to control how montelukast is prescribed and ensure it is used properly.
• Awareness Campaigns: Increase knowledge among doctors and the public about the negative effects of this medication.
• Promote Safer Alternatives: Support the use of proven treatments, such as inhaled corticosteroids and antihistamines, for managing asthma and allergic rhinitis.