The Hindu Editorial Analysis- 20th May 2025 | Current Affairs & Hindu Analysis: Daily, Weekly & Monthly - UPSC PDF Download

Getting the ‘micropicture’ at the panchayat level

Why in News?

 The PAI portal can be a helpful tool for officials in different departments and support local and State governments. 

Introduction

Critics point to the delay in the Census and the lack of access to Census data for researchers. They also mention that changes in government surveys and methods make it hard to get time series data, affecting evidence-based decision-making. On the other hand, government officials highlight the large amount of data on various Ministry portals and the National Data Sharing and Accessibility Policy (NDSAP), 2012, which aims to make non-sensitive data open and reusable through platforms like data.gov.in. Researchers say that the available data is not in a simple format that the public or elected representatives can easily understand. Even citizens and trained researchers often feel overwhelmed by the huge volume of data. Data visualisation tools on platforms like data.gov.in and other government portals are still underdeveloped. The quality of data analytics is not up to the mark. As a result, many decisions are still based on the experience or intuition of Ministers and senior bureaucrats at both the Union and State levels.

Data generation and use

At the grassroots level — gram panchayats, blocks, and districts — data is mostly collected and entered for use by senior officials at the State and national levels. Most portals are built to serve the needs of department heads and secretaries, not the local officials or elected representatives at lower levels. This leads to a focus on the ‘mega picture’, while the ‘micro picture’ is often missing. Gram panchayat-level data is directly linked to households and families, making it more relevant and harder to ignore—if presented clearly to the local residents.

On the PAI

Need for analysts

• There is an urgent need to deploy trained data analysts at the block and district panchayat levels to prepare and share regular report cards for different stakeholders.
• The Panchayat Advancement Index (PAI) has greater potential to be a gamechanger for State and local governments than for the Union Government.
• A similar Achievement Index should be developed for urban local governments.
• The baseline PAI report should be followed by regularly published updates, especially once the initial groundwork is complete.

Conclusion

 PAI is far more than just a ranking of Gram Panchayats (GPs), Districts, or States; it is a call for action. GPs performing poorly require support. It is essential not only to track where funds are allocated or how they are used (or misused) but also to leverage the latest data visualization tools to help all stakeholders grasp their vital role. This will ensure that the goal of driving India’s development forward becomes a reality.

 ​In the wake of crisis, the need for bipartisanshi

Why is it News?

It is crucial to ensure that national security is not exploited for political theatrics in light of India's heightened commitment to combating terrorism.

Introduction

• The terrorist attack in Pahalgam on April 22, 2025, has profoundly disturbed our shared sense of security, underscoring the delicate peace in a region with a troubled past. As India grieves the loss of innocent lives and recommits to the fight against terrorism, it is essential to emphasize the importance of bipartisanship. This unity is crucial for an effective response and to prevent the use of national security for political gain.

The Threat of Politicizing National Security Crises

• During crises in India, there is a concerning trend where political parties prioritize scoring points over uniting for national defense.
• Grief is sometimes exploited for electoral advantage instead of fostering a unified front.
• Following the Pulwama attack in 2019, rapid retaliation became part of campaign narratives due to the approaching general elections.
• This shift diverted the national focus from security to politics, undermining the capacity to establish a robust, long-term security strategy.
• Such politicization jeopardizes both our defense and the integrity of our democracy.

The Challenge of Terrorism

• Terrorism poses a serious threat that demands decisive and coordinated responses.
• Reactions should be guided by long-term strategic thinking rather than impulsive decisions influenced by party politics or ideologies.
• Decisions regarding:
• Counter-terror operations
• Diplomatic negotiations
• Intelligence reforms
• should be made collectively, prioritizing national security above political divides.

Bipartisanship in India: Kargil Conflict (1999)

• During the Kargil conflict in 1999, despite political differences, India united in its defense efforts.
• The ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and the Opposition Congress set aside their differences for the national interest.
• Congress leader Sonia Gandhi praised the armed forces for their bravery, highlighting the spirit of unity during the crisis.

Bipartisanship in India: Surgical Strikes (2016)

• The surgical strikes carried out in 2016 in response to the Uri terror attack were characterized by:
• Clear and measured messaging
• Demonstrating strength without escalating the conflict
• These actions received widespread applause across political parties, showcasing a unified front.

Global Examples of Bipartisan Responses to Terrorism

• United States (Post-9/11): Following the 9/11 attacks, both political parties in the U.S. recognized the need for unity, leading to a swift and coordinated national security response.
• New Zealand (Christchurch Attacks, 2019): Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern spearheaded bipartisan gun law reforms in the aftermath of the Christchurch attacks. Within weeks, legislation banning military-style semi-automatic weapons was passed with support from all major parties.
• Western Europe (Post-Russia’s Invasion of Ukraine): Bipartisan support emerged for military aid to Ukraine and sanctions against Russia. Neutral countries like Sweden and Finland joined NATO with broad political consensus.

National Unity in Times of Crisis

• Nations have the capacity to unite during crises, prioritizing:
• Security
• Unity
• Effective action
• The situation in Pahalgam and its aftermath should be treated with the same spirit of national unity and security.

Commitment to a Unified Foreign Policy

• Upon becoming Chairman of the Parliamentary Standing Committee on External Affairs, I emphasized the idea of a unified Indian foreign policy, irrespective of political party lines.
• Historic Precedent: In 1994, Prime Minister P.V. Narasimha Rao appointed Opposition Leader Atal Bihari Vajpayee to lead India’s delegation at the UN in Geneva regarding Kashmir, showcasing bipartisan cooperation in foreign policy.