The Hindu Editorial Analysis- 13th November 2024 | Current Affairs & Hindu Analysis: Daily, Weekly & Monthly - UPSC PDF Download

Debating the ‘Healthy Longevity Initiative’

Why in News?

Once in a while, the World Bank publishes a visionary and profound report on an important aspect of human well being. A case in point is ‘Unlocking the Power of Healthy Longevity: Demographic Change, Non-communicable Diseases, and Human Capital’ that was published in Washington DC in September 2024. A significant demographic transformation is underway with a rapidly aging population. This transformation is accompanied by a shift in most Low-and Middle-Income Countries (LMIC) such that non-communicable diseases (NCD) are the leading cause of deaths. Most NCD deaths occur in LMICs, and the proportion of all deaths caused by NCDs is likely to surge among them.

About Longevity India Initiative

• This project aims to extend human health span and address challenges related to ageing.
• A large clinical study has begun, involving researchers from various departments at IISc, along with clinicians, industry partners, philanthropists, and community members.
• The goal of this initiative is to improve the understanding of ageing through both basic and applied research and to create solutions that enhance quality of life.
• The project will utilize advanced research to create treatments that can better manage diseases related to age, focusing on encouraging healthy ageing throughout India.
• Initial funding has been provided by Prashanth Prakash, Founding Partner of Accel India.
• The significance of this project is highlighted by the fact that India's elderly population is expected to reach 347 million by 2050.
• It is crucial to use technology to ensure accessible healthcare for the elderly, support the silver economy, and invest in digital systems that cater to the needs of the ageing population.

Stop the Free Fall 

Why in News?

The diplomatic row between India and Canada has, as expected, begun to impact people who have ties with both countries. The unusual manner in which Canada made public its understanding that Indian officials were somehow involved in the 2023 murder of Khalistan activist Hardeep Singh Nijjar has derailed bilateral relations. Washington’s allegations regarding the plot against Gurpatwant Singh Pannun further complicated matters. On November 3, a camp on the premises of the Hindu Sabha Mandir in Brampton, which was organised by the Indian mission to provide consular services, was violently disrupted by Khalistan activists. Later, a protest by a Hindu group also led to violence.

What are the Recent Developments in India-Canada Relations?  

• Assassination of Nijjar: Hardeep Singh Nijjar, a leader advocating for Khalistan, was killed in British Columbia. The Prime Minister of Canada has claimed that Indian officials may have been involved in this incident, a statement that India strongly rejects as absurd. 
• Diplomatic Fallout: The relationship between Canada and India has worsened significantly. Both nations have expelled each other's diplomats and have stopped providing consular services. 
• Support from Five Eyes Alliance: Canada has sought help from the Five Eyes intelligence group to gain international backing due to the escalating tensions with India over these serious allegations. 

What are the Significant Areas of India-Canada Relationship? 

• Political Relations:
  • India and Canada started their diplomatic relationship in 1947.
  • Both countries value democracy, human rights, the rule of law, and pluralism, which guide their interactions.
  • They work together in global groups like the Commonwealth, G20, and the United Nations to tackle issues such as climate change, security, and sustainable development.
• Economic Cooperation:
  • In 2023, the total trade in goods between India and Canada reached USD 9.36 billion.
  • Canada ranks as the 18th largest foreign investor in India, with investments totaling around USD 3.3 billion from April 2000 to March 2023.
  • Negotiations for a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) are ongoing, aimed at improving economic ties by addressing trade in goods, services, investments, and trade facilitation.
• Diaspora Connections:
  • Canada is home to over 1.8 million individuals of Indian descent, including around 1 million Non-Resident Indians (NRIs), making it one of the largest Indian communities worldwide.
  • The Indian diaspora plays a vital role in cultural exchange, economic activities, and strengthening bilateral relations, creating strong social and family connections between the two nations.
• Education and Space Innovation:
  • Joint research efforts in areas like healthcare, agricultural biotechnology, and waste management are being promoted through initiatives like IC-IMPACTS.
  • Space cooperation includes agreements between ISRO and the Canadian Space Agency, with successful launches of Canadian satellites conducted by ISRO.
  • There is a significant educational exchange, with Indian students making up about 40% of Canada’s international student body, enriching cultural diversity.
  • A Nuclear Cooperation Agreement was signed in 2010, effective since 2013, which allows for uranium supply and sets up a Joint Committee for monitoring.
• Strategic Importance:
  • India is essential to Canada’s Indo-Pacific strategy, helping to diversify the Canadian economy and improve regional security.
  • Both countries collaborate on maritime security, counter-terrorism, and maintaining stability in the Indo-Pacific region.

What are the Major Challenges in India-Canada Relations? 

• Diplomatic Immunity Issue:
  • Canada has referenced the Vienna Conventions, stressing the importance of safeguarding its diplomatic personnel and citizens in India during rising tensions.
  • India's reaction to these issues, along with its commitment to diplomatic standards, will significantly impact the future of relations between the two countries.
• Khalistan Issue:
  • India views Canada's acceptance of Khalistani separatist groups as a serious threat to its territorial integrity.
  • The investigation by Canada into claims of Indian involvement in the killing of Hardeep Singh Nijjar, a key supporter of Khalistan, has heightened tensions.
  • This ongoing matter continues to weaken the diplomatic and political trust between India and Canada.
• Economic and Trade Barriers:
  • As political tensions rise, efforts to complete the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) have stalled.
  • Bilateral trade has slowed down, and Canadian investments in India are facing instability due to the ongoing diplomatic crisis.
• Visa and Immigration Issues:
  • With a decrease in Canadian diplomatic staff in India, Indian applicants for visas are experiencing major delays.
  • This situation particularly affects students looking to enroll in Canadian educational institutions.
• Geopolitical Implications:
  • The diplomatic standoff between India and Canada could damage India's reputation in the G20 if the allegations are proven true, impacting its relationships with countries connected to both nations.
  • Canada's membership in the G7 and its connections with the Five Eyes alliance complicate matters for India's strategic partners, including the US, UK, Australia, and Japan.
  • Canada's strategy in the Indo-Pacific, which was initially aimed at engaging India, is now facing challenges due to these political disputes, limiting collaboration on security and economic matters in the region.

Way Forward

• Address Khalistan Issue:
  • It's important for both governments to talk openly to address worries about the Indian community and the Khalistan movement.
  • Respecting each other's rights and laws is vital for resolving these delicate matters.
• Strengthen Economic Ties:
  • Revive the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA), focusing on areas like technology, renewable energy, and infrastructure.
  • Enhance trade and investment rules to create benefits for both sides.
• Balance Geopolitical Interests:
  • Both countries should carefully manage their relationships with major powers such as the United States, China, and Russia.
  • A careful approach is needed to handle these relationships and improve strategic partnerships without causing conflicts.
• Leverage Multilateral Forums:
  • Make use of international groups like G7 and Five Eyes to tackle global problems and promote shared values.
  • This can help strengthen the relationship between the two countries.