The Hindu Editorial Analysis- 3rd May 2025 | Current Affairs & Hindu Analysis: Daily, Weekly & Monthly - UPSC PDF Download

A Profound Shift in the Global Order

Why is it Newsworthy? 

 The global framework established after World War II, supported by organizations like the WTO and the UN, is currently experiencing a significant shift. 

As Western influence wanes and Asia, particularly India and China, rises in prominence, there is a pressing need to reevaluate multilateralism, trade practices, and global governance structures.

 Importance 

• Shift in Global Power: Asia is reclaiming its historical role and is expected to account for two-thirds of global GDP and power.
• Opportunity for India: The decline of outdated multilateral institutions and trade models presents India with an opportunity to propose new frameworks and establish itself as a strategic leader.
• Technology as a Driving Force: Emerging technologies like AI, semiconductors, and digital platforms are becoming the new focal points of trade, replacing traditional goods-based commerce.

 Key Issues and Insights 

1. Decline of the Post-Colonial Global Framework: The WTO, UN, and similar organizations are losing their credibility and relevance in the current global scenario. The COVID-19 pandemic exposed the G7’s insular approach, diminishing the global North’s moral authority.

2. Rise of Regional and Bilateral Agreements: Bilateral trade agreements are gaining prominence over multilateralism, often at the cost of domestic autonomy. New regional groupings like BRICS+ are emerging to fill the void left by traditional institutions.

3. India’s Strategic Position in Asia: India has a crucial role in collaborating with ASEAN and the African Union to establish a new trade-consumption network. Proposing an Asian Common Market could counterbalance Western trade blocs.

4. Technological and Innovative Opportunities: India has the potential to lead in AI and software innovation, particularly in open-source systems. Companies like Huawei and DeepSeek highlight India’s capabilities in AI and chip design, such as 7nm technology.

5. Learning from the Chinese Model: India should adopt an internally-driven growth model similar to China’s, focusing on reducing electricity costs, enhancing patent output, and fostering home-grown innovation.

 Path Ahead 

1. Formulating Alternative Multilateral Approaches: India should spearhead the development of new global governance frameworks that are inclusive of Asian and African perspectives.

2. Enhancing Research and Development: Significant investment in AI, semiconductor technology, and language models is essential to boost India’s position in these critical areas.

3. Revamping Trade Architecture: India needs to move beyond traditional tariff-based approaches to comprehensive agreements that encompass services, investment, and infrastructure.

4. Promoting Open-Source Technologies: Open-source technology can serve as a tool of soft power for India in the evolving digital landscape, enhancing its global influence.

5. Building Strategic Trade Partnerships: India should focus on forming bilateral trade alliances with regions like ASEAN and Africa, where there is a growing consumer base and rising demand.

Strengthening Parliamentary Oversight in India

Why is it News?

The editorial emphasizes the urgent need to balance 'maximum governance' with 'maximum accountability.' 

•  It argues that a strong Parliament is essential for democracy and executive scrutiny in India. 

Significance

• Democratic Accountability: An active legislature is crucial for holding the executive accountable regularly.
• Governance Quality: Oversight mechanisms enhance transparency and implementation.
• Parliamentary Integrity: Strong checks and balances boost public confidence in democratic institutions.

Key Issues and Analysis

1. Diminishing Role of Legislative Oversight.

• Although the Constitution empowers Parliament to scrutinize the executive, this role has diminished recently.
• There is a tendency to prioritize governance efficiency over transparency, weakening democratic checks.

2. Underutilization of Parliamentary Mechanisms.

• Important tools like Question Hour and Zero Hour, meant for real-time accountability, are often disrupted by protests and political conflicts.
• In the current Lok Sabha, Question Hour was used only 60% of the time in the Lok Sabha and 52% in the Rajya Sabha.
• Questions raised are often narrow, missing broader cross-sectoral issues.

3. Limitations of Parliamentary Committees.

• Departmentally Related Standing Committees (DRSCs) produce thorough reports, but these are seldom debated or acted upon.
• The temporary nature of committee membership hinders the development of expertise.
• Consultations with stakeholders are often limited to a narrow circle of voices.

Notable Successes of Oversight Mechanisms

Suggested Reforms and Best Practices

1. Institutionalize Post-Legislative Scrutiny:

• Currently, India lacks a system to assess the implementation of laws after they are enacted.
• Establishing subcommittees under DRSCs or a dedicated review body could address this gap.
• For example, in the UK, major laws are reviewed 3 to 5 years after enactment by relevant departments and parliamentary committees.

2. Increase Public Access and Discourse:

• To enhance citizen engagement, committee findings should be translated into local languages.
• Utilizing visual explainers, short videos, and infographics can make information more accessible.
• Additionally, mandating ministerial responses to key DRSC reports tabled in Parliament will ensure accountability.

3. Leverage Technology for Effective Oversight:

• MPs currently lack access to expert staff and analytical tools, which hampers effective oversight.
• Implementing Artificial Intelligence and data analytics can assist in analyzing budgets, identifying policy gaps, and formulating evidence-based questions for the executive.

Conclusion

Strengthening legislative oversight should be seen as a means to enhance governance, not as a challenge to the executive.

As K.R. Narayanan, the Vice President, mentioned during the 1993 launch of DRSCs, these committees are intended to bolster administration, not undermine it.

A well-scrutinized Parliament ensures that governance remains accountable, transparent, and truly representative of the people's interests.