The Hindu Editorial Analysis- 12th May 2025 | Current Affairs & Hindu Analysis: Daily, Weekly & Monthly - UPSC PDF Download

Right to know

Why is it News?

• The Supreme Court has annulled a Delhi High Court order that mandated the removal of a Wikipedia page. This decision reinforces the citizens' right to information and freedom of expression.

Background of the Case

• The Delhi High Court had instructed the removal of a Wikipedia page, alleging contempt due to user comments on a judicial judgment.

Supreme Court's Decision

• The Supreme Court reversed the High Court's order, clarifying that platforms like Wikipedia, as intermediaries, are not directly responsible for content generated by users.

Constitutional Importance

• The ruling highlighted that Articles 19(1)(a) and 21 of the Constitution encompass the right to know as a fundamental right.

Judicial Openness

• The Court emphasized the significance of public discourse and transparency in judicial processes, referencing Jeremy Bentham's idea that publicity in courtroom proceedings holds judges accountable.

Protection of Digital Speech

• The ruling strengthens the safeguarding of digital speech platforms from excessive judicial interference.

Future Directions

• High Courts should be cautious in directing content removals, especially on platforms that disseminate public knowledge.
• Guidelines for intermediary protection should be established in accordance with the IT Act.
•  There is a need to improve media literacy and fact-checking mechanisms to ensure a balance between rights and responsibilities.

A fundamental reset to drive manufacturing growth Why is it News?

In light of significant global changes in the manufacturing sector, there is a pressing need to enhance our focus on technical education, core engineering, and innovation.

Introduction

The landscape of global manufacturing and trade is swiftly evolving towards innovation-driven, medium-high, and high-tech products. This shift is propelled by advanced research and development (R&D), technological sophistication, high skill levels, and a complex supply chain network. Furthermore, the recent imposition of high tariffs by the United States is expected to reshape the manufacturing landscape. Regardless of tariff policies, it is imperative to strengthen the fundamentals through targeted policies that directly address existing challenges.

Ongoing National Efforts in Manufacturing

India is grappling with the crucial task of bolstering its manufacturing sector. Since the economic reforms of 1991, there have been consistent endeavors to enhance the role of manufacturing in the economy.

• National Manufacturing Competitiveness Programme (NMCP). initiated in 2005
• Make in India. launched in 2014 to stimulate domestic production

These initiatives have propelled sectors such as electronics, pharmaceuticals, and automobiles.

Global Comparison of Manufacturing Indicators

A detailed examination of basic manufacturing metrics reveals significant gaps:

• Per capita value added in manufacturing (2023):
• India: $0.32K
• World average: $2K
• Manufacturing productivity:
• India: $8.9K
• World average: $32K

According to World Bank data, India’s figures fall considerably short of global benchmarks.

Total Value Added in Manufacturing

Comparative data on total manufacturing value added highlights the following:

• India: $461 billion
• China: $4,658 billion
• United States: $2,497 billion

These disparities emphasize the magnitude of the challenge India faces in catching up with major economies.

Productivity and Innovation Deficit

Developed economies lead in productivity linked to R&D and innovation:

• United States: $159K
• Germany: $103K
• Taiwan: $79K
• Malaysia: $36K
• China: $21K

These figures underscore a significant innovation gap between India and global leaders.

Path Forward for Competitiveness

To enhance global competitiveness, India must:

• Increase per capita value addition in manufacturing
• Improve productivity through investments in R&D, innovation, and workforce skills

A focused approach towards technological advancement and policy support is crucial.

New Approach to Technical Education

Building Core Engineering

Semiconductors, IT, and AI

These fields are strategically important and integral to modern engineering systems.

Core Engineering

While AI and IT are crucial, core engineering remains fundamental. Strong engineering skills are needed in essential core streams such as:

• Civil
• Mechanical
• Automobile
• Production
• Electrical
• Electronics
• Chemical
• Metallurgy
• Textiles
• Biotechnology

Robust Engineering Units

• There is a need for robust engineering units in the country to build equipment and machinery.
• Technical and Management Capabilities
• Focus on technical and management capabilities to develop a variety of products, infrastructure, and transportation systems.
• High-Speed Development
• Systems should be designed for high-speed development across different terrains, including plains, mountains, deserts, and oceans.

Investment in Engineering and R&D Infrastructure

• Significant investment is required in engineering and R&D infrastructure.
• Sophisticated Supply Chain
• A sophisticated supply chain is needed to support rapid development.

Ecosystem for Innovation

Conclusion

To transform manufacturing, the strategy must begin with the development of advanced research labs and the creation of robust industrial infrastructure. This requires increasing R&D expenditure from the current 0.65% of GDP to 2%, along with an additional 1% of GDP investment in industrial infrastructure. Ultimately, it calls for a strong policy framework capable of crafting innovative solutions in a rapidly evolving global environment.