Content
- Remembering the war, reminiscing forgotten Indians
- Eighty years on, ‘never again’ is sounding hollow
- Caution and optimism
Remembering the war, reminiscing forgotten Indians
Context and Significance
- May 8, 1945, marked Victory in Europe (VE) Day, commemorating Nazi Germany’s surrender.
- In India, this day passes largely unnoticed, overshadowed by the memory of the independence struggle (1939–1945 overlap).
- The article urges remembrance of India’s contribution to WWII, emphasizing that Indians did not neglect global responsibilities.
Relevance : GS 1(Modern History , World History)
Practice Question : India’s contribution to World War II has largely ignored. Critically examine this neglect, with reference to the roles played by individuals like Kolachala Sitaramaiah and Idris Hasan Latif. What lessons can be drawn for inclusive historical memory?(250 Words)
Kolachala Sitaramaiah – The Unsung Scientist
- Born in 1899 in Uyyuru, Andhra Pradesh to a poor family.
- Achieved academic success, earning degrees from University of Chicago and Yale in Chemistry.
- Migrated to the USSR after disillusionment with capitalism during the Great Depression.
- Contributed to Soviet tank performance during WWII by developing specialized fuels and lubricants.
- His innovations were crucial in the Battle of Kursk (1943) – the largest tank battle in history.
- Later became a pioneer in chemmotology/tribochemistry and researched plasma physics for nuclear fusion.
- Upon his death in 1977, he was honored by I.K. Gujral as a “son of mankind.”
Air Chief Marshal Idris Hasan Latif – The Forgotten Pilot
- From Hyderabad, joined the Royal Indian Air Force in 1941, leaving behind aristocratic comfort.
- Initially flew patrols over the North West Frontier in outdated aircraft.
- Moved to Britain post-Battle of Britain, helped prepare for D-Day.
- Later served in Burma front, engaging with Japanese Zero fighters under harsh jungle conditions.
- Chose India over Pakistan at Partition, famously stating:
“What does religion have to do with nationality?” - Became 10th Chief of Air Staff in 1978, later Ambassador to France (1985–88).
- Helped shape India-France defence ties, indirectly paving the way for the Rafale acquisition.
Themes and Reflections
- Highlights individual heroism beyond traditional narratives.
- Reflects on the interconnectedness of global events — WWII and Indian independence were not isolated.
- Celebrates non-combat contributions (science, strategy, diplomacy) as vital to wartime success.
- Underscores the inclusive nature of patriotism, not confined to religion or recognition.
Wider Dimensions to Explore
- Neglected History: India’s global contributions in WWII need mainstream inclusion in textbooks and memorials.
- Diaspora Role: Indian migrants and expatriates made significant global contributions under adversity.
- Post-War Impact: How wartime experiences influenced post-independence science, defence, and diplomacy.
- Pluralistic Patriotism: The role of identity (religion, caste, region) in shaping Indian nationalism during and after WWII.
Eighty years on, ‘never again’ is sounding hollow
Historical Background & Commemoration
- VE Day (May 8, 1945) marks the end of WWII in Europe; a moment of relief and hope, now observed with diverging tones in the East and West.
- Split in commemoration dates — May 8 in Western Europe vs. May 9 in Russia — highlights enduring Cold War tensions and historical divisions.
Relevance : GS 1(Modern History ,World History)
Practice Question : Eighty years after Victory in Europe Day, the vow of “Never Again” appears fragile in the face of resurging war and historical amnesia.Critically examine how contemporary geopolitical tensions and selective historical memory are reshaping the legacy of World War II.(250 Words)
Russia’s Perspective and Memory
- Victory Day in Russia is marked with grand military parades showcasing modern weaponry, emphasizing nationalism over remembrance.
- Russian narrative stresses the USSR’s massive sacrifices in WWII (26 million dead), accusing Western allies of downplaying its role.
- However, the USSR’s initial pact with Nazi Germany (1939 Molotov-Ribbentrop Pact) and invasion of eastern Europe complicates its moral stance.
Western Europe’s View and Response
- Western Europe commemorates VE Day more sombrely, focusing on veterans and remembrance.
- The EU and NATO are seen as safeguards that emerged post-WWII to ensure “never again” — a fragile vow in today’s context.
Geopolitical Tensions Today
- Russia’s invasion of Ukraine and Putin’s actions are viewed by Western leaders, like Macron, as imperialist and aimed at rewriting history.
- Donald Trump’s ambivalent stance on NATO (especially Article 5) has shaken European confidence in U.S. security guarantees.
Europe’s Response: Rearmament & Strategy
- Europe is preparing for strategic autonomy:
- EU’s first defence strategy unveiled.
- Increased defence budgets across member states.
- Civilian alerts: Citizens in several countries told to stockpile essentials.
- Border states like Poland & Baltics withdrawing from landmine treaties.
- Suggests a shift from celebration to mobilisation amid rising insecurity.
Global and Post-Colonial Amnesia
- VE Day commemorations often erase contributions of colonised peoples (from Asia, Africa, Caribbean, etc.) who fought in WWII.
- The war was not merely a “European affair” but a clash of empires, affecting millions globally.
- Insularity of Western narratives fosters historical myopia and exclusion.
Conclusion: ‘Never Again’ in Doubt
- The 80th anniversary of VE Day comes at a time when the Fear of war have returned to Europe.
- The ideals of peace and unity forged in WWII’s aftermath are under siege.
- There’s no room for complacency — commemorations must reflect on history honestly and prepare for the emerging realities of conflict.
Caution and optimism
Context : India and the U.K. have finalized a Free Trade Agreement aiming to enhance bilateral trade and investment. While it promises export growth and labour mobility, concerns remain over its impact on Indian farmers and domestic industries.
Relevance : GS 2(International Relations)
Practice Question : The India–UK Free Trade Agreement offers a path to deeper bilateral engagement, yet calls for policy prudence in safeguarding domestic interests.Critically evaluate the potential benefits and challenges of the India–UK FTA in light of India’s past trade experiences and strategic goals.(250 Words)
Positives of the India-UK FTA
- Trade Boost: 99% of Indian exports to the UK will attract zero duties — a major gain for Indian exporters.
- Sectoral Optimism: Key export sectors (engineering, apparel, gems & jewellery) express strong growth potential.
- Example: Engineering exports expected to double to $7.55 billion by 2029-30.
- Bilateral Trade Surge: Overall India-UK trade projected to double to $120 billion by 2030.
- Labour Mobility Gains:
- Indian workers in the UK and their employers exempt from social security contributions for 3 years.
- Eases hiring and reduces labour costs for Indian professionals.
- Movement of Professionals: Provisions to ease investment and professional migration — could aid revival of FDI.
Concerns and Caveats
- Tariff Concessions: India will cut tariffs on 90% of UK imports, 85% of which will go to zero tariff in 10 years.
- May benefit UK exporters more than Indian manufacturers in certain sectors.
- Whiskey & Gin Imports: Lower duties may increase competition for Indian distilleries and slow premiumisation.
- Past FTA Lessons Ignored:
- India-UAE CEPA (2022) worsened India’s trade balance.
- India-Australia FTA has not significantly boosted Indian exports.
Agriculture-Related Risks
- Farmer Opposition: Indian farmers fear increased imports of lamb, salmon, and other edibles may hurt domestic producers.
- Low-Income Vulnerability: Farmers already operate on thin margins; increased competition could further erode incomes.
- Call for Safeguards: Government must shield farmers from being “elbowed out” by aggressive foreign competition.
Strategic Implications
- Template for Future FTAs: The India-UK FTA may serve as a model for FTAs with the EU and U.S..
- These future agreements will have deeper and broader implications.
- Policy Caution Needed:
- India has already reduced duties on food and auto products under U.S. pressure.
- With <2% global export share, Indian manufacturing must be protected, not undermined.
