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Topic-shaped analysis of the day's editorials for the RPSC RAS Mains, dated 1 July 2026.
A Hindu op-ed argues that India's deepening tilt towards Israel — underlined by PM Modi's Tel Aviv visit and the US-Israel strikes on Iran in early 2026 — has become more habit than deliberate strategy, and must be recalibrated to West Asia's new realities without abandoning strategic autonomy.
Mains question (10 marks): India's West Asia policy is increasingly caught between a deepening partnership with Israel and its traditional strategic autonomy. Critically examine.
Source: The Hindu (Op-Ed) / Editorial synthesis (RRR), 1 Jul 2026
After the US moved to restrict access to its most advanced AI models on national-security grounds, a Hindu op-ed argues India must build 'sovereign AI' capacity — its own compute, data and models — while staying integrated with global AI ecosystems, so that its economy and security do not depend on decisions made elsewhere.
Mains question (10 marks): 'Sovereign AI is a strategic necessity for India, not techno-nationalism.' Discuss in the light of India's AI ambitions and constraints.
Source: The Hindu (Op-Ed) / Editorial synthesis (RRR), 1 Jul 2026
A Hindu op-ed warns that Kerala's high debt and revenue deficit hang 'like the sword of Damocles' over its ability to borrow and invest — a symptom of deeper strains in India's fiscal federalism, from shrinking untied grants to off-budget borrowing.
Mains question (10 marks): The rising debt of states like Kerala reflects deeper structural problems in India's fiscal federalism. Examine and suggest reforms.
Source: The Hindu (Op-Ed) / Editorial synthesis (RRR), 1 Jul 2026
As Gen Upendra Dwivedi signed off as Army Chief — noting that future wars will be more 'joint, integrated and theatre-oriented' — and handed over to Gen Dhiraj Seth, the long-pending push for Integrated Theatre Commands is back in focus.
Mains question (10 marks): Integrated theatre commands are considered essential for India's future military effectiveness but face significant institutional hurdles. Critically examine.
Source: The Indian Express / Editorial synthesis (RRR), 1 Jul 2026
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