THE HINDU

EDITORIAL Presents

6th June 2023

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 VOCABULARY

1. Foretold: said what was going to happen in the future.

भ वष्यवाणी करना
Synonyms: augur, portend
Antonyms: describe, report
Example: He was a 16th-century prophet who foretold how the
world would end..
2. Averted: prevented something bad or dangerous from
happening. टालना
Synonyms: forestalled, precluded
Antonyms: assisted, facilitated
Example: Talks are taking place in an attempt to avert a strike.
 VOCABULARY

3. Rectify: to correct something or make something right. सुधारना

Synonyms: remedy, redress
Antonyms: corrupt, ruin
Example: I am determined to take whatever action is necessary
to rectify the situation.
4. Glitzy: attractive in a showy and often superficial way. भड़कीला
Synonyms: ostentatious, gaudy
Antonyms: drab, modest
Example: He celebrated his birthday at a glitzy party in Beverly
Hills.
 VOCABULARY

5. Facades: false appearances that make someone or something

seem more pleasant or better than they really are. दखावा
Synonyms: pretense, semblance
Antonyms: sincerity, frankness
Example: He kept his hostility hidden behind a friendly façade.
6. Prompt: to make something happen. प्रोत्सा हत करना
Synonyms: spur, induce
Antonyms: dissuade, hinder
Example: The discovery of the bomb prompted an increase in
security.
 VOCABULARY

7. Paramount: more important than anything else. सवर्वोच्च

Synonyms: predominant, supreme
Antonyms: trivial, secondary
Example: Safety is of paramount importance.
8. Sabotage: to prevent something from being successful or
being achieved, especially deliberately. नुक़सान पहुं चाना
Synonyms: wreck, spoil
Antonyms: conserve, preserve
Example: Protesters failed to sabotage the peace talks.
 VOCABULARY

9. Vowed: made a determined decision or promise to do

something. प्र तज्ञा करना
Synonyms: swore, pledged
Antonyms: denied, broke
Example: The mayor vowed to reduce crime.
10. Curtail: to limit something or make it last for a shorter time.
घटाना
Synonyms: shorten, truncate
Antonyms: extend, prolong
Example: Spending on books has been severely curtailed.
 VOCABULARY

11. Flagging: becoming weaker. शि तहीन होना

Synonyms: dwindling, slumping
Antonyms: energised, recovering
Example: We have to find ways to boost our flagging sales.
12. Buffered: reduced the harmful effects of something. प्र तरोध
करना
Synonyms: mitigate, alleviate
Antonyms: intensify, sharpen
Example: The company is buffered by long-term contracts with
growers.
 VOCABULARY

13. Insulating: protecting somebody/something from unpleasant

experiences or influences. बचाना
Synonyms: cushioning, shielding
Antonyms: endangering, exposing
Example: Until recently the country's economy has been
insulated from recession by its reserves of raw materials.
 VOCABULARY

Phrasal verb
14. In line with: according to or following something such as a
rule or principle.
Idiom
15. In the wake of: happening after or as result of event.
 THE HINDU EDITORIAL LIVE DAILY @ 7 AM

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 THE HINDU EDITORIAL LIVE DAILY @ 7 AM

The rail accident in Balasore in Odisha on June 2, involving the

collision of three trains, is a tragic reminder of the challenges that
India faces in modernising and expanding its rail services. At least
275 people were killed and over 900 injured when the
Shalimar-Chennai Coromandel Express, the Yesvantpur-Howrah
Express and a freight train collided in the worst rail accident in two
decades. But an accident of this kind had been foretold, as
recently as February this year when a collision between two trains
was averted at Hosadurga Road Station in the Birur-Chikjajur
section of the Mysore Division of the Railways, thanks only to an
alert loco pilot and the moderate speed of the train, which could
be brought to a stop. The train had gone off its intended track,
which was reported as a result of faulty signalling system and
dangerous human intervention.
 THE HINDU EDITORIAL LIVE DAILY @ 7 AM

An official record of that incident called for “immediate

corrective actions... to rectify the system faults and also
sensitizing the staff for not venturing into shortcuts”. The
accident in Balasore, it now appears in a preliminary inquiry,
followed the same disastrous sequence of mechanical failures
and human errors. The Indian Railways carries nearly 15
million passengers every day now compared to the peak of 23
million a day the year before the COVID-19 pandemic. India
has an ambitious plan to improve its rail infrastructure, and in
the year 2023-24, ₹2.4-lakh crore has been allocated for capital
expenditure. Accidents per million train kilometre have fallen
over the last decade, but poor maintenance of tracks and the
rolling stock and overstretched staff are problems that the
Railways can no longer camouflage with glitzy facades.
 THE HINDU EDITORIAL LIVE DAILY @ 7 AM

Safety measures including anti-collision systems are

expanding, but evidently not at an adequate pace. In 2021, the
Prime Minister announced that 75 new semi-high speed trains
labelled Vande Bharat would be started over 75 weeks, and
several have been started already. There has been attention on
passenger amenities also, but nothing can be more important
than safety. The accident in Balasore should prompt India’s
railways development plans onto the right track. Speed should
be strived for, but safety is paramount. Sabotage is not ruled
out in the Balasore accident, which will be probed by the
Central Bureau of Investigation. More important will be the
corrective measures by the Railways at the operational and
planning levels. It will have to find more resources to modernise
and rationalise its priorities.
Summary:

The rail accident in Balasore, Odisha, on June 2, highlighted the challenges

faced by India in modernizing and expanding its rail services. The collision
of three trains resulted in the loss of at least 275 lives and over 900 injuries,
making it the worst rail accident in two decades. A similar incident was
narrowly averted in February due to an alert train driver and moderate
speed. Both accidents exposed mechanical failures, faulty signaling
systems, and human errors. Despite a decrease in accidents per million
train kilometers over the past decade, poor maintenance, overstretched
staff, and insufficient safety measures remain significant concerns. India
has allocated a substantial budget for rail infrastructure improvements, but
safety must take precedence over speed and amenities. The Balasore
accident may prompt corrective actions in operational and planning levels,
requiring additional resources for modernization and prioritization. The
possibility of sabotage is being investigated.

The tone of the above article can be described as concerned and critical
 THE HINDU EDITORIAL LIVE DAILY @ 7 AM

Today's Editorial Topic

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 THE HINDU EDITORIAL LIVE DAILY @ 7 AM

The world’s largest grouping of crude oil producers, commonly

known as OPEC+, agreed on Sunday to extend ongoing production
cuts into 2024 as it seeks to keep oil prices from falling amid
concerns about a global economic slowdown. OPEC major and
leading producer Saudi Arabia also voluntarily vowed to reduce
output by an extra 1 million barrels per day (bpd) in July, sending
international oil future contracts higher on Monday. The more than
20-nation OPEC+ bloc, which has been striving to curtail supply in
order to support prices in the face of flagging demand, had in a
surprise move in April announced additional output cuts amounting
to 1.66 million bpd. That move’s impact on prices was, however,
shortlived and benchmark Brent crude futures have largely
remained below $80 a barrel, after briefly rising above $87 in the
wake of the surprise output cut in April.
 THE HINDU EDITORIAL LIVE DAILY @ 7 AM

For India, which imports more than 80% of its crude oil
requirements, the combined Saudi-cum-OPEC+ announcements of
supply curtailment are a cause for some concern given the potential
they have to push up global oil prices. Still, with India having sharply
increased its purchase of crude from Russia since Moscow’s
invasion of Ukraine and the consequent western sanctions against
Russian energy exports, the price India pays for an imported barrel
of oil has been steadily declining. As of last week’s close, the
average monthly price of India’s crude oil basket had declined by as
much as 38% from its June 2022 peak of $116.01 a barrel to
$72.39.
 THE HINDU EDITORIAL LIVE DAILY @ 7 AM

While there is a good likelihood for some near-term uptrend in

global oil prices as a result of the latest OPEC+ move, India
has through its stepped-up imports of Russian crude — it
bought a third of its oil from the sanctions-hit country in March
— substantially buffered itself from any appreciable adverse
impact. Still, the softening in crude purchase prices has not
percolated to the Indian consumer. Pump prices of petrol and
diesel have remained unchanged since May 22, 2022, with the
governments at the Centre and the States, and the oil
marketing companies unwilling to forego any revenue, possibly
as a way of insulating themselves from any rise in costs in the
future.
 THE HINDU EDITORIAL LIVE DAILY @ 7 AM

With retail inflation showing signs of easing in recent months

and private consumption spending data showing a distinct lack
of vigour as a result of the inflationary erosion in consumptive
capacity, policymakers must reassess their stand on fuel
prices. While the demand for bringing oil products under the
ambit of GST so as to help rationalise fuel prices is unlikely to
be met any time soon, especially given the revenue
implications for States, the Centre can take the lead and
provide a fiscal fillip to the economy by cutting its levies on the
key transport fuels.
 THE HINDU EDITORIAL LIVE DAILY @ 7 AM

Today's Descriptive Question

Write an essay in 200 words on how we can reduce

our dependency on fossil fuels like petrol and diesel.
Fossil fuels, such as petrol and diesel, have long been the lifeblood of our
modern society, powering our transportation and industries. However, their
detrimental environmental impacts, including greenhouse gas emissions and
air pollution, have become increasingly evident. To ensure a sustainable
future, it is imperative that we reduce our dependency on these finite
resources. This essay explores effective strategies to achieve this goal.

First, promoting the adoption of electric vehicles (EVs) is crucial.

Governments and organizations should provide incentives, such as tax
credits and subsidies, to encourage consumers to switch from petrol and
diesel vehicles to EVs. Additionally, expanding the charging infrastructure
network is essential for the widespread acceptance of EVs.

Second, investing in renewable energy sources, such as solar and wind

power, is vital. By transitioning to clean energy, we can power our homes,
businesses, and transportation without relying on fossil fuels. Governments
must support renewable energy projects through favorable policies and
funding mechanisms, making them more accessible and cost-effective.
Furthermore, encouraging public transportation and active modes
of transport, such as walking and cycling, can significantly reduce
the demand for petrol and diesel. Enhancing public transport
infrastructure, implementing efficient routes, and introducing
incentives like discounted fares can incentivize people to opt for
greener modes of transportation..

Reducing our dependency on fossil fuels like petrol and diesel is a

pressing challenge. However, by promoting electric vehicles,
investing in renewable energy, and encouraging sustainable
transportation options, we can make significant progress.
It requires collective action from governments, industries, and
individuals to embrace these solutions and prioritize a sustainable
future. By doing so, we can mitigate the environmental impacts of
fossil fuels, improve air quality, and pave the way for a cleaner
and healthier planet for future generations.
Please write a letter asking the bank to reissue a cheque book

[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[City, State, ZIP Code]
[Date]
[Bank Name]
[Bank Address]
[City, State, ZIP Code]
Dear Sir,
Subject: Request for Reissue of Cheque Book
I hope this letter finds you in good health and high spirits. I am writing to bring to your attention an issue
concerning my existing cheque book and kindly request your assistance in resolving the matter.

I have been an account holder with [Bank Name] for [duration] and have always appreciated the prompt and
reliable services provided by your esteemed bank. However, I recently discovered that my current cheque
book is nearing exhaustion, with only a few remaining leaves. Hence, I am writing to request the reissue of a
new cheque book.To facilitate the process, I have enclosed a duly filled and signed requisition form for your
reference. I kindly request you to review the form and initiate the necessary procedures for the reissue of the
cheque book. If there are any additional documents or formalities required from my end, please inform me
promptly, and I will be more than willing to provide the necessary information.

I value my banking relationship with [Bank Name] and believe in the exceptional customer service that your
bank has always provided. Therefore, I am confident that my request will receive prompt attention and
necessary action to ensure a smooth reissue of the cheque book.I sincerely appreciate your time and
attention to this matter. Should you require any further information or clarification, please do not hesitate to
contact me via the provided email address or phone number. I look forward to your positive response and a
swift resolution to this issue.

Thank you for your kind cooperation.

Yours faithfully,

[Your Name]
 THE HINDU EDITORIAL LIVE DAILY @ 7 AM

Match the words with their meanings.

Column A Column B

Benevolent to make someone less confident, less powerful,

or less likely to succeed, or to make something
weaker, often gradually

Vague kind and helpful

Reluctance not having or giving enough information or

details about something

In cahoots an unwillingness to do something

Undermines acting together with others for an illegal or

dishonest purpose
 THE HINDU EDITORIAL LIVE DAILY @ 7 AM

VOCABULARY FOR ALL

1. Foretold:
2. Averted:
3. Rectify:
4. Glitzy:
5. Facades:
6. Prompt:
7. Paramount:
8. Sabotage:
9. Vowed:
10. Curtail:
Directions: Each question below has one blank, which is
indicating that something has been omitted. Find out which
option can be used to fill up the blank in the sentence to
make it grammatically as well as contextually correct.
1.The collision of three trains in Balasore was a ____ event that
highlighted the challenges India faces in modernizing and expanding
its rail services.

Options:

a) celebratory
b) catastrophic
c) coincidental
d) commendable
e) None of these
2. The near-collision incident in Hosadurga Road Station emphasized
the importance of ____ and the role it played in averting a disaster.

Options:

a) advanced technology
b) human intervention
c) sabotage
d) glitzy facades
e) None of these
3. The Indian Railways has allocated a substantial amount of
₹2.4-lakh crore for ____ in the year 2023-24.

Options:

a) passenger amenities
b) modernization
c) celebratory events
d) sabotage investigations
e) None of these
4. The article suggests that while attention has been given to
passenger amenities, ____ should be the top priority for the Indian
Railways.

Options:

a) speed
b) sabotage investigations
c) maintenance of tracks
d) glitzy facades
e) None of these
5. The Balasore accident serves as a ____.

Options:

a) celebratory event
b) tragic reminder
c) coincidental occurrence
d) commendable achievement
e) None of these
ANSWERS
1.Correct answer: b) catastrophic (meaning: extremely disastrous or tragic)
celebratory (meaning: relating to celebration or joyous occasions)
coincidental (meaning: happening by chance or without apparent cause)
commendable (meaning: deserving praise or admiration)

2.Correct answer: b) human intervention (meaning: action or involvement by

individuals)
advanced technology (meaning: sophisticated or cutting-edge machinery)
sabotage (meaning: deliberate destruction or obstruction of something)
glitzy facades (meaning: flashy or showy appearances)

3.Correct answer: b) modernization (meaning: the process of making something

more modern or up-to-date)
passenger amenities (meaning: facilities or services provided for passengers)
celebratory events (meaning: joyful or festive occasions)
sabotage investigations (meaning: inquiries into intentional acts of destruction or
obstruction)
4.Correct answer: c) maintenance of tracks (meaning: the act of keeping the
railway tracks in proper condition)
speed (meaning: rate or velocity of movement)
sabotage investigations (meaning: inquiries into intentional acts of destruction or
obstruction)
glitzy facades (meaning: flashy or showy appearances)

5.Correct answer: b) tragic reminder (meaning: a sorrowful or devastating

memory)
celebratory event (meaning: a joyous or festive occasion)
coincidental occurrence (meaning: happening by chance or without apparent cause)
commendable achievement (meaning: something deserving praise or admiration)
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