1 Uttar Pradesh Special

MAHA KUMBH 2025

The Maha Kumbh was held in Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh. It was a 45 day event from 13th January to 26th February.

Various Efforts done by the Government for Mahakumbh 2025

Key Infrastructure Development
z Temporary City Setup: Mahakumbh Nagar was transformed into a temporary city with thousands of tents and
shelters, including super deluxe accommodations like the IRCTC’s “Mahakumbh Gram” luxury tent city which offers
deluxe tents and villas with modern amenities.
z Signage for Navigation: A total of 800 multi-language signages (Hindi, English, and regional languages) were
installed to guide visitors.
z Public Utilities: Over 2,69,000 checkered plates have been laid for pathways. Mobile toilets and robust waste
management systems to ensure hygiene.

Security Arrangements
z Fire Safety: Over ₹131 crores were allocated for fire safety measures. The AWTs are equipped with advanced
technologies, including video and thermal imaging systems, to prevent fire incidents and enhance safety.
z Underwater Drones: For the first time, underwater drones capable of diving up to 100 meters were provided
round-the-clock surveillance at the Sangam area.

Health Services
z Medical Infrastructure: Temporary hospitals equipped with surgical and diagnostic facilities. Deployment of
“Bhishma Cube,” capable of treating up to 200 people simultaneously.
z Eye Care Initiative: A “Netra Kumbh” camp to conduct eye tests for over 5 lakh pilgrims and distribute more than
3 lakh eyeglasses, towards setting a Guinness World Record.
z Special Care for Vulnerable Groups: Dedicated health camps for elderly pilgrims and children were focused on
mobility assistance, hydration support, and emergency care.

Environmental Sustainability
z River Protection: 3 temporary Sewage Treatment Plants (STPs) were installed to ensure clean water in the Ganga
and Yamuna rivers.
z Eco-Friendly Measures: Use of solar power for lighting, promotion of reusable materials, and a ban on single-use
plastics.

Digital Innovations
z Mobile App & Online Services: A dedicated app provides real-time updates on crowd density, emergency alerts,
directions, and accommodation details. Online registration and ticketing streamline visitor management.
z Temporary Wi-Fi zones were to ensure connectivity for visitors.

Tourism and Cultural Promotion

z Uttar Pradesh Pavilion: Spanning 5 acres near Nagavasuki Temple, it showcases UP’s tourism circuits (e.g.,
Ramayana Circuit, Krishna-Braj Circuit, Buddhist Circuit, Bundelkhand Circuit) and features a handicrafts market
along with cultural programs.
z New Corridors & Temple Renovation: Development of new corridors like Akshayavat Corridor, Saraswati Koop
Corridor and Patalpuri Corridor.
z Renovation of Nagvasuki Temple and Hanuman Temple Corridor.
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About Maha Kumbh Mela
z The Maha Kumbh Mela is a sacred pilgrimage celebrated four times over 12 years, known as the world’s largest
peaceful gathering.
z Historical Background: The founding myth of the Kumbh Mela points to the Puranas (compilations of ancient
legends).
 It is widely believed that Lord Vishnu (disguised as the enchantress ‘Mohini’) whisked the Kumbh out of the
grasp of the covetous demons who had tried to claim it.
z The origin of Maha Kumbh Mela was transcribed by the 8th-century philosopher Adi Shankaracharya.
z Recognized by UNESCO in 2017 as an intangible cultural heritage of humanity, it remains a testament to India’s
enduring traditions.

UP DEVELOPS 5 NEW SPIRITUAL CORRIDORS

Uttar Pradesh develops five spiritual corridors to enhance access to religious sites and promote spiritual tourism.

5 Corridors
z Prayagraj–Vindhyachal–Kashi corridor enables devotees to travel from Prayagraj to Vindhyachal Devi Dham and
then to Kashi (Varanasi).
 It holds great significance for devotees of Goddess Shakti and Lord Shiva, offering a spiritually enriching journey
through these sacred sites.
z Prayagraj–Ayodhya–Gorakhpur corridor connects sites associated with Lord Ram and the Gorakhnath tradition.
 Pilgrims can take a holy dip at the Triveni Sangam in Prayagraj and visit the Lete Hanuman Temple, Akshay Vat,
and Saraswati Koop.
 From there, they can proceed to Ayodhya for Ram Lalla’s darshan and then travel to Gorakhpur to seek blessings
at the Gorakhnath Temple.
z Prayagraj–Lucknow–Naimisharanya route takes devotees from Prayagraj to Naimisharanya via Lucknow.
Naimisharanya Dham, one of the 88 sacred pilgrimage sites in Hinduism, is known as the meditation site of 88,000
sages.
 It is deeply connected to Lord Brahma, Lord Vishnu, Goddess Sati, and Lord Shiva.
z Prayagraj–Rajapur–Chitrakoot corridor, associated with Lord Ram’s exile, leads to Chitrakoot Dham, home to
sacred sites such as Kamadgiri Parvat, Ramghat, and Hanuman Dhara.
 The route also passes through Rajapur (Banda), the birthplace of Goswami Tulsidas, the revered poet-saint who
authored the Ramcharitmanas, Vinay Patrika, and other Hindu scriptures.
z Prayagraj–Mathura–Vrindavan–Shuk Teerth Corridor via Bundelkhand Expressway allows devotees to travel
via the Bundelkhand Expressway to Mathura-Vrindavan and then to Shuk Teerth, a site associated with Maharishi
Shukracharya’s meditation.
 Pilgrims can visit Mathura-Vrindavan, the birthplace of Lord Krishna, and explore sites connected to his childhood
and divine pastimes.

Way Forward
z With these newly developed corridors, Uttar Pradesh looks all set to witness a significant rise in spiritual tourism,
making pilgrimage journeys more accessible and enriching for devotees.

HATHRAS STAMPEDE
A stampede at a religious gathering in Uttar Pradesh’s Hathras district cost approximately 121 lives.

What is a Stampede?
z A stampede is an impulsive mass movement of a crowd, often resulting in injuries and deaths. It occurs due to
a perceived danger or loss of physical space, leading to irrational and dangerous movements for self-protection.
z Status of Stampede in India: According to the National Crime Records Bureau figures, from 2000 to 2013,
almost 2,000 people died in stampedes.

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 A 2013 study published by International Journal of Disaster Risk Reduction (IJDRR) points out that religious
gatherings and pilgrimages have been venues for 79% of the stampedes in India.
z Types of Stampedes
 Unidirectional stampede: Occur when a crowd moving in the same direction encounters a sudden positive
or negative change in force which alters its movement.
 Turbulent Stampede: Happens when crowds merge from different directions, often due to panic or
uncontrolled movement​.

Psychology of Stampedes
z The ‘Craze’ Behaviour: Craze is defined by sociologist Neil J Smelser In Theory of Collective Behavior (1962),
as “the mobilisation for action based on a positive wish-fulfillment belief” which can be rational or irrational.
 Example: In Hathras satsang (large group settings), The people rushed to touch the preacher’s feet and tried to
collect soil from beneath his feet, making people act in detriment to their own individual interests.
z Psychology of Mass Behaviour: Psychologist Alexander Mintz theorised that once the cooperative pattern of
behavior is disturbed in panic-producing situations, cooperation ceases to be rewarding to the individuals self
interest causing further panic.
 Example: Taking the example of a fire emergency in a movie theatre, Mintz argued that pushing to escape a
disaster becomes an advantageous (rather least disadvantageous) form of behaviour for individuals, but at the
level of the group, it can lead to disastrous circumstances.
z Crowd Density (number of people per unit of area): As per a study, when the density approached 3 and 4
persons/ sq m, most cases spent over 8 min in evacuation.
 If evacuees spend too much time waiting for evacuation or are blocked near the exit, crowd panic will increase,
as will stampede risk.

How Stampedes Lead to Death

z Traumatic Asphyxia: It is a condition of partial or complete cessation of respiration due to external compression
of the thorax and/or upper abdomen.
z Myocardial infarction: Heart attack, caused by decreased or complete cessation of blood flow to a portion of the
heart
z Other Causes: Direct crushing injury to internal organs, head injuries, and neck compression.

Impacts
z Trauma and Shocks: Stampedes can cause immense trauma for the family and friends of the victims, as a feeling
of loss creeps in.
z Economic Constraints: Stampedes can result in grievous injuries or death which can affect the economic condition
of a household if the victim is the primary breadwinner. The disability caused due to such accidents can result in
lifelong medical treatments causing further economic pressures.
z Trust Deficit: Such incidents can cause a trust deficit in the hearts of the public for the organisers and stakeholders
like the district administration, temple administration, event organisers etc.

NDMA Guidelines for the Prevention of Stampedes in India

z Capacity Building of Places of Mass Gathering: Infrastructure Development should depend on popularity,
periodicity of event, terrain, local population, weather etc and staging points prepared for visitors with
facilities of food, water, hygiene, and shelter.
z Stakeholders Profile: It requires understanding of,
 Nature of Event Planned: It is a religious, schools/ university, sports event, music event, political event
 Crowd Profiling with respect to their age, gender, economic strata etc.
z Crowd Management:
 Proper Regulation of Traffic around the mass gathering venues.
 Route and Exit Maps: A route map for venues along with emergency exits route maps at strategic locations

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z Security Arrangements:
 CCTVs Installations at close quarters and watch towers installed to monitor the crowd density and movement
 Police Deployment: The police should be deployed at every narrow check point, hazardous areas to ensure the
orderly movement of the crowd.

Measures for Effective Crowd Management and Preventing Stampedes

z Stampede Risk-Reduction Framework: Implement a multi-disciplinary approach that includes risk assessment,
hazard identification, and mitigation measures to minimize potential disasters.
z Better Design of Spaces: Ensure adequate entry and exit points, clear pathways, and designated emergency
routes to prevent congestion and allow smooth movement.
z Live Surveillance & Monitoring: Use CCTV, AI-based crowd analysis, and real-time monitoring to detect
bottlenecks, pressure build-up, and potential disturbances for proactive management.
z Inter-Agency Communication & Coordination: Establish clear communication channels between local
administration, police, event organizers, and medical teams to respond swiftly to emergencies.

Way Forward
z Legislative Framework for Stampedes: India needs a proper legislative framework to deal with stampedes and
to fix accountability. Example: The Supreme Court in Uphaar Cinema Tragedy observed that there is a need for
a comprehensive legislation dealing with tortuous liability of the State.
z Enabling Technology: Latest technology needs to be adopted and deployed extensively in crowded places like CCTV
surveillance with VMS (Video Management Software), mobile control room, drones for roof level surveillance
and public address system, face recognition technology.

Conclusion
Given the frequency of large gatherings in India, it’s imperative that authorities strictly manage crowd sizes and ensure
adequate exits and safety measures. Real-time interventions, coupled with preparedness of healthcare facilities, are
essential to prevent cultural or religious events from becoming safety hazards.

TAJ TRAPEZIUM ZONE

The Supreme Court has recently ordered a tree census in Taj Trapezium Zone (TTZ), to ensure laws penalising illegal
tree felling are better enforced in Agra and adjoining districts.

More on news
A bench headed by justice Abhay S Oka directed Dehradun-based Forest Research Institute (FRI) to conduct the
exercise.

About Taj Trapezium Zone

z It is an area of 10,400 square-kilometres approximately.
z It was established in 1996 by the Supreme Court and aims to protect the Taj Mahal, Agra Fort, and Fatehpur Sikri
from air pollution by requiring industries to switch to cleaner fuels.
z It spreads across Agra, Firozabad, Mathura, Hathras, and Etah districts in Uttar Pradesh and Bharatpur district
in Rajasthan.
z It comprises monuments including three World Heritage Sites: Taj Mahal, Agra Fort and Fatehpur Sikri.
z TTZ is so named since it is located around the Taj Mahal and is shaped like a trapezoid.

KASHI TAMIL SANGAMAM (KTS 3.0)

KTS 3.0 took place from February 15 to 24, in Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh.

Key Points
z Union Education Minister, Dharmendra Pradhan; Union Minister of State for Information and Broadcasting Dr. L.
Murugan and Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath inaugurated the prestigious cultural event.

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z Organisers: It was organized by the Ministry of Education with IIT Madras and BHU as implementing agencies.
z It aims to celebrate and strengthen the ancient civilizational bond between Tamil Nadu and Kashi
z Theme: The event celebrates the ancient ties between Tamil Nadu and Kashi with the theme Maharishi
Agasthyar, honoring the sage’s contributions to Tamil culture and India’s shared heritage.
z Duration: The duration of the tour was 8 Days (4 for travel, 4 at site).
z The event aligned with NEP 2020 to integrate Indian Knowledge Systems with modern education.
z This year, for the first time, participants got to witness the Mahakumbh in Prayagraj and visit the newly inaugurated
Ram Mandir in Ayodhya.
z Categories: This year, the government has brought around 1000 delegates from Tamil Nadu under five categories/
groups:
(i) Students, Teachers, and Writers;
(ii) Farmers and Artisans (Vishwakarma Categories);
(iii) Professionals and Small Entrepreneurs;
(iv) Women (SHG, Mudra Loan beneficiaries, DBHPS Pracharaks); and
(v) Start-up, Innovation, Edu-Tech, Research.

The first edition of KTS in 2022 lasted a month and saw overwhelming participation, while the second edition of
KTS in 2023, inaugurated by Prime Minister Modi, introduced real-time app-based Tamil translations for delegates.
Both editions attracted nearly 4,000 participants from Tamil Nadu and emphasized cultural exchange and learning.

UP- AGREES
On 28th January 2025, Chief minister Yogi Adityanath inaugurated the Uttar Pradesh Agriculture Growth and Rural
Enterprise Ecosystem Strengthening (UP-AGREES) project in Lucknow.
Key Points
z The UP-AGREES project is expected to become a milestone in boosting agricultural productivity, enhancing rural
enterprises and empowering farmers in the state.
z Aim: The initiative aims to improve farmers’ yield, which is anticipated to rise from 10 quintals to 14-15 quintals
per acre, and will provide a much-needed boost to the agricultural economy of Uttar Pradesh.
z Period: This six-year project will be implemented across the state till 2029-30.
z The state’s agricultural productivity has to be increased by an additional 30 to 35 per cent.
z Budget: Out of the Rs 4,000 crore of UP AGREES project, the World Bank has arranged a loan of Rs 2,737 crore and
the state government has contributed Rs 1,166 crore.

UP- NEW EXPORT POLICY

The Uttar Pradesh government is drafting a new export policy.
Key Points
z Under the 2020-2025 export policy, the state government provides comprehensive hand-holding support to the
exporters.
z In the last financial year (FY24), UP’s merchandise exports were worth nearly $20.67 billion, contributing
4.71 per cent to India’s total exports.
z With the new policy, the government targets to increase this share to 7.5 per cent.
z Purpose: It is to boost the state’s share in India’s exports. The move aims to provide additional incentives to
exporters.
Key Features
z Incentives for exporters: The proposed policy would introduce several incentives for exporters, especially in the
food processing, handicrafts, and One District One Product sectors. UP is known for its traditional industries,
such as Banarasi silk sarees, carpets from Bhadohi, chikan embroidery from Lucknow, Kanpur’s leather goods, and
leather footwear from Agra.

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z Job Creation: The policy would emphasise job creation and offer incentives, including marketing development
support, air freight subsidies, international certification subsidies, and gateway port freight subsidies, the official
added.
z Increasing exports: The state government is aiming to achieve merchandise exports worth Rs 3 trillion in the
next two to three years. Being a landlocked state, UP is also focusing on creating infrastructure to support its
export supply chain.
z Potential export hubs: The state plans to develop all 75 districts into potential export hubs by building a robust
network of warehouses, cargo terminals, and trucking hubs. These facilities will be located in industrial zones and
near expressway projects.

SUPREME COURT ON BULLDOZER JUSTICE

The Supreme Court underscored that it is unconstitutional to demolish a person’s property without adhering
to the due process of law, simply on the grounds of their alleged involvement in a crime.
Background of the Case
z The case involved a series of petitions challenging the “extra-legal” practice of demolishing houses of individuals
accused of criminal activities in states such as Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, and Uttarakhand.
z The recent ruling was prompted by incidents in Udaipur, Rajasthan, and Ratlam, Madhya Pradesh, earlier this
year.
Key Guidelines Issued by the Supreme Court
z Guidelines for Demolition Procedures: The Supreme Court, invoking Article 142, issued nationwide guidelines
to prevent illegal and retributive bulldozing of homes and private properties of accused persons by States
z Demolition cannot be carried out without Show Cause notice:
 Authorities must issue a show cause notice via registered post to the property owner and post it outside the
building.
 This notice must provide a 15-day period or the timeframe specified in local laws whichever is later, to
respond.
Supreme Court’s Reasoning for the Guidelines
z Violation of the Right to Shelter: The Supreme Court emphasised that demolishing properties based on
accusations alone violates the constitutional right to shelter under Article 21.
z Collective Punishment Concerns: The Court highlighted that demolishing a house belonging to an accused
unfairly punishes all family members, which amounts to “collective punishment.”
z Principles of Criminal Jurisprudence: The Court reiterated that an accused person is ‘presumed innocent until
proven guilty’.
z Recognition of Accused’s Rights: The Court concluded by affirming that even accused or convicted individuals
retain constitutional and legal safeguards, and any action against them must respect these rights.

UP- FIRST FLOATING RESTAURANT

Uttar Pradesh first state’s first floating restaurant in Gorakhpur.
Key Points
z Uttar Pradesh chief minister has inaugurated the first floating restaurant of the state in Ramgarh tal, Gorakhpur.
z The construction of this floating restaurant began on August 17, 2022.
z The three-storied floating restaurant has an area of 9600 square ft and can accommodate 150 tourists at a time.
z It is equipped with state-of-the-art facilities and named ‘Float’.
z This floating restaurant would pay ₹4.50 lakh per month rent to Gorakhpur Development Authority (GDA). The GDA
and the company have signed an agreement for 15 years.
z The floating restaurant, built at a cost exceeding ₹10 crore, meets the standards of the Indian Registrar of Shipping
and is set to become a major attraction for tourists and locals alike.

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In the past seven years, the UP government has significantly transformed the Ramgarh Tal area, making it a popular
destination known as the ‘Marine Drive’ of Gorakhpur. Already established as a premier tourist hotspot in eastern
Uttar Pradesh, Ramgarh Tal offers attractions like the Lake Queen Cruise, and now visitors will be able to experience
dining also at the floating restaurant.

SWACHH VAYU SURVEKSHAN 2024

Three Uttar Pradesh cities were listed among the top performers in the recent Swachh Vayu Survekshan.

Key Points
z Total cities evaluated: 131
z Top ranked in the country: Surat has secured the top position in the ‘Swachh Vayu Survekshan 2024’ organized
leaving 131 other cities behind.
z UP Cities listed: Agra secured third spot in Category 1 (cities with population of over 10 lakh) for its efforts in
mitigating air pollution.
 Firozabad and Rae Bareli were ranked first in Categories II and III (cities with population between 3 and 10
lakh, and below 10 lakh, respectively).

About Swachh Vayu Survekshan

z Ministry involved: It is an initiative by the Ministry of Environment, Forest, and Climate Change.
z Launched in: It was launched in 2019.

KEN-BETWA RIVER LINKING PROJECT

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi laid the foundation stone of the Ken-Betwa river linking project in Khajuraho,
Madhya Pradesh on 25 December 2024.

Key Points
z This is the first project under the National River Linking Policy.
z This project will bring development in Bundelkhand.
z Cost: The cost of this project is around Rs 44,605 ​​crore.
z Beneficiaries: This will provide drinking water to 44 lakh people of 10 districts of Madhya Pradesh and 21 lakh
people of Uttar Pradesh.
 This will benefit 7.18 lakh farmer families of 2,000 villages. Along with this, 103 MW hydroelectricity and
27 MW solar power will also be generated.
 The Ken-Betwa Link Project will provide farmers with ample water for irrigation.
 The groundwater level will also improve in the drought-prone Bundelkhand region.
z Under this project, a 77 meter high and 2.13 kilometer long Daudhan dam will be built on Ken river in Panna
Tiger Reserve. Along with this, two tunnels will also be built.

Ken River: Ken, also known as Karnavati, is a tributary of Yamuna which passes through Bundelkhand region.
Betwa River: It is a river flowing in the Indian state of Madhya Pradesh. It is a tributary of Yamuna. Its total length
is 480 kms. It joins Yamuna near Hamirpur.

AMU MINORITY STATUS

The Supreme Court (SC) of India delivered its judgment in the case relating to the minority status of the Aligarh
Muslim University (AMU).

Background
z In 1967, the Azeez Basha judgement by a five-judge bench had declared that AMU was neither established nor
administered by a Muslim minority community, disqualifying it from minority status under Article 30.

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z Parliament subsequently amended the AMU Act in 1981 to recognise AMU’s origins within the Muslim community,
but a 2006 Allahabad high court decision invalidated these amendments, leading to renewed legal debate on AMU’s
minority character before the seven-judge bench.

Key Points
z The 7-judge bench, by a 4:3 majority, overruled its 1967 judgment in the S. Azeez Basha vs. Union of India
case which rejected the minority status of AMU and held that an institution incorporated by a statute cannot claim
to be a minority institution.
z The SC bench of Chief Justice of India (CJI) DY Chandrachud, Justice Manoj Misra, Justice J.B. Pardiwala, Justice
Sanjiv Khanna, Justice Surya Kant, Justice Satish Chandra Sharma, and Justice Dipankar Datta passed the judgment.
z Earlier on February 01, 2024, the SC bench reserved its verdict on the issue of granting minority status, under
Article 30 of the Constitution of India, to AMU.
z Article 30(1) guarantees religious and linguistic minorities the right to establish and administer educational
institutions of their choice.
z Recent majority SC bench opinion concluded that institutions created by minority groups can retain their
minority character even if they are incorporated by a statute, challenging the earlier understanding that
statutory recognition disqualified an institution from claiming minority status.

UTTAR PRADESH BOARD OF MADARSA EDUCATION ACT, 2004

On 5th November 2024, the Supreme Court upheld the constitutional validity of the Uttar Pradesh Board of Madarsa
Education Act, 2004.

Background
z The Allahabad High Court in March struck down the Uttar Pradesh Madrasa Education Board Act, 2004 saying the
law was unconstitutional for validating a system of education which was grossly in violation of the principles of
secularism.
z On April 5, the apex court stayed the HC verdict until it decided on the validity of the law.

SC Verdict
z Recent SC verdict is given by a three-judge Bench presided over by Chief Justice of India D Y Chandrachud and
comprising Justices JB Pardiwala and Manoj Misra.
z The Supreme Court said that the Allahabad High Court erred in holding that the Madarsa law had to be struck
down for violating basic structure, which is the principle of secularism.
z SC verdict says that it upheld the validity of the UP madrassa law and moreover a statute can be struck down
only if the State lacks the legislative competence.
z The SC said the legislative scheme of the law was to standardise the level of education being prescribed in madrassas.
z The Supreme Court, however, held the Madarsa Education Act “unconstitutional” to the extent it regulates
higher education in relation to ‘fazil’ and ‘kamil’ degrees granted by Madrasas beyond class XII for being in
conflict with the UGC Act.

What is the UP Madarsa Education Act?

z The Uttar Pradesh government drafted this act in 2004 to regulate and govern the functioning of madrasas
across the state.
z It provides a framework for the establishment, recognition, curriculum and administration of madrasas across
the state. It was established to oversee and supervise the activities of madrasas across the state.
z Madrasas are Islamic educational institutions that offer a combination of religious and secular education. The Act
aimed to standardize this education while ensuring compliance with the curriculum set by NCERT.
z As a result of the Act, the Uttar Pradesh Board of Madarsa Education was established, predominantly composed of
members from the Muslim community. This board is responsible for developing curriculum materials, conducting
examinations, and overseeing the quality of education provided at madrasas. It regulates various educational
qualifications, ranging from ‘Maulvi’ (equivalent to Class 10) to ‘Fazil’ (equivalent to a Master’s Degree).

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INDIA’S FIRST INTEGRATED WASTE MANAGEMENT CITY-CUM-LEARNING CENTRE
Gorakhpur is set to establish the country’s first Integrated Waste Management City-cum-Learning Centre by September
2025.

Key Points
z The centre is spread across 40 acres in Suthni village, Sahjanwa.
z Types of Wastes: The centre will process a wide range of waste types, including biomedical, e-waste, battery, tyre,
terracotta, vehicle scrap, plastic, domestic hazardous, industrial, and organic waste while generating charcoal and
Bio-CNG.
z It will also serve as a learning centre and it will provide technical expertise.
z The project is supported by a Rs 300 crore investment from NTPC.
z Three plants: Three dedicated plants are planned:
 Dry Waste Plant with a capacity of 500 tons per day and it will produce charcoal.
 The second plant is a Wet Waste Plant which will be a 200 ton-per-day facility producing Bio-CNG under the
Public Private Partnership (PPP) model.
 The final is a Hazardous Waste Plant, a separate facility which will process domestic hazardous waste using
environmentally-friendly methods.

Benefits
z It is aimed at making the city garbage-free and promoting sustainable waste management through a circular
economy model.
z The initiative is expected to create jobs, boost revenue and serve as a learning hub for technical expertise.

RURAL SANITATION POLICY- UTTAR PRADESH

The Uttar Pradesh government has recently introduced a comprehensive new policy to enhance rural sanitation
across the state significantly.

Key Points
z Aim: The new policy aims to enhance waste management systems at the gram panchayat level, ensuring that
sanitation progress becomes sustainable and irreversible.
z The policy seeks to ensure the effective operation and long-term maintenance of sanitation infrastructure in gram
panchayats, aligning with the Swachh Bharat Mission’s (Rural) goals.
z Focus areas: Key focus areas of the policy includes solid and liquid waste management, plastic waste disposal,
faecal sludge management, and construction of biogas units under Gobardhan Yojana.
z The policy has been drafted by the Director of Panchayati Raj in collaboration with development partners and
relevant departments.

NEW EXCISE POLICY FOR 2025-26- UTTAR PRADESH

The Uttar Pradesh cabinet has approved the new excise policy for 2025-26 providing for an e-lottery system for
allotment of liquor shops across the state.

Key Points
z Under the new excise policy one person would be allowed to submit only one application with a prescribed non-
refundable security.
z One person would not be entitled to get more than two shops allocated and the allotment of shops would be
done through e-lottery.
z No private agency would be engaged in conducting the e-lottery system.
z The National Informatics Centre (NIC) would conduct the lottery in all the districts and the names selected in the
lottery in every district would be sent to Lucknow for allotment of shops.

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UTTAR PRADESH WATERWAYS AUTHORITY RULES, 2025
The Uttar Pradesh government has approved the formation of an inland waterways authority to boost water transport
and tourism in the state.

Key Points
z The decision to implement the Uttar Pradesh Waterways Authority Rules, 2025, was taken by the state Cabinet.
z Aim: The establishment of this authority aims to make transportation via waterways more economical and
convenient.
z Members of authority: The authority will be headed by the transport minister or an expert in inland waterways,
shipping, navigation, ports and maritime affairs, as nominated by the chief minister.
 The vice-chairperson will also be appointed from among subject-matter experts.
 Principal secretaries or additional chief secretaries from the departments of finance, public works, tourism and
culture, irrigation and water resources, and forest and environment will be ex-officio members.
 A representative nominated by the Inland Waterways Authority of India chairperson will also be a member
of the body.
 The Uttar Pradesh transport commissioner will serve as its chief executive officer.
z This initiative is expected to provide visitors a unique experience and strengthen the state’s economy.

UTTAR PRADESH REPUBLIC DAY TABLEAU

Uttar Pradesh’s tableau on Republic day won the first place in the the results for the best Marching Contingents and
Tableaux of Republic Day Parade 2025.

Key Points
Theme: The tableau was themed on “Mahakumbh: Golden India Heritage and Development”.
z Samudra Manthan depicted: The tableau brought the legendary tale of Samudra Manthan to life, featuring
Nagavasuki coiled around Mount Mandarachal.
 Lord Vishnu, in his tortoise avatar, supported the mountain as gods and demons churned the ocean for nectar.
z The second segment depicted saints blowing conches and women in traditional attire singing and dancing with urns
on their heads, further enhancing the visual splendor.
z Symbol of spiritual and cultural pride: This portrayal of Maha Kumbh showcased Uttar Pradesh as a beacon of
India’s cultural roots and progress. The spiritual magnificence impressed viewers, who found the tableau unique
and inspiring.

SEMICONDUCTOR POLICY-2024
The Uttar Pradesh Cabinet has given approval to the state’s own Semiconductor Policy-2024.

Aim
z The policy aims at providing incentives to investors, making UP a hub of semiconductor ecosystem and aiding
the country’s push towards chip manufacturing.

Key Points
z With this, UP becomes the fourth state to have a semiconductor policy after Gujarat, Odisha and Tamil Nadu.
z UP’s policy is the best and provides capital, financial and non-financial incentives to investors in the semiconductor
manufacturing sector.

Policy Details
z Policy provides that the UP government would give 50% subsidy of the capital subsidy given by the union
government.
z It provides for interest subsidy of up to a maximum ₹1 crore for units investing up to ₹200 crore.

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z The policy also provides for 75% rebate on the first 200 acres land and 30% rebate on additional land while
there will be 100% exemption on stamps and registration duty on purchase of land.
z The IT and electronics department would be the nodal agency for the policy. A policy implementation unit would be
set up under the chairmanship of additional chief secretary/principal secretary of IT and electronics department.

SEMICON India 2024

On 11th September 2024, the Prime Minister of India inaugurated SEMICON India 2024 in Greater Noida.
z Theme of the event: “Shaping the Semiconductor Future.”
z It is a three day event taking place in Greater Noida, Uttar Pradesh from 11th -13th September 2024.
z Organizers: This event, which was organised in collaboration with SEMI, Messe Muenchen India, and the Electronic
Industries Association of India.

TRANSLATOR FACILITY IN UP VIDHAN SABHA

Uttar Pradesh Legislative Assembly became the first assembly in the country to be equipped with translator facilities.

Key Points
z The Uttar Pradesh Legislative Assembly became the first assembly in India to get a translation system for Awadhi,
Braj, Bhojpuri, Bundelkhandi and English.

Related Facts
z The Uttar Pradesh Legislative Assembly was established in 1937, when it was called the United Provinces Legislative
Assembly.
z Composition of the House: It is a bicameral legislature, consisting of two houses:
 Assembly– Lower House
 Legislative Council– Upper House
z Uttar Pradesh has the largest Legislative Assembly in India with 403 seats.

AEROSPACE AND DEFENCE UNIT AND EMPLOYMENT PROMOTION POLICY 2024

The decision to introduce the Aerospace and Defence Unit and Employment Promotion Policy 2024 was taken by
the cabinet.

Key Points
z The Aerospace and Defence Unit and Employment Promotion Policy 2024 was introduced to position Uttar
Pradesh as a leader in the sector.
z The policy sets an ambitious target of attracting ₹50,000 crore in investments over the next five years with
the potential to generate direct employment for 1 lakh people across the state.
z It aims to position Uttar Pradesh as a leading aerospace and defence hub, accelerating indigenous capabilities,
fostering innovation, and promoting global collaboration to enhance national security and economic prosperity.
z The policy aims to strengthen the aerospace and defence (A&D) sector in Uttar Pradesh by creating a robust,
hi-tech, and efficient A&D manufacturing ecosystem within the UP Defence Industrial Corridor (UPDIC).
z It also seeks to attract startups and investments for the development of state-of-the-art facilities in the sector.
z The policy further aims to attract large A&D manufacturing projects and DPSUs, while promoting research and
innovation, ensuring that Uttar Pradesh becomes a pivotal contributor to India’s defence and aerospace landscape.

UTTAR PRADESH LOKAYUKTA AND UP-LOKAYUKTA (AMENDMENT) BILL, 2024

Uttar Pradesh cabinet has passed Uttar Pradesh Lokayukta and Up-Lokayukta (Amendment) Bill, 2024.

Key Points
z According to the bill the tenure of the lokayukta and the up-lokayukta has been reduced from eight years to five
years and the maximum age has been increased to 70 years.

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z It was enacted to make provision for the appointment and functions of certain authorities for the investigation of
grievances and allegations against ministers, legislators and other public servants in certain cases and for matters
connected therewith and incidental thereto.
z It should also be noted that the Lokpal and Lokayuktas Act, 2013, provides for the tenure of the Lokpal to be five
years or the age of 70, whichever is earlier.

VEERANGANA RANI DURGAVATI

On 28th November 2024, Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath unveiled the statue of ‘Veerangana’ Rani Durgavati at the
main entrance of the medical college in Banda.
Key Points
z Veerangana Durgavati, one of India’s most revered warrior queens, was born in 1524 in Mandla, Madhya
Pradesh.
z She was the daughter-in-law of King Sangram Shah of the Gondwana Empire.
z After the death of her husband, Raja Dalpat Shah, Rani Durgavati ascended the throne and led the kingdom to
greater prosperity and strength.
z When Mughal Emperor Akbar’s commander Asaf Khan launched an attack on her kingdom, Rani Durgavati
demonstrated unmatched courage and commanded her forces with valour.
z In the Battle of 1564, she fiercely resisted the invaders, but when defeat seemed inevitable, she chose to embrace
martyrdom rather than surrender. Her legacy of bravery, sacrifice and dignity continues to inspire generations.

LAND LEASE POLICY 2024

In a significant move aimed at bolstering the tourism industry in Uttar Pradesh, the state cabinet has approved the
Land Lease Policy-2024.
Key Points
z It offers provisions for leasing government land from the state’s land bank without bureaucratic hurdles.
z According to the approved proposal, government-owned land will be leased out for a maximum duration of 90
years, divided into three phases of 30 years each, aligning with existing land allotment policies.
z This initiative aims to streamline land allocation processes, particularly benefiting investors with well-prepared
proposals for capital investment, thereby fostering tourism growth and encouraging entrepreneurial ventures.

UTTAR PRADESH INTERNATIONAL TRADE SHOW

Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar inaugurated the second edition of the ‘Uttar Pradesh International Trade Show’.
Key Points
z The second edition of UP International Trade Show is being organized from 25 to 29 September at India Expo Mart,
Greater Noida.
z UP International Trade Show is working to bring artisans, craftsmen of the state and buyers from all over the world
on one platform.
z 2,500 stalls of defense, agriculture, e-commerce, IT, GI, education, infrastructure, banking, financial services,
dairy industry etc. have been set up in it.
z This year, 70 countries are expected to participate in UPITS and 4 lakh footfalls are expected. Apart from this, a
fashion show of Khadi garments and cultural programs by artists will be performed in UPITS.

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 2 Art & Culture

CLASSICAL LANGUAGE
The Union Cabinet chaired by the Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi has approved to confer the status of Classical
Language to Marathi, Pali, Prakrit, Assamese and Bengali languages.
Background
z The recognition of a classical language is based on criteria established by a Linguistic Experts Committee.
z According to the committee, the following revised benchmarks must be met for a language to be considered “classical”:
1. High antiquity of (its) is early texts/recorded history over a period of 1500- 2000 years.
2. A body of ancient literature/texts, which is considered a heritage by generations of speakers.
3. Knowledge texts, especially prose texts in addition to poetry, epigraphical and inscriptional evidence.
4. The Classical Languages and literature could be distinct from its current form or could be discontinuous with
later forms of its offshoots.
z The Government of India, has conferred status of Classical Languages to following languages so far:
 Tamil ( 2004), Sanskrit (2005), Telugu( 2008), Kannada (2008), Malayalam( 2013) and Odia (2014).

UNESCO RECOGNITION FOR INDIAN PROPERTIES

India has recently added Six Properties to UNESCO’s Tentative List.
About the Newly Added Properties to the tentative list

Site Key Features

Kanger Valley National Park z Rich in biodiversity with unique flora and fauna.
(Chhattisgarh) z Home to limestone caves, waterfalls, and dense forests.
Mudumal Megalithic Menhirs z Ancient megalithic burial structures from prehistoric times.
(Telangana) z Important for archaeological and anthropological studies.
Ashokan Edict Sites z Rock and pillar edicts of Emperor Ashoka from the Mauryan era.
z Provide insights into early Indian administration, religion, and governance.
Chausath Yogini Temples z Circular temple structures with 64 Yogini deities.
z Associated with Tantric worship and built on elevated locations.
Gupta Temples (North India) z Iconic temples showcasing Gupta-era architecture (4th-6th century CE).
z Represent early temple-building traditions with intricate carvings.
Palace-Fortresses of the z Fortified palaces built by the Bundela Rajputs.
Bundelas (Madhya Pradesh z Known for Rajput-Mughal architectural fusion and historical significance.
and Uttar Pradesh)

About the Tentative List and Process of UNESCO Recognition

z The tentative list is an inventory of sites a country intends to nominate for UNESCO’s World Heritage Status.

Indian Properties Recognised Under UNESCO

z Total World Heritage Sites: 43.
z Categories:
 Cultural Sites: 35 (e.g., Taj Mahal, Jaipur City).
 Natural Sites: 7 (e.g., Kaziranga National Park, Western Ghats).
 Mixed Site: 1 (Khangchendzonga National Park).
z Latest Addition: Moidams (Ahom Dynasty burial mounds, Assam) recognized in 2024.
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z Inclusion in the tentative list is a mandatory step before a site is officially nominated for the World Heritage List.
z India now has 62 sites on UNESCO’s tentative list (till March, 2025)
About UNESCO World Heritage Site
z UNESCO World Heritage Sites are landmarks recognized for their cultural, natural, or mixed significance, holding
outstanding universal value.
z Establishment: The World Heritage Convention was adopted by UNESCO in 1972 to identify and protect sites of
global importance.
z Aims: To preserve cultural heritage, protect biodiversity, and promote sustainable tourism while fostering
international cooperation.

NEW PAMBAN RAIL BRIDGE

Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the new Pamban Rail Bridge off the Rameswaram coast in Tamil Nadu
on April 6.
Key Points
z The sea bridge in Pamban is India’s first vertical lift sea bridge.
z It connects Ramanathapuram with Rameswaram island.
z It is built at a cost of ₹531 crore.
z The new sea bridge will replace the 110-year-old iconic Cantilever bridge built during the British era.
z The old Pamban rail bridge which came up in 1914 was decommissioned in December 2022 due to corrosion.
It connected the mainland to Rameswaram for 105 years. The single-track bridge had a manual Scherzer lift span
and was limited to low-speed trains, with an air clearance of 19 metres.
z The new bridge is a fully automated vertical lift span and offers a safer 22-metre clearance, supports double tracks
and electrification, and is designed for high-speed trains.

GYAN BHARATAM MISSION

Recently, the Union Budget 2025-26 introduced the Gyan Bharatam Mission.
About Gyan Bharatam Mission
z It has been launched to undertake the “survey, documentation and conservation” of India’s manuscript heritage
lying with academic institutions, museums, libraries, and private collectors.
z Objective:
 To cover over one crore manuscripts, guaranteeing their long-term preservation and accessibility for future
generations.
 To promote India’s rich literary and intellectual traditions on a global platform.
z Revival of NMM: Through this initiative, the government is making a significant effort to revive the National
Manuscripts Mission (NMM), which was launched in 2003 but remained largely inactive.
 Budget Allocation: Increase from ₹3.5 crore to ₹60 crore in the Union Budget 2025-26 to accommodate the
Gyan Bharatam Mission.
z Ministry: The Ministry of Culture

VIJAY DURG
The Fort William in Kolkata has been renamed as Vijay Durg.
Key Points
z Fort William, originally named after King William III of England also known as William of Orange, has been a
symbol of British colonial rule for a long time.
z The idea of renaming it follows a larger trend of decolonisation, where places with colonial names are being
given names that reflect India’s own history.

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z Meaning: Vijay Durg, meaning “Fort of Victory,” holds deep historical and cultural importance. The name comes
from the famous Vijaydurg Fort in Maharashtra, which is linked to Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj and his military
strength.
z Renaming Fort William as Vijay Durg represents resilience, victory over oppression and self-reliance, fitting into
India’s larger efforts to move away from colonial influences.

Historical Significance of Fort William

z Fort William was built in 1696. It is an important part of Kolkata’s history. The current fort was rebuilt between
1758 and 1781 after the Battle of Plassey.
z The British East India Company constructed it to strengthen its hold on Bengal, turning it into a key centre for
British administration and military activities.
z After Independence, it became an important military base, and now serves as the headquarters of the Eastern
Command of the Indian Army.
z The fort has been a witness to military planning of major historical events, such as the Battle of Plassey in 1757,
which helped the British gain control over Bengal.
 During the Revolt of 1857, also known as the First War of Independence, it was a crucial base of the British
military, which held it through the Second World War and until India won Independence.
z During the 1962 war between India and China, Fort William in Kolkata was a key military base for the Indian Army.
z In the 1971 war, which resulted in the creation of Bangladesh, Fort William’s role became even more significant as
the headquarters for the Eastern Command. The Eastern Command led India’s military operations against Pakistan
in the eastern region, especially in Bengal.
z Renaming it as Vijay Durg marks a symbolic shift from colonial memories to celebrating India’s heritage.

NALANDA UNIVERSITY
The campus of Nalanda University was formally inaugurated by the Prime Minister.

About Nalanda University

z Nalanda University, located in Rajgir in the Nalanda district of Bihar, India, is a central research university designated
as an Institute of National Importance (INI) and excellence.
z In 2006 President APJ Abdul Kalam officially proposed reviving Nalanda.

Nalanda Mahavira
z “Mahavira” in Sanskrit/Pali means “great monastery”.
z Nalanda Mahavira was active from the fifth to thirteenth century CE.
z Founded by: Kumar Gupta of the Gupta dynasty in Bihar in the early 5th century and it flourished for over 800
years till the end in 12th century CE.
z Hiuen Tsang’s Account (7th century Chinese traveller):
 Provided the most detailed description of ancient Nalanda.
 Estimated 10,000 students, 2,000 teachers, and a large retinue of servants at the monastery. However, multiple
scholars dispute Hsuan Tsang’s figures based on archaeological evidence.
z Monastic learning establishment: Nalanda was renowned as the world’s first residential university.
z In the 1190s, the institution fell victim to arson by Bakhtiyar Khilji, a Turko-Afghan military general. The university
was rediscovered in 1812 by Scottish surveyor Francis Buchanan-Hamilton and later identified as the ancient
university by Sir Alexander Cunningham in 1861.
z It is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site

INDUS VALLEY SCRIPT

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister has announced a $1-million prize for experts or organizations for deciphering the scripts
of the Indus Valley Civilisation.

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About the Indus Valley Script
z Indus script found on seals, pottery, and tablets at Harappa, Mohenjo-daro, and Dholavira.
z Pictogram-Based Writing: The script is written using pictograms, often accompanied by animal or human motifs.
z Boustrophedon Style: It employs the boustrophedon writing style, alternating between right-to-left in one line
and left-to-right in the next.
z Undeciphered Nature: The script has not been deciphered yet despite extensive research.

About Indus Valley Civilization

z Historical Importance: One of the world’s oldest urban civilizations, discovered in 1924 by Sir John Marshall.
z Language Mystery: The script remains undeciphered even after 100 years, hindering a complete understanding
of its culture and society.
z Numerical System: The numeral system is based on the decimal system, with single downward strokes representing
units and semicircles representing tens.
z Material Used: Indus Script inscriptions appear on diverse materials, including seals, pottery, bronze tools,
stoneware bangles, bones, shells, ivory, steatite, bronze, and copper tablets.
z Seals and Animal Motifs: Seals typically feature the script at the top and an animal motif in the center, often serving
identification and administrative purposes.
z Functionality: Seals may have been used as amulets or talismans, but their primary function was to mark trade
goods for identification.
z Narrative Imagery: The script often combines text with depictions of humans, animals, and mythical creatures,
hinting at possible religious or liturgical significance.

MOIDAMS
Moidams – The Mound-Burial System of Ahom Dynasty Inscribed in the UNESCO World Heritage List.
Key Points
z This is India’s 43rd World Heritage site.
z This is the third World Heritage Property from Assam,
following Kaziranga National Park and Manas Wildlife
Sanctuary, both inscribed under the Natural category in
1985.
z Moidams is a royal mound burial site created by the Tai-
Ahom in northeastern India.
z It is situated in the foothills of the Patkai Ranges in eastern
Assam.

UNESCO World Heritage Sites

z India and World Heritage Site: India has 43 properties inscribed on the World Heritage List.
 Cultural Heritage Site in India: 35
 Natural Heritage Site in India: 7
 Mixed Heritage Site in India: 1 (Khangchendzonga National Park)

NATIONAL MISSION FOR MANUSCRIPTS (NMM)

The government is set to “revive and relaunch” the National Mission for Manuscripts (NMM) and which is likely
to be named the National Manuscripts Authority, under the Ministry of Culture.
About National Mission for Manuscripts (NMM)
z It is a national level comprehensive initiative under the Ministry of Culture to work towards conserving the
manuscript heritage of India.
 It covers a variety of themes including scripts, languages and calligraphies, illuminations and illustrations under
the project.

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z Establishment: 2003, by the Ministry of Tourism and Culture
z Motto: Conserving the past for the future
z Presently, NMM is a part of the Indira Gandhi National Centre for Arts.

FIRST BODOLAND MAHOTSAV

Recently, the Prime Minister inaugurated the First Bodo Mahotsav in New Delhi to celebrate the language, literature,
and culture of the Bodo community.
About Bodoland Festival
z The Bodoland Mahotsav is a cultural festival celebrating the language, literature, and culture of the Bodo community.
z Theme: “Peace and Harmony for Prosperous Bharat.”
About the Bodo Tribe
z Origin: Ethnolinguistic group from Assam.
z Geographical Spread: Predominantly in the Bodoland Territorial Region (BTR), also in Bangladesh, Nepal, and NE
India.
z Scheduled Tribe Status: Recognized as “Boro” and “Borokachari” under the ST Order, 1950.
z Language: Bodo (Tibeto-Burman family), officially recognized in the 8th Schedule of the Constitution.
z Governance: BTR administered by the Bodoland Territorial Council (BTC) under the Sixth Schedule.

150TH BIRTH ANNIVERSARY OF BIRSA MUNDA

Recently, Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched a commemorative Stamp and coin to mark the 150th birth
anniversary of tribal icon and freedom fighter Birsa Munda at an event in Jamui district of Bihar.
About Birsa Munda
z Birth: He was born in 1875 in the village of Ulihatu, in the Mundari princely state of Khunti, Jharkhand.
 His birth anniversary falls on 15th November, which is celebrated as ‘Birsa Munda Jayanti’.
z Birsa Munda was a tribal leader and religious reformer who belonged to the Munda tribe of Chotanagpur, a region
in present-day Jharkhand and Odisha.
z Founded the faith of Birsait: Blend of animism and indigenous beliefs which emphasised the worship of a
single god.
z Given the nickname ‘Dharti Aba’ or the father of the earth.
z Legacy:
 State of Jharkhand was created on his birth anniversary in 2000
 The birth anniversary of Birsa Munda was declared ‘Janjatiya Gaurav Divas’ by the Central Government in
2021.
z Death: The British arrested Birsa in 1895 and he died in prison in 1900.

MAHARISHI SUSHRUTA
Recently, the All-India Institute of Ayurveda (AIIA) hosted the Second National Seminar SAUSHRUTAM Shalya
Sangoshti in honour of Sushruta Jayanti 2024 (15th July).
Sushruta
z He was an ancient physician from Kashi (Varanasi), revered as the Father of Indian Medicine and Surgery.
Key Contributions
z Books: The author of Sushruta Samhita, written in Sanskrit, part of the Great Trilogy of Ayurvedic Medicine
alongside Charaka Samhita by Maharishi Charak and Astanga Hridaya by Vagabhata.
z Contributions to Surgery: Sushruta, hailed as the ‘Father of Surgery’, introduced cadaver dissections for
anatomical study, pioneered the use of anesthesia with substances like wine and henbane, and specialized in cataract
surgery.

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ELECTORAL BONDS SCHEME

On 15th February 2024, the five-judge bench of the Supreme Court unanimously declared the central government’s
electoral bonds scheme “unconstitutional”.
What is an Electoral Bond?
z Electoral bonds are money instruments that act as promissory notes or bearer bonds that can be purchased by
individuals or companies in India. The bonds are issued specifically for the contribution of funds to political parties.
z These bonds are issued by the State Bank of India (SBI) and are sold in multiples of ₹1,000, ₹10,000, ₹1 lakh, ₹10
lakh, and ₹1 crore.
z The donations made under this scheme by corporate and even foreign entities enjoyed 100% tax exemption while
the identities of the donors are kept confidential - both by the bank as well as the recipient political parties.
Bench
z The bench was headed by chief justice of India DY Chandrachud, and its members were Justices Sanjiv Khanna, B
R Gavai, J B Pardiwala, and Manoj Misra.
How are the Donations Made?
z The bonds can be purchased through a KYC-compliant account to make donations to a political party. Once the
money is transferred, the political parties will have to encash the donations within a given amount of time.
z Notably, there is no limit on the number of electoral bonds that a person or company can purchase.
Who can Receive the Money?
z According to the provisions of the scheme, only the political parties registered under Section 29A of the Representation
of the People Act, 1951 and which secured not less than 1 per cent of the votes polled in the last elections to the
Lok Sabha or a state legislative assembly are eligible to receive electoral bonds.
z The electoral bonds scheme was first announced by former finance minister Arun Jaitley during the 2017 Budget
Session. Later, it was notified in January 2018 as a source of political funding by way of money bills introducing
amendments to the Finance Act and the Representation of the People Act.

MENACE OF RAGGING IN HIGHER EDUCATIONAL INSTITUTIONS

Recently, incidents of ragging in Government College of Kerala have brought the ragging issue into the limelight.
Why Ragging Persists in India?
z Lack of Strict Enforcement: Court guidelines and UGC regulations are often not enforced strictly by educational
institutions.
z Cultural Normalization: Ragging is often seen as a “tradition” or “initiation ritual” in many elite institutions.
z Lack of Awareness and Sensitization: Many students, especially seniors, are unaware of the severe psychological
and physical harm ragging can cause.
z Inadequate Grievance Redressal Mechanisms: Many institutions have anti-ragging committees on paper, but they
are often non-functional or lack authority.
 Complaints are either ignored or not addressed promptly.
z Legal and Definitional Challenges: Ragging is not defined as a specific offense under the Indian Penal Code (IPC),
leading to inconsistent enforcement.
z Competitive and Hierarchical Environment: In professional colleges (e.g., medical and engineering), seniors often
use ragging to assert dominance over juniors in a highly competitive environment.
 The hierarchical structure of institutions fosters a culture of seniority and authority.
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z Economic and Administrative Constraints: Many institutions, especially in rural areas, lack the resources to
implement anti-ragging measures effectively.
 Installing CCTV cameras, setting up helplines, and conducting regular inspections require financial and
administrative support.

Way Forward to Eradicate Ragging

z Strict Enforcement of Laws: Ensure strict implementation of UGC Regulations (2009) and Supreme Court
guidelines.
 Hold institutions accountable for failing to prevent ragging or address complaints.
z Awareness and Sensitization: Conduct regular orientation programs and workshops to educate students and
staff about the harmful effects of ragging.
 Use media campaigns to spread awareness and promote a culture of respect and inclusivity.
z Strengthening Grievance Redressal Mechanisms: Establish 24/7 helplines and secure complaint boxes for
anonymous reporting.
 Ensure timely action on complaints and protect whistleblowers from retaliation.

JUDICIAL CORRUPTION IN INDIA

Recently, the Supreme Court collegium unanimously decided to transfer Delhi High Court judge Justice Yashwant
Varma back to the Allahabad High Court, where he originally came from.
z This came after a large sum of cash was allegedly recovered from Justice Varma’s residence after a fire.

About Judicial Corruption

z Corruption within the judiciary involves bribery, nepotism, political influence, and other improper means that
compromise judicial independence and integrity.

Causes of Judicial Corruption

z Lack of Transparency in Appointments and Transfers: Allegations of undue influence in appointments and
transfers have repeatedly surfaced but remain unaddressed due to lack of transparency​.
z Political Influence and Executive Pressure: Judges may be pressured by political actors to deliver favorable
verdicts in high-profile cases.
z Post-Retirement Benefits and Placements: Judges accepting lucrative positions in tribunals, commissions, or
advisory boards after retirement raises concerns about quid-pro-quo while in office.
z Favoritism (‘Uncle Judge Syndrome’): Judges’ relatives practicing law in the same court where they serve creates
conflicts of interest.
 The Law Commission’s 230th Report (2009) acknowledged the “Uncle Judge Syndrome,” recommending that
judges be transferred from their parent High Courts to avoid such conflicts​.

Risks and Consequences of Judicial Corruption

z Erosion of Public Trust and Legitimacy: Corruption weakens public confidence in the judiciary, which is supposed
to be the last resort for justice.
z Compromised Rule of Law: Corrupt judges may favor influential parties, leading to selective application of the law.
 Judicial corruption encourages lawlessness, as wrongdoers are not held accountable.
z Political and Executive Interference: Corruption gives political actors leverage over judicial decisions.
z Delayed Justice and Judicial Backlog: Corrupt practices such as deliberate delays, tampering with files, and
favoring certain cases slow down the judicial process.
 Prolonged delays deprive ordinary citizens of timely justice, exacerbating frustration and disillusionment.

Conclusion: Addressing judicial corruption requires a multi-faceted approach that includes independent oversight,
transparent processes, whistleblower protection, and public participation. By adopting international best practices,
countries can strengthen their judicial systems, enhance public trust, and ensure the delivery of impartial and
efficient justice.

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TRIBUNALS IN INDIA NEED TO BE STRENGTHENED: SUPREME COURT
Recently the Supreme Court of India highlighted several issues of the Tribunals while hearing a petition
challenging constitutional validity of the Tribunal Reforms Act, 2021.

Tribunals Reforms Act, 2021

z The Act was enacted to streamline tribunals by dissolving certain appellate tribunals and transferring their functions
to existing judicial bodies like High Courts.
z Key Provisions
 Abolition of Tribunals: Multiple appellate tribunals were dissolved, and their functions were shifted to High
Courts and other judicial bodies.
 Search-cum-Selection Committee: Established to recommend the appointment of tribunal chairpersons and
members.
 Tenure and Age Limits: Maximum age limit: 67 years for tribunal members and 70 years for chairpersons, or
completion of the 4-year tenure, whichever is earlier.

Criticism of the Tribunals Reforms Act, 2021

z Reintroduction of Struck-Down Provisions: The Act was introduced in Lok Sabha just days after the Supreme
Court struck down the Tribunal Reforms (Rationalisation and Conditions of Service) Ordinance, 2021.
 It reinstated the same provisions that the Supreme Court had declared unconstitutional without addressing
the court’s concerns.
z Threat to Judicial Independence: The Act grants the government extensive control over appointments, service
conditions, and salaries of tribunal members.

Need for Tribunals In India

z Addressing Case Pendency: Tribunals were established to tackle the backlog of cases in various courts.They also
help in reducing delays in delivering justice.
z Reducing Court Workload: By handling specialized disputes, tribunals ease the burden on traditional courts. They
allow the judiciary to focus on core legal matters.
z Faster and Efficient Decision-Making: Tribunals expedite dispute resolution compared to lengthy court procedures.
Their processes are designed to be more streamlined and time-efficient.
z Expert-Driven Adjudication: Tribunals are staffed by legal professionals and subject-matter experts. This ensures
informed and well-reasoned decisions in specialized areas.
z Speedy Resolution: Faster dispute resolution compared to conventional courts.

Issues Faced by Tribunals in India

z Conflict of Interest: The government, being a major litigant in tribunals, also controls the appointment and
removal of tribunal members, raising concerns about impartiality.
 The executive decides the salary, tenure, and service conditions of tribunal members, affecting their
autonomy and independence.
z Undermining the Judiciary:
 Tribunalization of Justice: Tribunals take over judicial functions, reducing the authority of regular courts and
violating the separation of powers.
z Structural and Administrative Challenges:
 Non-Uniform Appointment Process: Different tribunals have varied rules on member qualifications, retirement
age, and infrastructure, affecting consistency and efficiency.

Way Forward
z Ensuring Independence of Tribunals: Tribunals must function independently and not be seen as an extension of
the executive.

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z Establishing a Separate Administrative Authority: The Supreme Court rulings (L Chandra Kumar (1997), R Gandhi
(2010), Madras Bar Association (2014), Swiss Ribbons (2019)) mandate that tribunals should not function under
the ministries they adjudicate against.
 Tribunals should be placed under the Ministry of Law and Justice instead of sectoral ministries.
z Easing Pressure on Constitutional Courts: High Courts should be the final court in most litigation after tribunal
rulings, reducing unnecessary cases reaching the Supreme Court.
 “Special Leave to Appeal” to the Supreme Court should be limited to truly exceptional cases, ensuring judicial
consistency and discipline.
Conclusion: A well-structured tribunal system will uphold justice while easing the burden on constitutional courts.

CLIMATE RIGHT IN INDIA

The recent judgement of the Supreme Court of India in M.K. Ranjitsinh and Ors. vs Union of India & Ors.,
provides an intriguing opportunity to think and enact much more systematic governance around climate change.
Background and Evolution of the Judgment
z The Supreme Court passed its judgement in a case titled M K Ranjitsinh & Ors versus Union of India & Ors
regarding the protection of two critically endangered bird species on the IUCN Red List – the Great Indian
Bustard (GIB) and the lesser florican.
z Both are scheduled species listed under Part III of Schedule I of the Wild Life (Protection) Act, 1972.
Implications of the Judgment for Environmental Jurisprudence
z Strengthening Environmental & Climate Justice: The judgement puts the focus on strengthening environmental
and climate justice by highlighting the multiple impacts of climate change on a range of communities.
z Expansion of Article 14 & Article 21: These have been expanded by the apex court to include a right to clean
environment.
 The judgement not only looks to curb environmental pollution, but also proactively outlines environmental
and climate justice issues, keeping our international commitments in mind.
Potential Approaches to Realise the Right Against the Adverse Effects of Climate Change
z Court-based Action: The proliferation of court-based action through enhanced litigation around climate claims, will
likely lead, slowly and over time, to an incomplete patchwork of (judiciary-led) protections.
z Climate Legislation: A preferred approach, the enactment of climate legislation can provide an overarching,
framework legislation to guide future policy.
 Drawing from the experience of other countries, framework legislation can bring several advantages.

Need for Climate Legislation in India

z Transition to a Low-Carbon Energy Future: In the Ranjitsinh judgement, it is highlighted that India needs to
transition to a low-carbon energy future to enforce a right against the adverse effects of climate change.
z For Supportive Regulatory Environment: Climate legislation should also create a supportive regulatory environment
for more sustainable cities, buildings, and transport networks.
z Mainstreaming and Internalising Climate Change Considerations: It should provide a way of mainstreaming
and internalising climate change considerations into how India develops.
 To enable adaptation measures such as heat action plans sensitive to local context.
 To provide mechanisms for shifting to more climate-resilient crops.

Path to Effective Climate Action

z Legislation as per Indian Federalism: As many areas relevant to climate action such as urban policy, agriculture
and water fall under the authority of sub-national governments — States or local levels, and electricity also is a
concurrent subject.
z Learn from International Experience: India is still developing, is highly vulnerable, and yet to build much of
its infrastructure, what the country needs is a law that enables progress toward both low-carbon and climate
resilient development. To achieve the desired targets, India can learn from other countries.

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z Enabling Participation in Decision Making: The enabling role should ideally also extend beyond government.
Business, civil society and communities, particularly those on the frontlines of climate impacts, have essential
knowledge to bring to energy transition and resilience.

SUPREME COURT TO EXAMINE GOVERNOR’S CONSTITUTIONAL IMMUNITY

Recently, the Supreme Court of India agreed to hear a plea seeking to redefine the contours of the constitutional
immunity enjoyed by the Governor of a state.

What is the Petition Seeking?

z Call for immediate investigation: The petitioner argues that victims should not be rendered ‘remediless’, forced
to wait until the governor leaves office, which could delay justice and impact the trial.
z Framing Specific Guidelines: The plea asks for directions to frame specific guidelines under which governors enjoy
immunity from criminal prosecution.
z Questioning Absolute Immunity: The plea contends that the immunity under Article 361 should not be absolute,
allowing illegal acts or acts that violate fundamental rights under Part III of the Constitution.

About Governor of a State

Part VI of the Constitution of India deals with the state executive. The state executive consists of the governor, the
Chief Minister, the Council of Ministers and the Advocate-General of the State.
z A Nominal Head: Governor is the nominal head at the state level.
z Appointment: Governor is appointed by the President under his/her hand and seal.
z Role of Governor: Governors in India have the responsibility of upholding and enforcing the Constitution
and laws. The Constitution of India envisions a Parliamentary system for the states, similar to the governmental
structure at the Centre.

About Constitutional Immunity

It shields the President and Governor from criminal prosecution, and bars any judicial scrutiny of their actions.
z Origins of Governor’s immunity: The protection given to the President and the Governor can be traced to the
Latin maxim rex non potest peccare or “the king can do no wrong”, which is rooted in English legal traditions.
z Article 361 of the Indian Constitution: It states that the President and the Governors shall not be answerable
to any court for the exercise and performance of the powers and duties of his/her office or for any act done
by him in the exercise and performance of those powers and duties, unless it is by Parliament for impeachment
from office.
 Criminal Proceedings: No criminal cases can be initiated or continued against them, and no arrest or
imprisonment orders can be issued by any court under Clause (2) of Article 361.
 Civil Proceedings: The Article mandates a two-month notice for any civil proceedings related to personal
acts.
 Exception to Article 14: This article is an exception to Article 14 (right to equality) of the Constitution and
provides that the President or the Governor is not answerable to any court for the exercise of the powers and
duties of his/her office.

Various Cases and Recommendations associated with Governor’s Office in India

z The Administrative Reforms Commission, 1969: It recommended that non-partisan persons having long
experience in public life and administration should be appointed as the Governors of a State.
z Shamsher Singh vs State of Punjab, 1974: The Supreme Court held that the Governor is bound to act in accordance
with the aid and advice of the Council of Ministers headed by the Chief Minister.
z The Second Administrative Reforms Commission (ARC), 2008: The Inter-State Council needs to come up with
some guidelines for governors to follow when they are using their discretionary power.
z Punchhi Commission, 2010: It recommended that the phrase “during the pleasure of the President” should be
deleted from the Constitution and a fixed term of 5 years and removed through an impeachment process (similar
to that of the President) by the State Legislature.

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Way Forward
In context of misuse of Governor’s absolute immunity in India, following measures are suggested:
z Need to Frame Specific Guidelines: The time has come to frame specific guidelines under which governors enjoy
immunity from criminal prosecution as various cases of misuse of immunity have been always in the news.
z Thorough Police Probe: A thorough investigation by the Police is required into the serious allegations on the
Governor such as of the sexual harassment.
z Protection and Compensation: If misuse of immunity has been proven or even the case is considered, then
protection of the victim and his/her family with adequate compensation should be provided.
Conclusion
In India, this discussion of immunity has to be viewed in the larger context of the tussle between the office of the
Governor, and governments in opposition-ruled states. The debate on whether executive immunity is a blanket
protection has been taking place in other countries as well.
z Example: Recently, the US Supreme Court decided that any former US President is entitled to “absolute immunity”
from criminal prosecution for official acts but not unofficial or personal acts.

USE OF LOUDSPEAKERS NOT ‘ESSENTIAL PART OF RELIGION’

Recently, the Bombay High Court directed the Maharashtra government to have an in-built mechanism to control
decibel levels in loudspeakers, Public Address System (PAS) or any other sound-emitting gadgets used at places of
worship, or institutions, irrespective of religion.
Bombay HC Judgement
z Bombay HC ruled that the use of loudspeakers is not an essential part of any religion.
z Directed Maharashtra government and Mumbai Police to enforce noise pollution rules strictly.
z Suggested calibration and auto-fixation of decibel limits for loudspeakers and Public Address Systems (PAS).
Judicial Observations
z Health Hazards: Noise pollution is a major health hazard, affecting mental and physical well-being.
z Fundamental Rights vs. Public Interest: Courts have balanced religious freedom (Article 25) with public health
and order.
 Use of loudspeakers is not an essential religious practice.
z Enforcement Challenges: Police and authorities often fail to enforce noise pollution rules due to political or
communal pressures.
 Courts have emphasized the need for strict implementation and accountability.

Key Directives
z In-built mechanism to control decibel levels at places of worship and institutions.
 Carry out “calibration or auto-fixation” of the decibel limit in these speakers
z Police to use decibel-measuring apps and seize equipment violating noise limits.
z Protection for complainants: Identity should not be disclosed to avoid retaliation.
z Four-step graded penalty system:
 First Violation: Police to issue a caution to the offender.
 Repeat Violation: Impose fines on the concerned trusts or organizations.
 Issue a warning of strict action for further violations.
 Continued Violations: Police to seize loudspeakers or sound-emitting equipment.
 Persistent Non-Compliance: Cancel the license for using loudspeakers.
z Initiate a complaint against the offenders under relevant laws.
About Noise Pollution
z According to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), noise pollution is defined as “unwanted sound”.
z It is considered an air pollutant under the Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1981.

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z It is regulated by the “Noise Pollution (Regulation and Control) Rules, 2000” under the Environment (Protection)
Act, 1986
z Noise Pollution Norms:
 Residential areas:
 Daytime (6 am to 10 pm): Maximum of 55 decibels.
 Nighttime (10 pm to 6 am): Maximum of 45 decibels.
 Silence Zones: Areas near hospitals, schools, and courts where loudspeakers are prohibited.

THREE LANGUAGE POLICY UNDER NEP, 2020

Tamil Nadu is opposing the Centre’s three-language policy under National Education Policy of India (NEP) 2020,
rejecting it as Hindi imposition.
About Three Language Policy
z Introduction: The three-language formula is an education framework that was first introduced in the National
Education Policy (NEP) of 1968.
 It mandated the teaching of Hindi in non-Hindi speaking states, alongside English and a regional language.
z Three-language formula given by the Kothari Commission(1964–66):
z NEP 2020 Revision: The NEP 2020 retains the three-language formula but with flexibility.
 States, regions, and students can choose the languages, provided at least two are native to India.

Three-Language Policy Under NEP 2020

z First Language: Mother tongue/regional language.
z Second Language:
 Hindi-speaking states: English or modern Indian language.
 Non-Hindi states: Hindi or English.
z Third Language:
 Hindi-speaking states: English or modern Indian language.
 Non-Hindi states: English or modern Indian language.

Language Dynamics in Implementation of Three Language Policy

z Resistance in Non-Hindi States
 Tamil Nadu’s Opposition: The state has historically opposed Hindi imposition, tracing back to the Anti-Hindi
Agitations (1937, 1965). The state follows a two-language olicy (Tamil and English) instead.
 States like Karnataka and West Bengal have also shown reluctance to enforce Hindi as a mandatory language.
z Perceived Hindi Imposition: Critics argue that the policy promotes Hindi by the Centre.
z North-South Divide
 In North India, Hindi is the predominant language, but in South India, regional languages like Tamil, Telugu,
Malayalam and Kannada hold stronger ground.
 The South perceives the policy as favoring Hindi-speakers, while many in the North do not feel the need to
learn a South Indian language.
z Role of English: English remains a neutral link language, widely used for education, governance, and commerce
in many states.
Significance of Implementing Three Language Formula
z National Integration: The three-language policy bridges linguistic divides by encouraging communication across
states, fostering unity and understanding among India’s diverse linguistic groups.
z Preservation of Linguistic Diversity: By mandating the inclusion of regional languages, the policy protects and
promotes India’s rich linguistic heritage, ensuring that local languages remain relevant in education and culture.
z Enhanced Cognitive Skills: Learning multiple languages improves cognitive abilities such as problem-solving,
creativity, and memory, while also providing academic flexibility.

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z Economic Advantages: Multilingualism increases employability in both national and international job markets
and supports labor migration by enabling workers to communicate effectively across states.

DELIMITATION AND SOUTHERN STATES

The Constitution mandates delimitation after every Census, yet Parliament’s seat allocation has remained unchanged
since 1976 due to southern states’ opposition.
More on News
z Calls for Alternative Criteria: Southern states advocate for delimitation based on a combination of population,
economic contribution, and development indicators, rather than just population.
About Delimitation
z Delimitation is a Constitutional mandate, to be carried out after every Census in order to readjust the number
of seats in Parliament, and the boundaries of constituencies, based on latest population data.
z Constitutional Provisions:
 Article 82: Mandates that Parliament enacts a Delimitation Act after every Census.
 Article 170: Requires that each state be divided into territorial constituencies for electing members to its
Legislative Assembly.
 These divisions must be made in accordance with the provisions laid out in the Delimitation Act.
z Previous Delimitation: Delimitation Commissions have been set up four times: 1952, 1963, 1973 and 2002.
z Legislative Framework: The Delimitation Commission Act was enacted in 1952.
z Commission Appointment: The Delimitation Commission is appointed by the President of India in collaboration
with the Election Commission of India (ECI).
2001 Delimitation: Boundary Changes and Southern Opposition
z Boundary Alteration: In 2001, constituency boundaries were redrawn.
z Seat Allocation Unchanged: Despite the boundary changes, the number of seats for each state in the Lok Sabha
and state assemblies remained the same.
 Reason: The decision to maintain the existing number of seats was largely due to opposition from southern
states.

AUTONOMOUS DISTRICTS COUNCILS

The Assam Legislative Assembly recently passed seven Amendment Bills related to the autonomous councils
About Autonomous Councils
z The VI Schedule of the Indian Constitution provides for the creation of the district and regional councils in
Northeast India.
z These are constitutional devices to protect the economic interests and cultural identities of the tribal communities.
z Autonomous District Councils are constitutional devices that cover an entire tribal district, which may
consist of more tribes than one.
z An Autonomous Regional Council (ARC) covers a specific tribe within (a region) of such a district.
z According to the VI Schedule, four states of Northeast India, i.e., Assam, Meghalaya, Tripura, and Mizoram,
have in all ten Autonomous District Councils(ADC) .
z Membership: They have up to 30 members with a term of five years.
 Out of 30, four are nominated by the governor and the remaining 26 are elected on the basis of adult
franchise.
 Tenure of Autonomous District Council: Five years from the date of their constitution.
z Powers: The VI Schedule Defines powers of both the Autonomous District Councils and Autonomous Regional
Councils.
 The Governor will make rules about the ADC and ARC in consultation with the tribal council or representatives
of the tribal organizations within the concerned ACD or the ARC. The ADCs and ARCs are endowed with certain
legislative, executive, judicial and financial powers

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GOVERNMENT COMMITTEE PROPOSES PENALTIES FOR HUSBAND PROXIES RUNNING
PANCHAYATS
A panel constituted by the Ministry of Panchayati Raj (MoPR) has recommended “exemplary penalties” against the
practice of ‘Pradhan Pati’, ‘Sarpanch Pati’ or ‘Mukhiya Pati’ in Gram Panchayats across the country.
More on News
z The committee led by former Mines Secretary Sushil Kumar was set up in 2023 to address the issue of ‘Pradhan
Pati’.
About Pradhan Pati Culture
z Pradhan Pati culture refers to the practice where a woman elected as the head of a panchayat is represented
by her husband or another male relative.
z Despite women holding official positions due to constitutional reservations, their authority is often undermined,
with their male relatives acting as de facto leaders.
Causes Behind Pradhan Pati Culture
z Patriarchal Mindset: Society believes men are better decision-makers, so women are often expected to follow their
husbands’ lead.
z Lack of Education & Training: Many elected women have little formal education or governance experience which
makes them dependent on their husbands or male relatives for decision-making.
 There is a wide gender disparity in the literacy rate in India and literacy rates were 80.9% for men and 64.63%
for women.
z Family & Social Pressure: In traditional households, women are expected to prioritize home and family over
leadership.
z Reservation Used as a Formality: Women are often nominated just to fulfill the reservation quota (33% or 50%)
and in reality, their husbands or male relatives take control of panchayat affairs.
Consequences of Pradhan Pati Culture
z Undermines Women’s Empowerment: Pradhan Pati culture defeats the purpose of reservation granted under
73rd Constitutional Amendment by keeping real decision-making in male hands.
z Weakens Local Governance: Male proxies are not elected officials and are therefore not accountable to the
electorate.
z Legal and Ethical Issues: Proxy leadership is against democratic principles and violates governance laws.
 When a male family member takes over, it breaches the trust of voters and undermines the rule of law.
z Discourages Future Women Leaders: Young women see politics as a male-controlled space, reducing their
participation.
Conclusion
The “Pradhan Pati” culture is an obstacle to achieving gender equality at the Panchayat level. It undermines
the very purpose of political reservation for women, weakens local governance, and violates democratic principles.
Addressing this issue requires a multi-dimensional approach, including legal reforms, capacity building, and societal
change, to ensure that women can exercise their leadership roles independently and effectively.
Immigration and Foreigners Bill, 2025
The Immigration and Foreigners Bill, 2025 was introduced in the Lok Sabha to strengthen India’s borders and
streamline immigration laws, replacing several outdated legislations.
About Immigration
z Immigration refers to the movement of individuals from their home country to another nation where they
are neither natives nor citizens.
 This relocation can be for permanent settlement, naturalization, employment, or temporary work.
z Immigrants and Emigrants: Those who migrate to another country are called immigrants, while from the
perspective of their home country, they are referred to as emigrants or outmigrants.

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IMMIGRATION PROVISIONS IN INDIA
z Citizenship Act, 1955: Governs the acquisition, renunciation, and termination of Indian citizenship.
z Foreigners Act, 1946: Regulates the entry, stay, and exit of foreigners in India.
z Visa Regulations (Under the Passport Act, 1920): Defines entry conditions for foreign nationals through visa
categories.
z Refugee Policies: India is not a signatory to the 1951 Refugee Convention.
 Provides asylum on a case-by-case basis (e.g., Tibetans, Sri Lankan Tamils, Rohingyas).

Key Provisions of Immigration and Foreigners Bill, 2025

z About The Bill: The bill aims to consolidate and modernize existing immigration laws in India.
 It mentions that any foreigner posing a threat to national security, sovereignty or the integrity of the nation will
not be allowed into the country or will be denied the permission to stay in India.
z Nodal Ministry: Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA), Government of India.
z Repeal of Existing Laws: The Bill replaces and repeals four existing laws i.e Immigration (Carriers’ Liability) Act,
2000, Passport (Entry into India) Act, 1920, Registration of Foreigners Act, 1939 and Foreigners Act, 1936
z Establishment of Bureau of Immigration: A centralised Bureau of Immigration (BoI) will be created (Section 5).
 Headed by a Commissioner and assisted by various immigration officers.
 Tasked with regulating entry and exit of foreigners and enforcing immigration laws.
z Punishments for Violations
 Overstaying visa or violating orders: Up to 3 years imprisonment and ₹3 lakh fine (Section 23).
 Entering India without valid documents: Up to 5 years imprisonment and ₹5 lakh fine (Section 21).
 Using forged or fraudulent travel documents: 2-7 years imprisonment and ₹1-10 lakh fine (Section 22).
z Dual Citizenship: Foreigners holding dual citizenship will be recognized as citizens of the country corresponding
to the passport used for their entry into India.

RUPEE SYMBOL CONTROVERSY

The Tamil Nadu government replaced the official Indian Rupee symbol (₹) with the Tamil letter ‘Roo’ ( ) in the state
Budget 2025-26.

More on News
z The replacement represents ‘Roobai,’ the Tamil term for currency.
z The move has sparked a political dispute between the state and the central government.

About Indian Rupee Symbol

z Design of the Rupee Symbol (₹): Created by Udaya Kumar Dharmalingam, an IIT professor and son of a former
DMK MLA.
z Features of the Symbol:
 A fusion of the Devanagari ‘Ra’ ( j ) and the Roman ‘R’ to reflect India’s linguistic diversity.
 Two parallel horizontal strokes represent the Indian national flag and economic stability.
 Its unique design ensures easy recognition in global financial systems.
z Selection Process: Chosen through a national competition in 2009, surpassing numerous other designs.
z Representation Before 2010: Previously denoted as “Rs” or “INR,” leading to confusion with currencies of other
rupee-using countries like Pakistan and Sri Lanka.
z Official Adoption: The Government of India officially adopted the symbol on July 15, 2010.
z Typography: The Unicode for the Indian Rupee Symbol is U+20B9.
 Unicode is a universal standard that assigns unique code points to characters, symbols, and scripts across
languages.

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APAAR ID
The Centre and several State governments are pushing for large-scale adoption of the APAAR ID, leading to concerns
over privacy, data security, and its voluntary status.
z The Education Ministry states that APAAR ID enrolment is voluntary, not mandatory.
 However, concerns persist that schools may enforce it due to official directives.

What is an APAAR ID?

z Automated Permanent Academic Account Registry (APAAR) is a 12-digit lifelong student ID, which consolidates
all academic records into a single platform.
z Initiative By: Ministry of Education, Government of India.
z Purpose: A unique student identification system designed to track academic progress from pre-primary
education to higher education.
z Policy Basis: Introduced under the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 and aligned with the National Credit
and Qualifications Framework (NCrF)

NATIONAL E-VIDHAN APPLICATION

Delhi becomes the 28th legislature to join the national e-vidhan application platform.
About The National e-Vidhan Application (NeVA)
z NeVA is a device neutral and member centric application created to equip legislative members to handle diverse
House Business smartly.
z Aim: The NeVA Platform aims for a paperless and more transparent legislative system, in alignment with the
Prime Minister’s vision of “One Nation, One Application.”
z Nodal Ministry: The NeVA platform is developed under the guidance of the Ministry of Parliamentary Affairs
(MoPA)
z Hosted On: NeVA is a work-flow system deployed on India’s cloud infrastructure, NIC Cloud, MeghRaj 2.0.

WORLD HAPPINESS REPORT 2025

India Ranks 118th in World Happiness Report 2025.
Key Findings
z Top 3 Happiest Countries: Finland (1), Denmark (2), Iceland (3).
z Bottom 3 Countries: Lebanon (145), Sierra Leone (146), Afghanistan (147 – Unhappiest for four years).
India’s Ranking
z Rank: 118th out of 147 (Improved from 126th in 2024).
z Comparison: Below Pakistan (109th) and Nepal (92nd), despite strong economic growth.
About World Happiness Index
z Released By: Wellbeing Research Centre (Oxford), Gallup, UN Sustainable Development Solutions Network.
z Started in: 2012.
z Criteria for Ranking (6): GDP per capita, social support, life expectancy, Freedom to make life choices, generosity,
and Perception of corruption.
z Bhutan’s resolution was adopted by the UN General Assembly on July 19, 2011 and the first World Happiness Report
was brought out in 2012.
z After the UN General Assembly adopted and declared March 20 as the International Day of Happiness, the World
Happiness Report is released around that day each year.

APPOINTMENT OF AD-HOC JUDGES

The Supreme Court recently allowed High Courts to appoint retired judges on an ad-hoc basis to address the growing
backlog of criminal cases.

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About Ad Hoc Judges
z Ad hoc judges are retired judges temporarily reappointed to address specific needs, such as reducing case backlogs
or filling gaps when permanent judges are unavailable.
Conditions for Ad-Hoc Appointments
z Lok Prahari v. Union of India (2021):
 Ad-hoc judges can be appointed when:
 Vacancies exceed 20% of the sanctioned strength.
 Cases in a specific category have been pending for over five years.
 More than 10% of the High Court’s cases are pending for over five years.
 Case disposal rate is lower than the rate at which new cases are filed (case clearance rate).
 Panel Formation: Chief Justices should form a panel of retired and soon-to-retire judges, evaluating their past
performance in terms of case quality and quantity.
 Tenure: Typically 2 to 3 years, with 2 to 5 ad-hoc judges per High Court.
 Timeframe: The entire process should be completed within three months.
z Supreme Court Order (January 30, 2025):
 Relaxed the condition that ad-hoc appointments can only be made if vacancies exceed 20% of the sanctioned
strength.
 Ad-hoc judges can now be appointed even if vacancies are below 20%.
 Restrictions:
 Ad-hoc judges can only hear criminal appeals and must be part of a Bench led by a sitting judge.
 The number of ad-hoc judges cannot exceed 10% of the sanctioned strength (2 to 5 judges per High Court).
z Allowances and Benefits: Lok Prahari Case (2021)
 Ad-hoc judges receive the same pay and allowances as permanent High Court judges, excluding pension.
 Payments are drawn from the Consolidated Fund of India.
 Entitled to rent-free accommodation or housing allowance, similar to permanent judges.

Arguments in Favor of Appointment of Ad-Hoc Judges

z Addressing Judicial Backlog: Ad-hoc judges can help reduce this backlog by focusing on long-pending cases,
especially those pending for over five years.
 As of January 2025, there are 62 lakh pending cases in High Courts.
z Utilizing Experienced Judges: Retired judges bring decades of judicial experience, which can be leveraged to handle
complex and long-pending cases efficiently.
z Temporary Solution for Vacancies: Ad-hoc judges can fill these gaps temporarily while regular appointments are
processed.
Arguments Against Ad-Hoc Judges
z Temporary Fix, Not a Long-Term Solution: Ad-hoc judges provide only a short-term solution to the problem of
judicial backlog and vacancies, without addressing the root causes such as inadequate regular appointments and
poor judicial infrastructure.
z Risk of Undermining Judicial Independence: Ad-hoc judges, being retired and potentially seeking post-retirement
benefits, may face conflicts of interest or pressure from the executive, undermining judicial independence.
z Lack of Accountability: The 245th Law Commission Report (2014) expressed concerns about the accountability
of ad-hoc judges, noting that their short tenure could lead to inconsistent judicial decisions.
z Strain on Judicial Infrastructure: Appointing ad-hoc judges without corresponding improvements in court
infrastructure and support staff can exacerbate existing problems, such as overcrowded courtrooms and insufficient
clerical support.

CJI’S ROLE IN EXECUTIVE APPOINTMENTS

Recently, the Vice-President of India questioned the role of Chief Justice of India (CJI) in executive appointments,
including the selection of the CBI director.

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Chief Justice of India’s (CJI’s) consultation in Executive Appointments
z Appointment of Judges to the Supreme Court and High Courts: CJI (along with collegium of four senior judges
of SC) is consulted by the President for the appointment of judges in the SC and the High Court.
z Appointment of Lokpal: The CJI is a member of the selection committee for appointing the Lokpal, along with the
Prime Minister, Speaker of the Lok Sabha, Leader of Opposition, and an eminent jurist.
z Appointment of the Director of the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI): The appointment committee comprises
the Prime Minister as the chairperson, the leader of the opposition (LoP) in the Lok Sabha and the Chief Justice of
India, or a Supreme Court judge nominated by him.

Positive Implications of CJI’s Involvement in Executive Appointments

z Checks and Balances: The CJI’s involvement ensures judicial oversight in key appointments.
z Judicial Independence: In appointments like judges, the CJI’s role through the collegium system , reinforcing the
independence of the judiciary.
z Merit-Based Appointments: The CJI’s consultation ensures that appointments are based on competence, integrity,
and experience rather than political considerations.
z Transparency and Accountability: The CJI’s participation, especially in committees for Lokpal, CBI Director, and
Election Commissioners, promotes transparency and ensures accountability in appointments to key institutions.

Concerns Associated with CJI’s Involvement in Executive Appointments

z Undermining of Democratic Principles: The CJI’s participation in the selection of the CBI director is inconsistent
with democratic principles.
 Such practices emerged due to judicial verdicts but emphasized the need to revisit them.
z Judicial Overreach: The executive governance by judicial decree can be described as a “constitutional paradox
that undermines democracy.
z Threat to Separation of Powers: When institutions such as Judiciary exceed their constitutional mandates, it
undermines the balance of power and weakens democratic governance.
z Accountability Concerns: While the CJI ensures accountability for the executive, the CJI’s own accountability in
these processes remains limited, as there is no formal mechanism to challenge the CJI’s recommendations.

NATIONAL COMMISSION FOR SAFAI KARAMCHARIS

The Union Cabinet has given approval for the extension of the tenure of the National Commission for Safai Karamcharis
(NCSK) until March 31, 2028.

About the National Commission for Safai Karamcharis (NCSK)

z The NCSK was established as a statutory body in 1994 under the provisions of the National Commission for
Safai Karamcharis Act, 1993 for a tenure of three years.
z The Act governing the Commission was extended multiple times until the year 2004.
z After the expiry of the Act in 2004, the Commission continued to function as a non-statutory body under the
Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment
z Composition
 Chairperson: Union Minister of State rank
 Vice-Chairperson: Any person with a Secretary rank
 Five members: Secretary rank members including a Women member.
 Secretary: Person of Joint Secretary rank.

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EXTENSION OF LOK SABHA TRANSLATION SERVICES

Lok Sabha extends translation services to 6 more languages

Key Points
z The Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla has announced the extension of translation services in the House to six additional
languages:
 Bodo,  Maithili,  Sanskrit and
 Dogri,  Manipuri,  Urdu.
z Until now, translation services have been provided in ten languages:- Assamese, Bengali, Gujarati, Kannada,
Malayalam, Marathi, Odia, Tamil and Telugu, along with Hindi and English.
z Efforts are being made to gradually extend the service to all languages based on available human resources.
z Sanskrit is not an official language of any state but according to Schedule 8 of the Constitution, 22 languages,
including Sanskrit, are officially recognised.

ONE NATION, ONE ELECTION

Two Bills seeking to ‘implement simultaneous elections to the Lok Sabha and the State Assemblies were introduced
in the Lok Sabha.

About the Bill

z In September 2023, The Union government constituted a six-member panel led by former President Kovind
‘examine and make recommendations for holding simultaneous elections’.
z The two bills include The Constitution (One Hundred and Twenty-Ninth Amendment) Bill, 2024 and The Union
Territories Laws (Amendment) Bill, 2024.
z The Lok Sabha has referred the Bill on Simultaneous Elections (often called “One Nation, One Election”) to a Joint
Parliamentary Committee (JPC) for detailed examination.

Key Features of the Constitution (129th Amendment) Bill, 2024

z Amendment of Three Articles : The Bill proposes changes to three existing articles of the Constitution:
 Amends Articles 83 (duration of Houses of Parliament),
 Article 172 (duration of state legislatures), and
 Article 327 (power of Parliament to make provisions with respect to elections to Legislatures).
z Insertion of Article 82A: A new provision (Article 82A, clauses 1-6) is introduced to enable simultaneous elections.
z Amendment to Article 83: Defines Unexpired Term, Mid-term and General Elections
 Article 83 : Prescribes a fixed five-year term for Lok Sabha unless dissolved earlier.
 New Clauses for Unexpired Terms : If Lok Sabha is dissolved before completing its full term, the next Lok
Sabha will only serve the unexpired period of the original term.
z Amendments to Article 327: Enabling Simultaneous Elections
 Article 327 gives Parliament the authority to legislate on matters related to elections, including electoral rolls
and delimitation of constituencies.
 The amendment proposes adding “conduct of simultaneous elections” to this list.
 Ensures Parliament can make provisions to align elections for both Houses of Parliament and State Legislatures.
z Changes to Article 172 (Duration of State Legislatures): Similar to Lok Sabha, state Assemblies’ terms will also
align with the “unexpired term” provision.
 If a state Assembly is dissolved before its full term, elections will be conducted for the remaining term of the
dissolved Assembly.

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About “One Nation, One Election”
z Holding elections to Lok Sabha, all the state assemblies, and local bodies – municipalities and panchayats,
together.
z Simultaneous Elections in the Past were the first four general elections of India.
 1952, 1957, 1962, 1967
z However, this synchronization was disrupted after 1967 due to premature dissolutions of some state assemblies
and the Lok Sabha.
z Countries where simultaneous elections are conducted : South Africa, Sweden , Germany, Britain.

LOKPAL OF INDIA
The Foundation Day of the Lokpal of India was held for the first time on 16th January at Manekshaw Centre, New
Delhi.

About Lokpal
z The Lokpal is a national-level anti-corruption institution established to investigate and prosecute corruption
cases involving public officials.
z The Lokpal of India was established by the Lokpal and Lokayuktas Act, 2013, on 16th January 2014.
z It is a statutory body without any constitutional status.
z Establishment: The Lokpal and Lokayukta Act, passed in 2013, came into force in 2014.
z However, the first Lokpal, Justice Pinaki Chandra Ghosh, was appointed only in 2019 after a delay of nearly
five years.
 The Act also mandates the establishment of Lokayuktas at the state level.

Key Provisions of the Lokpal Act

z Composition:
 Lokpal is composed of a chairperson and a maximum of eight members, with half of them being judicial
members.
 The Selection Committee includes the Prime Minister as Chairperson, Speaker of Lok Sabha, Leader of
Opposition in Lok Sabha (or the leader of largest opposition party in Lok sabha), Chief Justice of India or a
Judge nominated by him/her and one eminent jurist appointed by the President.
z Jurisdiction: Over Prime Minister, Union Ministers, Members of Parliament and Groups A, B, C and D officers and
officials of the Central Government.
z Superintendence: It has the power of superintendence and directs any investigative agency, including the Central
Bureau of Investigation, Central and Central Vigilance Commission, for cases referred to it by the Lokpal.

SUPREME COURT UPHOLDS RIGHT TO PROPERTY

The Supreme Court has reaffirmed that no person can be deprived of their property without adequate compensation,
highlighting the constitutional and human right status of property ownership.

Constitutional Provision: Right to Property

z Article 300-A: Right to Property is no longer a Fundamental Right since the 44th Amendment to the Constitution
in 1978, but it remains a constitutional right.
z Meaning of Removal from Fundamental right: The removal of the right to property as a fundamental right and
its reclassification as a constitutional right has reduced its level of protection and the remedies available to
individuals.
 As a fundamental right under Part III of the Indian Constitution, individuals could directly challenge
violations in the Supreme Court under Article 32, ensuring strong and immediate enforcement. The state
also faced stricter scrutiny before interfering with this right.

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 Presently , as a constitutional right under Article 300A, violations must be challenged in High Courts
under Article 226. This shift gives the state more flexibility in regulating or expropriating property for
public purposes.
z Authority of Law: Article 300-A mandates that property can only be taken by the State with legal authority and
due procedure.

DIGITAL PERSONAL DATA PROTECTION RULES, 2025

The Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology has drafted the Digital Personal Data Protection Rules, 2025
to facilitate the implementation of the Digital Personal Data Protection Act, 2023 (DPDP Act).

Key Points
z It aims to strengthen the legal framework for the protection of digital personal data by providing necessary details
and an actionable framework.
z The draft DPDP Rules, 2025, introduce a framework to safeguard personal data and uphold privacy rights. Below
is an overview of key provisions:
z Notice requirements for data fiduciaries: Data fiduciaries must issue clear, standalone notices to data principals
(individuals whose data is being collected).
z Consent managers: The consent managers (third-party entity or platform), responsible for facilitating data
principals in managing their consent.
z Data processing by the state: The state government and its agencies can process personal data to provide subsidies,
benefits, services, certificates, licenses, or permits as defined by law or funded through public resources.
z Data retention policies: Entities like e-commerce platforms with over 20 million users, online gaming intermediaries
with over 5 million users, and social media platforms with over 20 million users must delete user data after three
years unless the user actively maintains their account.

18TH PRAVASI BHARATIYA DIVAS CONVENTION

The 18th Pravasi Bharatiya Divas convention was held at Bhubaneswar in Odisha on 8th January 2025.

Key Points
z This is the first time Pravasi Bharatiya Divas was organised in Odisha.
z Organiser: It was jointly organised by the Odisha government in partnership with the Union Ministry of Youth
Affairs and Sports.
z Theme of the Divas: ‘Diaspora’s Contribution on a Vikshit Bharat’.
z Aim: It aims to celebrate and strengthen the bond between India and its overseas Indian community.
z President of Trinidad and Tobago Christine Carla Kangaloo will participate virtually as the chief guest of this edition
of the convention.

BHARATIYA VAYUYAN VIDHEYAK BILL

The Parliament has recently passed the Bharatiya Vayuyan Vidheyak Bill, 2024, aimed to provide some relief to
aviation personnel in their licensing processes.

Key Highlights of the Bharatiya Vayuyan Vidheyak Bill, 2024

z The Bill seeks to replace the Aircraft Act, 1934.
 The Aircraft Act, 1934 is a foundational legislation in India that regulates the manufacture, possession, use,
operation, and safety of aircraft. The Bill Retains Key Aviation Regulatory Bodies: The Act sets up:
 Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) for overseeing safety and performing regulatory functions,
 Bureau of Civil Aviation Security (BCAS) for overseeing security,
 Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) for investigating accidents.

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z The Bill adds power to regulate the design of aircraft, as well as the places where they are being designed, in
addition to retaining provisions for their manufacture, repair and maintenance.
z The Bill introduces a provision for a second appeal against decisions related to the imposition of penalties for
violating Rules under it.

RULES FOR CAA IMPLEMENTATION

The Citizenship (Amendment) Act, which was passed by Parliament in December 2019, has new rules for
implementation, which were announced by the Ministry of Home Affairs on March 11, 2024. In December 2019,
Parliament passed an amendment to the Citizenship Act, 1955.
z On December 12, 2019, the President gave his consent to it.
z This stated that individuals from Bangladesh, Pakistan, and Afghanistan who entered India on or before December
31, 2014, and who were exempted by the Central government under the Passport (Entry into India) Act, 1920, or
the Foreigners Act, 1946, were not to be considered “illegal migrants.”
z These individuals belonged to the Hindu, Sikh, Buddhist, Jain, Parsi, or Christian communities. The CAA assumes that
people from these communities were persecuted for their religious beliefs in these nations before moving to India.
z The sixth schedule of the Constitution, which addresses autonomous tribal-dominated territories in Assam,
Meghalaya, Tripura, and Mizoram, will not be affected by the act.
z Furthermore, the states of Arunachal Pradesh, Nagaland, and Mizoram—which have inner-line permit regimes—will
not be covered by the act. Additionally, the statute has shortened the 11-year citizenship by naturalization duration
to five years.

PUBLIC EXAMINATIONS (PREVENTION OF UNFAIR MEANS) ACT, 2024

The Centre notified the Rules to operationalize, ‘The Public Examinations (Prevention of Unfair Means) Act, 2024’.
z The Rules notified by the Ministry of Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions, provide a framework of actions to
prevent the use of unfair means in public examinations, including appointing Centre Coordinators, venue in-charges,
and Regional Officers.
z It is the anti-cheating law passed by Parliament in February, 2024.

ANGLO-INDIAN RESERVATIONS
The Anglo-Indian community in India, represented by its leaders, has called upon the central government to reinstate
reserved seats for Anglo-Indians in the Lok Sabha (Lower House of Parliament) and State Assemblies.

About Anglo-Indian Community

z The Anglo-Indian community in India originated from an official policy by the British East India Company, which
encouraged marriages between its officers and local women.
z Definition: The term “Anglo-Indian” first appeared in the Government of India Act, 1935.
 Article 366 (2) of the Constitution of India defines an Anglo-Indian as:
 A person whose father or male ancestors are of European descent.
 Domiciled within Indian territory, born to parents habitually resident in India (not temporarily present).

Constitutional Provisions for Anglo-Indian Reservation

z Article 331: Permits the President to nominate two Anglo-Indians to the Lok Sabha if the community lacks
adequate representation.
z Article 333: Allows a State Governor to nominate one Anglo-Indian to the State Assembly if the community is
underrepresented.
z Article 334(b): Extended Anglo-Indian reservations in legislative bodies for 40 years from 1949.
z National Commission for SCs (Article 338): Examines constitutional and legal safeguards for Anglo-Indians,
reporting their effectiveness to the President.

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INTER-STATE COUNCIL RECONSTITUTED
Recently, The Inter-State Council has been reconstituted with Prime Minister Narendra Modi as the chairman.
z The Standing Committee of the Inter-State Council (ISC) was also reconstituted with Home Minister Amit Shah
acting as its chairman.
About the Inter State Council
z The Inter State Council is a Non Permanent Constitutional body set up under Article 263 of The Constitution
of India.
z Establishment: The ISC was first established on 28 May 1990 by a presidential order on recommendation of
the Sarkaria Commission.
z Aim: To encourage dialogue, resolve disputes, and address concerns related to federal governance and inter-
state cooperation.
z Composition of the Council: The PM serves as the Chairperson. Members include Chief Ministers(CMs) of all
States, CMs of Union Territories having a Legislative Assembly and Administrators of UTs not having a Legislative
Assembly, and 6 Union Ministers of Cabinet rank, nominated by the Prime Minister, are also part of the ISC.
z Responsibilities:
 The Inter-State Council (ISC) mediates disputes between states by facilitating discussions and offering
recommendations for settlements.
 It serves as a forum for discussing issues of mutual interest among states or between states and the Union,
enabling coordinated policy decisions.

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ROLE OF QUANTUM COMPUTING IN NATIONAL SECURITY

Recently NITI Aayog released a strategic paper on quantum computing and its implications for national security.

About Quantum Computing

z Quantum computing leverages the principles of quantum mechanics to process information in fundamentally
different ways compared to classical computers.
z Difference Between Classical and Quantum Computing: While classical computers use bits as the smallest
unit of data (which can be either 0 or 1), quantum computers use quantum bits (qubits), which can exist in
multiple states simultaneously.

Significance of Quantum Computing

z Cybersecurity & Encryption: Quantum cryptography (e.g., Quantum Key Distribution) ensures ultra-secure
communication.
z Drug Discovery & Material Science: Quantum computers can simulate molecular and atomic interactions with
high precision, accelerating the development of new drugs, materials, and chemicals.
z Finance & Risk Analysis: Optimizes portfolios, detects fraud, and improves financial modeling..

Role of Quantum Computing in Reshaping National Security

z Cryptography & Cybersecurity: Quantum computers pose a threat to public-key encryption, impacting internet
security and online banking.
 Adoption of Post-Quantum Cryptography (PQC) is essential to safeguard data from quantum attacks.PQC
refers to encryption methods resistant to quantum attacks, ensuring data security in a post-quantum era.
z Intelligence Gathering: Enhances Signals Intelligence (SIGINT) by enabling large-scale interception and
decryption of communications.
 Transforms espionage and counterintelligence operations with advanced data analysis capabilities.
z Military Applications
 Optimises logistics, battlefield strategy, and resource allocation.
z Economic Warfare
 Quantum decryption could compromise financial markets, banking systems, and digital payments.
 Enables large-scale intellectual property theft, escalating economic espionage.

BORDER MANAGEMENT IN INDIA

The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) recently summoned the Bangladesh Acting High Commissioner to India,
over “security measures at the border, including on fencing”.

About India’s International Borders

z India shares its international land borders with seven countries and has a coastline of 7,516km.
z Total land border length: 15,106.7 km
z India shares borders with the countries
 Bangladesh - 4096.70 kms running along West Bengal, Assam, Meghalaya, Tripura and Mizoram.
 Pakistan - 3323 kms running along Gujarat, Rajasthan, Punjab, Union Territory of Jammu & Kashmir and Union
Territory of Ladakh.
 China - 3488 kms running along Arunachal Pradesh, Sikkim, Uttarakhand, Himachal Pradesh and the Union
Territory of Ladakh.
 Nepal - 1751 kms running along Uttarakhand, Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, West Bengal and Sikkim.
UPPSC CURRENT WALLAH
 Bhutan - 699 kms running along Sikkim, West Bengal, Assam and Arunachal Pradesh.
 Myanmar - 1643 kms running along Arunachal Pradesh, Nagaland, Manipur and Mizoram.
 Afghanistan - 106 kms running along Union Territory of Ladakh

Border Management in India

India’s border management involves multiple agencies and forces, each with specific responsibilities depending on the
type of border and associated challenges. The coordination among these agencies is crucial for effective management.
z Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA): The Ministry of Home Affairs oversees policy and operational aspects of all
border guarding forces.
z Border Security Force (BSF): Manages borders with Pakistan (3,323 km) and Bangladesh (4,096.7 km).
z Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP): Guards the India-China border (3,488 km).
z Sashastra Seema Bal (SSB): Secures the borders with Nepal (1,751 km) and Bhutan (699 km).
z Assam Rifles: Responsibility: Manages the India-Myanmar border (1,643 km).
z Indian Coast Guard (ICG): Secures India’s 7,516.6 km coastline, including maritime borders with Sri Lanka,
Maldives, and Indonesia.

Challenges in Border Management in India

z Geographic and Topographic Challenges
 Diverse Terrain: India’s borders span mountains, deserts, rivers, and forests, making surveillance and
infrastructure development difficult.
 Porous Borders: Unfenced and porous borders, particularly with Bangladesh (4,096 km) and Myanmar
(1,643 km), facilitate illegal migration, smuggling, and infiltration.
z Security Challenges
 Cross-Border Terrorism: Persistent infiltration attempts by terrorist groups, particularly along the India-
Pakistan border in Jammu & Kashmir.
 Insurgency and Militancy: Border regions in the Northeast, like Nagaland and Manipur, face insurgencies
that exploit porous borders with Myanmar.
z Infrastructure and Technological Gaps
 Inadequate Infrastructure: Border roads and facilities are underdeveloped in remote areas, delaying troop
movement and logistics.
 Example: On India China Border, Indian roads end 60-80 km before the LAC, while Chinese infrastructure
is much closer to the border, offering logistical advantages.

Way Forward in Border Management in India

z Infrastructure Development: Accelerate construction of all-weather roads, tunnels, and bridges in remote border
areas through initiatives like the Border Roads Organisation (BRO).
z Technology Integration: Expand the Comprehensive Integrated Border Management System (CIBMS) with
smart fencing, thermal cameras, drones, and ground sensors for real-time surveillance.
 Use satellite imagery and AI-driven analytics to monitor and analyze border activities.
z Enhanced Coordination: Establish unified command centers to streamline operations among multiple agencies
such as BSF, ITBP, and local police.
 Improve collaboration with neighboring countries through joint patrolling and bilateral agreements like the
Coordinated Border Management Plan (CBMP).
z Community Engagement: Strengthen the Border Area Development Programme (BADP) to address socio-
economic needs of border communities, fostering cooperation and reducing vulnerabilities.
 Provide incentives for local populations to assist in reporting suspicious activities.

Conclusion
India’s border management strategy must balance security concerns with developmental goals to enhance bilateral
relations and ensure sustainable peace.

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INDIA AND CHINA AGREEMENT ON THE PATROLLING ARRANGEMENTS
India and China have reached an agreement on the “patrolling arrangements” and the resolution of the military
stand-off at the Line of Actual Control (LAC), the government announced recently.

Background of the Disputes and Stand-off

z Border Dispute: India’s border dispute with China is the most complex and longstanding one, involving an ill-
defined, 3,488 km-long Border.
z Standoffs: The two countries have had several clashes and stand-offs along the LAC, most notably in 1967, 1987,
2013, 2017 and 2020-2021.
 Doklam: Chinese Incursion in the Doklam area in Sikkim in 2017 again ignited the border standoff between
the countries. The latest conflict in the Galwan Valley in June 2020 was the first fatal confrontation between
the two sides since 1975, killing at least 20 Indian soldiers.
 Doklam is a disputed area between China and Bhutan, and is located at the tri-junction of the three countries:
India, China and Bhutan.
 2020 Stand-off: The India-China military stand-off in eastern Ladakh began in April 2020.
 Friction points included Demchok, Depsang, Galwan, Pangong Tso, Gogra, and Hot Springs.
z Key Disputed Areas: The India China Border is divided into 3 sectors,
 The Western Sector: It spans across Ladakh and the Chinese-held Aksai Chin and is a 1,597 km-long LAC.
 The patrolling is done till 65 earmarked Patrol Points (PPs) stretching from Karakoram to Chumur.
 The Central Sector: It spans across Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand with length 545 Km and is the least
contentious area between the 2 countries.
 The Eastern Sector: It comprises sites such as Namkha Chu, Sumdorong Chu, Fish Tail 1 and Dibang valley in
Sikkim and Arunachal Pradesh with length 1346 Kms.
 Although China claims the entire Arunachal Pradesh Territory as its integral part.

Reasons for the India-China Border Dispute

z Ambiguity in the Definition of the LAC: India and China have differing perceptions of the Line of Actual Control
(LAC), leading to frequent confrontations.
 In the 2020 stand-off, China moved into areas in eastern Ladakh, including the Galwan Valley and Pangong
Tso, where the LAC is disputed.
z Historical Legacy of the 1962 Sino-Indian War: The unresolved border disputes from the 1962 war over territories
like Aksai Chin and Arunachal Pradesh remain a source of tension.
 China controls Aksai Chin (claimed by India as part of Ladakh), while India controls Arunachal Pradesh, which
China claims as “South Tibet.”
z Infrastructure Development by India: India’s rapid development of infrastructure, including roads, airstrips, and
bridges, in border areas has alarmed China.
 The completion of the Darbuk-Shyok-Daulat Beg Oldie (DSDBO) Road increased India’s access to the sensitive
LAC region, prompting Chinese aggression in Depsang Plains.

Way Forward to India China Relations

z Border Disputes Resolution: Establish additional buffer zones in contested areas, building on existing border
protocols, particularly the ban on firearms.
z Economic Cooperation: Address trade imbalance by diversifying imports and facilitating alternate global supply
chains. Explore a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) to enhance India’s exports to China.
z Track Diplomacy: Encourage Track Two diplomacy through non-governmental initiatives to foster dialogue and
build a “trust society.”
z Vibrant Villages Programme: Implement the development of villages in bordering states (Ladakh, Himachal
Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Sikkim, Arunachal Pradesh) to improve connectivity and security.

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GOVERNMENT TO INTRODUCE NATIONAL COUNTER-TERRORISM POLICY
The Indian Government intends to bring a National Counter-Terrorism Policy, emphasising collaborative efforts
to combat terrorism and dismantle its ecosystem.
More on News
z Terror Related Incidence In India: At the Anti-Terror Conference-2024, organised by the National Investigation
Agency (NIA) the Home Minister highlighted a 70% reduction in terror-related incidents in India over the
past 10 years.
z Significant Reduction in Violence Through State-Central Collaboration: Due to the joint efforts of state and
central governments, violence has been controlled to a great extent in Jammu and Kashmir, Naxal-affected
areas and the northeastern states in the last 10 years.
About Terrorism
z Definition of Terrorism: There is no universally accepted legal definition of terrorism.
z Comprehensive Convention on International Terrorism (CCIT) Definition: Terrorism includes actions that:
 Cause death or serious injury.
 Result in significant damage to property, including public infrastructure.
 Intend to intimidate populations or coerce governments or international organisations.
z UAPA Definition: The Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act is an Indian law aimed at the prevention of unlawful
activities associations in India.
 Under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA), a terrorist act is one that:
 Threatens India’s unity, integrity, security, or economic stability. Instills fear in people or specific
segments, both domestically and internationally.
Challenges Before India to Combat Terrorism
z Organised Crime as a Key Element of Terror Funding: Organised crime plays a significant role in financing
terrorist activities.
z Increasing Use Of Social Media in Terror Recruitment: Social media platforms serve as a major tool for the
radicalisation, ideological manipulation and recruitment of individuals, particularly youth, into terrorist
ideologies.
 Terrorist groups exploit these platforms to spread propaganda, recruit operatives, and coordinate attacks.
z Cross-Border Smuggling: Terrorist groups exploit porous borders across India to smuggle arms, ammunition,
and drugs, using these illicit activities to finance terrorism.
Way Forward
z Balancing Human Rights with Security: There is a need to balance counter-terrorism measures with the
protection of civil liberties. This includes safeguarding human rights while ensuring transparency and accountability
in security operations to avoid misuse of power.
z Counter-Terrorism Coordination and Strategy: There is a need for a uniform anti-terror structure, with better
coordination between counter-terrorism squads and local police at the district level.
z Regulating Social Media and Digital Tools: Strengthening social media regulations and investigating the use of
encrypted applications, VPNs, and virtual numbers, alongside tackling narcotics trafficking, is crucial for curbing
terrorism and ensuring national security.
Conclusion
India’s upcoming National Counter-Terrorism Policy is poised to strengthen the country’s internal security
framework and ensure that terrorism incidents continue to decline.

ELIMINATING MAOIST INSURGENCY

Union Home Minister asks all forces and agencies to make joint efforts towards achieving the goal of completely
eliminating Left Wing Extremism by March 2026.

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Key Announcements and Developments
z Target to Eliminate Maoists: Union Home Minister Amit Shah vowed to eradicate Maoists from Chhattisgarh by
March 31, 2026.
z Achievements in Chhattisgarh:
 Neutralized 287 Maoists, arrested 1,000, and facilitated the surrender of 837 Maoists in the last year.
 Schools and infrastructure destroyed by Maoist violence are being restored.

About Maoism
z Maoism is a form of communism developed by Mao Zedong.
z It is a doctrine to capture State power through a combination of armed insurgency, mass mobilization and
strategic alliances.

Factors Contributing to Maoism or Left-Wing Extremism (LWE)

z Land Alienation and Displacement: The lack of land reforms and displacement of tribals due to development
projects are major triggers for Maoist activity.
z Poverty and Lack of Development: LWE-affected areas often have higher levels of poverty and lower access to
basic facilities like education, healthcare, and infrastructure.
z Governance Deficit: Weak state presence and inadequate delivery of public services in remote tribal areas create
a governance vacuum that Maoists exploit.
z Exploitation by Landlords and Corporations: Tribals and marginalized communities face exploitation by landlords,
moneylenders, and corporations, deepening socio-economic inequalities.

Government’s Efforts to Counter LWE/Maoism in India

z National Policy and Action Plan (2015): The government adopted a multi-pronged strategy combining security,
development, and ensuring rights and entitlements of local communities.
z SAMADHAN Strategy: Introduced by the Ministry of Home Affairs, SAMADHAN is a comprehensive policy to
address LWE. It stands for:
 S for Smart Leadership, A for Aggressive Strategy, M for Motivation and Training, A for Actionable
Intelligence, D for Dashboard-based Key Result Areas and Key Performance Indicators, H for Harnessing
Technology, A for Action Plan for Each Theatre and N for No access to Financing.
z Rehabilitation and Surrender Policies
 Comprehensive rehabilitation policies for surrendered Maoists include skill development, education, and
financial packages.
A holistic approach combining development, governance, and security is essential to tackle Maoism effectively.
With sustained efforts, the influence of LWE can be minimized, ensuring peace, stability, and inclusive growth in
affected regions.

UNITED NATIONS CONVENTION AGAINST CYBERCRIME

The United Nations General Assembly has recently adopted the United Nations Convention against Cybercrime
in New York by resolution 79/243.

About the United Nations Convention Against Cybercrime

z It is the first global legally binding international criminal justice treaty on cybercrime
z Aim: To enhance the prevention and effective combating of cybercrime, strengthen international cooperation
and support technical assistance and capacity-building.
z Secretariat: The United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime will serve as the secretariat to the Conference of
the States Parties.
z Members: The treaty was adopted by consensus by all the 193 member states.

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Key Provision of the Treaty
z Global Framework: The Treaty provides a global framework to assist in investigations, prosecutions and judicial
proceedings, including extradition, joint investigations and asset recovery.
z International Cooperation: It facilitates cross-border access to electronic evidence through measures like data
preservation, access and interception, supported by a 24/7 contact point network for rapid response.
z Criminal Offenses: The Treaty addresses criminalisation of cyber-dependent offenses alongside cyber-enabled
crimes such as unauthorised hacking and data interference, online fraud and the non-consensual dissemination of
intimate images.
z Prevention of Child Abuse: Offenses such as online child sexual abuse, the distribution of exploitation material
and the solicitation or grooming of a child for the purpose of committing a sexual offence is a focal point.

About Cybercrime
z The Council of Europe Convention on Cybercrime defines cybercrime as,
 A wide range of malicious activities, including the illegal interception of data, system interferences that
compromise network integrity, and availability and copyright infringements

Reasons for India’s Vulnerability to Cybercrime

z Low Digital Literacy: Only 37% of the population was digital literate as of 2023 and a significant portion of
these lacks basic knowledge about online safety and best practices too making them susceptible to cyberattacks.
z Rapid Digitalization: India’s rapid adoption of digital technologies and online services due to cheap Internet
services has outpaced the development of robust cybersecurity measures.
z Large Internet User Base: India’s Internet user base is one of the largest in the world providing with a huge
potential for the cybercriminals to operate.
z Inadequate Cybersecurity Infrastructure: India is still developing the necessary infrastructure and expertise to
effectively combat cyber threats

Challenges in Tackling Cybercrime

z Lack of Harmonised Legal Frameworks: Cybercrime being a transnational crime is difficult to investigate and
trace as there is no unified approach to address it with significant differences in legal systems, cybersecurity
laws and enforcement capacities.
z Capacity Gaps: Developing countries mostly lack the necessary infrastructure, expertise and resources to
implement effective cybersecurity measures leading to a fragmented response.
z Incoherent: Cybercrime does not have a widely accepted definition, thus disagreements over the definition of
cybercrime and concerns about sovereignty could hinder cooperation in investigation and enforcement.

Way Forward
z Strengthen Legal Framework: India needs a comprehensive legal framework which deals with cyber crime
solely as it is still an emerging threat landscape and the IT Act (2000) is not sufficient.
z Cyber Security Infrastructure: Developing robust cyber security systems at all levels ie. national, state, local
and individual to detect and neutralize threats
z International Cooperation: India needs to participate actively globally both via bilateral and multilateral
mechanisms to stay connected and aware.

ISRO’S- 100TH MISSION

On 29th January 2025, The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) launched its historic 100th launch from the
Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota.

Key Points
z The GSLV-F15 with the NVS-02 satellite lifted off from the spaceport’s second launch pad at 6.23 a.m. on 29th
January 2025.

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z The GSLV-F15 is the 17th flight of India’s Geosynchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle (GSLV) and 11th flight
with Indigenous Cryo stage.
z It is the 8th operational flight of GSLV with an indigenous Cryogenic stage.

About NVS-02 Satellite

z NVS-02 is the second satellite in the NVS series.
z It is configured with navigation payload in L1, L5 and S bands in addition to ranging payload in C-band like its
predecessor-NVS-01
z It is to replace IRNSS-1E.
z NVS-02 uses a combination of indigenous and procured atomic clocks for precise time estimation.
z NVS-02 satellite was designed, developed and integrated at the U. R. Satellite Centre (URSC) with the support of
other satellite-based work centres.

SANJAY
Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh flagged-off ‘SANJAY - The Battlefield Surveillance System (BSS)’ from South Block,
New Delhi on January 24, 2025.

Key Points
z What is it? SANJAY is an automated system which integrates the inputs from all ground and aerial battlefield sensors,
processing them to confirm their veracity, preventing duplication and fusing them to produce a Common Surveillance
Picture of the battlefield over secured Army Data Network & Satellite Communication Network.
z It will enhance battlefield transparency and transform the future battlefield through a Centralised Web
Application which will provide inputs to Command & Army Headquarters, and the Indian Army Decision Support
System.
z The BSS is equipped with state-of-the-art sensors and cutting-edge analytics.
z Developed:It has been indigenously & jointly developed by the Indian Army and Bharat Electronics Limited
(BEL) creating a conducive ecosystem towards achieving ‘Aatmanirbharta’ as a follow up to the Indian Army’s ‘Year
of Technology Absorption’.

MAOIST ATTACK
In Chhattisgarh, an encounter broke out between security forces and Maoists in Sukma district on 9th Jan 2025. As
per sources, three Maoists have been killed in an encounter.

About Naxalism
z Naxalism refers to a Maoist-inspired insurgency that seeks to overthrow the Indian state through armed
rebellion.
z The movement emerged from a peasant uprising in 1967 against local landlords who were exploiting agricultural
workers.
z This revolt led to the formation of various left-wing extremist groups, collectively known as Naxalites.
z The movement has spread across several states in India, particularly in areas known as the “Red Corridor,” which
includes parts of Chhattisgarh, Jharkhand, Odisha, Bihar, and West Bengal.

Z-MORH TUNNEL
The Z-Morh Tunnel or Sonamarg Tunnel in Jammu and Kashmir was inaugurated by the Indian Prime Minister on
January 13, 2025.

Key Points
z The Z-Morh Tunnel is a 6.5-kilometre-long, two-lane road tunnel constructed between Gagangir and Sonamarg
in the Ganderbal district.

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z The main tunnel is 10.8 metres wide and consists of a 7.5-metre-long horseshoe-shaped escape tunnel and an
8.3-metre-long D-shaped ventilation tunnel.
z Built at an altitude of over 8,650 feet, the tunnel will improve connectivity between Srinagar and Sonamarg.
 In future, the tunnel will be connected to Leh. The aim of the tunnel is to provide all-weather access to the region.
 The tunnel will also significantly reduce travel time between Srinagar and Leh.
z Cost: It is part of a Rs 2,700 crore project.
z Significance: It will bypass landslide and avalanche-prone routes and provide safe, uninterrupted access to the
region.
 This will promote tourism.
z Way forward: The upcoming tunnel is part of a broader infrastructure project, which also includes the upcoming
Zojila Tunnel, which is expected to be completed by 2028.

SAGARMALA PARIKRAMA

An autonomous surface vessel by Sagar Defence Engineering recently completed a 1,500-km, without human
intervention voyage from Mumbai to Thoothukudi, marking a significant advancement in autonomous maritime
technology.

About Sagarmala Parikrama

z Purpose: Launched with the Indian Navy to push forward autonomous maritime capabilities.
z Support: Backed by the Indian Navy’s Naval Innovation and Indigenisation Organisation (NIIO), Technology
Development Acceleration Cell (TDAC), and Innovations for Defence Excellence (iDEX) under the Defence Innovation
Organisation (DIO).
z Launch: Virtually flagged off by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on October 29 at NIIO’s Swavlamban event.
 Swavlamban Event: This annual event of the Naval Innovation and Indigenisation Organisation (NIIO) promotes
self-reliance in defense by showcasing indigenous technology.
z Significance: Demonstrates India’s progress in unmanned maritime technology and aligns with the Aatmanirbharta
vision in defence.

ASMI

In a major boost to the country’s self-reliance initiative, the Indian Army has inducted 550 ‘Asmi’ machine pistols
into its Northern Command.

Key Points
z The weapon has been developed by Colonel Prasad Bansod of the Indian Army in partnership with the Defence
Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and is being manufactured by an Indian company in Hyderabad.
z This Made-in-India weapon underscores the Army’s commitment towards Atmanirbhar Bharat Abhiyan.
z The ‘Asmi’ machine pistol is specifically designed for close-quarter combat and specialized operations.
z This induction marks a significant step towards the country’s defense manufacturing sector, reinforcing the Indian
Army’s resolve to achieve self-sufficiency and drive Indigenous innovation.

ISO ACT

The Inter-Services Organizations (Command, Control, and Discipline) Act has officially come into force on May 10.

Key Points
z The bill was passed by both the Houses of Parliament during the Monsoon Session of 2023. The Bill received the
assent of the President on August 15, 2023.

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z The Act empowers Commanders-in-Chief and Officers-in-Command of ISOs to exercise control over Service personnel,
serving under them, for effective maintenance of discipline and administration, without disturbing the unique service
conditions of each individual Service.
z The Act will empower the Heads of ISOs and pave the way for expeditious disposal of cases, avoid multiple proceedings
and will be a step towards greater integration & jointness among the Armed Forces personnel.

50 YEARS OF POKHRAN-I

Fifty years ago, on May 18, 1974, India conducted its first nuclear tests in Pokhran, Rajasthan, as part of the ‘Smiling
Buddha’ operation.

About Pokhran-I
z On September 7, 1972, Indira Gandhi authorized the Bhabha Atomic Research Center (BARC) to develop and prepare
a nuclear device for testing.
z Pokhran, an army test range located in the desert of western Rajasthan, was chosen and its code name “Operation
Smiling Buddha” came from the test’s date being on the same day as Buddha Jayanti.
z In 1998, under the leadership of Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee, India conducted a series of nuclear tests in
Pokhran once again, code-named Operation Shakti.

PROJECT UDBHAV

Project Udbhav is a collaboration between the Indian Army and the United Service Institution of India (USI).
z It acknowledges the vintage scriptures and writings of our Nation & to revisit the roots of India’s ancient military
thoughts that can benefit modern military strategies.
z It was launched during the inauguration of the Indian Military Heritage Festival in October 2023.
z United Service Institution of India (USI) is a national security and defense services think tank based in New Delhi.
It was founded in 1870 by a soldier scholar, Colonel (later Major General) Sir Charles MacGregor.

PARADROP OF PORTABLE HOSPITAL

The Indian Air Force and the Indian Army successfully paradropped a homegrown portable hospital from 15,000 feet.

Key Points
z Cubes: Known as the Aarogya Maitri Health Cube, these homegrown trauma care “cubes” - “the world’s first portable
hospital” - are used to set up trauma care facilities on the field, thus saving lives in even the most remote areas.
z Developed: The “cubes” were developed under Project BHISHM (Bharat Health Initiative for Sahyog Hita and Maitri).
z The operation was conducted in line with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of providing critical supplies to
affected areas as part of humanitarian aid and disaster relief.
z The IAF used its US-origin advanced tactical transport aircraft C-130J Super Hercules to airlift and drop the “cube”
at a designated location accurately.

NIPUN MUNITION

Recently, the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has handed over the Authority Holding
Sealed Particulars (AHSP) of ‘Nipun’ munition to the Directorate General of Quality Assurance (DGQA).

About Nipun
z Location: At Armament Research & Development Establishment (ARDE), Pashan, Pune
z Development: NIPUN is a Soft Target Munition designed and developed by the ARDE in association with High
Energy Materials Research Laboratory (HEMRL), Pune.
z Nipun is known for being highly user-friendly and deadly effective against enemy targets.

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ABHED
DRDO signs MoU with IIT Delhi to develop LightWeight Bullet Proof jackets.

Key Points
z MoU: Defence Research and Development Organisation, DRDO has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with
the Indian Institute of Technology, IIT Delhi to develop LightWeight Bullet Proof Jackets.
z Naming: These jackets are named Advanced Ballistics for High Energy Defeat.
z Material Used: The jackets have been created from polymers and indigenous boron carbide ceramic material.

IDAX-24
On 12th September 2024, Raksha Mantri inaugurated the India Defence Aviation Exposition IDAX-24.
Key Points
z Aim: IDAX aims to showcase indigenous skills and indomitable spirit of Indian Aviation Industries to a wide spectrum
of decision-makers and end users from Global Air Forces participating in Tarang Shakti 2024.
z Host: It was hosted by the Indian Air Force in Jodhpur.
It was scheduled to be held from 12-14 Sep 2024.

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G7 SUMMIT
The G7 summit took place in Borgo Egnazia, Italy.

Key Points
z The G7 summit 2024 in Italy discussed several issues including defending the “rules-based international system”
amid Russia’s aggression towards Ukraine, the Israel-Gaza war, and strengthening partnerships with developing
nations, particularly in Africa.

About G7
z It is also known as the Group of Seven, is a grouping of industrialized nations that meets annually to discuss global
issues.
z It was previously known as the G8 until Russia was excluded in 2014 because of its annexation of Crimea from
Ukraine. There is no formal criteria for membership, but all participants are wealthy democracies.
z The G7 is an informal bloc and takes no mandatory decisions, so the leaders’ declarations at the end of the summit
are not binding.
z Together, these countries represent 40 percent of global GDP and 10 percent of the world’s population.

History of G7
z The G7 was formed in 1976 as a response to the oil price shocks of the 1970s. The original members were France,
Germany, Italy, Japan, the UK, and the US. Canada joined in 1978, and Russia eventually joined in 1998 — and its
inclusion was meant as a signal of cooperation between East and West after the Soviet Union’s collapse in 1991.

HAMAS-ISRAEL CEASEFIRE DEAL

After 15 months of war, which saw the deaths of tens of thousands of people, the destruction of much of Gaza and
multiple rounds of painstaking negotiations, Hamas and Israel have agreed to a ceasefire.

Background of the Ceasefire

z The Israel-Hamas ceasefire was implemented after a 15-month-long war that began on October 7, 2023.
z The ceasefire agreement was brokered through the diplomatic efforts of Egypt, Qatar, and the United States, based
on a framework proposed by U.S. President Joe Biden, endorsed by the UN Security Council in June 2024.

Implications of the Israel-Hamas Ceasefire

z For Hamas: The ceasefire is a victory. With its traditional organisation and leadership in dire straits after the
relentless and indiscriminate Israeli air and ground action, the group needs time and resources to recoup.
z Humanitarian Relief in Gaza: The ceasefire allows a pause in violence, providing much-needed humanitarian
aid to the Gaza Strip, where 1.9 million people are displaced.Stability in the Middle East: The ceasefire reduces
immediate hostilities between Israel and Hamas, potentially lowering tensions with regional players like Hezbollah
and Iran.
z Diplomatic Success for Mediators: Countries like the United States, Qatar, and Egypt, which brokered the deal,
strengthen their positions as key peace mediators in the Middle East.
z Political Challenges in Israel: The ceasefire has created political tension within Israel, with Prime Minister
Benjamin Netanyahu facing criticism from far-right coalition members for negotiating with Hamas.
z Reconstruction and Governance of Gaza: The agreement opens the door for discussions on Gaza’s reconstruction,
which will require billions in international aid.
 The United Nations Development Programme stated that the violence had caused Gaza’s development to lag
by 69 years.
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INDIA-EU FREE TRADE AGREEMENT
India and the European Union have decided to conclude their much-awaited Free Trade Agreement (FTA) by the
end of 2025.

More on News
z During a high-level meeting between Prime Minister Modi and European Commission President Ursula von der
Leyen, both leaders emphasized the importance of a balanced, ambitious, and mutually beneficial FTA.

India-EU Free Trade Agreement (FTA)

z Deadline Set for 2025: India and the European Union have decided to conclude their long-awaited FTA by the
end of 2025.
z Largest Trade Deal: The India-EU FTA is set to be the largest trade deal of its kind globally.
 It aims to enhance market access, remove trade barriers, and boost bilateral trade, which reached 137.41 billion
USD in goods and 51.45 billion USD in services in 2023-24.
z Key Negotiation Areas: Alongside the FTA, India and the EU are negotiating agreements on investment protection
and Geographical Indications (GI).
z Economic and Geopolitical Context: The FTA is seen as a response to the evolving global geopolitical landscape,
with both India and the EU seeking to enhance their strategic autonomy and economic resilience.

Key Benefits for India

z Enhanced Market Access: Indian goods, especially textiles and apparel, will benefit from tariff reductions, making
them more competitive in the EU market.
z Growth in Key Sectors:
 Pharmaceuticals: India, a major producer of generic medicines, will gain easier regulatory approval and market
access.
 IT & Services: India’s IT and professional services firms will benefit from reduced trade restrictions and enhanced
mobility for skilled professionals.
 Agriculture & Processed Food: Indian agricultural exports, such as tea, spices, and processed foods, will see
lower tariffs and fewer regulatory hurdles.
z Job Creation & Economic Growth: Increased exports and investment will generate millions of jobs, particularly in
textiles, manufacturing, and IT services.
 Strengthened trade ties will boost India’s GDP growth and enhance its global trade standing.

Challenges in India-EU FTA Negotiations

z EU’s Key Demands:
 Tax Cuts on Wines and Spirits: The EU is pushing for significant reductions in import duties on wines and
spirits, which are currently high in India.
 This is a sensitive issue for India, as it impacts domestic producers and state revenues.
z India’s Key Demands:
 Data Security Status for IT Sector: India is advocating for data security recognition for its IT and IT-enabled
services (ITES) sector.
 This would ensure easier access for Indian IT companies to the EU market and address concerns over data
localization and privacy regulations.
z Domestic Pressures: Both sides face internal sensitivities, with Indian industries wary of increased competition
and EU member states having differing priorities.

Way Forward
z Compromise and Flexibility: Both sides will need to find middle ground to address these challenges.
 For example, India may consider phased duty reductions on automobiles, while the EU could offer concessions
on data security and services access.

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z Fast-Track Negotiations: Given the importance of the India-EU FTA, both sides should aim for an expedited
conclusion while addressing legacy trade issues and ensuring a balanced deal.
z Tariff and Non-Tariff Barrier Resolution: India must negotiate for tariff reductions and removal of non-tariff
barriers in key sectors like textiles, pharmaceuticals, and automobiles to enhance its export competitiveness.
Conclusion
Both India and the EU are committed to deepening their strategic partnership, with trade, technology, and security
at the core. The FTA, if finalized, could significantly boost economic ties and set a new benchmark for global trade
agreements.

INDIA’S ENGAGEMENT WITH TALIBAN

India is gradually deepening its engagement with the Taliban regime in Afghanistan, marked by recent developments,
including the possibility of Afghanistan appointing a new envoy to its embassy in New Delhi.
Recent Shifts in India’s Engagement with the Taliban
z Pragmatic Approach:
 Engagement based on national security, trade, and humanitarian concerns rather than formal recognition.
 Taliban requested India resume stalled development projects, particularly healthcare and refugee rehabilitation.
z Humanitarian Assistance: Provided substantial humanitarian aid, including 50,000 MT of wheat, medicines,
and vaccines.
z Trade and Connectivity: Chabahar Port is identified as a critical gateway for Indo-Afghan trade, bypassing Pakistan.
 Promotion of connectivity through Zaranj-Delaram Highway to Central Asia.

Reasons Behind India’s Decision to Engage Taliban

z Strategic Location: Afghanistan acts as a gateway to energy-rich Central Asia, leveraging Chabahar Port to bypass
Pakistan..
z Regional Security: Counterterrorism priority to prevent Afghanistan becoming a terror hub.
z Economic Opportunities: Afghanistan’s mineral wealth presents investment potential.
z Cultural Ties: Deep historical connections dating back to ancient civilizations.
z Geopolitical Factors:
 Strained Pakistan-Taliban relations provide an opening for India.
 Iran’s focus on internal issues reduces its Afghan influence.
 Russia’s new openness to the Taliban amid its Ukraine engagement.
 China’s growing influence through infrastructure investments (Belt and Road Initiatives).
 Possible US policy shifts under Trump 2.0.

Implications of India Engaging with the Taliban

Positive Implications:
z Regional Stability: Engagement allows India to influence stability, counter terrorism, and balance Chinese and
Pakistani influences.
z Act West Policy: Strengthens India’s westward geopolitical strategy, opening gateways to Central Asia.
z Preservation of Investments: Protects India’s $3 billion in infrastructure (e.g., Salma Dam, Zaranj-Delaram
Highway), ensuring goodwill.
Negative Implications:
z Legitimizing the Taliban Regime: Risks indirectly legitimizing a regime accused of human rights violations,
undermining India’s democratic principles.
z Security Risks: Persistent threat of terrorism; Taliban assurances might not fully prevent terrorist activities from
Afghan soil.
z Strained Relations with Western Allies: Could conflict with Western partners critical of Taliban human rights
abuses, potentially harming international partnerships.

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Challenges in India-Taliban Relations
z Security Risks: Continued presence of anti-India terror groups ( like Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT), Jaish-e-Mohammed
(JeM), and Islamic State-Khorasan Province (ISKP)), demonstrated he Kandahar hijacking (1999) and attacks
on Indian embassy in Afghanistan, underscore the security risks posed by extremist groups..
z Pakistan’s Influence: Islamabad’s continued support for Taliban-linked groups like Haqqani Network complicates
India’s interest and strategic goals.
z Human Rights Concerns: Taliban’s lack of inclusive governance and continued rights violations create ethical and
diplomatic dilemmas.
 India has consistently advocated for an Afghan-led, Afghan-owned peace process, which contrasts with the
Taliban’s exclusionary governance.

Way Forward for India-Taliban Relations

z Maintain Pragmatic Engagement: Engage diplomatically without formal recognition, ensuring Afghan territory
isn’t used for anti-India terrorism by groups like LeT, JeM, and ISKP.
z Enhance Humanitarian Assistance: Expand aid in healthcare, education, and food security through community-
oriented projects to build goodwill.
z Strengthen Regional Partnerships: Collaborate with Iran, Russia, and Central Asian nations through platforms
like SAARC and SCO to stabilize Afghanistan and counter China’s influence.

Conclusion
India’s engagement with the Taliban reflects a delicate balancing act between strategic interests and ethical
considerations. India must navigate carefully, ensuring that security priorities are met, humanitarian
commitments are fulfilled, and regional influence is maintained without inadvertently legitimizing the Taliban
regime.

INDIA-CHINA ECONOMIC RELATIONS

The Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC) recently imposed anti-dumping duty on five Chinese
goods, including vacuum-insulated flasks of a certain thickness and aluminium foil.

What is Dumping?
z Dumping: When a country exports goods at a price lower than the price in its own domestic market, causing price
discrimination.
z WTO Definition: A situation of international price discrimination where the “normal value” in the exporting
country is higher than the “export price.”

Anti-Dumping Measures Under WTO Rules

z Countries can impose anti-dumping duties to protect domestic industries if:
 There is material injury to domestic producers.
 There is a threat of injury or material retardation to domestic industries.
z Anti-dumping duties are imposed up to the dumping margin (difference between normal value and export price).
z Duty ≤ dumping margin (normal value – export price) + customs duty.

Reasons Dumping is Contentious

z Unfair Trade Practices: Dumping is viewed as an unfair trade practice that exploits global free trade systems.
z Threat to Domestic Industries: Domestic industries may face material injury due to cheaper imports.
z Violation of Free Trade Principles: Dumping contradicts the principles of fair competition and distorts market
dynamics.

Key Concerns in India-China Economic Ties

z Widening Trade Deficit: India exports mostly raw materials like iron ore and cotton, while it imports high-value
manufactured goods such as electronics, telecom equipment, and machinery.

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z Over-Dependence on Chinese Imports: India depends heavily on China for pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs),
electronic components, and telecom equipment.
 Over-reliance on Chinese imports undermines India’s goal of achieving self-reliance through the Atmanirbhar
Bharat initiative.
z Investment and FDI Restrictions: Following the Galwan clash in 2020, India tightened its Foreign Direct
Investment (FDI) rules, requiring prior government approval for investments from countries sharing land borders
with India.
Way Forward for India-China Economic Relations
z Diversify Trade and Reduce Dependence on Chinese Imports: Implement the China Plus One strategy to source
critical imports from alternative countries.
 Promote domestic manufacturing through Atmanirbhar Bharat to reduce reliance on Chinese goods in key
sectors like electronics, telecom, and pharmaceuticals.
z Strengthen Domestic Manufacturing and Export Capabilities: Encourage investment in high-value manufacturing
and technology sectors to reduce trade imbalances.
 Develop India’s capabilities in electronics, telecom, and APIs (pharmaceuticals) to enhance global
competitiveness.
z Negotiate Greater Market Access for Indian Goods: Use India’s openness to Chinese investments as leverage to
demand reciprocity for Indian exports.
 Engage in sustained diplomatic efforts to remove Non-Tariff Barriers (NTBs) imposed by China on Indian goods.

Conclusion
To ensure a balanced economic relationship with China, India must pursue a multi-pronged strategy focused on
reducing dependency, enhancing domestic manufacturing, negotiating market access, and protecting critical sectors.
A calibrated approach will strengthen India’s economic resilience while safeguarding its strategic interests.

UNITED NATIONS (UN) REFORMS

UN Chief Antonio Guterres has announced the UN80 Initiative as the United Nations marks its 80th anniversary
in 2025.
Background
z Financial Crisis and Budget Constraints: The UN faces a liquidity crisis for the seventh consecutive year.
z Key Contributors and Payment Uncertainty
 The US and China are the top contributors to the UN’s regular budget:
 US Share: 22% (largest contributor) but owes $1.5 billion in arrears.
 China’s Share: 20% (increased by 5% in 2025). China has assured full payment but has not specified the
timeline.
 As of March 7, 2025, only 73 member states had paid their full assessments.

About UN80 Initiative

z Reform Effort: The UN80 Initiative is a reform effort launched by UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres to
improve the efficiency, cost-effectiveness, and strategic alignment of the 80-year-old United Nations amid
financial challenges and global uncertainty.
z Key Focus Areas:
 Identifying Operational Efficiencies: Streamlining UN processes for better performance.
 Reviewing Implementation of Mandates: Assessing how effectively Member States’ directives are being
executed.
 Strategic and Structural Overhaul: Conducting a deeper realignment of UN programs and systems.
z Implementation:
 A dedicated Task Force will develop proposals for these reforms.
 The initiative aims to maximize resources, ensuring the UN remains impactful despite funding constraints.

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About United Nations (UN)
z The United Nations (UN) is an international organization founded on October 24, 1945, to promote peace,
security, human rights, and development. It currently has 193 Member States and serves as a global platform
for international cooperation.
z The UN Charter of 1945 is the foundational treaty of the United Nations, as an intergovernmental organization.
z Main Organs of the UN
 General Assembly (UNGA): The main deliberative body where all Member States participate.
 Security Council (UNSC): Maintains international peace and security, with five permanent members (P5) and
ten elected members.
 Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC): Coordinates global economic, social, and environmental policies.
 International Court of Justice (ICJ): Settles legal disputes between states.
 Secretariat: Led by the Secretary-General, it carries out day-to-day operations.

Need for UN Reforms

z Outdated Structure: The UN was created in 1945 with 51 member states, but now has 193, making its framework
outdated.
 The global economy and financial systems have drastically changed, requiring structural updates.
z Global Disparities: Developing nations face increasing debt and inequality, limiting their progress. Existing global
systems fail to address sustainable development challenges effectively.
z Legitimacy and Credibility Issues: The UN Security Council’s dominance by a few permanent members weakens
trust.

India’s Concerns About the United Nations

z Failure in Addressing Global Crises: The UN has struggled to tackle major global challenges like COVID-19, the
Russia-Ukraine war, terrorism, and climate change. India calls for urgent reforms to make the organization more
effective and relevant.
z Unfair Veto Power Structure: Today, there are 193 member-states of the UN and only fifteen members of the
UNSC (less than 8% of the member states).
z Slow Progress on UN Reforms: Despite the Intergovernmental Negotiations (IGN) process starting, UN reforms
have been sluggish. India insists that reform efforts must be accelerated to reflect today’s geopolitical landscape.
z Developmental and Economic Asymmetries: India has expressed concerns over the North-South divide in
economic development and climate negotiations.

Way Forward
z Strengthening Advocacy for UNSC Expansion: India should continue pushing for a reformed Security Council with
equitable representation for developing nations.
 Example: Strengthening alliances with the G4 and the African Union can build diplomatic pressure for
change.
z Enhancing Multilateral Financial Contributions: Advocating for sustainable funding mechanisms like a UN
reserve fund can reduce dependency on major donors.
z Reforming the UN General Assembly (UNGA): Proposing a bicameral parliamentary system can enhance the
effectiveness of UNGA’s decision-making. Strengthening the implementation of UNGA resolutions will ensure better
global impact.
z Leveraging Regional and Thematic AlliancesEngaging with BRICS, QUAD, and the Global South can help push
for UN reforms.

INDIA’S MARITIME POLICY

India’s maritime policy has undergone a significant evolution from the launch of SAGAR (Security and Growth for
All in the Region) in 2015 to the newly announced MAHASAGAR (Mutual and Holistic Advancement for Security
and Growth Across Regions) in 2025.

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Background
About MAHASAGAR:
z MAHASAGAR vision was unveiled by the Indian Prime Minister during his two-day visit to Mauritius, reaffirming
India’s commitment to the Global South.
z Evolution from SAGAR to MAHASAGAR: MAHASAGAR builds upon the SAGAR (Security and Growth for All in
the Region) policy of 2015.
 The SAGAR doctrine (2015) promoted maritime security, sustainable development, and regional cooperation
in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR)
 Whereas, the MAHASAGAR (2025) initiative expands on SAGAR, focusing on:
 Strengthening trade and connectivity.
 Enhancing maritime security and domain awareness.
 Boosting disaster resilience and humanitarian aid.
 Deepening economic and cultural ties with island nations.
Need For Shift from SAGAR to MAHASAGAR:
z Expanding Strategic Vision: SAGAR focused on the Indian Ocean, while MAHASAGAR broadens India’s engagement
across multiple regions, including the Indo-Pacific and beyond.
z Growing Geopolitical Challenges: Increased Chinese influence in the Indian Ocean, Africa, and Pacific Island
nations requires a more comprehensive approach.
z Economic and Trade Considerations: India aims to enhance blue economy partnerships, trade connectivity, and
digital cooperation with emerging markets.
Geopolitical Implications of MAHASAGAR:
z Alignment with other policies: MAHASAGAR aligns with Indo-Pacific strategy and complements QUAD’s vision
for a free and open Indo-Pacific.
z Countering China’s Influence: Countering China’s influence in the Indo-Pacific and Indian Ocean through India-led
cooperation models.
z Strengthening India’s Position: Positioning India as a leader in the Global South, advocating for their interests in
global forums like G20, IORA, and BRICS.
z Africa and Beyond: MAHASAGAR enables India to deepen engagement with African nations, Latin America, and
the Caribbean, reinforcing South-South cooperation.
Challenges For India’s Engagement With Global South
z Strategic Competition: The growing Chinese influence through the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), Maritime Silk
Road etc and its expanding naval presence in the Indian Ocean pose strategic challenges.
z Multiplicity of Regional Organisations: Example, Mauritius is a key player in three regional organizations, IORA,
Indian Ocean Commission (IOC) and Colombo Security Conclave (CSC).
z Resource Constraints: India must balance its naval modernization and infrastructure investments with other
domestic priorities.
z Climate Change and Maritime Disasters: Rising sea levels and increasing extreme weather events necessitate
greater focus on climate resilience in maritime policies.
Way Forward
z Strengthen Regional Cooperation: Deepen engagement with Indo-Pacific and Global South nations through
diplomatic, economic, and security initiatives.Example, India has helped Mauritius set up its Coastal Surveillance
Radar System.
z Strengthen HADR (Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief) operations in the Indian Ocean: India can
enhance its role as a first responder by pre-positioning relief supplies at key naval bases, such as Andaman &
Nicobar Islands, and deploying rapid-response naval assets equipped for disaster relief.
z Coordination with regional partners: Expanding coordination with regional partners through platforms like
Indian Ocean Rim Association (IORA) and Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic
Cooperation (BIMSTEC) will improve collective disaster preparedness and response efficiency.

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Conclusion
The shift from SAGAR to MAHASAGAR reflects India’s ambition to expand its maritime leadership beyond South
Asia, integrating economic growth, regional security, and sustainable development into a single framework.

INDIA-INDONESIA RELATIONS
President of Indonesia, Prabowo Subianto attended the 76th Republic Day of India as the Chief Guest.
Key Agreements and Cooperations During the Visit
z Joint Statement on South China Sea:Emphasis on a “full and effective” Code of Conduct (COC) in line with 1982
UNCLOS to maintain peace, stability, and freedom of navigation.
z Maritime Cooperation: Agreement to position an Indonesian liaison officer at India’s IFC-IOR (Information
Fusion Centre-Indian Ocean Region) in Gurugram, established in 2018.
 Early establishment of bilateral maritime and cybersecurity dialogues.
 Bilateral cooperation in hydrography and submarine search and rescue.
z Defence and Strategic Ties:
 Ratification of the Defence Cooperation Agreement (DCA) for deeper defence ties.
 Deal to export BrahMos missiles worth ₹3,800 crore to Indonesia.
z Economic Cooperation:
 Focus on implementing a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for local currency use in bilateral transactions
to enhance trade and financial integration.Agreed to the expedited conclusion of the ongoing review of the
ASEAN-India Trade in Goods Agreement (AITIGA) by 2025.
 Indonesia welcomes India’s invitation to join the Global Biofuels Alliance.
 Exploration of partnerships in energy, critical minerals, and science & technology.
 For Example: Bharat Petroleum Corp (BPCL) plans to invest $121 million to develop the Nunukan oil and
gas block in Indonesia.
India-Indonesia Relations
Early Relations and Solidarity Against Colonialism (1940s–1950s)
z Historical and Cultural Ties: Over 2,000 years of shared cultural and commercial interactions.
 Hinduism, Buddhism, and Islam traveled to Indonesia from India.
 Indian epics like Ramayana and Mahabharata influence Indonesian folklore and arts.
z Shared Anti-Colonial Struggle: India strongly supported Indonesia’s independence during the Dutch colonial
period (1945-49).
z Strengthening Diplomatic Ties: President Sukarno was the Chief Guest at India’s first Republic Day (1950).
 Treaty of Friendship signed in 1951 aimed at “perpetual peace and unalterable friendship.”
z Non-Alignment and International Cooperation: Close coordination on global issues like anti-colonialism,
apartheid, and peaceful coexistence.
 Played key roles in the Bandung Conference (1955), which laid the foundation for the Non-Aligned Movement
(NAM) in 1961.
Decline in Relations (1960s–1970s)
z Divergence over China: While India’s ties with China soured after the 1959 Tibetan uprising, Indonesia maintained
strong relations with Beijing.
z Cold War Tensions: During the 1962 Sino-Indian war, Indonesia showed little solidarity with India.
 Indonesia aligned with Pakistan during the 1965 Indo-Pak war, even supplying weapons to Islamabad.
Revival and the ‘Look East’ Policy
z Post-Cold War Recalibration: The P.V. Narasimha Rao government launched the ‘Look East’ Policy in the 1990s,
targeting stronger ties with Southeast Asia, including Indonesia.
z Economic Liberalization: India’s reforms created opportunities for economic and trade partnerships.
 Indonesia became a key partner in ASEAN for India, particularly in trade and investments.

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Geostrategic Relations
z Maritime Neighbors: Shared maritime boundaries in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR).
 Strategic importance of the Straits of Malacca, a critical trade route.
z Freedom of Navigation: Joint commitment to UNCLOS (1982) for a rules-based order in the Indo-Pacific.
 Emphasis on maritime security, freedom of navigation, and overflight rights.
z Regional Connectivity:Development of Indonesia’s Sabang Port for enhanced access to the Malacca Strait.
Defense and Security Cooperation
z Military Collaboration: Garuda Shakti (Army) and Samudra Shakti (Navy) exercises enhance interoperability.
 IND-INDO CORPAT (Coordinated Patrols) to secure sea lanes and combat maritime threats.

Economic Relations
z Trade Relations: Indonesia is India’s second-largest trading partner in ASEAN after Singapore.
 Bilateral trade increased from $4.3 billion in 2005-06 to $38.84 billion in 2022-23 and $29.40 billion in
2023-24.
z Local Currency Settlement (LCS): In March 2024, MoU signed between the Reserve Bank of India and Bank
Indonesia for trade in Rupee and Rupiah to reduce dependency on foreign currencies and deepen financial
integration.
Multilateral Engagement
z Global and Regional Forums: Active participation in ASEAN, G20, IORA, and East Asia Summit.
 India’s support for ASEAN Centrality and Indonesia’s BRICS membership.
z Indo-Pacific Coordination: Synergizing ASEAN Outlook on the Indo-Pacific with India’s Indo-Pacific Oceans
Initiative (IPOI).
 Cooperation on blue economy, maritime resources, and disaster resilience.

Cultural and Educational Collaboration

z Cultural Bonds: Influence of Ramayana and Mahabharata in Indonesian folklore.
 Restoration and preservation of the Prambanan Temple.
 Cultural exchanges through Indian cultural centers in Jakarta and Bali.
 Jawaharlal Nehru Indian Cultural Centre was established in Jakarta in 1989
z Educational Cooperation: Scholarships under ITEC and ICCR programs for Indonesian students.
 Collaboration between universities, including MoUs under the ASEAN-India Network of Universities.
z People-to-People Ties: Around 14,000 Indian Nationals (NRI) living in Indonesia including entrepreneurs,
engineers, chartered accountants, IT professionals, consultants, bankers, and other professions.
z Skill Development: Training programs for Indonesian healthcare professionals and policymakers under Indian
capacity-building initiatives.

Way Forward for India-Indonesia Relations

z Strengthen Trade: Reduce dependency on imports of crude palm oil and coal by exploring trade in renewable
energy, IT, and pharmaceuticals.
z Encourage Investments: Address regulatory barriers and establish a dedicated facilitation mechanism for Indian
investors in Indonesia’s infrastructure and energy sectors.
z Deepen Defense and Security Cooperation: Strengthen cooperation under frameworks like IND-INDO CORPAT
to secure sea lanes in the Straits of Malacca and combat piracy and illegal fishing.

INDIA-FRANCE RELATIONS
The Prime Minister of India visited France to attend the AI Action Summit at the invitation of President Emmanuel
Macron to co-chair the Summit.

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Key Outcomes of the Visit
z Nuclear Cooperation
 Joint Development of Modern Nuclear Reactors: Formal recognition of nuclear energy’s role in energy security
and low-carbon economy.
 Jaitapur Nuclear Power Plant (JNPP): Agreement to build 6 European Pressurized Reactors (EPRs) reactors
through India-France collaboration.
z Artificial Intelligence & Innovation
 India-France AI Roadmap: Joint focus on safe, open, and trustworthy AI.
 India hosting the next AI Summit.
 India-France Year of Innovation (2026): Cross-sectoral initiative announced, focusing on technology, culture,
and education.
z Indo-Pacific & Global Cooperation
 Indo-Pacific Triangular Development Cooperation: Joint climate and SDG projects in third countries.

Key Areas of India-France Cooperation

Defence and Security Cooperation
z Defence Procurement & Industrial Cooperation
 Rafale Jets: India procured 36 Rafale fighter jets from France.
 Scorpene Submarine Project (P-75): 6th and final submarine, INS Vaghsheer, commissioned in Jan 2025.
z Military Exercises & Maritime Cooperation
 Joint Military Exercises: Varuna (Navy), Garuda (Air Force), Shakti (Army), La Pérouse (Multilateral).
 Indian Navy and French Carrier Strike Group Joint Operations: France’s Charles de Gaulle aircraft carrier
visited India in Jan 2025.
 Enhanced maritime patrol and anti-submarine warfare collaboration.
Civil Nuclear Cooperation
z Joint Research in Nuclear Fusion: India is a member of the International Thermonuclear Experimental
Reactor (ITER) in France.
Space & Digital Cooperation
z 50+ Years of ISRO-CNES Collaboration:
 TRISHNA (Thermal Infra-Red Imaging Satellite for High-Resolution Natural Resource Assessment)
satellite for thermal infrared imaging to monitor surface temperature and water management globally. (launch
in 2026).
 Earth observation & maritime domain awareness projects.
Trade & Economic Cooperation
z Bilateral Trade (2024-25): Trade reached a record high in aerospace, defence, energy, consumer goods.
Indo-Pacific & Global Multilateral Cooperation
z India-France Indo-Pacific Triangular Development Cooperation: Focus on climate & SDG-based projects in
third countries (small island nations & African states).
z UNSC Reform & Multilateralism: France supports India’s permanent membership in the UNSC.
z Climate Action:
 France co-leads International Solar Alliance (ISA) & Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure (CDRI)
with India.
People-to-People & Cultural Cooperation
z Education & Skill Development:
 The International Classes Scheme, launched in September 2024, offers Indian students a year of French
language and academic preparation in top French universities; student numbers are expected to rise to 10,000
by 2025.
 Target: 30,000 Indian students in France by 2030.

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 Young Professionals Scheme (YPS) launched for employment & migration under India-France Migration and
Mobility Partnership Agreement (MMPA)
 Bilateral agreement for vocational training & skill development.
Way Forward for Strengthening India-France Relations
z Fast-Tracking India-EU Free Trade Agreement (FTA) India should offer tariff reductions on high-demand
French exports (wine, dairy, luxury goods), while France should ease restrictions on Indian IT services, textiles,
and pharmaceuticals.
 A bilateral investment treaty (BIT) can provide a stable framework for French investors in India.
z Balancing Trade and Addressing Non-Tariff Barriers: Regular dialogues between trade ministries to resolve
issues like sanitary and phytosanitary (SPS) barriers on basmati rice and marine exports.
 Encouraging French investment in Indian manufacturing (Make in India initiative) to balance the trade gap.
z Deepening Defence & Technology Transfer Agreements: Accelerate Rafale jet engine co-development with
Safran-HAL by ensuring clear terms for tech transfer.
 Fast-track Scorpene submarine collaboration with full stealth technology transfer.
 Joint production of advanced drones, missiles, and naval assets for the Indo-Pacific.
z Enhancing Indo-Pacific Strategic Cooperation: More joint naval exercises (Varuna, La Pérouse) and maritime
surveillance.
 Establish a permanent strategic naval presence in the Indo-Pacific (e.g., joint patrolling missions).
 Expand India-France-Australia and India-France-UAE trilateral dialogues.

Conclusion
India-France relations are evolving into a comprehensive strategic partnership, encompassing defence, nuclear
energy, AI, trade, Indo-Pacific security, and cultural diplomacy. With the Horizon 2047 roadmap, both nations aim
to strengthen sovereignty, technology exchange, and global cooperation, making the partnership a key pillar in
India’s foreign policy.

INDIA-QATAR RELATIONS
The Amir of the State of Qatar, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani paid a State Visit to India on 17-18 February 2025.
More on News
z This is the second visit of Sheikh Tamim Bin Hamad Al Thani to India as Amir of the State of Qatar.
Key Outcomes of the Meeting
z Strategic Partnership: India and Qatar have upgraded their relationship to a Strategic Partnership, joining other
Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries like the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Oman, and Kuwait.
z Energy Cooperation: Both sides agreed to enhance energy cooperation, including mutual investments in energy
infrastructure and regular meetings of the Joint Task Force on Energy.
z Security and Counter-Terrorism: Both leaders condemned terrorism in all forms and agreed to enhance cooperation
in intelligence sharing, cybersecurity, and law enforcement.
z Economic and Trade Cooperation:
 Target to Double Bilateral Trade by 2030: Trade between the two countries is $14 billion annually, and they
set a target to double it to $28 billion by 2030.
 Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA): Exploration of a bilateral CEPA to further enhance
trade and economic ties.
India-Qatar Bilateral Relations
Political Relations
z Historically strong ties with regular high-level visits and diplomatic engagements.
z Ancient Era: India and Qatar shared strong maritime trade links, with Indian traders supplying textiles, spices,
and pearls.

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z Recent high-level visits:
 February 2025: Qatar’s Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani visited India and elevated ties to a Strategic
Partnership.
 February 2024: PM Modi’s visit to Qatar focused on trade, energy, and investment.
z Multilateral Cooperation
 India and Qatar support UN reforms, including restructuring the UN Security Council.
 Regular coordination in multilateral organizations like the UN, GCC, and WTO.
Defence & Security Cooperation
z India-Qatar Defence Cooperation Agreement (2008, renewed in 2018) facilitates collaboration in security and
maritime issues.
z Defence Exercises & Visits:
 The Indian Navy and Coast Guard regularly visit Qatar.
 Bilateral maritime exercise: “Za’ir Al-Bahr” (Roar of the Sea)
 Joint Defence Cooperation Committee (JDCC) meets periodically.
 Indian defence institutions provide training slots for Qatari personnel.
 Indian Air Force’s C-17 aircraft participated in COVID-19 relief efforts in Qatar.
 Doha International Maritime Defence Exhibition (DIMDEX): India regularly participates.
Commercial & Investment Relations
z Bilateral Trade
 Bilateral Trade (2023-24): $14 billion
 India is Qatar’s 3rd largest trading partner.
z Energy Cooperation:
 LNG Supply: Qatar is the largest supplier of LNG to India, accounting for 48% of India’s global LNG imports.
 LPG Supply: Qatar is also India’s largest supplier of LPG, accounting for 29% of India’s total LPG imports.
z India-Qatar Free Trade Agreement (FTA) & Financial Integration: India and Qatar exploring a bilateral FTA
alongside India-GCC FTA negotiations.
Cultural Relations
z India-Qatar Year of Culture (2019): Over 45 cultural events organized in Qatar.
z International Day of Yoga: Qatar co-sponsored the UN resolution, and the day is celebrated annually.
z India participated in Qatar’s MENASA Year of Culture 2022.
Indian Community in Qatar
z Population: Over 835,000 Indian nationals (as of December 2023), making up 27% of Qatar’s total population.
z Contribution: Indians are highly regarded for their honesty, hard work, and contributions to Qatar’s development.
z Labour Reforms: Qatar has introduced reforms like the abolition of the Kafala system, minimum wage laws, and
labour dispute settlement committees.
Challenges in India-Qatar Relations
z Energy Dependence & Price Volatility: India is heavily dependent on Qatar for LNG and LPG, with Qatar
supplying 48% of India’s LNG imports.
z Trade & Investment Imbalance: India imports more than it exports, mainly due to energy imports.
z Geopolitical & West Asia Conflicts: Qatar has close ties with Iran, Turkey, and Islamist groups like the Muslim
Brotherhood, which may not align with India’s interests.
 Qatar’s mediation role in the Israel-Palestine conflict and Taliban negotiations sometimes puts it in
opposition to India’s diplomatic stance.
Way Forward for Strengthening India-Qatar Relations
z Diversify Trade & Investment Ties: Balancing the trade deficit and attracting Qatari FDI will create a more
sustainable economic partnership.
 Fast-track the India-Qatar Free Trade Agreement (FTA) to boost bilateral trade and remove tariff barriers.

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z Strengthen Energy Cooperation & Price Negotiations: Reducing dependence on volatile LNG prices and
diversifying the energy partnership will enhance India’s energy security.
 Expand cooperation in renewable energy, including green hydrogen, solar, and wind energy projects.
z Enhance Defence & Maritime Security Ties: Strengthening defence ties will boost regional security, maritime
safety, and India’s strategic influence in the Gulf.
 Increase joint military exercises and naval cooperation for maritime security in the Persian Gulf.
z Improve Indian Expatriate Welfare & Labour Rights: Strengthen agreements on labor rights to ensure better
working conditions for Indian workers.

Conclusion
India and Qatar have elevated their ties to a Strategic Partnership with a focus on trade, investment, energy,
security, and cultural exchange. Future cooperation will expand into renewable energy, startups, AI, and
advanced technology while strengthening economic and people-to-people ties.

BRICS EXPANSION
The year 2025 begins with BRICS (Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa) experiencing significant growth, as
it fully welcomed four new members in 2024.
z Indonesia Officially Becomes First Southeast Asian Member of BRICS.

Reasons of the Expansion of BRICS

z Strategic Global Influence: The primary reason is to create counter balance to western dominance in the institutions
working on an international level.
z Economic Strength: The expansion of brics will strengthen its economic potential. For it, it includes countries with
high economic potential like China and India.
z Energy Security: Apart from trade and investment, its decision to include countries like Iran and Saudi Arabia
(Pending) is backed by accessing energy reserves.
z Geopolitical Significance: Inclusion of countries like Egypt and Ethiopia helps in accessing maritime trade
routes.

Impact of BRICS+ Expansion on Global Institutions

z Pressure on International Organizations to Reform: It will increase the pressure on international organizations
like the UN, the World Bank, and the IMF to reform and offer adequate representation for developing and emerging
economies.
z EU and Balkan Enlargement: The European Union may also feel the pressure as some Western Balkans countries,
tired of waiting for EU membership, could consider aligning with BRICS+ instead.

Challenges Related to the Expansion of BRICS+

z Skepticism from the West: BRICS+ is often seen as a challenge to the Western-dominated global economic order,
increasing geopolitical tensions, especially with the G7 and NATO allies.
z Varying Political Systems and Economic Goals: The bloc’s members like Iran, Egypt, and the UAE, have divergent
political ideologies, governance models, and economic priorities.
z China-India Rivalry: Historical and ongoing disputes between these two major members may hinder consensus
and collaboration.
z Complexity of Enlarged Membership: The inclusion of new members makes it harder to align interests and
formulate policies, especially on sensitive global issues.
z Consensus Challenges: Reaching agreements on trade, security, and other critical matters becomes increasingly
complex with a diverse membership.

Way Forward
z Address Diverging Interests: BRICS+ must acknowledge and reconcile its members’ diverse political systems,
economic priorities, and development stages.

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z Promotion of Local Currencies in Trade: The bloc should work on establishing a multi-currency trade framework,
possibly with a BRICS+ digital currency.
z Facilitating Market Access: BRICS+ should work toward reducing trade barriers, enhancing investment flows, and
establishing more diversified supply chains among member nations.
z Refining the New Development Bank (NDB): The NDB should expand its focus to include more sustainable
development projects and social infrastructure in developing countries.

Conclusion
BRICS+ is rapidly evolving into a major geopolitical entity, with the potential to reshape global power dynamics.
The future of BRICS+ will depend on how it manages its diversity, navigates its strategic interests, and addresses
the changing global order. The upcoming summit in Brazil will likely be a key moment in determining the group’s
trajectory.

16TH BRICS SUMMIT

The Prime Minister of India participated in the 16th BRICS summit.

Key Points
z Host: 16th BRICS summit was held in the city of Kazan, Russia. Kazan is one of Russia’s largest and wealthiest cities.
z Dates: It was held October 22nd to 24th, 2024.
z Theme: The summit was held under the theme: ‘Strengthening Multilateralism for Just Global Development
and Security’.
z It was the first summit of BRICS countries after the expansion.

About BRICS
z In 2006, Brazil, Russia, India and China created the “Bric” group.
z The acronym BRIC was first used in 2001 by Goldman Sachs in their Global Economics Paper, ‘The World Needs
Better Economic BRICs’.
z The first BRIC Summit was held in Yekaterinburg, Russia, in 2009.
z It was decided to include South Africa at the BRIC Foreign Ministers’ meeting in New York in 2010
z The group was designed to bring together the world’s most important developing countries, to challenge the political
and economic power of the wealthier nations of North America and Western Europe.

INDIAN MIGRANTS IN GULF COUNTRIES

Recently, a devastating fire broke out in an apartment building near Kuwait City, at least 49 people, around 40 of
them Indians died.

More on News
z The recent case of deaths in a fire in Kuwait has once again brought attention to the lack of safety and deplorable
living conditions of Indian migrants in Gulf Countries.

Indian Migrants in Gulf Countries

z The Ministry of External Affairs stated that about 8.88 million NRIs live in six Gulf nations.
z These six states are home to roughly 35 million migrant workers, accounting for 10% of all international
migrants, and Indians constitute the single largest group amongst them.
z Inward Remittances: Of the total foreign inward remittances, 28.6% originated from the Gulf countries, with
Kuwait alone accounting for 2.4% of these remittances.

What is the Gulf Cooperation Council?

z GCC, or the Gulf Cooperation Council, is a group of six nations – Saudi Arabia, UAE, Oman, Kuwait, Qatar and
Bahrain.

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What are the Challenges Faced by the Indian Workers in Gulf Countries?
1. Kafala System: It ties a migrant worker’s legal status to a specific employer or sponsor, known as a kafeel, for
the duration of their contract. This means that the worker’s ability to enter, stay, and leave the country is
controlled by the kafeel.
2. Inhuman Living Conditions: Crowded, unsafe and unhygienic labour accommodation that makes its residents
most vulnerable to any exigencies that may arise in a country.
3. Recruitment Malpractices: Most host countries require employers to pay recruitment fees, these often get passed
on to workers, who take out loans to pay them or become indebted to the recruiter.
4. Forced Labour: In most situations, workers need their sponsor’s permission to transfer jobs, end employment,
and enter or exit the host country.
5. Lack of Data and Invisibilization of Migrants-There is a lack of data on migrants, both at their origin and
destination countries which acts as a major challenge in addressing their issues.

Measures Needed to Protect Migrant Workers

1. Kuwait Tragedy Underscores Need For New Emigration Law
 The Emigration Act lacks standardised Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for assisting Indians in foreign
countries.
2. Few Structural Changes related to Recruitment, Sponsorship system, employment visa etc. to ensure rights of
migrant workers
 Recruitment: Recruitment process must be reformed; formalised and monitored to ensure protection of the
rights and welfare of migrant workers.
 Sponsorship system: Discontinue the individual sponsorship system and replace it with the National
Employment Office or Ministry of Labour (MOL) in the destination country overseeing the recruitment process.
 Visa Issue: An employment visa, rather than the sponsor, should regulate the migrant workers’ entry to the
destination country.
 The employment based visa would allow workers the right to resign within one month notice

Conclusion
z Yet, India has not yet been fully successful in tapping the potential of being one of the strongest migrant-
sending countries to ensure the well-being of its people in the destination country.
z It is high time that India is known as the country with the most efficient infrastructure for ensuring safe
migration and life at the destination for migrants, not just the highest migrant-sending country that receives the
most remittances.

BASTILLE DAY CELEBRATIONS IN FRANCE

The French National Day, also known as Bastille Day is celebrated on July 14 each year, on the anniversary of the
storming of the Bastille prison in Paris in 1789.
z Last year, the Indian Prime Minister graced the Bastille Day celebrations in France.

About the French Revolution

The French Revolution marked the collapse of the French monarchy and the traditional social order, signalling
the end of absolutism and the rise of secular, democratic governance.
z Time Period: The French Revolution was a period of radical social and political upheaval in France from 1789 to
1799.
z Characterised by: Significant changes in the country’s political, social, and economic systems, as well as profound
cultural and intellectual transformations.

Influence of the French Revolution on Indian Constituent Assembly and India

z Tree of Liberty by Tipuu Sultan: Tipu Sultan, the ruler of Mysore in the late eighteenth century, is famous for
planting the Tree of Liberty in his capital Seringapatam and calling himself ‘Citizen Tipoo’.

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z Preamble of the Indian Constitution: The Indian Constituent Assembly adopted the first few lines of the Preamble
to India’s Constitution from the French Revolution.
 The Preamble grants the Liberty- of thoughts, expression, belief, faith and worship, Equality of – status and
opportunity (to its citizens), and, to promote among them all, Fraternity assuring the dignity of the individual
and the unity and integrity of the Nation.
z The Idea of Republic: Republic means reserving the highest office of the state for an elected representative,
symbolising governance by the people themselves. By overthrowing its monarchy, the French broke the myth of
the invincibility of monarchies across the world.
 The Constituent Assembly on the Preamble began its debates in October 1949. The idea of Equality was
already codified by this time.
 Example: India abolished titles (Article 18), introduced universal adult franchise (Article 326) and argued
for equality with principles of equity as the Fundamental Rights of citizens (Articles 14, 15) and numerous
others.
z Secularism and Fraternity: The Indian Constitution makers took another lesson from France in terms of the idea
of Secularism and Fraternity. However, secularism in India and France is not the absence of religion.
Lasting Consequences of the French Presence in India
French presence facilitated cultural and intellectual exchange between Indian and French societies.
z Cultural Influence: The French brought their language, architecture, and customs, leaving a lasting cultural influence
in regions like Pondicherry.
z Trade and Commerce: French trading posts and factories boosted maritime trade and influenced the local
economies.
z Political and Military Rivalry: The Anglo-French rivalry shaped the political dynamics of colonial India.

Conclusion:
Post Cold War Era, India and France entered into Strategic Partnership in 1998. France also happened to be among
a few European helping hands to India when India was isolated post-Pokhran test, and not to forget it was the first
European country to sign a civil nuclear deal with India.
z Presently, India and France have a strong relationship in various areas such as defence and security cooperation,
space cooperation and civil nuclear cooperation, constituting the principal pillars of the Strategic Partnership.

SHEIKH HASINA’S OUSTER AND IMPACT ON INDIA-BANGLADESH TIES

Recently, Sheikh Hasina’s resignation as Prime Minister and departure from Bangladesh created multiple
uncertainties for India.
z India has been a crucial supporter of Sheikh Hasina, For over one-and-a-half decade she was India’s strongest
ally, and during this time, India-Bangladesh relations reached new heights.
Factors leads to Bangladesh Crisis 2024
z Political Discontent: Hasina’s administration has been accused of systematically suppressing opposition voices
and dissent. Her long reign in power saw arrests of opposition leaders, crackdowns on freedom of expression and
suppression of dissent.
z Human Rights Violations: There have been numerous reports of human rights violations under Hasina’s government,
including enforced disappearances and extrajudicial killings.
z Media Censorship: The Hasina administration has faced criticism for curbing press freedom. Journalists and
media outlets critical of the government often faced harassment, legal action, or shutdowns.
z Economic Factors: Bangladesh’s economy, although growing, faces issues like unemployment, inflation, and
economic disparity. The dissatisfaction among the youth, particularly regarding job opportunities and economic
prospects, fueled the unrest.
z About Controversial Quota System:
 Agitation by Students: The protests began in July with students demonstrating against the controversial
quota system that allocated government jobs following a High Court order to restore 30% job quotas for
descendants of freedom fighters.

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 Demand to Struck Down Reservation Quota: Nearly 32 million young people are out of work or education in
Bangladesh, which has a population of 170 million. Agitated students called for the 30% reservation quota
for the families of freedom fighters to be struck down.
 Resignation and Coup: On 5th August 2024, the now ex-PM Sheikh Hasina resigned and fled the country.
Thousands of protesters stormed her residence while millions celebrated on the streets.
 Bangladesh’s army chief, General Waker-Uz-Zaman, announced in a broadcast that Sheikh Hasina had resigned
and that the military would form an interim government.
Sheikh Hasina’s Ouster and Impact on India
z Unclear Nature of Interim Government: Bangladesh army chief Waker-uz-Zaman has taken charge, and so far
he has made the right noises in proposing an interim government. But the nature of this interim government
remains unclear as yet.
z Diplomatic Challenge: India’s strong support for Hasina over the past decade led to minimal interaction with
Bangladeshi opposition groups, leaving India in a challenging position now.
 Addressing the current anti-India sentiment in Bangladesh will be difficult.
z Impact on Border Security:
 Jamaat-e-Islami: It is likely that Jamaat-e-Islami may have some influence over the interim government in
Bangladesh. India’s equation with Jamaat has been uneasy and it could open the door for the return of Pakistan
in Bangladeshi polity. That in turn will have an impact on India’s border security with Bangladesh.
z Impact on Infrastructure and Connectivity: A disruption in Indo-Bangladesh ties could restrict India’s access
to the Northeast, which will be connected to mainland India only through the narrow “Chicken’s Neck” — only 22
km at its narrowest — between West Bengal and Assam.
z Return of Islamist Extremism: The ousted Prime Minister represented the secular and modernising version of
Bangla nationalism, and her uncompromising politics was for long a bulwark against radical extremism. However, the
current scenario has cleared the way for the resurgence of Islamist, anti-Hindu minority, and pro-Pakistan
politics in Bangladesh.
Conclusion
In the current evolving situation in Bangladesh, India as a vibrant multi-party democracy, should be seen as
supporting the expression of popular will in a sensitive neighbouring country. India will need enormous
strategic patience, faith in the logic of geography, belief in the centrality of commerce, and a strong political
commitment to transcend the Partition pathologies in building relations with a changing Bangladesh.

THE CHANGING ROLE OF THE GLOBAL SOUTH IN THE GLOBAL ECONOMY

The role of the Global South is changing in the global economy and to boost its growth, it needs better financial
support, digital infrastructure and climate financing that highlights the need for reforms in the global financial
system.
About Global South
z Global South refers to various countries around the world that are sometimes described as ‘developing’, ‘less
developed’ or ‘underdeveloped’.
 The term Global South was first used in 1969 by Carl Oglesby, but gained momentum after the breakup of
the Soviet Union in 1991.
 The term ‘Global South’ is not geographical. In fact, the Global South’s two largest countries — China and
India — lie entirely in the Northern Hemisphere.
 Its usage denotes a mix of political, geopolitical and economic commonalities between nations.

Recent Economic Forecasts about Global South

z Growth and Development: The latest World Bank/IMF forecasts indicate that growth of the Global South will
hold steady at around 3% and is the lowest in decades.
z Regional Achievements: For the next two to three decades, nearly three-fourths of the global growth will come
from middle- and low-income countries, with Asia leading the way.

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z Reasons for Growth: Decades of supportive geopolitics, demographics, globalisation and technological
advances resulted in a period of high growth.

Challenges Faced by the Global South

z Vulnerability to Global Headwinds: Headwinds to growth emanating from several sources such as climate change,
cost of living crisis, out-of-reach Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) goals, declining productivity, absence
of liquidity financing, and a broken debt architecture impact the Global South the most.
z Financial Challenges in Global South:
 Absence of Deep Financial Markets: Without deep financial markets, the availability of sustainable financing
will be a binding constraint for growth in the Global South and by extension for global growth because the Global
South attracts capital at prohibitive rates and at short tenure.
z Technological Disparities: Countries lacking Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI) struggled during the pandemic,
while those with effective DPI could provide emergency services. It highlights the need for development of more DPIs.

Way Forward
z Technological Advancements: With the surge in technological innovations including Artificial Intelligence (AI), the
digital transformation of daily lives in a positive manner is observed in all sectors such as education, emergency
responses, health systems, commerce, etc.
z Establishment of a Common Repository: The DPI architecture requires a centre and a firmer common structure
to realise gains and ensure data and cyber security across multiple usages.
z Improved Climate Financing: As regards climate financing, several proposals envisage leveraging public and
multilateral resources.
z Enhancement of Liquidity Provisions: A strengthened and reformed IMF is required to achieve this liquidity goal.
It could address the lack of US dollar swap lines for countries like India and Indonesia.

INDUS WATER TREATY (IWT) DISPUTE

More on News
A decisive move under Operation SINDOOR was India’s termination of the Indus Waters Treaty. The Indus Waters
Treaty of 1960 will be held in abeyance with immediate effect, until Pakistan credibly and irrevocably abjures its
support for cross-border terrorism.This has far-reaching consequences for Pakistan, a country heavily dependent on
the Indus river system for 80% of its 16 million hectares of agricultural land and 93% of its total water use.

About the Indus Water Treaty (IWT)

z Origin: Signed in 1960, mediated by the World Bank.
z Rivers: Divides six Himalayan rivers:
 India’s unrestricted use: Eastern tributaries (Sutlej, Beas, Ravi).
 Pakistan’s use: Western tributaries (Indus, Jhelum, Chenab).
z Dispute Resolution Mechanism: Resolution via PIC. If unresolved, escalation to NE. The final step is CoA if both
prior steps fail.

Key Disputed Projects on Indus

z Kishenganga Hydroelectric Project (330 MW): Located on the Jhelum River, Pakistan raised objections in 2006.
z Ratle Hydroelectric Project (850 MW): Located on the Chenab River, Pakistan questioned its design compliance
with the treaty.

ISLAND DEVELOPMENT AGENCY

Recently, the Union Minister of Cooperation chaired the 7th meeting of the Island Development Agency (IDA) in New
Delhi.

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About Island Development Agency (IDA)
z Constitution: Established in 2017 under the Ministry of Home Affairs to oversee the holistic development of
islands.
z Leadership: Chairman - Home Minister of India, Convener - CEO of NITI Aayog.
z Members: Secretary of Tourism, Tribal Affairs, Environment, Home Affairs, and the Cabinet Secretary.
z Mandate: NITI Aayog is tasked with steering the sustainable and holistic development of islands.

NATO: NORTH ATLANTIC TREATY ORGANIZATION

The NATO Summit - 2024 was held in Washington DC, United States of America.

About NATO
z The NATO Summit - 2024 was held from 9 to 11 July.
z There is a military and political alliance of Europe and North American countries.
z Establishment - 4 April 1949.
z NATO Summit - 2023 - was held in Vilnius, Lithuania.
z Headquarters: Brussels, Belgium
z NATO Secretary General - Mark Rutte
z Members: 32 members (30 European and 2 North American countries) (Sweden is the 32nd member state of NATO).

SCO SUMMIT 2024

The 23rd Meeting of the Council of Heads of Government of Member
States of the SCO was held on October 15 and 16 in Islamabad, Pakistan.
More on News
z 24th Meeting of the Council of Heads of Government to be held in
Russia in October 2025.
z Chaired by: Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif
z Agenda: The summit’s agenda focused on enhancing regional
cooperation in various fields, including economy, trade, environment,
sociology and culture.
Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO)
z It is a Eurasian political, economic and military organisation. Having
begun as the Shanghai Five in 1996 by the leaders of China, Russia,
Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, and Tajikistan, it was rechristened as the SCO
in 2001.
z The SCO entered into force on 19 September 2003.
z It aims to enhance cooperation in trade, economy, science, technology,
and regional security among its member states.
z Currently, ten countries enjoy the status of the SCO full members:
India, Iran, Kazakhstan, China, Kyrgyzstan, Russia, Pakistan, Tajikistan,
Uzbekistan and Belarus
 Two countries: Afghanistan and Mongolia have an observer status
with the SCO.

MOLDOVA SIGNED INTERNATIONAL SOLAR ALLIANCE

Moldova has officially signed the International Solar Alliance (ISA) Framework Agreement, reaffirming its commitment
to promoting renewable energy.

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About the International Solar Alliance (ISA)
z Origin: The ISA was conceptualized in 2015 during COP21 in Paris as a collaborative initiative between India
and France.
 The International Solar Alliance (ISA) Framework Agreement came into force in 2017.
z Membership: The ISA currently has 104 member countries and 16 signatory countries.
 Recently Armenia became the 104th full member of ISA.
z The headquarters of the ISA is located in Gurugram, India.

INDIA-MAURITIUS RELATIONS
The Indian Prime Minister was on a visit to Mauritius for a two-day state visit recently, marking his second trip to
the island nation since 2015.

Key Highlights of Recent Visit of PM

z Award Conferred: PM awarded The Grand Commander of the Order of the Star and Key of the Indian Ocean,
Mauritius’ highest civilian honour.
 He is the first Indian and fifth foreign national to receive this award.
z Cultural Ties: PM termed Mauritius as “Mini India” and a “bridge between India and the Global South.”
 Cultural Exchanges: PM Paid homage at the Samadhi of Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam (founding father of
Mauritius) and Anerood Jugnauth (former President and PM).
 Gifts Exchanged: PM gifted Gangajal from Maha Kumbh, Makhana (Bihari superfood), and a Banarasi saree
in a Sadeli box to Mauritius President and First Lady.
z Strategic and Security Cooperation: PM announced that India’s new vision for the Global South called “MAHASAGAR”
or “Mutual and Holistic Advancement for Security and Growth Across Regions” will bring growth security.”
 It shall encompass the ideas of trade for development, capacity building for sustainable growth, and
mutual security for a shared future.
 Decided to elevate the India-Mauritius partnership to an ‘Enhanced Strategic Partnership’.
z Infrastructure Projects: Inaugurated over 20 India-funded projects, including the Civil Services College building
and Area Health Centre.
 Inaugurated the “Atal Bihari Vajpayee Institute of Public Service and Innovation” and handed it over to
Mauritius.
z Naval Cooperation: Indian naval ship INS Imphal participated in Mauritius’ National Day celebrations.
z National Day Celebrations: PM attended as Chief Guest of 57th National Day celebrations and reaffirmed India’s
commitment to Mauritius’ progress and prosperity.

INDIA-EU FREE TRADE AGREEMENT

India and the European Union have decided to conclude their much-awaited Free Trade Agreement (FTA) by the end
of 2025.

India-EU Free Trade Agreement (FTA)

z Deadline Set for 2025: India and the European Union have decided to conclude their long-awaited FTA by the
end of 2025.
z Largest Trade Deal: The India-EU FTA is set to be the largest trade deal of its kind globally.
 It aims to enhance market access, remove trade barriers, and boost bilateral trade, which reached 137.41 billion
USD in goods and 51.45 billion USD in services in 2023-24.
z Key Negotiation Areas: Alongside the FTA, India and the EU are negotiating agreements on investment protection
and Geographical Indications (GI).
z Strategic Importance: The FTA comes at a critical time as both India and the EU face potential higher import
duties from the US.
 Strengthening their partnership helps diversify trade and reduce dependency on other markets.

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z Broader Collaboration Areas: Beyond trade, the FTA is part of a larger blueprint for cooperation in areas like
semiconductors, AI, 6G, green hydrogen, and the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEEC).
z Economic and Geopolitical Context: The FTA is seen as a response to the evolving global geopolitical landscape,
with both India and the EU seeking to enhance their strategic autonomy and economic resilience.
Key Benefits for India
z Enhanced Market Access: Indian goods, especially textiles and apparel, will benefit from tariff reductions, making
them more competitive in the EU market.
z Growth in Key Sectors:
 Pharmaceuticals: India, a major producer of generic medicines, will gain easier regulatory approval and market
access.
 IT & Services: India’s IT and professional services firms will benefit from reduced trade restrictions and enhanced
mobility for skilled professionals.
 Agriculture & Processed Food: Indian agricultural exports, such as tea, spices, and processed foods, will see
lower tariffs and fewer regulatory hurdles.
z Boost to Foreign Investment: EU is one of India’s largest investors, and the FTA will attract more FDI in sectors
like manufacturing, renewable energy, and infrastructure.

NEW DEVELOPMENT BANK

Indonesia will join the New Development Bank.
Key Points
z Joining NDB as a member would help Indonesia accelerate its economic transformation.
z The New Development Bank (NDB) is a multilateral development bank established by Brazil, Russia, India,
China and South Africa (BRICS) with the purpose of mobilising resources for infrastructure and sustainable
development projects in emerging markets and developing countries (EMDCs).
z The idea of setting up NDB was first conceived in 2012 during the BRICS Summit in New Delhi, India.
z The Agreement for establishing NDB was signed during the BRICS Summit held in Fortaleza on July 15, 2014 and
the Bank started operations on July 21, 2015.
z The Bank is headquartered in Shanghai, China with regional offices in South Africa and Brazil.
z Mr. K.V. Kamath from India was the first President of the NDB (2015-2020).

12TH REGIONAL 3R AND CIRCULAR ECONOMY FORUM IN ASIA AND THE PACIFIC
India hosted the 12th Regional 3R (reduce, reuse, recycle) and Circular Economy Forum in Asia and the Pacific.
Key Points
z The Forum took place at the Rajasthan International Centre in Jaipur on 3-5 March 2025.
z Theme: The event was centered on the theme of “Realizing Circular Societies Towards Achieving SDGs and
Carbon Neutrality in Asia-Pacific.”
z The 12th Regional Forum is being spearheaded by the Swachh Bharat Mission- Urban of the Ministry of
Housing and Urban Affairs in collaboration with Japan’s Ministry of the Environment, UN ESCAP, UNCRD, UNDSDG,
and UNDESA, with support from the Government of Rajasthan.
z A dedicated ‘India Pavilion’ showcases India’s remarkable initiatives and achievements in the 3R and circular
economy domain.
Regional 3R and Circular Economy Forum was launched by the United Nations Centre for Regional Development
(UNCRD) in 2009.
The forum aims to provide strategic policy inputs to government authorities in the Asia-Pacific region for
mainstreaming 3R (reduce, reuse, recycle) and circularity and serve as a platform for disseminating and sharing
best practices in 3R.
The last Forum was hosted in 2023 by Cambodia. India has previously hosted the Forum in 2018, when the 8th
edition was held in Indore.

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10TH EDITION OF RAISINA DIALOGUE 2025
On 17th March 2025, the Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the 10th edition of Raisina Dialogue 2025 in
New Delhi.
Key Points
z The three-day Raisina Dialogue was held from 17th March till 19th March.
z Prime Minister of New Zealand, Christopher Luxon is the Chief Guest of the event.
z The theme of the event this year is “Kālachakra – People, Peace and Planet”.
z It witnessed participation of representatives from about 125 countries. The participants include Ministers,
former Heads of State and Heads of Government, Military Commanders, Captains of Industry, Technology Leaders,
Academics, Journalists, Scholars on Strategic Affairs, Experts from leading Think Tanks, and Youth.
z During the event, decision makers and thought leaders of the world will engage each other across conversations
in various formats, over six thematic pillars. These include Politics Interrupted: Shifting Sands and Rising Tides;
Resolving the Green Trilemma: Who, Where, and How, and Digital Planet: Agents, Agencies and Absences.
The Raisina Dialogue is India’s premier conference on geopolitics and geoeconomics committed to addressing
the most challenging issues facing the global community.
Every year, leaders in politics, business, media, and civil society converge in New Delhi to discuss the state of the
world and explore opportunities for cooperation on a wide range of contemporary matters.

INTERNATIONAL CRIMINAL COURT (ICC)

Former Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte was arrested on a warrant issued by the International Criminal Court
(ICC).
z Duterte was arrested for alleged crimes against humanity linked to his “war on drugs” campaign.

About International Criminal Court (ICC)

z The ICC is a permanent international tribunal that investigates and prosecutes individuals responsible for the
most serious crimes of global concern, including genocide, war crimes, crimes against humanity, and the crime of
aggression.
z Establishment: The ICC was established by the Rome Statute, adopted on July 17, 1998.
 It officially began operations on July 1, 2002.
z Headquarters: The ICC is headquartered in The Hague, Netherlands.
z Members: The ICC has 125 member states that have ratified the Rome Statute.
 It operates as a court of last resort, complementing national judicial systems.
z Official Languages: The ICC has six official languages: English, French, Arabic, Chinese, Russian, and Spanish.
 Its two working languages are English and French.
z Jurisdiction: The ICC prosecutes crimes committed on the territory of member states or by nationals of member
states.
 It can also exercise jurisdiction through referrals by the United Nations Security Council or voluntary acceptance
by non-member states.

CONVENTION ON CLUSTER MUNITIONS (CCM)

On March 6, 2025, Lithuania officially withdrew from the Convention on Cluster Munitions (CCM), citing security
concerns due to the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war.
z Lithuania is the first country to withdraw from the convention and it also fears potential aggression from Russia
and is seeking to strengthen its defenses.
About the Convention on Cluster Munitions (CCM)
z It was adopted in 2008 (entered into force in 2010) and prohibits the use, transfer, production, and stockpiling
of cluster bombs.

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z The treaty has 112 state parties and 12 other signatories.
z India’s Status: India is NOT a signatory to the CCM.
 Neither Russia nor Ukraine are signatories to the convention, and both have used cluster bombs in the ongoing
conflict.

SCHENGEN AREA
On 12th December 2024, the European Union approved the full membership of Bulgaria and Romania in the Schengen
Area, effective from 1 January 2025.
Key Points
z Schengen is the world’s largest free travel area.
z It currently includes 29 countries: 25 of the EU’s 27 member states, as well as Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, and
Switzerland.
z It comprises a population of 420 million.
z Since joining the EU, Bulgaria and Romania have implemented parts of the Schengen legal framework, such
as those governing external border controls, police cooperation, and the use of the Schengen Information System.
z Border controls within the Schengen Area were first removed in 1985 between France, Germany, Belgium, the
Netherlands, and Luxembourg. Although Cyprus has not yet removed internal border checks, Ireland remains outside
the Schengen Area.

INDIA-FRANCE RELATIONS
The Prime Minister of India visited France to attend the AI Action Summit at the invitation of President Emmanuel
Macron to co-chair the Summit.
More on news
z Both leaders held bilateral discussions on multifaceted bilateral cooperation and on global and regional matters and
reviewed the progress on 2047 Horizon Roadmap for India-France strategic partnership.
Key Outcomes of the Visit
z Nuclear Cooperation
 Joint Development of Modern Nuclear Reactors: Formal recognition of nuclear energy’s role in energy security
and low-carbon economy.
 Jaitapur Nuclear Power Plant (JNPP): Agreement to build 6 European Pressurized Reactors (EPRs) reactors
through India-France collaboration.
z Artificial Intelligence & Innovation
 India-France AI Roadmap: Joint focus on safe, open, and trustworthy AI. India hosting the next AI Summit.
 India-France Year of Innovation (2026): Cross-sectoral initiative announced, focusing on technology, culture,
and education.
z Indo-Pacific & Global Cooperation
 Indo-Pacific Triangular Development Cooperation: Joint climate and SDG projects in third countries.
 Strengthening IMEC (India-Middle East-Europe Corridor): Agreed to work on building IMEEC.
 Connectivity partnership to enhance trade and infrastructure.
 Global Governance Reforms: France reiterated support for India’s permanent membership in the UN Security
Council.
z People-to-People & Cultural Ties
 60th Anniversary of Cultural Agreement (1966): Plans for cultural exchanges under the 2026 Year of
Innovation.
 Indian Consulate in Marseille: Inauguration formalized to strengthen diplomatic and cultural ties.
 Indian Student Mobility Target: 30,000 students in France by 2030, with streamlined visa processes and
scholarships.

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 Historical Ties: Recognition of shared history, including the role of Indian soldiers in World Wars and Veer
Savarkar’s connection to Marseille.
 Olympics Support: Sharing French expertise for India’s 2036 Olympic bid.

PM VISITS TO USA
The President of the United States of America Donald J. Trump hosted the Prime Minister of India, Shri Narendra
Modi for an Official Working Visit in Washington, DC on February 13, 2025.

More on News
Both the leader President Trump and Prime Minister Modi reaffirmed the strength of the India-U.S. Comprehensive
Global Strategic Partnership, anchored in mutual trust, shared interests, goodwill and robust engagement of their
citizens.

Key Takeaways from the Visit

z Launch of US- India COMPACT: Both the leaders launched a new initiative – the “U.S.-India COMPACT (Catalyzing
Opportunities for Military Partnership, Accelerated Commerce & Technology) for the 21st Century” to drive
transformative change across key pillars of cooperation.
z Defence: The leaders reaffirmed their unwavering commitment to a dynamic defence partnership spanning multiple
domains.
 “Javelin” Anti-Tank Guided Missiles and “Stryker”: They announced plans to pursue this year new procurements
and co-production arrangements for “Javelin” Anti-Tank Guided Missiles and “Stryker” Infantry Combat Vehicles
in India to rapidly meet India’s defense requirements.
 Autonomous Systems Industry Alliance: The leaders announced a new initiative - the Autonomous Systems
Industry Alliance (ASIA) - to scale industry partnerships and production in the Indo-Pacific.
z Trade and Investment: The leaders resolved to expand trade and investment to make their citizens more prosperous,
nations stronger, economies more innovative and supply chains more resilient.
 Mission 500: The leaders set a bold new goal for bilateral trade “Mission 500” aiming to more than double total
bilateral trade to $500 billion by 2030.
 Bilateral Trade Agreement: The leaders announced plans to negotiate the first tranche of a mutually beneficial,
multi-sector Bilateral Trade Agreement (BTA) by fall of 2025.
z Energy Security: The leaders agreed that energy security is fundamental to economic growth, social well-being
and technical innovation in both countries.
 International Energy Agency: The U.S. side affirmed its firm support for India to join the International Energy
Agency as a full member.
z Technology and Innovation:
 U.S.-India TRUST: The leaders announced the launch of the U.S.-India TRUST (“Transforming the Relationship
Utilizing Strategic Technology”) initiative, which will catalyze government-to-government, academia and
private sector collaboration to promote application of critical and emerging technologies in areas like defense,
artificial intelligence, semiconductors, quantum, biotechnology etc.
 INDUS Innovation: The leaders announced the launch of INDUS Innovation, a new innovation bridge modeled
after the successful INDUS-X platform, that will advance U.S.-India industry and academic partnerships and
foster investments in space, energy, and other emerging technologies to maintain U.S. and India leadership in
innovation and to meet the needs of the 21st century.
 International Space Station (ISS) and NISAR: The leaders hailed 2025 as a pioneering year for the U.S.-India
civil space cooperation, with plans for a NASA-ISRO effort through AXIOM to bring the first Indian astronaut
to the International Space Station (ISS), and early launch of the joint “NISAR” mission, the first of its kind
to systematically map changes to the Earth’s surface using dual radars.
z Indian Ocean Strategic Venture: Indian Ocean Strategic Venture has been announced, a new bilateral, whole-of-
government forum to advance coordinated investments in economic connectivity and commerce.

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BAY OF BENGAL INTER-GOVERNMENTAL ORGANISATION

India has assumed the chairmanship of the Bay of Bengal Inter-Governmental Organisation at the 13th Governing
Council Meeting in Male, Maldives.

About Bay of Bengal Inter-Governmental Organisation

z It was set up in 2003.
z It is a regional fisheries body, specifically mandated to assist the member countries in increasing the livelihood
opportunities and improving the quality of life of the small-scale/ artisanal fisher folk in the Bay of Bengal region.
z Members and non contracting parties: The current members of the organisation are Bangladesh, India, Maldives
and Sri Lanka while Indonesia, Malaysia, Myanmar and Thailand are cooperating non-contracting parties.
z The core objectives of the BOBP-IGO are to increase awareness and knowledge of the needs, benefits and practices
of marine fisheries management; enhance skills through training and education; transfer appropriate technologies
and techniques for development of the small-scale fisheries; establish regional information networking; and promote
women’s participation in marine fisheries value chain.

US-CHINA TRADE WAR

The US trade war with China has escalated after China retaliated against the 10% US tariff by announcing retaliatory
tariffs on various American goods.

The New Tariff Orders

z On, February 1, USA initially Imposed:
 25% tariffs on all imports from Mexico and Canada
 10% tariffs on Canadian oil, natural gas, and electricity
 10% tariffs on Chinese imports
z Although the North American tariffs are temporarily halted, the 10% tariff on China is still set to take effect.

Major Reasons for the Tariffs

z Fulfillment of Campaign Promises: Donald Trump had promised during his election campaign to impose import
duties on key trading partners like China, Mexico, and Canada.
z Boosting US Manufacturing & Jobs: Trump argues that tariffs will protect domestic industries from foreign
competition.
z Raising Tax Revenue: Tariffs generate revenue for the government by charging import duties on foreign goods.
z Combatting Fentanyl Trafficking: The US government claims that China provides chemicals used to manufacture
fentanyl, while Mexican drug cartels and Canadian labs produce and traffic the drug into the US.
z Economic Pressure on Trading Partners: Canada, Mexico, and China together account for over 40% of US imports.
 The tariffs serve as a negotiation tool to pressure these nations into better trade agreements that favor the US.

What is a Trade War?

z A trade war is an economic conflict between two or more countries where they impose tariffs, quotas, and other
trade barriers on each other’s goods and services in response to perceived unfair trade practices.

Examples of Trade Wars

z US-China Trade War (2018-2020): The US imposed tariffs on Chinese imports; China retaliated with counter-
tariffs.
z US-EU Trade Disputes: Over aircraft subsidies, steel tariffs, and digital taxes.
z Japan-South Korea Trade Dispute (2019): Over semiconductor materials.

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COMPREHENSIVE AND PROGRESSIVE AGREEMENT FOR TRANS-PACIFIC PARTNERSHIP

Britain became the first European Nation to Join CPTPP.

Key Points
z On 15th December, the UK became the first European nation to officially join the Comprehensive and Progressive
Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP).
z The UK will become the 12th country to join the trade agreement, having first put in an application in early
2021. The other 11 countries are Australia, Japan, Singapore, Chile, New Zealand, Vietnam, Peru, Malaysia, Brunei,
Canada and Mexico.

About CPTPP
z The CPTPP is the successor to the Trans-Pacific Partnership trade pact that was negotiated by U.S. President
Barack Obama, before his successor Donald Trump pulled the U.S. out of the agreement in 2017.
z It is a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) between Australia, Brunei Darussalam, Canada, Chile, Japan, Malaysia, Mexico,
Peru, New Zealand, Singapore and Vietnam.
z The CPTPP was signed by the 11 countries on 8 March 2018 in Santiago, Chile.
z The CPTPP entered into force on 30 December 2018 for: Australia, Canada, Japan, Mexico, New Zealand, Singapore
 On 14 January 2019 for Vietnam
 On 19 September 2021 for Peru
 On 29 November 2022 for Malaysia
 On 21 February 2023 for Chile
 On 12 July 2023 for Brunei Darussalam

UN PEACEBUILDING COMMISSION

India was re-elected to the UN Peacebuilding Commission (PBC) for the 2025-2026 term, continuing its active role
in global peace efforts.

Key Points
z The Peacebuilding Commission (PBC) is an intergovernmental advisory body that supports peace efforts in
conflict-affected countries and adds capacity to the international community’s broader peace agenda.
z India has been a member of the Peacebuilding Commission since its inception in December 2005.
z The commission, established in 2005, was tasked with advising the UN General Assembly and the Security Council
on issues of peacebuilding and sustaining peace.
z The Commission aims to promote an integrated, strategic, and coherent approach to peacebuilding. It acts
as a bridge between the principal organs and relevant UN entities by sharing advice on peacebuilding needs and
priorities and convenes all relevant actors within and outside the United Nations.

G-77 GROUP

The G-77 Summit - 2024 was held from January 20-22, 2024, in Kampala, Uganda.

Key Points
z There is a coalition of 134 developing countries, which works to promote the collective economic interests of the
members.
z Established - June 15, 1964
z Headquarters - Geneva

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UNCTAD REBRANDS TO ‘UN TRADE AND DEVELOPMENT’

The United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD) announced its landmark rebranding as “UN
Trade and Development”, commemorating its 60th anniversary this year.
z United Nations Trade and Development:
 About: It is a permanent intergovernmental body and the leading institution of the UN dealing with trade and
development.
 Established: By the United Nations General Assembly in 1964 and headquartered in Geneva, Switzerland.

INDIA-CARICOM SUMMIT 2024

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, during his historic visit to Guyana for the second India-CARICOM Summit,
proposed seven pillars to strengthen India-CARICOM ties.

Key Seven Pillars of India-CARICOM Relations

Prime Minister outlined seven key pillars to deepen ties between India and CARICOM nations, aligning with the
acronym C-A-R-I-C-O-M:
z Capacity Building: Proposal to establish a forensic centre for the CARICOM region.
z Agriculture and Food Security: Emphasis on collaboration to improve agricultural practices and ensure food
security in CARICOM nations.
z Renewable Energy and Climate Change: Focus on renewable energy projects and climate change mitigation.
 $150 million credit line announced earlier for renewable energy initiatives.
z Innovation, Technology, and Trade: Strengthening technological collaboration and trade relationships.
 Proposal for an online portal to connect private sectors and stakeholders.
z Cricket and Culture: Promotion of cricket as a shared cultural passion and a bridge for people-to-people ties.
 Preservation and sharing of cultural heritage between India and CARICOM.
z Ocean Economy: Harnessing the potential of blue economy sectors for sustainable development.
z Medicine and Healthcare: Strengthening healthcare systems and addressing public health challenges.

About Caribbean Community (CARICOM)

z Founded: 1973, by the Treaty of Chaguaramas as the Caribbean Community and Common Market.
z Secretariat: Located in Georgetown, Guyana.
z Chairmanship: Rotates every six months among Heads of Member States.
 Current Chair: Antigua and Barbuda.
z Members (15): Antigua and Barbuda, Bahamas, Barbados, Belize, Dominica, Grenada, Guyana, Haiti, Jamaica,
Montserrat, St. Kitts and Nevis, St Lucia, St. Vincent and the Grenadines, Suriname, and Trinidad and Tobago.
z Global Status: Recognized as an Official United Nations Observer.

ASEAN SUMMIT

The 43rd ASEAN Summit was held in Jakarta, the capital of Indonesia till September 2023.

Key Points
z The theme of 43rd ASEAN Summit - “ASEAN Matters: Epicentrum of Growth”.
z The 42nd ASEAN Summit was held in - Indonesia.
z Association of Southeast Asian Nations, or ASEAN
 Establishment – August 8, 1967
 Headquarters - Jakarta, Indonesia

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z Secretary-General of ASEAN - Dr Kao Kim Hourn (2023-2028 )
z First ASEAN Summit - Bali, Indonesia , 23-24 February 1976.

WIPO TREATY
The Treaty on Intellectual Property, Genetic Resources, and Traditional Knowledge was adopted at a World Intellectual
Property Organization (WIPO) Diplomatic Conference at its headquarters in Geneva, Switzerland.
z The diplomatic conference marked the final stage of the negotiations that began in 2021. The treaty is borne of a
proposal by Colombia in 1999.
z This is the 27th treaty under WIPO and the first in the last 10 years.
z First WIPO Treaty: It is the first WIPO treaty to include provisions specifically for Indigenous Peoples and Local
Communities.
z Significance of the Treaty for India:
 Rich Biodiversity and Traditional Knowledge: The treaty is important to India as the country holds 7-8 percent
of global biodiversity and a rich repertoire of knowledge based on these genetic resources.

World Intellectual Property Organization

z It is a United Nations specialized agency located in Geneva, Switzerland, set up by the WIPO Convention in 1967,
India joined WIPO in 1975.
z WIPO Membership and Observers: WIPO has 193 member states | Palestine has permanent observer status.

PANDEMIC FUND PROJECT

The Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying launched the Pandemic Fund Project on “Animal Health
Security Strengthening in India for Pandemic Preparedness and Response”.

About Pandemic Fund Project

The Pandemic Fund Project is a $25 Million initiative funded by the G20 Pandemic Fund.
z Aim: To enhance the country’s capacity to prevent, detect, and respond to animal health threats.
z Focus Area: Enhancing India’s animal health systems, thereby fortifying the country’s defences against future
pandemics.
z Implementing Agencies: Asian Development Bank (ADB), Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) and the
World Bank.

6TH INTERNATIONAL CONFERENCE ON DISASTER RESILIENT INFRASTRUCTURE

Recently, the Prime Minister of India addressed the 6th edition of the International Conference on Disaster Resilient
Infrastructure 2024.
About the International Conference on Disaster Resilient Infrastructure.
z ICDRI is the flagship annual conference of the Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure (CDRI).
z Its primary aim is to enhance global dialogue and collaboration on disaster and climate resilient infrastructure.
z The theme of 2024 is ‘Investing today for a more resilient tomorrow.’

10TH COMMONWEALTH PARLIAMENTARY ASSOCIATION

The Indian Parliament hosted the two-day 10th Commonwealth Parliamentary Association (CPA) India Region
Conference in New Delhi.
z The conference was chaired by Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla, who is also the Chairperson of the CPA India Region.
z Theme: The theme of the conference was ‘The Role of Legislative Bodies in the Attainment of Sustainable and
Inclusive Development.’

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The Commonwealth Parliamentary Association India Region was created in 2004 from the erstwhile CPA Asia
Region as one of the nine regions of the CPA.
Currently, it has 31 Member Branches, including the Parliament of India and 30 State and Union Territories
Legislatures.

COLOMBO SECURITY CONCLAVE

Bangladesh was officially welcomed as the fifth member state of the Colombo Security Conclave (CSC).
z The Colombo Security Conclave was established in 2020, when India, Sri Lanka and the Maldives agreed to
expand the scope of their trilateral meeting on maritime cooperation.
z Member states: India, Sri Lanka, Mauritius, Maldives and Bangladesh.
z Observer state: Seychelles is an observer state of the conclave.

WORLD GREEN ECONOMY FORUM

On 2nd October 2024, the World Green Economy Forum was launched in Dubai.

Key Points
z It brought together global leaders and experts to address pressing environmental challenges.
z Forum’s theme: “Empowering Global Action: Unlocking Opportunities and Advancing Progress,”. It sets the
stage for discussions on international cooperation and innovative solutions for climate change and sustainability.
z Sustainable Aviation Fuel: A highlight of the forum was a panel discussion on aviation and the green economy,
which examined the future of Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF).
 Panelists discussed the ambitious goal of scaling up SAF production from the current 200,000 tonnes to
300 million tonnes by 2050. The UAE government’s target of 1% SAF use by 2031 was noted as a key driver
for change in the region.
z The forum also emphasized the critical role of youth in shaping a sustainable future, recognizing their importance
in driving long-term environmental progress.
z Theme: “Empowering Global Action: Unlocking Opportunities and Advancing Progress”.

WORLD TELECOMMUNICATION STANDARDIZATION ASSEMBLY

India hosted the World Telecommunication Standardization Assembly in New Delhi.

Key Points
z The WTSA 2024 is being held for the first time in ITU’s history of 150 yrs in India from 14th-24th October 2024
z For the first time, this event is being organized in the Asia-Pacific region.
z Participants: Over 190 nations will gather to shape the future of global telecom standards, highlighting India’s
growing influence in the global telecom industry.
z Aim: The event aims to shape the future of technology standards in areas like 6G, artificial intelligence, the Internet
of Things, big data, cybersecurity, machine-to-machine communications, and quantum technologies.

SRI KARTARPUR SAHIB CORRIDOR

India and Pakistan had agreed to extend the validity of the Agreement on Sri Kartarpur Sahib Corridor for a further
period of five years.

Key Points
z The Agreement had been signed on 24th of October in 2019 and was valid for a period of five years.
z It was to facilitate the visit of pilgrims from India to Gurdwara Darbar Sahib Kartarpur, Narowal, Pakistan
through the Kartarpur Sahib Corridor.

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z The extension of the validity of this agreement will ensure uninterrupted operation of the Corridor for use by
pilgrims from India to visit the holy gurdwara in Pakistan.
z Pakistan levies a fee of 20 dollars per pilgrim per visit, India has once again urged Pakistan to not levy any fee or
charges on the pilgrims.
Sri Kartarpur Sahib

RA
z Sri Kartarpur Sahib is a holy shrine for the Sikh

VI
community living in India and Pakistan.

RI
KARTARPUR

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The shrine is located at village Kartarpur, on the

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west bank of river Ravi where Sri Guru Nanak

DIST
PAKISTAN

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Dev spent the last 18 years of his life.

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z Gurdwara Dera Baba Nanak is about 1 km from the O-P ER

ABOU
AK RAVI RD
Indo-Pakistan border. BO O
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Gurdwara Sri Kartarpur Sahib falls in district Narowal O-P
z IND

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of Pakistan, about 4.5 km from the International GURDASPUR
border.
z The Indian part of Dera Baba Nanak - Sri Kartarpur DERA BABA
NANAK
Sahib corridor involves a 4.1 km long four-lane India
highway from Dera Baba Nanak to the International
border.

INTERNATIONAL MEDICAL DEVICE REGULATORS FORUM ( IMDRF)

India became an affiliate member of International Medical Device Regulators Forum (IMDRF).
Key Points
z IMDRF is a voluntary group comprising medical device regulators from various countries.
z Establishment: The IMDRF was formed in 2011.
z The IMDRF includes regulatory authorities from the U.S., Australia, Canada, the European Union, Japan, the United
Kingdom, Brazil, Russia, China, South Korea, Singapore, and the World Health Organization (WHO).

INDIA’S NEIGHBOURHOOD WATCH: PAST, PRESENT AND FUTURE

The geopolitical environment surrounding India is unstable or uncertain. Understanding the current dynamics,
challenges and future prospects for regional stability and cooperation is crucial.
India’s Role In Promoting Democracy In Its Neighborhood Between 2008-2010
z Bangladesh’s Shift to Democracy : India played a quiet “catalytic” role in the holding of elections in Bangladesh,
free of army interference.
z Maldives Multi-Party Backing: The first multi-party democratic elections were held where Mohamed Nasheed
took over as President.
 India backed the first multi-party elections in 2008 and did its bit to stabilise this nascent democracy.
z India’s Support in the Defeat of LTTE: In May 2009, the Sri Lankan government ended a 33-year civil conflict
with the defeat of the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) , aided by India’s crucial diplomatic, military, and
economic support.
z Nepal Peace Process and Democratic Transition: India was instrumental in Nepal’s transition from monarchy to
a federal democratic republic, facilitating dialogue and supporting the drafting of the new constitution.
Emergence of Challenges in Recent Times
India’s neighborhood seems to be in disarray in the recent times:
z Bangladesh: Ms. Sheikh Hasina’s elected government collapsed recently under the weight of its own democracy
deficit, an economic downturn and a violent student protest.
 This ended a 15-year partnership with India.

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z Sri Lanka: In 2022, President Gotabaya Rajapaksa fled Sri Lanka, unable to control a series of mass anti-
government “Aragalaya” protests led mostly by apolitical irate public and youth.
 Its democracy and the economy took a severe beating, the after-effects of which are still being felt in Sri Lanka.
 India’s timely and generous bailout package of about $4 billion saved the economy.
z Maldives: In 2024, President Mohamed Muizzu won unexpectedly, highlighting India’s lack of engagement with
him earlier.
 President Mohamed Muizzu was also actively associated with the “India Out” campaign
z Myanmar: The military took over again after three consecutive elections, despite the 2020 elections giving the
National League for Democracy a huge mandate.
 The conflict is spreading into India’s north-east.
z Afghanistan: In 2021, the Taliban captured power after two decades, turning the clock back in Afghanistan.
 It raised several concerns for India like increased cross-border terrorism and security threats in India,
Regional Stability and India’s engagement with Afghanistan
z Pakistan: Pakistan saw its civilian government toppled in 2022 under the army’s influence, as seen in the past.

Way Forward for India

z Strengthen Diplomatic Engagement: Strong diplomatic ties build mutual trust and understanding, which is
essential for long-term partnerships.
z Promote Economic Diplomacy: Leverage economic cooperation and trade agreements to build stronger
economic ties with neighboring countries, contributing to regional stability and prosperity.
z Adapt to Changing Dynamics: Be prepared to adjust strategies based on evolving circumstances and emerging
challenges in the neighborhood.

FOURTH QUAD LEADERS SUMMIT

Prime Minister Narendra Modi participated in the fourth Quad Leaders Summit which was held in Wilmington,
Delaware on September 21 2024.
z The Indian Prime Minister joined President Biden (USA), Prime Minister Albanese (Australia) and Prime Minister
Kishida (Japan) for the Quad Summit.

Key Announcements from the Summit

z The 2025 Summit: India will host the 2025 Quad Leaders Summit and The United States will host the 2025
Quad Foreign Ministers Meeting.
z The QUAD Wilmington Declaration:
z The Joint Statement reiterated the group nature as “a force for good” and signalled that it is now more strategically
aligned than ever to deliver real, positive, and enduring impact for the Indo-Pacific Region.
z Quad Caucus: The USA Members of Congress announced the creation of a bipartisan, bicameral Congressional
Quad Caucus as the Quad countries have decided to work with their respective legislatures to deepen inter-
parliamentary exchanges.
z Expansion: The Quad networking will expand to include the Commerce and Industry ministers meeting for the
first time.
z Maritime Security:
 Maritime Initiative for Training in the Indo-Pacific (MAITRI): It has been announced to enable the Indo-
Pacific regions partners to maximize tools provided through Indo-Pacific Partnership for Maritime Domain
Awareness (IPMDA) and to monitor and secure their waters, enforce their laws, and deter unlawful behavior.
 India will host the inaugural MAITRI workshop in 2025.
z Climate and Clean Energy:
 Solar projects: India has pledged an investment of around $2 million in new solar projects in Fiji, Comoros,
Madagascar, and Seychelles.

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z AI and Technology: The United States plans to invest over $7 million to support the global expansion of Asia
Open RAN Academy (AORA), by partnering with Indian institutions for training projects.

Challenges for Quad

z India’s Suitability and Reliability as a QUAD Partner: India’s strong ties with Russia and hesitation on data
sharing, citing strategic autonomy, have raised concerns on India’s suitability in the grouping.
z Threat of China: QUAD’s formation in the wake of China’s subversion of the international order and attempts to
flout the rules based order is still on weak ground as all the countries still maintain a handsome trade relation
with the country which does not allow escalation of conflict.
z Less Institutionalisation: The QUAD being an informal alliance has seen some procedural difficulties in realising
its various initiatives, Thus an effective Working Group or a Formalisation of the grouping should be the next
step forward .
z Maritime Dominated: QUAD main focus is to maintain Maritime Security in the Indo-Pacific which aligns with
the security objectives of US, Japan And Australia but doesn’t fully aligns with India’s security concerns, which
is the only country to have a land border dispute with China.

Way Forward
z Formalise the Governing Structure: The QUAD should establish a governing body consisting of a rotating chair
and secretariat, bound by some legal framework to guide the implementation process and hold member nations
accountable for progress while keeping the ad hoc and flexible nature of QUAD as it is.
z Narrow down the Expansion: The QUAD Countries should prioritise on the scale and scope of projects being
undertaken based on their specific capability so as to delegate funds and resources in a rational way.
z Improve Credibility: The QUAD countries need to collaborate on information and intelligence sharing through
adopting strict information-sharing protocols, so as to uplift each other’s capability and build trust in each other.

REVIVAL OF SAARC
Muhammad Yunus, the head of Bangladesh’s interim government has called for reviving the the “spirit of SAARC,”
underlining that the bloc can solve many of the region’s problems.

The Failures of SAARC

z Postponed Summits: Over 30 years, SAARC summits have been postponed more than 10 times, often for political
reasons.
 For instance, the 2016 SAARC Summit, scheduled in Islamabad, was canceled after India, Bangladesh,
Bhutan, and Afghanistan refused to participate after the Uri terrorist attack in Jammu and Kashmir.
z Lack of Trust: The distrust between India and Pakistan has significantly hampered SAARC’s progress, with
Pakistan often stalling key initiatives.
z Lack of Political Will: There has been a consistent lack of political will among member states to transform SAARC
into a dynamic regional grouping.
 South Asia remains one of the most underdeveloped regions, with significant socioeconomic challenges like
poverty, unemployment, and inequality.
z Weak Economic Integration: According to the Brookings Institution, owing to protectionist policies, high logistics
cost, lack of political will and a broader trust deficit, intra-regional trade in South Asia remains well below its
potential at 5% of the region’s global trade.

Need to Revive SAARC Grouping

z Addressing Regional Challenges: South Asia faces common challenges like poverty, climate change, terrorism,
and energy crises, which transcend borders. SAARC can provide a platform for addressing these collectively.
z Global Relevance: With global power blocs like ASEAN and the EU gaining prominence, South Asia risks
marginalization.
 Reviving SAARC can strengthen the region’s global positioning.

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z Boosting Intra-Regional Trade: Intra-regional trade in South Asia remains low at 5%. Reviving SAARC could
enhance economic ties through full implementation of SAFTA, fostering regional interdependence and easing
political tensions.
 Regional projects, including energy pipelines and cross-border roads, can accelerate growth.
z Climate Change: SAARC can provide a cooperative framework for disaster management, technological sharing,
and climate resilience strategies.

Way Forward for Reviving SAARC Grouping

z Need for Consensus: For SAARC to be effective, member countries must agree on necessary reforms.
 However, differences, particularly between India and Pakistan, make achieving consensus challenging.
z Learning from the European Union (EU): While the EU has achieved significant progress through cooperation,
SAARC is yet to reach similar levels of success in regional integration.
z Alternative Development Models: In the face of increasing Chinese investments, SAARC can serve as a platform
for advocating sustainable development alternatives, opposing trade tariffs, and negotiating better terms for
South Asian labor globally.

Conclusion
Reviving SAARC is crucial for addressing regional challenges, enhancing cooperation, promoting stability, and
strengthening South Asia’s global presence through collective economic and strategic initiatives.

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INTERNATIONALIZATION OF INDIAN RUPEE

Recently, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) allowed the opening of rupee accounts outside India.

About Internationalization of the Rupee

z It is a process that involves increasing the use of the rupee in cross-border transactions. These are all
transactions between residents in India and non-residents.
z Key Process Involved: : It involves promoting the rupee for import and export trade and then other current
account transactions, followed by its use in capital account transactions.
z Historical Context:
 1950s:
 1959: The Centre allowed the RBI to issue special notes for the Gulf region.
 1966: The Indian rupee was devalued, leading Gulf countries to withdraw the Gulf rupee.
 By the early 1970s, all Gulf countries stopped using the Gulf rupee.
 1994:
 India accepted the Articles of Agreement of the IMF, making the Indian Rupee fully convertible on the current
account.
 India enabled external commercial borrowings in Rupees, including masala bonds (rupee-denominated bonds
issued by Indian entities outside India).

Challenges of Internationalisation of the Rupee

z Trade Deficit: To internationalize any currency as a safe asset, the size of the economy is of primary importance.
Whilst the Indian economy fulfills this criteria, India’s imports are larger than its exports and suffers from the
disadvantage of a trade deficit.
z Impact on Import Costs: If the internationalization of the Rupee leads to increased demand for the currency in
global markets, it might strengthen the Rupee against other currencies.
 A stronger Rupee could potentially reduce the cost of imports from countries like China and Russia,
potentially impacting trade balances.
z Convertibility Concern: Although Rupee-based trade is being encouraged by the government and the RBI, there is
no move to permit full convertibility as it may lead to the flight of capital with attendant exchange risks.
 Full capital Account Convertibility is not permitted in India. The rupee is fully convertible in the current
account, but partially in the capital account.
z Lack of International Demand: The daily average share for the rupee in the global foreign exchange market is
about 1.6%, while India’s share of global goods trade is about 2%.

Way Forward
z Adopt a Collaborative Approach: There is a need for careful planning and coordination between policymakers,
market participants and regulators to ensure a smooth and successful transition towards the internationalization
of the Rupee.
z More Freely Convertible Rupees: With a goal of full convertibility by 2060, there is a need for more financial
investments that move freely between India and abroad.
z Work upon Recommendations of Tarapore Committee: Recommendations of Tarapore Committee should be
followed to achieve the aim of Internationalisation of the Indian Rupee.
z More Currency Swap Agreements: Currency Swaps and Local Currency Settlement provides currency diversification
that stabilizes the local currency and provides a natural hedge for the business community to protect against currency
risk exposure.
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WHITE REVOLUTION 2.0
The Union Home and Cooperation Minister has launched 3 new initiatives taken up by the Ministry of Cooperation
as part of the first 100 days of the third NDA government.
z Launching of the ‘White Revolution 2.0’
z Launching Standard Operating Procedure for ‘Cooperation among Cooperatives’.
z The ‘Margdarshika’ for the formation and strengthening of 2 lakh new multi-purpose Primary Agricultural Credit
Societies (MPACS), Dairy and Fishery Cooperatives has also been launched.
White Revolution 2.0
z Key Focus Areas: Women empowerment, boosting local milk production, strengthening dairy infrastructure, and
increasing dairy exports.
z Women Empowerment: Involves empowering women milk farmers by ensuring formal employment, with payments
directly deposited into their bank accounts, aiding in the fight against malnutrition.
z Enhancing Local Milk Production: Aims to increase cooperative-led milk procurement from 660 lakh liters/day
to 1,000 lakh liters/day.
z Boosting Dairy Exports: India aims to contribute one-third of global milk supply by 2030, with dairy exports
projected to grow at 13% between 2024 and 2032.
Significance of the Dairy Sector
z Source of Rural Income: Dairy is probably the only agri-product in which approximately 70-80 per cent final
market value is shared with farmers accounting for approximately one-third of rural household income in India.
z Versatility: Dairy serves a wide range of consumer needs from being a source of protein supplements and
health foods to indulgence foods such as yogurt and ice creams.
z Women Empowernment: Women labour contributes 69 per cent of the total workforce of 7.7 million engaged
exclusively in raising of cattle and buffalo of which 93 per cent live in rural areas constituting 5.72 per cent of
the total female workforce in the country.
Challenges
z Inflation in Feed Cost: The cost of fodder, feed and raw materials/ingredients have increased significantly
resulting in dairies having to hike procurement prices paid to farmers and, in turn, pass-through the same to
consumers.
z Regional and Fragmented Industry: The Dairy sector in India has a highly fragmented supply chain because of
its regional character which necessitates the maintenance of quality and quantity within a diversified supply base.
z Productivity Issues: In India, the average annual milk yield of cattle is only about 50% of the global average
and India Processes only 22% of its milk produced.
z Environmental Issues: The dairy sector is vulnerable to climate change as environmental stressors are poised
to affect the reproductive and productive performance of dairy animals impacting the economic sustainability
of farmers
 It is also one of the significant contributor to global warming as a significant source of Methane.

Way Forward
z Create Milk Processing Infrastructure: MIlk processing infrastructure need to be build on a rapid scale as India
will reach a 270MT milk production by 2050.
z Adopt New Breeding Technologies: There is a need to boost milk yield per animal with one way being to invest
in genetic improvement and new breeding technologies.
z New Technologies: Investments in technologies like Bulk Milk Coolers (BMCs), immersion coolers and advanced
milk testing kits. Investible opportunities in Blockchain technology, RFID tags, IoT and sensor-enabled vehicles
and packing systems.

INDIA TO REACH HIGH INCOME STATUS BY 2047

A new report by the World Bank states that India needs to significantly speed up its reforms to achieve high-income
status by 2047.

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What is High-Income Status?
z High-income status is a classification used by the World Bank to categorize countries based on their Gross National
Income (GNI) per capita.
z It is a key indicator of a country’s economic development and standard of living.

World Bank Income Classifications

z For the 2025 fiscal year, the World Bank classifies economies based on their Gross National Income (GNI) per
capita using the Atlas method.
 Low-income economies: GNI per capita of $1,145 or less.
 Lower middle-income economies: GNI per capita between $1,146 and $4,515.
 Upper middle-income economies: GNI per capita between $4,516 and $14,005.
 High-income economies: GNI per capita of $14,005 or more.

India’s Current Economic Status

z In 2007-08, India was classified as a lower middle-income country, with a per capita income of $1,022 (IMF).
 By 2024, this figure has increased to $2,697.
z As per IMF projections, India’s per capita income may reach $4,195 by 2029, meaning it is likely to become an
upper middle-income country by 2032.
z However, achieving high-income status by 2047 will require sustained high growth.

E-MOBILITY PUSH IN INDIA

The Union Cabinet has recently approved the PM E-Drive Scheme and PM-eBus Sewa-Payment Security Mechanism
(PSM) scheme.

Overview of PM E-Drive Scheme

z PM Electric Drive Revolution in Innovative Vehicle Enhancement (PM E-DRIVE) Scheme: Approved with an
outlay of Rs.10,900 crore over a period of two years.
z Replacement of Previous Scheme: Replaces the Faster Adoption and Manufacturing of (Hybrid and) Electric
Vehicles (FAME) scheme.
 FAME scheme ran for nine years until March 2024 and promoted local manufacturing and adoption of EVs
through customer subsidies
z Key Features of PM E-DRIVE Scheme:
 E-Vouchers: Streamline the EV buying process and simplify the purchase of electric vehicles.

Overview of PM-eBus Sewa-Payment Security Mechanism (PSM) Scheme:

z Objective: Roll out of over 38,000 e-buses with outlay of over Rs.3,435 crore.
z Payment Security Mechanism: To mitigate the risk of payment defaults, the scheme includes a dedicated fund
managed by Convergence Energy Services Limited (CESL).
 Electric Ambulances: Paves the way for the integration of electric vehicles into the health sector.
 Incentives for E-Trucks: Additional incentives for purchasing electric trucks after scrapping old trucks.
 Vehicle Testing Infrastructure: Dedicated fund of ₹780 crore focused on developing and enhancing vehicle
testing agencies.

About Electric Mobility

z Electric Mobility: It refers to the use of electric-powered vehicles (EVs) for transportation.
z Driving Factor for e-Mobility: This shift from conventional internal combustion engine vehicles (ICE) to electric
vehicles is driven by the need to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, reliance on fossil fuels, and environmental
pollution.

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Key Components of Electric Mobility
z Electric Vehicles (EVs):
 Battery Electric Vehicles (BEVs): Fully electric cars powered by rechargeable batteries (e.g., Tesla, Nissan Leaf).
 Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicles (PHEVs): Combines a battery with a traditional combustion engine (e.g.,
Toyota Prius).
 Hybrid Electric Vehicles (HEVs): Powered by both an internal combustion engine and an electric motor without
plug-in charging (e.g., Honda Insight).
z Battery Technology:
 Lithium-Ion Batteries: Common in EVs due to their high energy density and durability.
 Solid-State Batteries (Future tech): Promises better performance and safer storage.
 Battery Recycling & Disposal: Important to address environmental concerns related to battery waste.
z Charging Infrastructure:
 Home Charging Stations: Typically slower (AC charging).
 Public Charging Networks: Fast chargers (DC charging) located at strategic points for long trips.
 Wireless Charging: An emerging technology enabling cars to charge wirelessly while parked.

Major Challenges Associated with the Push for Electric Mobility in India
z High Upfront Cost of EVs: The cost of electric vehicles, especially electric cars, remains higher than conventional
internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles. This is primarily due to the expensive battery technology.
z Inadequate Charging Infrastructure: India has a limited network of public charging stations, which hampers
long-distance travel and makes EV ownership less convenient.
z Battery Technology: India imports most of its EV batteries and the raw materials (like lithium, cobalt), making
the country reliant on foreign suppliers and vulnerable to price fluctuations in global markets.
Way Forward
z Enhancing Infrastructure Development: Accelerate the rollout of public and private charging stations, including
fast chargers and wireless charging facilities, to reduce range anxiety and support long-distance travel.
z Ensure Policy Consistency: Maintain a consistent and supportive policy environment for EV adoption, including
clear guidelines on subsidies, incentives, and infrastructure development.
z Transitioning to Renewable Energy: Transitioning to renewable energy sources such as solar and wind power
is essential to fully realize the environmental advantages of electric vehicles (EVs).
 Government initiatives like the National Green Hydrogen Mission, Global Biofuel Alliance (GBA), and
PM-KUSUM aim to strengthen India’s renewable energy production capacity.
Conclusion
The push for electric mobility in India is vital for sustainability, reducing pollution, and enhancing energy
security, requiring continued investment, policy support, and infrastructure development.

INDIA’S STARTUP ECOSYSTEM

On January 16, 2025, India marked nine years of Startup India Program, a transformative journey that began in
2016. January 16 is designated as National Startup Day.
About Startup
z In India, A startup is defined as an entity that is headquartered in India, which was opened less than 10 years ago,
and has an annual turnover less than ₹100 crore.
z Exclusions: Entities formed by splitting/reconstruction of existing businesses are not considered startups.
Reason why India’s Startup Sector is Booming
z Supportive Government Policies: The Startup India Initiative has been instrumental in creating a robust
ecosystem by providing tax benefits, easing compliance, and offering funding support like the Fund of Funds for
Startups (FFS) with a corpus of ₹10,000 crore​.

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z Expanding Digital Infrastructure: Initiatives like Digital India and the adoption of the Unified Payments Interface
(UPI), which saw transactions exceeding ₹20 lakh crore in 2024, have provided a seamless digital backbone​.
z Large Consumer Market: India’s demographic dividend of 65% of the population under 35 years offers a
significant consumer base for startups.
 The e-commerce sector alone is projected to be worth $188 billion by 2025​.
z Thriving Talent Pool: With over 1.5 million engineering graduates annually, and policies like the National
Education Policy 2020 emphasizing entrepreneurship, India provides a strong pipeline of skilled professionals​.
Challenges to the Growth of Startups in India
z Regulatory Hurdles: Complex compliance requirements and regulatory ambiguities create barriers.
z Access to Funding: Funding remains concentrated in select regions and sectors, leaving startups in Tier-2 and
Tier-3 cities underfunded.
z Market Saturation and Hyper-Competition: Sectors like edtech and e-commerce are highly crowded, reducing
profit margins and creating unsustainable cash burn scenarios.
z Infrastructure Gaps: Internet penetration in rural areas is only 37%, compared to 69% in urban areas, limiting
the market reach of digital startups​.
Way Forward to Boost Startup Ecosystem in India
z Streamlined Regulations and Compliance: Simplify tax and labor compliance for startups across sectors.
z Enhanced Access to Funding: Strengthen domestic venture capital funds and incentivize private investments in
startups.
z Fostering Industry-Academia Collaboration: Promote joint R&D projects between startups and academic
institutions.
z Digital and Physical Infrastructure Development: Bridge the urban-rural digital divide to enable startups in
agritech and rural sectors.
Conclusion
India is poised to emerge as a global leader in the startup ecosystem, driven by favorable policies, a culture of
innovation, and cross-sector collaboration. As the nation envisions Viksit Bharat by 2047, startups will be instrumental
in fostering economic growth, generating employment, and establishing India as an innovation hub.

10 YEARS OF MAKE IN INDIA

The ‘Make in India’ initiative celebrated its 10th anniversary on 25th of September 2024 marking a decade of
transformational growth for the Indian design and manufacturing ecosystem.
10 years of Make In India: Achievements
z Foreign Direct Investment (FDI): India has registered an increase of 119% in FDI inflows in the (2014-24)
period spanning 31 States and 57 sectors. The manufacturing sector saw an FDI inflow increase of 69% in
the same period.
z Production Linked Incentive (PLI) Scheme: The PLI Schemes have resulted in ₹1.32 lakh crore (USD 16 billion)
in investments and a significant boost in manufacturing output of ₹10.90 lakh crore (USD 130 billion) as of
June 2024. Over 8.5 lakh jobs have been created directly and indirectly due to the initiative.
z Exports & Employment: India’s merchandise exports surpassed USD 437 billion in FY 2023-24, while total
employment in the manufacturing sector increased from 57 million in 2017-18 to 64.4 million in 2022-23.
z Digital Transactions: Unified Payment Interface surpass the world’s leading digital payments platforms scoring
an impressive 46% of the global real-time payment transactions. UPI processed nearly ₹81 lakh crore in
transactions between April and July 2024 alone.
Challenges Ahead
z Stagnant Manufacturing Sector: The share of value addition by manufacturing sector is 15.9 percent in 2023-
24 compared to 16.7 percent of GDP (in constant price) in 2013-14. Also the target to increase manufacturing share
of GDP to 25% seems a distant dream which is still at 15%.

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z Increasing Unemployment: The target of adding 100 million manufacturing jobs is unmet, rather India
reported a loss of 24 million jobs between 2016-17 and 2020-21, as per Ashoka University’s Centre for Economic
Data and Analysis.
 Also India is experiencing one of its highest unemployment rates in decades.
z FDI as percentage of GDP: Even in terms of FDI, net FDI inflows have come down from 1.5 percent of GDP in
2013-14 to 0.8 percent in 2023-24.
z Tapping Global Opportunity: India has been unable to attract the global shift of labour intensive manufacturing
units out of China in sectors like textiles, leather, electronics which has shifted to economies like Vietnam and
Bangladesh.
z Focus on Capital Intensive Industries: The present industrial policy disproportionately focuses on the
development of capital-intensive industries providing subsidies to selected large and medium-scale industries.
 Example: Automobiles, pharma, advanced battery cells, telecom equipment, etc. despite having comparative
advantages in labour-intensive manufacturing activities.
Way Forward
z Policy Reforms and Regulatory Simplifications: India needs to overcome the regulatory and policy barriers by
initiating policy reforms like the direct tax reform and further rationalising the GST regime and labour laws.
z Skills Training Programs: Unskilled and unemployable workforce is a persistent headache for India stalling its
growth.
z Raising Competitiveness: Indian manufacturers in order to compete on a global scale need to enhance their
competitiveness via adoption of advanced technologies, improving product quality, and optimising manufacturing
processes to meet international standards.

INDIA’S LOGISTICS SECTOR

As India accelerates towards becoming a $5 trillion economy by 2027, the transportation and the logistics sector
is set to play a pivotal role in this journey.
What Is Logistics?
z Logistics refers to the overall process of managing how resources are acquired, stored, and transported to
their final destination.
z Logistics management involves identifying prospective distributors and suppliers and determining their
effectiveness and accessibility.
Logistics Sector in India
z Global Standing: India’s logistics sector is one of the largest globally, ranked 38th among 139 countries in the
World Bank’s Logistics Performance Index 2023, showcasing steady improvement in efficiency and infrastructure.
z Modes of Transport
 Road Transport: Accounts for 66% of cargo movement, but faces challenges like poor road conditions and
congestion.
z Technological Adoption: India is transitioning to a digitally integrated logistics ecosystem with technologies like
AI, IoT, blockchain, and automation.
 However, the adoption rate is still lower compared to global standards​​.

Challenges with Logistics Sector in India

z High Logistics Costs: Logistics costs in India account for 13-14% of the GDP, compared to the global benchmark
of 8-10%.
z Fragmented Industry Structure: The logistics sector is highly fragmented, with small, unorganized players
dominating 80% of the market. This results in poor resource optimization and inefficiencies.
z Inadequate Infrastructure: India’s logistics infrastructure, including roads, railways, ports, and warehouses, is
insufficient to handle the growing demand.
z Skill Shortage: The sector faces a significant shortage of skilled workers in supply chain management and
logistics technologies. Limited vocational training and industry-specific education exacerbate this issue.

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Way Forward for the Logistics Sector in India
z Reduce Logistics Costs: Focus on reducing logistics costs to align with global benchmarks of 8-10% of GDP.
z Promote International Collaboration: Strengthen international partnerships to enable shared infrastructure,
data exchange, and coordinated decision-making.
z Attract Investments and Enhance Private Sector Participation: Leverage initiatives like the National Infrastructure
Pipeline (NIP), which aims to mobilize ₹50 lakh crore (approximately $650 billion) for infrastructure projects.
z Encourage Digital Transformation: Promote widespread adoption of technologies such as blockchain, Internet
of Things (IoT), and artificial intelligence (AI) across logistics operations.
z Policy Harmonization and Simplification: Further streamline regulations and simplify compliance through single-
window systems like the Unified Logistics Interface Platform (ULIP).

Conclusion
India’s logistics sector is on the brink of transformation, driven by government reforms, technological advancements,
and infrastructure development. By addressing challenges like high costs and fragmentation, and adopting global
best practices, India can position itself as a globally competitive and sustainable logistics hub, boosting trade and
economic growth.

TRADE POLICY FOR VIKSIT BHARAT

This year’s budget gave pride of place to the long-term goal of Viksit Bharat 2047 and mentioned that reforms in
many areas would be needed to achieve it, particularly in trade policy.

About Viksit Bharat 2047

The term ‘Viksit Bharat’ means ‘Developed India’. Viksit Bharat 2047 is the vision to transform India into a
developed nation by 2047.

About Trade Policy

Trade policy refers to a nation’s formal set of practices, laws, regulations, and agreements that govern international
trade practices, or imports and exports to foreign countries.
z Aim: Trade policies aim to strengthen the domestic economy.
 Policies should be tailored to specific targets and in this respect an ambitious target for exports of goods and
services must rise from $775 billion in 2023-24 to $2 trillion by 2030 has been set.
z Role of Government: Trade policy is a government’s stance on international trade, or a combination of laws and
practices that affects imports and exports.
 Trade policies can include regulations, tariffs, and quotas.
 Some nations want to encourage more trade and pursue open trade policies with certain other nations, while
others want to restrict trade and set policies that protect local industries from competition.

Significance of Trade Policy

Trade policy is only one of the factors that can deliver strong export performance. Other initiatives, such as developing
good infrastructure, reducing logistical costs, development of human skills and improving the ease of doing
business, are also important. These factors are relevant not just for exports, but for the economy as a whole.
z Appropriate Distribution of Labour: With the trade policy, India can generate a sphere of expertise and
specialisation over a worldwide platform.
z Stable Pricing: With the assistance of Foreign trade policy, India can lead to parity of pricing to guarantee a
steady demand and supply scenario.
 A foreign trade policy of India also allows India to import some products at the period of a natural calamity
when demand is huge. It means the shortage is handled without taxing the consumer.
z Consumer Advantage: There is a consumer advantage by availing better quality and quantity of goods.
 It also aids in elevating the standard of living particularly for underdeveloped areas.

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Way Forward For India’s Trade Policy for Viksit Bharat
z Shift in Focus: The trade policy India needs to achieve this target requires resolving some internal differences
and also evolving a new approach to handle the global environment.
z Focus on External Developments that affect Trade Policy: In addition to restructuring customs duties, the trade
policy must deal with two new developments in global trade- FTAs and the Global Value Chains (GVCs).
 These developments imply that if India wants exports to benefit from GVCs, it need:
 To attract the multinational companies that dominate them to locate part of their production facilities in
India.
z Geopolitical Developments: Rethought on Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) has acquired urgency because of
geopolitical developments. There is growing tension between the West and a China-Russia partnership.
z Membership on Trade Pacts: It is also important which allows the smooth movement of components across
borders.

INDIA FACES ‘MIDDLE INCOME TRAP’

Recently, World Bank released the World Development Report 2024 provides a comprehensive roadmap to enable
developing countries to escape the “Middle-Income Trap”

Key Highlights From the Report

World Development Report 2024 :
z It focuses on the issue of the ‘middle-income trap’.
z Published by: World Bank annually since 1978
z The report chooses a specific aspect of economic development each year. This time the report expressed its
concerns about the potential challenges faced by India and China, along with 106 other countries, towards
becoming high-income developed countries.
z Timeline for Economic Growth: China could take 10 years, Indonesia could take 70 years, and India could take
as many as 75 years just to reach a quarter of the per capita income of the United States.
z Classification and Disparity: At the end of 2023, 108 countries were classified as middle-income, each with
annual GDP per capita in the range of $1,136 to $13,845.
z Growth in middle-income countries is slower than that in countries at other income levels: Growth slowdowns
occur more frequently in middle-income countries than in low- or high-income countries.

About Middle-Income Trap

z About: A middle-income trap is a scenario where the country’s economy is unable to transition to the higher
per-capita income levels.
 Low-income countries often tend to transition faster to middle-income levels, driven by low wages, cheap
labour and basic technology catch-up. However, only a few countries manage to achieve high-income status.
z Way to Improve: After rising to a matured middle-market economy, policymakers need to be innovative,
strengthen institutional capacities and look for renewed sources of growth rather than depending on the
traditional growth engines to avoid such traps.

Challenges India Faces

z Structural Economic Constraints:
 Limited Industrialization: Despite efforts, India has not undergone the kind of industrial transformation
seen in East Asian economies. Manufacturing remains a relatively small part of the economy compared to
services.
z Human Capital Deficiencies:
 Education and Skills Gap: The Indian education system has struggled to provide the quality education needed
to create a skilled workforce ready for a modern economy.

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z Infrastructure Bottlenecks:
 Inadequate Infrastructure: Poor logistics, energy, and digital infrastructure can hamper productivity and
discourage investment.
z Financial Sector Issues:
 Access to Credit: Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs) often face difficulty in accessing finance, which
restricts their ability to grow.
 Non-Performing Assets: The banking sector has been struggling with a high level of non-performing assets
(NPAs), reducing its lending capacity.
z Demographic Dividend or Burden:
 Youth Unemployment: High unemployment rates among the youth could turn the potential demographic
dividend into a demographic burden.

Way Forward for India to Avoid Middle Income Trap

z Growth in middle-income countries different from that in countries at other income levels:
 Successful middle-income countries will have to engineer two successive transitions to develop economic
structures that can eventually sustain high-income levels.
z Merit must be rewarded—and vested interests must be disciplined.
 The handful of countries that have made speedy transitions from middle- to high-income status have done
so by disciplining vested interests, building their talent pool, and modernizing policies and institutions.
z Highest Socio-Economic Inequalities: So it is the onus of our policymakers to ensure that India’s quest for ‘Vikisit
Bharat’ by 2047 should not be limited to enclaves but should be made inclusive and broad-based.
z Infrastructure Development: Accelerating investment in infrastructure, including roads, ports, electricity, and
digital networks, through mechanisms like Public-private partnerships (PPP).
 For example, the Smart Cities Mission is an initiative that aims to develop sustainable and inclusive urban
solutions.

Conclusion
Avoiding the middle-income trap will require India to implement a multifaceted strategy, encompassing economic,
educational, and governance reforms. With targeted policies and a commitment to structural reforms, India
can pave the way for sustained growth and development, propelling it towards the high-income economy status.

FINANCING URBAN INFRASTRUCTURE IN INDIA

A recent World Bank report estimates that India will require about ₹70 lakh crore by 2036 to meet its urban
infrastructure needs while spending is just a little over one-fourth of the required.

Key Challenges of Urban Infrastructure in India

z Municipal Finances
 Funding Gap: India requires ₹4.6 lakh crore annually for urban infrastructure, but current investment stands
at only ₹1.3 lakh crore, which is just 27% of the requirement.
 Municipal Finances: Municipal finance has stagnated at 1% of GDP since 2002.
z Low Absorptive Capacity
 Unspent Funds: About 23% of total municipal revenue remains unutilized, indicating inefficiencies in fund usage.
z Environmental and Social Sustainability Issues
 Climate Vulnerabilities: Many projects are not designed with environmental and social sustainability in mind,
which is critical given India’s high vulnerability to climate change.
 Mumbai’s coastal roads and drainage systems are increasingly prone to flooding due to inadequate planning
for climate change impacts.
z Challenges of Urban Expansion
 Unplanned Urban Growth: Rapid urbanization has led to the unplanned expansion of cities, often resulting in
urban sprawl.

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 Encroachment on Agricultural and Ecological Land: Expanding urban areas often encroach on fertile
agricultural land and ecologically sensitive zones, threatening food security and biodiversity.

Key Government Schemes for Urban Infrastructure in India

z Atal Mission for Rejuvenation and Urban Transformation (AMRUT):
 Launched in 2015, this scheme focuses on developing basic urban infrastructure in 500 cities.
 This includes water supply, sewerage, storm water drainage, non-motorized urban transport, and green spaces.
z Urban Infrastructure Development Scheme for Small & Medium Towns (UIDSSMT):
 Launched in 2005-06, this scheme aims to improve infrastructure in small and medium towns.
z Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana – Urban (PMAY-U): This scheme includes In-Situ Slum Redevelopment (ISSR),
which uses land as a resource for slum rehabilitation.
 It was launched on 25th June 2015.
 Objective: Provide housing for all in urban areas.
z Swachh Bharat Mission (Urban) or SBM (U):
 The program was launched on October 2, 2014, to honor Mahatma Gandhi on his 150th birth anniversary.

Reform Measures for Urban Infrastructure in India

z Long-term Structural Reforms
 Strengthening State Finance Commissions: Empower State Finance Commissions to ensure equitable financial
devolution to urban local bodies (ULBs).
 Enhancing Municipal Autonomy: Provide ULBs with greater financial and administrative autonomy to enable
better resource management and project implementation.
z Medium-term Reforms
 Developing a Robust Project Pipeline:
 The High-Powered Expert Committee and 12th Plan Working Group propose a ₹70 lakh crore urban
infrastructure investment over 20 years, with 15% funded via PPPs.
 Decoupling Project Preparation from Financial Assistance:
 Allow sufficient time and resources for detailed project preparation to ensure financial, social, and
environmental sustainability.
 Focus on climate-resilient and future-ready infrastructure designs.
z Capacity Building and Institutional Strengthening
 Building Administrative and Technical Capacity:
 Train ULB personnel in financial planning, project management, and modern governance practices.
 Develop standardized frameworks and toolkits for project preparation and execution.

Conclusion
India’s urban future hinges on addressing financial, structural, and governance challenges through innovative
reforms and collaborative efforts. By prioritizing sustainable practices, leveraging technology, and empowering local
governments, India can create inclusive, efficient, and climate-resilient urban spaces to meet the demands of its
growing population.

THE CREATOR ECONOMY: POTENTIAL & CHALLENGES

The Creator Economy is at a critical point in its evolution, characterized by significant opportunities and challenges
that will shape its future trajectory.

What’s the Creator Economy?

z About: The Creator Economy is the economic ecosystem driven by individuals who leverage digital platforms
to create, distribute, and monetize their content, skills, or products.
 This emerging economic model has been facilitated by democratizing content creation on the Internet,
enabling creators to reach global audiences directly.

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z Creators in the Creator Economy: It can include content creators, influencers, YouTubers, podcasters, artists,
writers, and others who build and monetize their brands through online platforms.

Impact of the Creator Economy

The Creator Economy has had profound and wide-ranging impacts on various aspects of society and the economy:
z Economic Growth and Job Creation
 Evolution: Creator Economy has introduced new avenues for income generation, significantly contributing
to economic growth.
 Employment Opportunities: It has created numerous jobs, not just for content creators but also for those
involved in content production, marketing, management, and technology development.
z Democratization of Media and Content
 No Red Tapism: : Digital platforms have lowered the barriers to entry for content creation, allowing anyone
with internet access to become a creator.
 User-Generated Content: Platforms like YouTube, Instagram, and TikTok have democratized content creation,
making it accessible to a broad audience.
z Cultural and Social Impact
 Global Nature: The global nature of digital platforms facilitates cultural exchange, allowing creators to share
their cultural heritage and stories with a global audience.
 Community Building: Online communities formed around creators foster a sense of belonging and shared
identity among followers.

Opportunities for India

z Economic Growth: In 2021, the creator economy was valued at $104 billion, and it is projected to reach nearly
half a trillion by 2027.
z Cultural Export: Indian creators can showcase the country’s rich cultural heritage to a global audience,
enhancing India’s soft power.
z Youth Empowerment: The accessibility of digital platforms allows young Indians to express their creativity, build
businesses, and gain financial independence.

Challenges and Constraints

Despite its potential, the creator economy in India faces several challenges:
z The Disparity in Monetisation
 Disparity: In the prevailing model of the creator economy, the chasm between the value generated by content
creators and their actual earnings is alarmingly wide.
 As a result, only about 4% of global creators are deemed professionals, meaning they pull in more than
$100,000 a year.
z Digital Divide: Limited internet access and digital literacy in rural areas hinder the participation of a significant
portion of the population.
z Monetization Barriers: Indian creators often struggle with lower ad rates and limited access to global
monetization tools compared to their Western counterparts.
z Regulatory Environment: The lack of clear regulations around digital content, intellectual property, and taxation
can create uncertainties for creators and platforms.

Way Forward
z Digital Infrastructure: Improve internet connectivity and digital literacy across the country, particularly in rural
and underserved areas.
z Monetization Support: Facilitate better access to global monetization tools and ensure fair ad revenue rates
for Indian creators.
z Regulatory Clarity: Develop clear regulations regarding digital content, intellectual property rights, and
taxation to provide a stable environment for creators and platforms.

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z Mental Health Support: Promote awareness and provide resources for mental health support tailored to the unique
challenges faced by digital creators.
z Develop an asset-light operating model: Identify areas in the value chain to partner or work with fewer
suppliers, but suppliers that can operate at speed.
z Cultivate collaborative partnerships with creators: Firms can foster collaborations with creators, developing
innovative offerings that resonate with niche markets and alleviate concerns of inauthenticity.
Conclusion
The creator economy stands at a pivotal juncture, and the choices we make now will indelibly shape its future.
Several leaders have surfaced, and chosen the path of disruption, challenging the entrenched norms to champion the
cause of creators worldwide.

RECIPROCAL TARIFFS

About
z Reciprocal tariffs are a trade policy tool where a country imposes tariffs on imports from another country that are
equal to the tariffs that country imposes on its exports.
z The goal is to create a level playing field by ensuring that both countries face the same trade barriers.
z Implementation: If a country sees that another country has high tariffs on its exports, it might choose to impose
reciprocal tariffs as a way to respond or negotiate.
 For example, if Country A charges a 10% tariff on imports from Country B, then Country B might also charge a
10% tariff on imports from Country A.
Key Impacts of Reciprocal Tariffs
z Impacts on Domestic Industries: Reciprocal tariffs can provide protection to domestic industries by making
imported goods less competitive in the local market.
z International Relations: The imposition of reciprocal tariffs can strain diplomatic relations between countries,
potentially leading to trade wars or retaliatory measures.
z Economic Implications: While reciprocal tariffs can help local industries in the short run, they might cause higher
prices for consumers and fewer options in the market. They can also create tension between trading partners and
disrupt global supply chains.
Way Forward
z Diversify Export Markets: India should explore and strengthen trade ties with other regions like the European
Union, Southeast Asia, Africa, and Latin America to reduce dependence on the U.S. market.
z Free Trade Agreements (FTAs): Fast-track negotiations for FTAs with countries like the UK, Australia, Canada, and
the EU to secure better market access for Indian goods.
z Boost IT and Software Exports: India should capitalize on its strengths in the IT and software services sector,
which is less vulnerable to tariffs, to maintain its trade surplus.
Conclusion
While the imposition of reciprocal tariffs poses immediate economic risks, India is proactively engaging in trade
negotiations and strategic reforms to minimize the impact. By enhancing its role in global supply chains and attracting
U.S. investments, India seeks to turn this challenge into an opportunity for long-term economic growth.

PM-YUVA 3.0
Recently, the Ministry of Education launched the third edition of the Prime Minister’s Scheme for Mentoring Young
Writers (PM-YUVA 3.0).
Key Points
z Aim: The PM-YUVA 3.0 (Young, Emerging and Versatile Writers) initiative aims to train young writers under the
age of 30 to promote reading, writing and book culture in India.

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z Significance: The programme provides mentoring and publishing opportunities to promote Indian literature on
the global platform.
z Objective: The initiative aims to develop a generation of writers capable of contributing to literature and knowledge-
sharing.
z PM-YUVA 3.0 builds on the participation of young writers in 22 Indian languages ​​and English in its previous
editions.
z Key themes: It focuses on three themes: the role of Indian diaspora in nation-building, Indian knowledge systems,
and makers of modern India from 1950 to 2025.
z The scheme is in line with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, which highlights the need to create a
knowledge-driven ecosystem.
z Implementation: The National Book Trust, India, will oversee the implementation of PM-YUVA 3.0.
 Selected manuscripts will be published and translated into several Indian languages ​​ to encourage literary
exchange.
z A total of 50 authors will be selected through an All India competition to be conducted through https://www.mygov.
in/ from 11 March 2025 to 10 April 2025.

MSME’S CLASSIFICATION
The government has notified significant revisions to turnover and investment criteria for classifying MSMEs that will
take effect from April 1.
More on News
The Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman had announced new classification criteria for MSMEs in the budget
speech, with investment and turnover limits for the classifications proposed to be increased to 2.5 times and two
times, respectively.
New Criteria for Classification
z Micro Enterprise: Micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) with investments up to 2.5 crore rupees will
now be classified as micro-enterprises, from the previous threshold of 1 crore rupees. The turnover limit has been
revised from 5 crore rupees to 10 crore rupees.
z Small Enterprise: Units with investments up to 25 crore rupees will be classified as small enterprises, from the
earlier 10 crore rupees. The turnover limit for such enterprises has been doubled from 50 crore rupees to 100
crore rupees.
z Medium Enterprise: MSMEs with investments up to 125 crore rupees will now be classified as medium enterprises,
from the earlier limit of 50 crore rupees. For medium enterprises, the turnover limit has been doubled to 500 crore
rupees.

ONE NATION: ONE PORT PROCESS (ONOP) INITIATIVE

The Union Minister of Ports, Shipping & Waterways, Sarbananda Sonowal launched a series of major initiatives
of the Ministry of Ports, Shipping & Waterways (MoPSW) aimed at modernising India’s maritime infrastructure,
strengthening its global trade presence, and promoting sustainability.
Key Initiatives
z ONOP: The “One Nation: One Port Process (ONOP)“ initiative was launched to standardise and streamline
operations across India’s major ports.
 This step aims at removing inconsistencies in documentation and processes that led to inefficiencies, increased
costs, and operational delays.
z Sagar Ankalan: Sarbananda Sonowal also launched Sagar Ankalan. It is the Logistics Port Performance Index
(LPPI) for FY 2023-24. It is a significant step towards enhancing efficiency and global competitiveness in India’s
maritime sector.
z Bharat Global Ports Consortium: Bharat Global Ports Consortium was also launched to Strengthen Global Trade
by expanding India’s maritime reach and enhance global trade resilience.

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z MAITRI Logo: The Union Minister also launched MAITRI logo (Master Application for International Trade and
Regulatory Interface) with an aim to streamline trade processes, reduce bureaucratic redundancies and expedite
clearances, reinforcing India’s commitment to ease of doing business.

ANTI- DUMPING GOODS

To protect domestic industries from cheap imports, India has imposed anti-dumping duties on five Chinese goods.
Key Points
z The government took this step after investigations revealed that these products were being exported from China at
prices lower than their normal value.
z The products under the anti dumping duties include:
 Soft Ferrite Cores,
 vacuum insulated flasks,
 aluminium foil,
 Trichloro Isocyanuric Acid, and
 Poly Vinyl Chloride (PVC) Paste Resin.
z The anti-dumping duty on Soft Ferrite Cores, vacuum insulated flasks, and Trichloro Isocyanuric Acid will
be applicable for five years. The duty on aluminium foil is provisional for six months.
About Anti-Dumping Duty
z Anti-dumping duty is a protectionist tariff imposed by a country on foreign imports that are priced below fair
market value.
z This duty helps protect domestic industries from unfair competition caused by cheap imports that can harm local
manufacturers.

PRADHAN MANTRI SHRAM YOGI MAANDHAN YOJANA

Six years of Pradhan Mantri Shram Yogi Maandhan Yojana (PM-SYM) completed.
About Pradhan Mantri Shram Yogi Maandhan Yojana
z It is a voluntary and contributory pension scheme launched by the Government of India to provide social
security to unorganised workers.
z This scheme ensures a minimum monthly pension of ₹3,000 after the age of 60 for workers who belong to the
unorganised sector and have a monthly income of up to ₹15,000.
z The scheme is a tribute to the workers in the Unorganized sectors who contribute around 50 per cent of the
nation’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP).
z PM-SYM was introduced in the Interim Budget 2019.
z The scheme is administered by the Ministry of Labour and Employment in collaboration with Life Insurance
Corporation of India (LIC) and Common Service Centres e-Governance Services India Limited (CSC SPV) for seamless
implementation.
 LIC is the Pension Fund Manager and responsible for Pension pay out.
 The Government of India matches the worker’s contribution on a 1:1 basis.

PRIME MINISTER INTERNSHIP SCHEME (PMIS)

The Prime Minister Internship Scheme (PMIS) was once again open for applications with the launch of Round 2 of
the pilot phase.
About PMIS
z The Prime Minister Internship Scheme is spearheaded by the Ministry of Corporate Affairs.
z It is designed to harness the potential of India’s youth population by providing them with 12 month paid internships
in top companies of India.

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z The scheme targets individuals aged 21 to 24 who are currently not enrolled in any full-time academic program
or employment, offering them a unique chance to kick-start their careers.
z Each intern will be supported with monthly financial assistance of ₹5,000, supplemented by one-time financial
assistance of ₹6,000.
z Each internship will be a combination of relevant training and professional experience (at least six months) to
ensure that candidates learn and can also apply their skills in real-world settings.

MISSION FOR AATMANIRBHARTA IN PULSES

The Finance Minister has announced in the 2025-26 Union Budget, the launch of a six-year ‘Mission for Aatmanirbharta
(self-reliance) in Pulses’.

Mission for Aatmanirbharta in Pulses

z Budget Allocation: ₹1,000 crore allocated for the mission.
z Objectives:
 Achieve self-reliance in pulses production.
 Provide MSP-based procurement and post-harvest warehousing solutions.
 Reduce dependence on imports.

Key Features of the Mission

z MSP-Based Procurement: NAFED (National Agricultural Cooperative Marketing Federation of India) and
NCCF (National Cooperative Consumers’ Federation of India) will procure pulses from farmers who register
and enter into agreements.
 Aim: Ensure fair prices for farmers and stabilize market prices.
z Post-Harvest Warehousing: Focus on reducing post-harvest losses and improving storage infrastructure.
z Targeted Crops:
 Tur/Arhar: Traditionally a long-duration crop (250-270 days), now reduced to 150-180 days with lower yields
(from 20 quintals/hectare to 15-16 quintals/hectare).
 Urad: Black gram, a key pulse crop.
 Masoor: Red lentil, with record imports in recent years.

GIG WORKERS UNDER PMJAY

The Union Finance Minister has announced that gig workers will now be eligible for healthcare benefits under the
Ayushman Bharat-Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (PMJAY).

Who are Gig Workers?

z Gig workers are self-employed and manage their own schedules and workload.
 Gig work spans various professions, including writing, design, and IT services.
z Gig workers handle their own finances and typically lack traditional employment benefits.

Key Provisions in Budget

z Gig and platform workers will now be covered under the PM JAY health insurance scheme. This provides financial
protection for secondary and tertiary healthcare expenses, covering up to Rs. 5 lakh annually.
z Gig workers will be registered on the e-Shram portal, a platform for informal workers.

DEVOLUTION INDEX REPORT

On 13th February 2025, Minister of State, Ministry of Panchayati Raj & Ministry of Fisheries, Prof. S. P. Singh Baghel
released the comprehensive Devolution Index Report at Indian Institute of Public Administration (IIPA), New Delhi.

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Key Points
z The title of the report was “Status of Devolution to Panchayats in States- An Indicative Evidence Based Ranking
2024”.
z The report marks a milestone in India’s journey towards empowering Panchayati Raj Institutions (PRIs) and realizing
the vision of “Local Self Government” of the 73rd Constitutional Amendment.

What is the Devolution Index?

z The Devolution Index provides insights into the progress of decentralization across States and Union Territories.
z The Index evaluates six critical dimensions:
 Framework,
 Functions,
 Finances,
 Functionaries,
 Capacity Building, and
 Accountability of the Panchayats.
z The Index specifically examines how ‘free’ Panchayats are to make and implement independent decisions,
reflecting the true spirit of Article 243G of the Constitution.
 This article empowers State legislatures to devolve powers and responsibilities to Panchayats across 29
subjects listed in the Eleventh Schedule.
z The Devolution Index serves as a tool for strengthening cooperative federalism and local self-governance, enabling
States to identify areas for improvement and adopt best practices for more empowered and effective Panchayats.

14TH ASIAN FISHERIES AND AQUACULTURE FORUM (14AFAF)

On 12th February 2025, the 14th Asian Fisheries and Aquaculture Forum (14AFAF) was launched in New Delhi.

Key Points
z The 14th Asian Fisheries and Aquaculture Forum (14AFAF) was launched in New Delhi.
z Theme: “Greening the Blue Growth in Asia-Pacific”.
z Inaugurated by: The forum was inaugurated by Shri Rajiv Ranjan Singh, Minister of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry
and Dairying and Panchayati Raj, Govt. of India
z Organisers: It is jointly organized by the Asian Fisheries Society (AFS), Kuala Lumpur; Indian Council of
Agricultural Research (ICAR), New Delhi; the Department of Fisheries (DoF), Government of India; and the Asian
Fisheries Society Indian Branch (AFSIB), Mangalore.
z India occupies 2nd position in total fish production and also aquaculture production globally
z The forum provides a platform to showcase India’s contributions, strengthen international partnerships, and promote
innovative approaches for sustainable, resilient, and economically viable fish production systems.

About AFAF
z The Asian Fisheries and Aquaculture Forum (AFAF) is a triennial event of the Asian Fisheries Society.
z Its Headquarters are located in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.

This was the second time the event was being hosted in India after the 8 AFAF held at Kochi in 2007.

SOIL HEALTH CARD SCHEME

On 19th February 2025, Soil Health Card Scheme (SHCS) completed 10 Years.

Key Points
z The Soil Health Card Scheme was introduced by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi on 19th February, 2015
at Suratgarh, Rajasthan.
z The scheme was launched to assist State Governments to issue soil health cards to all farmers in the country.

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z Soil health card provides information to farmers on nutrient status of their soil along with recommendation on
appropriate dosage of nutrients to be applied for improving soil health and its fertility.
z The Soil Health Card Portal (www.soilhealth.dac.gov.in) facilitates generation of Soil Health Cards for the
benefit of farmers in uniform and standardized format across the country in all major languages and 5 dialects.
z The Soil Health Card contains status of the soil with respect to 12 parameters: N,P,K, S (Macro-nutrients); Zn, Fe,
Cu, Mn, Bo (Micro - nutrients) ; and pH (Acidity or Basicity), EC (Electrical Conductivity) and OC (Organic Carbon).
z Soil Health Card scheme has been merged in Rashtriya Krishi Vikas Yojana (RKVY) scheme as one of its
components under the name ‘Soil Health & Fertility’ from the year 2022-23.
z A pilot project on School Soil Health Programme has been undertaken by Department of Agriculture and
Farmers Welfare in (DA&FW) collaboration with Department of School Education & Literacy (DSE&L), Indian
Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) and State Governments in 20 schools (10 Kendriya Vidyalaya & 10 Navodaya
Vidyalaya) in rural areas. As of 2024, 1020 schools are implementing the School Soil Health Programme, with 1000
soil testing labs set up and 125,972 students enrolled.

ONE NATION, ONE SUBSCRIPTION

On 1st January 2025, the Government launched the “One Nation, One Subscription” scheme.
Key Points
z The initiative is designed to provide nationwide access to the latest scholarly research articles and academic
journals.
z This initiative aims to foster scientific research and innovation by offering affordable, country-wide access to high-
quality academic content. Through ONOS, students, faculty, and researchers in universities, colleges, and research
organizations will benefit from seamless access to valuable resources that drive innovation in various fields.
z Budget Allocation: ₹6,000 crore for three years (2025–2027). It will also provide central funding support of 150
crore rupees per year for beneficiary authors to publish in selected good-quality Open Access journals.
z It is classified as a Central Sector Scheme. Applies to government higher education institutions (HEIs) and central
R&D laboratories.
z This scheme is overseen by the Ministry of Education, through the Department of Higher Education. It is
coordinated by the Information and Library Network (INFLIBNET), an autonomous inter-university center under
the University Grants Commission (UGC).
z ONOS aligns with national goals such as Viksit Bharat @2047, National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, and the
aspirations of the Anusandhan National Research Foundation (ANRF).

LOGISTICS EASE ACROSS DIFFERENT STATES (LEADS) 2024 REPORT

The Union Minister of Commerce & Industry Piyush Goyal unveils the 6th edition of ‘Logistics Ease Across Different
States (LEADS) 2024’ Report.
Key Points
z In LEADS 2024, the report evaluates logistics performance across four key pillars:
 Logistics Infrastructure,
 Logistics Services,
 Operating and Regulatory Environment, and
 The newly introduced Sustainable Logistics.
z It further highlights initiatives undertaken by various States and UTs across these pillars and identifies State/
UT-specific opportunities to enable informed decision-making.
Performance Highlights of LEADS 2024
z Coastal Group
 Achievers: Gujarat, Karnataka, Maharashtra, Odisha, Tamil Nadu
 Fast Movers: Andhra Pradesh, Goa
 Aspirers: Kerala, West Bengal

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z Landlocked Group
 Achievers: Haryana, Telangana, Uttar Pradesh, Uttarakhand
 Fast Movers: Bihar, Himachal Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Punjab, Rajasthan
 Aspirers: Chhattisgarh, Jharkhand
z North-Eastern Group
 Achievers: Assam, Arunachal Pradesh
 Fast Movers: Meghalaya, Mizoram, Nagaland, Sikkim, Tripura
 Aspirers: Manipur
z Union Territories
 Achievers: Chandigarh, Delhi
 Fast Movers: Dadra and Nagar Haveli and Daman and Diu, Jammu and Kashmir, Lakshadweep, Puducherry
 Aspirers: Andaman and Nicobar Islands, Ladakh

LEAPS 2024 Awards

z The Union Minister of Commerce & Industry Piyush Goyal also gave Logistics Excellence, Advancement, and
Performance Shield (LEAPS 2024) Awards.
z These awards are given across various categories, including core logistics services, MSMEs, startups, and
institutions.
z It showcases leadership and innovation within the logistics sector, celebrating exceptional contributions through
a transparent evaluation process backed by a comprehensive and rigorous assessment.

PANEL TO REVISE GDP BASE YEAR TO 2022-23

A 26-member ACNAS high level panel chaired by Biswanath Goldar has been constituted to revise India’s GDP base
year from 2011-12 to 2022-23 under the Ministry of State for Statistics & Programme Implementation.
Objectives of the Update
z Base Year Revision: The new base year for GDP calculations will be updated to 2022-23.
 The current GDP series, based on 2011-12 as the base year, was introduced in January 2015.
z Key Reasons for Changing the Base Year:
 Reflecting Economic Shifts: The Indian economy has undergone significant structural changes, particularly in
the service and technology sectors. The old base year may not accurately represent the current economic reality.
 Leveraging New Data Sources: The availability of high-frequency data sources like digital payments and
e-commerce has improved, allowing for more accurate GDP calculations.
z Advisory Committee on National Accounts Statistics (ACNAS):The panel includes members from RBI, academia,
central and state governments, and researchers.
z Timeline and Expectations: The exercise is expected to be completed by early 2026.
About Base Year
z Base Year is a specific year used as a benchmark to measure economic changes over time.
z Base Year Revision: The government periodically revises the base year to reflect changes in the economy’s structure
and composition.
z First Estimates: The first official GDP estimates were based on 1948-49 as the base year.
 Published in 1956 under the Central Statistical Organisation (CSO).

eMAAP
The Government of India to launch the National Legal Metrology Portal (eMaap).
Key Points
z Developed by: It is being developed by the Department of Consumer Affairs, Government of India.
z It is to integrate State Legal Metrology Departments and their portals into a unified National System.

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z This initiative aims to streamline processes for issuing licenses, conducting verifications and managing enforcement
and compliance.
z By creating a centralized database, eMaap eliminates the need for stakeholders to register on multiple State Portals,
fostering ease of doing business and transparency in trade practices.

GREEN STEEL
India became the first country in the world to define “green steel”.

Key Points
z India becomes first nation to define ‘Green Steel’ with new emissions standards & star rating system.
z Definition of Green Steel: “Green Steel” shall be defined in terms of percentage greenness of the steel, which is
produced from the steel plant with CO2 equivalent emission intensity less than 2.2 tonnes of CO2e per tonne of
finished steel (tfs).
z The greenness of the steel shall be expressed as a percentage, based on how much the steel plant’s emission intensity
is lower compared to the 2.2 t-CO2e/tfs threshold.

Ratings
Based on the greenness, the Green steel shall be rated as follows:
z Five-star green-rated steel: Steel with emission intensity lower than 1.6 t-CO2e/tfs.
z Four-star green-rated steel: Steel with emission intensity between 1.6 and 2.0 t-CO2e/tfs.
z Three-star green-rated steel: Steel with emission intensity between 2.0 and 2.2 t-CO2e/tfs.

RBI GOVERNOR
The Centre announced the appointment of Revenue Secretary Sanjay Malhotra as the 26th Governor of the Reserve
Bank of India as the six-year term of incumbent Governor Shaktikanta Das came to an end.

Appointment of RBI Governor

z The RBI Governor is appointed under the authority of the RBI Act, 1934.
z The Central Government is responsible for the appointment.
z The Financial Sector Regulatory Appointment Search Committee includes the Cabinet Secretary, the current
RBI Governor, the Financial Services Secretary, and two independent members.
z Tenure: The Governor holds office for a term not exceeding five years, with the term determined by the government
at the time of appointment.
z The term may end in two ways:
 If the President of India decides to remove the Governor.
 If the Governor chooses to resign and submits their resignation to the President.
z The Governor is eligible for reappointment or extension of their tenure.
z The RBI Act, 1934, does not specify any particular qualifications for the Governor.
z The Central Government can issue directions to the RBI in the public interest after consulting the Governor.

PRIMARY AGRICULTURE CREDIT SOCIETY

The central government targets every village to have agricultural credit societies by 2047.

More on News
z The computerization of the PACS has opened up many possibilities for their development. The government has
launched the “National Cooperative Database” and released its report.
 Aim of Database: To identify and address the gaps through a comprehensive analysis.

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z The National Cooperative Database has been carried out in three phases.
 1st Phase: The Mapping of approximately 2.64 lakh societies in three sectors, namely Primary Agricultural Credit
Societies, Dairy, and Fisheries, was completed.
 2nd Phase: Data from various National Federation, State Federation, State Cooperative Banks, District Central
Cooperative Banks, Urban Cooperative Banks etc were collected.
 3rd Phase: Data mapping of all remaining 8 lakh primary cooperative societies in other sectors was carried out.

What is PACS?
z PACS are village-level cooperative credit societies.
z They serve as the last link in a three-tier cooperative credit structure headed by the State Cooperative Banks at the
state level.
z The PACS has around 13 crore farmers who are primarily engaged in short-term credit and distribution of seeds,
fertilizers, etc.

NAMO DRONE DIDI

The Government has approved the Central Sector Scheme ‘Namo Drone Didi’ for providing drones to the Women Self
Help Groups (SHGs) under DAY-NRLM, with an outlay of Rs. 1261 Crores.

Key Points
z The scheme aims to provide drones to 14500 selected Women SHGs during the period from 2024-25 to 2025-2026
for providing rental services to farmers for agriculture purposes (application of liquid fertilizers and pesticides for
the present). The major components of the operational guidelines are as under:
z The Scheme will be governed at the Central level by the Empowered Committee of the Secretaries of
Department of Agriculture & Farmers’ Welfare, Department of Rural Development, Department of Fertilizers,
Ministry of Civil Aviation and Ministry of Women and Child Development.
z The Implementation and Monitoring Committee will be headed by the Additional Secretary.
z Under the scheme, a Central Financial Assistance @ 80% of the cost of drone and accessories/ancillary charges
up to a maximum of ₹ 8.0 lakhs will be provided to the women SHGs for purchase of drones as a package.
z Under the scheme, not only the drones but drones as a package will be supplied.

ATAL INNOVATION MISSION

The Union Cabinet, chaired by the Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has approved the continuation of its flagship
initiative, the Atal Innovation Mission (AIM), under the aegis of NITI Aayog.

Key Points
z Under this scheme there will be an enhanced scope of work with an allocated budget of Rs 2,750 crore for the
period till March 31, 2028.
z AIM 2.0 is a step towards Viksit Bharat that aims to expand, strengthen, and deepen India’s already vibrant
innovation and entrepreneurship ecosystem.
z The approval underscores the government’s commitment to fostering a robust innovation and entrepreneurship
ecosystem in India.
z With India at rank 39 on the Global Innovation Index and home to world’s third-largest start-up ecosystem,
the next phase of Atal Innovation Mission (AIM 2.0) is expected to further enhance India’s global competitiveness
z AIM 2.0 is designed to strengthen India’s innovation and entrepreneurship ecosystem in three ways: (a) by increasing
input (i.e., ushering more innovators and entrepreneurs), (b) by improving the success rate or ‘throughput’ (i.e.,
helping more startups succeed) and (c) by improving the quality of ‘output’ (i.e., producing better jobs, products
and services).

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AYUSHMAN VAYA VANDANA CARD
The Prime Minister launched health insurance coverage for all senior citizens of 70 years and above through Ayushman
Vaya Vandana Card under Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB PM-JAY).
Key Points
z Ayushman Vaya Vandana Card has been launched as a part of Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana
(AB PM-JAY).
z All people aged 70 years and above, regardless of their financial status or income, are eligible for free health
coverage of up to Rs 5 lakh annually under this expanded scheme.
z This expansion is part of the Rs 12,850 crore healthcare projects launched recently by the Prime Minister.
z Beneficiaries: It is expected to benefit 60 million senior citizens.
z Objective: The programme aims to provide quality healthcare to senior citizens, as many of them have to undergo
expensive medical treatment.
What is Ayushman Vaya Vandana Card?
z The Ayushman Vaya Vandana Card is universal and has no income limit, be it poor, middle class or upper class.
z Under the expanded scope of the scheme, eligible senior citizens, who belong to families already covered under
AB-PMJAY, will get an additional top-up cover of up to Rs 5 lakh per year for themselves, over and above the
Rs 5 lakh already being given to the family.

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 7 Geography

INTERLINKING OF RIVERS IN INDIA

The Prime Minister of India launched the Ken-Betwa River Link Project.
About Ken-Betwa Project
z It is a river interlinking initiative designed to transfer surplus water from the Ken River in Madhya Pradesh to
the Betwa River in Uttar Pradesh.
z The Union Cabinet had approved Rs 44,605 crore for the KBLP project in December 2021.
z A Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV), the Ken-Betwa Link Project Authority (KBLPA), will oversee the implementation
of the project.
z Link Canal Length: 221 km in length, including a 2-km tunnel.
z The Ken-Betwa Link Project has two phases.
 Phase I will involve building the Daudhan Dam complex and its subsidiary units such as the Low-Level Tunnel,
High-Level Tunnel, Ken-Betwa Link Canal, and powerhouses.
 Phase II will involve three components — Lower Orr Dam, Bina Complex Project, and Kotha Barrage.

About River Linking Projects

z River linking projects involve the construction of canals and dams to transfer water from water-surplus river
basins to water-deficient basins.
 This is often done to address water scarcity, improve irrigation, and generate hydropower.
z Examples:
 The Volga-Don Canal in Russia: Connecting the Caspian and Black Seas, this canal facilitates navigation and
water transfer between the two major river basins.
About National Perspective Plan (NPP)
z The Government of India formulated the National Perspective Plan (NPP) for interlinking rivers in 1980.
z The National Water Development Agency (NWDA) is responsible for executing the interlinking of rivers under
the NPP.
z The Ken-Betwa Link Project (KBLP) is the first interlinking of rivers project under the NPP and is currently
under implementation.
Benefits of River Interlinking Projects (ILR)
z Improved Irrigation Facilities: ILR aims to irrigate drought-prone areas by transferring surplus water.
 Ken-Betwa Link will provide irrigation to 1.07 million hectares in Bundelkhand, improving agricultural
productivity.
z Enhanced Water Supply: Ensures consistent water availability for drinking, industrial, and agricultural use.
z Flood Control: ILR redistributes excess water from flood-prone areas to deficit regions, mitigating flood damage.
 Diverting water from the Brahmaputra basin can reduce floods in Assam while benefiting arid regions in
Rajasthan.
z Hydropower Generation: ILR projects integrate hydroelectric power plants to meet energy demands.
 The Daudhan Dam (Ken-Betwa project) is expected to generate 103 MW of hydropower.

Way Forward for River Interlinking Projects in India

z Comprehensive Environmental Impact Assessments (EIA): Conduct detailed EIAs to assess and mitigate
ecological damage, biodiversity loss, and salinity intrusion.
z Equitable Water Sharing Mechanisms: Develop a robust legal framework to address inter-state disputes and
ensure fair distribution of water resources.
UPPSC CURRENT WALLAH
z Focus on Sustainable Alternatives: Prioritize localized solutions like watershed management, rainwater harvesting,
and micro-irrigation to complement river interlinking.
z Improved Rehabilitation and Resettlement (R&R) Policies: Provide adequate compensation, employment
opportunities, and social support for displaced communities.
Conclusion
Rivers provide critical ecosystem services, including sediment transport for delta formation, support for biodiversity,
enhancement of land fertility, and groundwater recharge. Policymakers must balance technological interventions
with environmental sustainability to ensure the long-term ecological and societal health of the nation.

AVALANCHES IN THE HIMALAYAN STATES

An avalanche hit a Border Roads Organisation (BRO) project site near Mana Pass in Uttarakhand’s Chamoli district.
About Avalanche
z Avalanche is a rapid descent of snow, ice, and debris down a mountain slope.It is triggered by natural or
human-induced factors.
z It can cause widespread destruction, burying people, structures, and transport routes.
Causes of Avalanches
z Heavy Snowfall and Wind: Rapid accumulation of snow adds weight and stress to the snowpack. Ex, Mana Village
Avalanche (Feb, 2025)
z Steep Slopes (30° to 45° Slope Angle): Avalanches are most likely on slopes with angles between 30° to 45°. Ex,
Chamoli Avalanche (2021)
z Temperature Fluctuations and Melting: Rising temperatures or solar radiation cause the snowpack to melt and
refreeze, weakening its bond. Ex, Rohtang Pass Avalanche (Mar 2019)
z Earthquakes and Vibrations: Seismic activity or vibrations disturb the snowpack, dislodging unstable layers. Ex,
Sikkim Earthquake (2011)
z Weak Snow Layers (Slab Formation): Weakly bonded snow layers beneath a cohesive slab of snow can collapse,
causing the slab to slide. Ex, Avalanche in Gulmarg (2010)
z Deforestation and Construction Activities: Human activities, such as deforestation and infrastructure projects,
destabilize slopes and increase avalanche risk. Ex, Char Dham Project, Uttarakhand
z Human Activities: Skiing, snowboarding, and military exercises disturb snow layers, increasing instability. Ex,
Siachen Avalanche (Feb 2016)
Avalanches Prone Areas in India
z The Himalayas are well known for the occurrence of snow avalanches, particularly the Western Himalayas i.e. the
snowy regions of Jammu and Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh and Western Uttar Pradesh.
 Jammu and Kashmir - Higher reaches of Kashmir and Gurez valleys, Kargil and Ladakh and some of the major
roads
 Himachal Pradesh - Chamba, Kullu- Spiti and Kinnaur vulnerable areas
 Uttarakhand - Parts of Tehri Garhwal and Chamoli districts are vulnerable areas.

DYNAMIC GROUNDWATER RESOURCE ASSESSMENT REPORT 2024

Context: Recently, the Union Minister of Jal Shakti released the Dynamic Ground Water Resource Assessment
Report for the entire country for the year 2024.
z The assessment was carried out jointly by the Central Ground Water Board (CGWB) and States/UTs.

About Central Groundwater Board (CGWB):

z Formation: Established in 1970 by renaming the Exploratory Tube wells Organization (ETO) to develop
groundwater policies and programs.
z Headquarters: Located in Faridabad, Haryana.

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More on News
z India is the largest consumer of groundwater globally,
using about 25% of the world’s groundwater
resources.
z Groundwater is the backbone of India’s agriculture and
drinking water security, contributing nearly 62% to
irrigation, 85% to rural water supply, and 50% to
urban water supply.
Key Highlights of the Report, 2024
z Groundwater Recharge and Extraction:
 Total Annual Groundwater Recharge: 446.90
Billion Cubic Meters (BCM).
 Extractable Groundwater Resource: 406.19 BCM
(after accounting for natural discharge).
 Annual Groundwater Extraction: 245.64 BCM.
 Stage of Groundwater Extraction: 60.47%
(National Average).
z Regional Variations:
 Stage of Groundwater Extraction > 100%: Punjab,
Rajasthan, Dadra and Nagar Haveli and Daman and
Diu, Haryana, and Delhi.
 Stage of Groundwater Extraction > 90% to
100%: Nil
 Stage of Groundwater Extraction > 70% to
90%: Tamil Nadu, Uttar Pradesh, Puducherry and
Chandigarh.
z Groundwater Trends (2017-2024):
 Groundwater recharge increased by 15 BCM since 2017.
 Groundwater extraction reduced by 3 BCM compared to 2017.
 Recharge from tanks, ponds, and conservation structures increased by 11.36 BCM (from 13.98 BCM in 2017
to 25.34 BCM in 2024).
z Contributions to Recharge:
 Rainfall: Accounts for 61% of the total groundwater recharge, making it the primary contributor.
 Water Bodies, Tanks, and Ponds: Significant contributors to recharge, with recharge from these sources
increasing by 11.36 BCM from 2017 to 2024 (from 13.98 BCM to 25.34 BCM).
z Water Quality Concerns:
 Contaminants in Groundwater: Presence of pollutants
such as Arsenic, Fluoride, Nitrate, and Uranium
affecting groundwater quality in various regions.
 Saline Groundwater: 127 assessment units (1.8%)
categorized as saline, primarily due to brackish or
saline groundwater in phreatic aquifers.
 Irrigation Suitability: 81% of groundwater samples
are deemed suitable for irrigation.
 North-East states have 100% of groundwater
categorized as “excellent” for irrigation.
 Regional Contamination: Areas with high Electrical
Conductivity (EC) and specific contaminants are
identified as hotspots for pollution, stemming from
agricultural runoff and industrial discharges.

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z Groundwater Conditions in 2024:
 Improvement in 128 assessment units compared to 2023.
 Increased focus on rainwater harvesting and conservation efforts under government schemes.

Reasons for Groundwater Depletion in India

z Excessive Irrigation Demand: Groundwater is over-extracted for agriculture, accounting for over 60% of total
extraction.
 Cultivation of water-intensive crops like rice and sugarcane, especially in arid and semi-arid regions, worsens
depletion.
z Inefficient Irrigation Practices: Predominant use of flood irrigation, which has high water wastage.
 Lack of widespread adoption of water-saving techniques like drip and sprinkler irrigation.
z Unregulated Groundwater Extraction: Lack of stringent laws and monitoring allows indiscriminate pumping of
groundwater, especially for agricultural and industrial uses.
z Urbanization and Population Growth: Rapid urban expansion increases groundwater demand for drinking and
industrial purposes.
 Encroachment on water bodies and loss of recharge zones due to construction activities.
z Climate Change: Erratic rainfall patterns reduce groundwater recharge.
 Frequent droughts and reduced monsoon intensity further stress aquifer replenishment.
z Decline in Recharge Areas: Deforestation, loss of wetlands, and reduction of green cover decrease natural
groundwater recharge.
z Low Adoption of Rainwater Harvesting: Despite awareness and policies, rainwater harvesting practices are
underutilized in urban and rural areas.
z Geological Constraints: In regions with hard rock aquifers (e.g., Peninsular India), groundwater recharge is naturally
limited due to low permeability.
Challenges with Groundwater in India
z Over-Extraction for Agriculture: Agriculture accounts for nearly 89% of groundwater extraction in India.
 States like Punjab and Haryana rely heavily on groundwater for water-intensive crops like paddy and wheat,
causing water tables to decline by 0.5-1 meter annually.
z Declining Water Tables: More than 750 blocks (11.1%) in India are classified as “over-exploited” (2024 report).
 In North India, particularly Punjab and Rajasthan, groundwater tables have dropped to critical levels, with some
regions requiring deeper borewells.
z Pollution and Contamination: Pollutants like Arsenic, Fluoride, Nitrate, and Uranium affect groundwater in
regions like West Bengal, Uttar Pradesh, and Rajasthan.
 Over 20 million people in West Bengal are exposed to arsenic contamination in drinking water.

Government Initiatives for Groundwater Management:

z Jal Shakti Abhiyan (JSA) 2019: Focuses on rainwater harvesting and water conservation through scheme
convergence (Phase 5: “Catch the Rain” 2024).
z Atal Bhujal Yojana (2020): Groundwater management in water-stressed Gram Panchayats across 80 districts
in 7 states.
z Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchai Yojana (PMKSY): Enhances irrigation coverage and water use efficiency with
initiatives like Har Khet Ko Pani.
z Mission Amrit Sarovar (2022): Targets creation or rejuvenation of 75 water bodies per district for water
conservation.
z National Aquifer Mapping (NAQUIM): Maps aquifers to aid groundwater recharge and conservation plans.
z Saline Intrusion: Coastal regions like Gujarat, Tamil Nadu, and Odisha face saline water intrusion due to over-
pumping of fresh groundwater.
 In Chennai, saline intrusion affects water quality, making it unsuitable for consumption.
z Inefficient Use in Agriculture: Predominant use of flood irrigation leads to wastage and inefficient groundwater
usage.

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 Farmers in Gujarat and Maharashtra still rely on traditional methods instead of drip irrigation, despite
government subsidies.
z Urbanization and Industrialization: Increasing urban and industrial demand stresses aquifers.
 Cities like Bengaluru and Chennai face water shortages as over-extraction has caused wells to run dry, with water
tables dropping by over 20 meters in some areas.
z Climate Change and Rainfall Variability: Erratic rainfall and reduced monsoon intensity impact natural recharge.
 In regions like Marathwada (Maharashtra), recurring droughts severely limit groundwater replenishment, further
exacerbating shortages.
Way Forward for Groundwater Management in India
z Promote Rainwater Harvesting: Implement large-scale rainwater harvesting systems in urban and rural areas
to recharge groundwater.
z Adopt Water-Efficient Irrigation Techniques: Promote drip and sprinkler irrigation to minimize water wastage
in agriculture, which consumes over 85% of extracted groundwater.

Recommendations from the Dynamic Ground Water Resource Assessment Report, 2024:
z Conduct water balance studies tailored to diverse hydrogeological setups for accurate groundwater assessments.
z Refine aquifer characterization parameters through experimental studies for better resource evaluation.
z Link groundwater assessment with management by validating the impact of conservation interventions.
z Perform frequent temporal groundwater availability studies using Digital Water Level Recorders.
z Create and update a comprehensive groundwater database with enhanced state-central coordination.
z Implement stricter groundwater extraction regulations, efficient irrigation techniques, and recharge measures.
z Artificial Recharge Structures: Build check dams, percolation tanks, and recharge wells to enhance artificial
recharge to aquifers.
z Aquifer Mapping and Management: Complete mapping of aquifers under the National Aquifer Mapping and
Management (NAQUIM) program to identify critical zones and develop localized management plans.
z Community Participation: Empower local communities to participate in groundwater conservation through
awareness campaigns and incentivized programs.
z Improve Data Collection and Monitoring: Use Digital Water Level Recorders (DWLRs) to improve the accuracy
of groundwater assessments and monitor recharge and extraction levels.
Conclusion
The Dynamic Ground Water Resource Assessment Report, 2024 highlights significant improvements in groundwater
recharge and reduced extraction, reflecting the success of conservation efforts. However, challenges like over-
extraction, regional disparities, and pollution persist, necessitating sustained management, regulatory measures, and
community participation to ensure sustainable groundwater use for future generations.

BOMB CYCLONE
Recently, a bomb cyclone struck North-western US and western Canada.
A bomb cyclone, also known as explosive cyclogenesis, is a rapidly intensifying low-pressure storm system
characterized by a significant drop in atmospheric pressure typically at least 24 millibars within 24 hours in mid-
latitude regions. This phenomenon often occurs over oceans, where warm and cold air masses collide, fueling the
storm’s rapid development. The term “bomb” reflects the storm’s sudden and intense strengthening, not an explosion.
Key Features
z Formation: Driven by strong temperature contrasts, often near oceanic fronts like the Gulf Stream or Kuroshio
Current. Cold air from land interacts with warmer ocean air, creating instability.
z Impacts: It produces hurricane-force winds, heavy precipitation (rain or snow), coastal flooding, and storm surges.
These storms can disrupt transportation, damage infrastructure, and pose risks to life and property.
z Regions Affected: It is common in the North Atlantic, North Pacific, and occasionally the Southern Hemisphere. In
the U.S., East Coast nor’easters often involve bomb cyclones.
z Seasonality: Most frequent in late fall to early spring, when temperature gradients are strongest.

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NATIONAL MISSION ON NATURAL FARMING (NMNF)
The National Mission on Natural Farming (NMNF) is a flagship initiative by the Government of India, launched to
promote chemical-free, sustainable, and cost-effective farming practices rooted in traditional knowledge and modern
ecological understanding. It was approved on November 25, 2024, by the Union Cabinet, it operates as a standalone
Centrally Sponsored Scheme under the Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers’ Welfare with a total outlay of ₹2,481 crore
(₹1,584 crore from the central government and ₹897 crore from states) until 2025-26.
Objectives
z Promote Chemical-Free Farming: Encourage practices that eliminate synthetic fertilizers and pesticides, relying
on local resources like cow dung, urine, and biomass.
z Reduce Input Costs: Minimize farmers’ dependency on purchased inputs through on-farm resource recycling, such
as bio-inputs like Jeevamrit and Beejamrit.
z Enhance Soil Health and Biodiversity: Foster agroecology-based diversified farming systems integrating crops,
trees, and livestock to restore soil fertility and functional biodiversity.
z Improve Farmer Livelihoods: Increase net incomes through cost reduction, diversified cropping, and access to
premium markets for natural produce.
z Climate Resilience: Build farming systems resilient to climate risks like droughts, floods, and waterlogging.
z Health and Sustainability: Provide safe, nutritious food while mitigating greenhouse gas emissions and promoting
environmental health.
Key Features
1. Scale and Reach:
 Targets 1 crore farmers and 7.5 lakh hectares across 15,000 clusters in Gram Panchayats within two years.
 Prioritizes areas with existing natural farming practitioners, Self-Help Groups (SHGs), Primary Agricultural Credit
Societies (PACS), and Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs).
2. Model Demonstration Farms:
 Establishes 2,000 farms at Krishi Vigyan Kendras (KVKs), Agricultural Universities, and farmers’ fields for
hands-on training.
 Farmer Master Trainers will guide farmers in preparing natural inputs and adopting practices.
3. Bio-Input Resource Centers (BRCs):
 Large-scale centers to ensure easy access to natural inputs like Jeevamrit, Beejamrit, and Ghanjeevamrit, reducing
the labor burden on farmers.
4. Training and Capacity Building:
 Deploys 30,000 Krishi Sakhis/Community Resource Persons for awareness and handholding.
 MANAGE (National Institute of Agricultural Extension Management) serves as the nodal organization for training
and knowledge dissemination.
5. Certification and Branding:
 Introduces a simple certification system and common branding to enhance market access for natural farming
produce.
6. Monitoring:
 Real-time, geo-tagged monitoring via an online portal to track implementation.
Core Practices
z Biomass Mulching: Maintains year-round soil cover to enhance humus and microbial activity.
z No Synthetic Inputs: Excludes all chemical fertilizers, pesticides, and herbicides.
z Local Resources: Uses on-farm inputs like cow dung and urine from indigenous breeds, alongside concoctions like
Jeevamrit (microbial culture) and Neemastra (pest control).
z Diversified Cropping: Promotes polyculture and intercropping to boost resilience and income.
z Minimal Tillage: Preserves soil structure and reduces erosion.
z Livestock Integration: Incorporates animals for nutrient cycling and sustainability.

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Benefits
z Economic: Studies show natural farming reduces cultivation costs (e.g., ₹846/acre for rice vs. ₹5,961/acre in
chemical farming) and increases net incomes by up to 49% in some cases.
z Environmental: Restores soil health, reduces greenhouse gas emissions, and conserves water (ZBNF uses 10% of
water compared to conventional methods).
z Health: Produces nutrient-rich, chemical-free food, with studies reporting 80% of natural farming households
experiencing health improvements.
z Social: Enhances rural employment through input enterprises and increases female workforce participation.
Challenges
z Yield Concerns: Short-term studies show mixed results, with some crops experiencing yield drops during the
transition phase, raising food security concerns.
z Scalability: Lack of readily available natural inputs and labor-intensive practices deter adoption.
z Knowledge Gap: Requires extensive training to understand local ecology and input preparation.
z Market Access: Limited infrastructure for certification and marketing of natural produce
Conclusion
The NMNF is a bold step toward sustainable agriculture, aligning with global regenerative farming trends. While it
offers significant economic, environmental, and health benefits, its success depends on addressing scalability, yield
stability, and market access challenges through robust training, infrastructure, and scientific validation.

POLAR VORTEX
The polar vortex is a large-scale, persistent atmospheric circulation pattern characterized by a strong band of
westerly winds in the stratosphere, typically located over the Arctic (and sometimes Antarctic) during winter. It
plays a significant role in shaping winter weather patterns in the Northern Hemisphere.
Key Features
z Definition: The polar vortex is a cyclonic (counterclockwise) circulation of cold air centered around the North Pole,
driven by the temperature contrast between the frigid Arctic and warmer mid-latitudes.
z Location and Structure: It exists in the stratosphere (10–50 km above Earth) and, to a lesser extent, the troposphere.
The stratospheric vortex is stronger and more defined, while the tropospheric vortex influences surface weather.
z Seasonality: It is strongest in winter when the Arctic is coldest and weakens or breaks down in spring as the region
warms.
Mechanism
z The polar vortex forms due to the jet stream, a fast-moving band of winds caused by the temperature gradient
between the Arctic and mid-latitudes. Cold air is trapped within the vortex, keeping it confined to the polar region.
z A strong polar vortex is compact and stable, maintaining cold air over the Arctic. A weak or disrupted vortex allows
cold air to spill southward, impacting mid-latitude regions like North America, Europe, and Asia.
Polar Vortex Disruptions
z Sudden Stratospheric Warming (SSW): A rapid warming of the stratosphere (by 20–50°C in days) can weaken or
split the vortex, pushing cold air southward. SSW events occur roughly every other year.
z Weather Impacts: Disruptions lead to prolonged cold spells, heavy snow, and extreme winter weather in mid-
latitudes. For example, the 2021 Texas cold wave was linked to a disrupted polar vortex.
z Causes of Disruption: Planetary waves (large-scale atmospheric waves), solar activity, and climate variability (e.g.,
El Niño) can destabilize the vortex. Climate change may also influence its behavior, though the exact impact is
debated.
Climate Change Connection
z Debated Impacts: Some studies suggest Arctic warming (amplified by sea ice loss) weakens the polar vortex,
increasing the likelihood of disruptions and cold outbreaks in mid-latitudes. Others argue that natural variability
dominates.

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z Jet Stream Waviness: A weaker temperature gradient due to Arctic warming may cause the jet stream to meander,
prolonging extreme weather events.
z Recent Trends: Analysis from 2023–2025 suggests increased vortex disruptions, with events like the January 2025
cold snap in North America linked to SSW.

Significance
z Weather Forecasting: Understanding the polar vortex is crucial for predicting winter weather, especially during
disruptions.
z Societal Impact: Cold waves from vortex disruptions can strain energy systems, disrupt transportation, and affect
agriculture, as seen in recent U.S. and European winters.
z Scientific Interest: The polar vortex is a key area of study for atmospheric dynamics and climate change impacts.

Conclusion
The polar vortex is a critical component of global atmospheric circulation, influencing winter weather patterns.
While naturally variable, its behavior is increasingly scrutinized in the context of climate change, which may amplify
disruptions and extreme weather. Ongoing research and monitoring are essential to improve predictions and mitigate
impacts.

EQUATORIAL ELECTROJET
The Equatorial Electrojet (EEJ) is a narrow, intense electric current system flowing in the Earth’s ionosphere,
specifically within the E-region (90–150 km altitude), along the magnetic equator. It is a significant geophysical
phenomenon driven by solar and atmospheric dynamics, influencing ionospheric behavior and geomagnetic
observations.

Key Features
z Location: The EEJ is centered over the magnetic equator, where the Earth’s magnetic field is nearly horizontal. It
extends approximately ±3° in latitude and spans longitudinally across the dayside of the Earth.
z Current Flow: It is an eastward-flowing electric current, strongest during daytime (peaking around noon) due to
solar-driven ionization.
z Magnitude: The current intensity can reach 100–200 kA, with a typical width of 600–1000 km and a thickness of
a few kilometers.

Mechanism
z Formation: The EEJ arises from the interaction of solar radiation, atmospheric tides, and the Earth’s magnetic field:
 Solar ultraviolet radiation ionizes neutral particles in the ionosphere, creating a plasma of electrons and ions.
 The horizontal magnetic field at the equator prevents vertical movement of charged particles, enhancing eastward
electron flow.
 Atmospheric tides, driven by solar heating, generate electric fields via the dynamo effect, amplifying the current.
z Cowling Conductivity: The EEJ’s intensity is enhanced by the Cowling effect, where vertical currents are inhibited,
leading to a high conductivity channel along the equator.
z Diurnal Variation: The EEJ is strongest during the day, weakens at dusk, and is nearly absent at night due to
reduced ionization.

Geophysical Significance
z Magnetic Effects: The EEJ produces a strong enhancement in the geomagnetic field at the Earth’s surface, observable
as a daily variation in magnetic records (known as the solar quiet variation or Sq). This is most pronounced under
the magnetic equator.
z Ionospheric Impact: It influences ionospheric plasma dynamics, affecting radio wave propagation and satellite
communications, particularly in equatorial regions.
z Space Weather: The EEJ is sensitive to solar activity (e.g., solar flares, coronal mass ejections), which can modulate
its strength, impacting navigation and communication systems.

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z Equatorial Plasma Irregularities: The EEJ contributes to phenomena like equatorial spread-F and plasma bubbles,
which cause scintillations in GPS signals.

Variability and Influences

z Seasonal and Solar Cycle Variations: The EEJ is stronger during equinoxes and at solar maximum due to higher
ionospheric conductivity. It weakens during solstices and solar minimum.
z Lunar Tides: Lunar gravitational tides cause a secondary modulation of the EEJ, visible as lunar daily variations
in geomagnetic data.
z Counter Electrojet: Occasionally, the EEJ reverses direction (westward flow), known as the counter electrojet, often
linked to geomagnetic disturbances or specific tidal conditions.
z Climate Influence: Recent studies suggest tropospheric weather (e.g., thunderstorms, monsoons) can modulate the
EEJ through upward-propagating waves.

Observations and Research

z Ground-Based Measurements: Magnetometers at equatorial observatories (e.g., in India, Peru, Brazil) detect EEJ-
induced magnetic field variations. The H-component of the geomagnetic field shows a pronounced daytime peak.
z Satellite Observations: Satellites like CHAMP, Swarm, and Ørsted have mapped the EEJ’s structure and variability,
revealing its global extent and temporal changes.
z Indian Contributions: India, located near the magnetic equator, has been a hub for EEJ research. The Indian
Institute of Geomagnetism and observatories like Alibag and Tirunelveli provide critical data. The EEJ over India
is particularly strong due to its proximity to the magnetic equator.

Applications and Challenges

z Space Technology: Understanding the EEJ is vital for mitigating ionospheric effects on GPS, satellite navigation, and
HF radio communications, especially in equatorial regions like India, Africa, and South America.
z Geomagnetic Studies: The EEJ helps model the ionosphere-magnetosphere coupling and improve global geomagnetic
field models.
z Challenges: Variability in the EEJ due to solar storms or sudden stratospheric warmings complicates space weather
forecasting. Plasma irregularities linked to the EEJ pose ongoing challenges for communication systems.

Conclusion
The Equatorial Electrojet is a dynamic ionospheric phenomenon with significant implications for geomagnetic,
ionospheric, and space weather research. Its intense current system, driven by solar and tidal forces, shapes equatorial
ionospheric dynamics and impacts modern technology. Ongoing observations, particularly from equatorial regions,
are crucial for advancing our understanding and mitigating its effects on communication and navigation systems.

WEATHER FORECASTING IN INDIA

Nearly two-thirds of India’s population faces flood risks, but only a third have access to early warning systems.

More on News
z Increasing Climate Extremes in India: The monsoon season this year has been particularly severe, with widespread
flooding affecting most Indian states.
 A 2021 study by the Council on Energy, Environment and Water (CEEW) highlights that nearly 40% of districts
in India are exposed to alternating climatic hazards, experiencing both floods during the monsoon and droughts
in the dry season.
z Rising Trend in Heavy Rainfall: An analysis of 40 years of rainfall data by CEEW shows a significant increase in
extreme weather events, with heavy rainfall days during the monsoon rising by up to 64% over the past decade.

Significance of Accurate Weather Predictions

z Preparedness Benefits: High-accuracy weather predictions are vital for better preparation against extreme weather
events, facilitating timely warnings, coordinating power supplies, and advising farmers on crop protection.

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z Public Safety: Clear and accurate predictions enhance public safety by providing timely warnings about severe
weather, allowing individuals and organisations to take necessary precautions.
z Resource Management: Accurate predictions help in effective resource allocation, such as deploying emergency
services and distributing relief materials during disasters.

Challenges Related to Weather Forecasting In India

z Inadequate Weather Monitoring Ground Stations: There are a total requirement of more than 3,00,000 ground
stations (AWS/ARG) and around 70 DWRs.
z Technological Constraints: India faces limited resources for advanced forecasting technology due to budget
constraints.
z Climate Change: Extreme weather events, influenced by climate change, have become more frequent and
unpredictable, making the annual monsoon more challenging to forecast, significant disasters (e.g., landslides in
Kerala, lake outbursts in Sikkim and Uttarakhand).
z Ineffective Coordination with Local Authorities: Hinders timely responses to weather warnings.
z Varied Climate Zones: India’s diverse geography means that weather patterns can differ significantly across regions,
complicating the forecasting process.

Way Forward For Enhancing Weather Forecasting In India

z Enhanced Data Collection
 Denser Instrument Networks: Install a greater number of weather monitoring instruments (e.g., rain
gauges, temperature sensors) across localised areas to gather more granular data.
z Technological Additions: India is set to acquire its fastest supercomputer by next year for ₹900 crore, three
times faster than existing systems, improving block-level weather forecasts.
 Prioritise installing weather observation platforms on India’s western coast and in large urban centres
facing high climate risks.
z Integration of Technology: Greater use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML) for hyperlocal
rainfall forecasts through pattern recognition and anomaly detection.
 Example: Experimental models from IIT-Bombay have shown promising results, achieving higher accuracy
than IMD.
z Utilise Communication Strategies: There is a need to create tailored weather information for local communities
and disseminate the same using various channels such as mobile apps, social media, community radio etc to
effectively reach a wider audience.

MISSION MAUSAM
Mission Mausam was launched by the Prime Minister at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi on the occasion of the 150th
Foundation Day of the India Meteorological Department.

Key Points
z Aim: “Mission Mausam” has been launched with the aim of making the country weather-ready and climate-smart.
 The mission aims to achieve high-level capability by developing state-of-the-art weather monitoring techniques
and systems, implementing high-resolution atmospheric observations, next-generation radars and satellites
and high-performance computers.
 It will also focus on improving the understanding of weather and climate processes, providing air quality data.
z IMD Vision-2047: IMD Vision-2047 document for climate resilience and climate change adaptation was also
released.

Conclusion
Accurate weather predictions are crucial for India, one of the nations most vulnerable to climate change. They
enable better preparedness through early warnings for heat and rainfall, coordination of power supplies, and
guidance for farmers to safeguard their crops.

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EARTH HOUR
On March 22, 2025 India joined the world’s largest grassroots environmental movement, Earth Hour, with a special
focus on water conservation.
About Earth Hour
z Earth Hour is the world’s biggest global lights-off event.
z It is observed annually in March from 8:30 PM to 9:30 PM.
z During this hour, people across the globe switch off all non-essential lights, symbolizing their commitment
to environmental conservation and climate action.
z In India, iconic landmarks, monuments, public and private institutions, businesses, and communities take part
in the Switch Off event in perfect unison, demonstrating their commitment to environmental conservation and
sustainability.
z This year’s Earth Hour theme was Be Water Wise. It highlights the urgent need for water conservation and
sustainable practices.
Earth Hour was first launched in Sydney, Australia, in 2007 by the World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF) in
collaboration with The Sydney Morning Herald.
The idea was simple: switch off the lights for one hour to make a statement about climate change.

URBAN FLOODS IN INDIA

Various Indian cities are experiencing severe flooding, highlighting systemic issues in urban planning and
drainage infrastructure.
Recent Concerning Cases of India
z Delhi: This year, several parts of Delhi have been submerged for more than one day.
z Assam: Guwahati, Assam has faced a crippling flood.
z Maharashtra: Torrential rains brought lives to a standstill in several parts of Maharashtra, including Pune and
Mumbai.
z Similarity in All Cases: All these cities have distinct geographical features. However, there are at least three things
that are common to their flood-related woes:
 Outdated Drainage Systems: It cannot take the stress of more than normal rainfall
 Poor Planning: Planning that does not account for local hydrology
 Limited Civic Response: The role of civic agencies seems limited to organising relief and rescue.

STATE OF CLIMATE REPORT 2024 (1)

According to the State of Climate 2024 report, published by the World Meteorological Organization (WMO),
atmospheric carbon dioxide (CO₂) levels have reached their highest point in the last 800,000 years due to
global warming.
About State of Climate 2024 Report
z The Report was released by the World Meteorological Organisation (WMO) during the United National Climate
Conference (COP29) in Baku.
Key Findings from the WMO State of Climate 2024 Report
z GHG Rise: CO₂ levels reached 420 parts per million in 2023, the highest in 8,00,000 years.
 Methane (CH₄): 1923 parts per billion (266% of pre-industrial levels)
 Nitrogen Oxide (N₂O): 335.8 parts per billion (124% of pre-industrial levels)
z Temperature Increase: This is the warmest year in the 175-year observational record.
 2024 was the first year to exceed the 1.5°C Paris Agreement threshold annually.
 The European Union’s Copernicus Climate Change Service (C3S) predicts the 1.5°C threshold may be
crossed by September 2029.

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z Ocean Warming: Ocean heat content highest in recorded history.
 Sea levels continue to rise, with glaciers retreating rapidly.
 Antarctic sea ice at its second-lowest extent ever recorded.
z Ocean acidification: Acidification of the ocean surface is continuing, as shown by the steady decrease of global
average ocean surface pH.
z Displacement: 2024 saw record extreme weather events: Tropical cyclones, Extreme rainfall & floods and
Droughts
 2024 saw the highest number of climate-induced displacements since 2008.
z Negative Mass balance of Glaciers: 2022-2024 saw the largest three-year loss of glaciers on record. Seven of the
last 10 years have had the highest negative mass balance of glaciers.

Reasons Behind the Climate Trends in the 2024 Report

z Record CO₂ and Greenhouse Gas Levels
 Burning of Fossil Fuels: Continued use of coal, oil, and natural gas for energy.
 Deforestation: Reduced carbon absorption capacity as forests shrink.
 Industrial Emissions: Increased output from cement, steel, and chemical industries.
 Agricultural Practices: Large-scale livestock farming releases methane (CH₄), and excessive fertilizer use
contributes to nitrous oxide (N₂O) emissions.
z Record-Breaking Global Temperature Rise
 Greenhouse Effect Intensification: High CO₂, CH₄, and N₂O trap more heat.
 El Nino: Warm ocean currents in early 2024 further increased global temperatures.
 Urban Heat Island Effect: Expanding cities absorb and retain more heat.
z Ocean Warming and Sea Level Rise
 Oceans Absorbing 90% of Excess Heat: Due to global warming, oceans act as a heat sink.
 Melting Polar Ice Caps: Increased ice melt from Greenland and Antarctica.
 Thermal Expansion: As water heats up, it expands, rising sea levels.
 Increased CO₂ Absorption by Oceans: More atmospheric CO₂ dissolves in seawater, forming carbonic acid.
z Extreme Weather Events & Climate-Induced Displacements
 Higher Atmospheric Moisture: More water vapor leads to stronger storms and floods.
 Stronger Cyclones & Hurricanes: Warmer ocean temperatures fuel more intense storm.

20 YEARS OF TSUNAMI
December 26, 2024, marks the 20th year since the 2004 Indian Ocean earthquake and tsunami.

About Indian Ocean Tsunami of 2004

z The 2004 tsunami occurred on December 26, triggered by a magnitude 9.1 earthquake in the Sunda Trench.

About Tsunami
z A series of large ocean waves caused by underwater disturbances such as earthquakes, landslides, or volcanic
eruptions.
z Etymology: Derived from the Japanese words “tsu” (harbor) and “nami” (wave).
z Causes of Tsunami
 Submarine Earthquakes: Most common cause (e.g., 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami caused by a 9.1 magnitude
earthquake).
 Volcanic Eruptions: Sudden displacement of water due to eruptions (e.g., 1883 Krakatoa eruption).
 Landslides: Coastal or submarine landslides can generate tsunamis. (e.g., 2017 Karrat Fjord landslide, Greenland)
 Asteroid Impacts: Rare but catastrophic; can generate massive waves.

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FLOOD MANAGEMENT AND BORDER AREAS PROGRAMME
The Union Cabinet approved the Flood Management and Border Areas Programme (FMBAP) for a period of additional
five years.
Flood Management and Border Areas Programme
z About: It is a Centrally Sponsored Scheme whereby the Government of India provides technical guidance and
financial assistance to State Governments and supports their efforts in Flood management and control.
z Objective:
 To save towns, villages, industrial establishments, communication links, agricultural fields, infrastructure, etc.
from the devastation caused by floods and erosion.
 The catchment area treatment works will help in the reduction of sediment load into rivers.
z Nodal Ministry: Department of Water Resources, Ministry of Jal Shakti
z Launch: It was launched during the XI five year plan (2007-2012)

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 8 Environment

INDIA STATE OF FOREST REPORT 2023 (ISFR 2023)

Recently, the Minister for Environment, Forest and Climate Change released the ‘India State of Forest Report 2023
(ISFR 2023) at Forest Research Institute, Dehradun.

Forest Survey of India (FSI):

z The Forest Survey of India (FSI) is a government organization that monitors and assesses India’s forest resources:
z Mandate: The FSI’s main role is to regularly survey and assess the country’s forest resources.
z History: The FSI was established on June 1, 1981, replacing the Preinvestment Survey of Forest Resources (PISFR),
which was started in 1965.

About ISFR (India State of Forest Report)

z Published biennially by the Forest Survey of India (FSI) under the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate
Change. First report was published in 1987; the 2023 report is the 18th edition.
z The report contains information on forest cover, tree cover, mangrove cover, growing stock, carbon stock in
India’s forests, instances of forest fire, Agroforestry, etc.

Key Highlights
z Forest and Tree Cover in India
 Total Forest and Tree Cover: 8,27,356.95 sq km (25.17% of India’s geographical area).Forest Cover:
7,15,342.61 sq km (21.76% of geographical area).
 Tree Cover: 1,12,014.34 sq km (3.41% of geographical area).
z Mangrove Cover:
 Total Mangrove Cover: 4,992 sq km (0.15%) of the geographical area.
 Net Mangrove Cover decrease from 2021: 7.43 sq km
 Decrease: Highest losses in Gujarat (-36.39 sq km).
z Compared to 2021, the forest and tree cover of the country has increased by 1445 sq km, which includes an increase
of 156 sq km in forest cover and 1289 sq km in tree cover.
z Top four states showing maximum increase in forest and tree cover - Chhattisgarh (684 sq km), Uttar Pradesh
(559 sq km), Odisha (559 sq km) and Rajasthan (394 sq km)
z Top three states showing maximum increase in forest cover - Mizoram (242 sq km), Gujarat (180 sq km) and
Odisha (152 sq km).
z The top three states with the highest forest and tree cover by area - are Madhya Pradesh (85,724 sq km), Arunachal
Pradesh (67,083 sq km) and Maharashtra (65,383 sq km).
z The top three states with the highest forest cover by area are Madhya Pradesh (77,073 sq km), Arunachal Pradesh
(65,882 sq km) and Chhattisgarh (55,812 sq km).
z In terms of percentage of forest cover in relation to total geographical area, Lakshadweep (91.33 per cent) has
the highest forest cover, followed by Mizoram (85.34 per cent) and Andaman and Nicobar Islands (81.62 per cent).
z 19 States/Union Territories have more than 33 per cent of geographical area under forest cover.
 Of these, eight States/Union Territories namely Mizoram, Lakshadweep, Andaman and Nicobar Islands, Arunachal
Pradesh, Nagaland, Meghalaya, Tripura and Manipur have more than 75 per cent forest cover.
z The total mangrove cover in the country is 4,992 sq km.
z The extent of the bamboo-covered area has been estimated to be 1,54,670 sq km
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WETLAND CONSERVATION
Recently, the suo motu public interest litigation by the Meghalaya High Court to monitor the conservation of
wetlands in the State brings the focus back on Wetland Conservation.

About Wetlands
z Definition: A wetland is an ecosystem where land remains saturated with water for most or all of the year.
 Examples: Marshes, swamps, bogs, and mangroves.
z Types: Wetlands can be of the following types:
 Inland Wetlands: Lakes, rivers, floodplains, marshes, swamps, bogs, and seasonal wetlands.
 Coastal Wetlands: Mangroves, estuaries, lagoons, mudflats, coral reefs, and salt marshes.
 Artificial Wetlands: Reservoirs, canals, rice paddies, salt pans, and constructed wetlands for wastewater
treatment.

Significance of Wetlands
z Ecosystem Services: Wetlands provide critical services such as water purification, flood control, carbon
sequestration, and habitat for biodiversity.
 They cover 12.1 million km² globally and contribute 40.6% of global ecosystem services.
z Economic and Social Security: They support livelihoods, agriculture, fisheries, and tourism, contributing
significantly to economic and social well-being.
 Example: Events like the floods in Kashmir Valley and Chennai, as well as cyclones like Kalinga, underscore
the importance of preserving wetlands for community resilience.
z Climate Change Mitigation: Wetlands act as both carbon sinks and sources, playing a vital role in climate
regulation.

Global Initiatives and Frameworks

z Ramsar Convention: The Ramsar Convention is an intergovernmental treaty that provides the framework for
national action and international cooperation for the conservation and wise use of wetlands and their resources.
 Central to the Ramsar philosophy is the “wise use” of wetlands.
z The Montreux Record is a register of wetland sites on the List of Wetlands of International Importance where
changes in ecological character have occurred, are occurring, or are likely to occur as a result of technological
developments, pollution or other human interference.
 It is maintained as part of the Ramsar List.
z Global Wetland Outlook (GWO): is a report by the Ramsar Convention that provides an assessment of the state
of wetlands worldwide.

Wetland Conservation in India

z Decline in Natural Wetlands: Natural wetlands have decreased by 30% over the last four decades due to
urbanization, pollution, and infrastructure development.
 India’s natural wetlands (66.6%) are declining, while man-made wetlands are increasing.
z Alarming Wetland Loss in India: Despite the introduction of the Wetlands (Conservation and Management)
Rules in 2010 and their revision in 2017, India’s wetlands continue to degrade at an alarming rate.
 Mumbai lost 71% of its wetlands between 1970 and 2014.
 East Kolkata wetlands shrunk by 36% from 1991 to 2021.
 Chennai lost 85% of its wetlands, as per a WWF study.

Challenges in Wetland Conservation

z Development Pressures: Urbanization, industrialization, and agricultural expansion are major drivers of wetland
degradation.
 Wetland conservation is often not integrated into broader development plans.
z Climate Change: Rising temperatures, changing precipitation patterns, and sea-level rise exacerbate wetland loss.

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z Governance Issues: Lack of integrated management and weak enforcement of conservation policies hinder effective
wetland protection.
z Limited Awareness: The ecological and economic value of wetlands is often underestimated, leading to their neglect
in development planning.

Conclusion
Wetlands are essential for sustainability. Protecting them through integrated planning, innovation, and global
cooperation is key to development and climate resilience.

NEW RAMSAR SITES IN INDIA

The Centre has announced the addition of four new Ramsar sites in India, taking the total to 89.

Newly Added Sites are

z Sakkarakottai Bird Sanctuary, Tamil Nadu
z Therthangal Bird Sanctuary in Tamil Nadu
z Khecheopalri wetland in Sikkim
z Udhwa Lake in Jharkhand

Key Points
z Of the 89 Ramsar sites, Tamil Nadu has become the state with the maximum number of such Ramsar sites
(20) in India.
z Sikkim and Jharkhand have added their first Ramsar sites with the new additions in the list.
z Globally, there are 2,529 such designated wetlands. India has the highest number of such Ramsar wetlands
in Asia and third highest in the world after the UK (176) and Mexico (144).

What are Wetlands?

z Wetlands are land areas covered by water, either temporarily/ seasonally or permanently.
z These are critical ecosystems that play an imperative role in maintaining ecological balance, supporting biodiversity,
and providing various ecosystem services such as flood control, water supply, food, fibre and raw materials.
z A Ramsar site is a wetland site designated to be of international importance under the Ramsar Convention, also
known as ‘The Convention on Wetlands’.
z It is an international environmental treaty signed on 2 February 1971 in Ramsar, Iran, under the auspices of UNESCO.
z It came into force on 21 December 1975, when it was ratified by a sufficient number of nations.
z India became a party to the Ramsar Convention on 01.02.82.
Ramsar Sites In Uttar Pradesh
Sr. No Ramsar Site
1. Nawabganj Bird Sanctuary
2. Parvati Arga Bird Sanctuary
3. Saman Sanctuary
4. Saraspur Sanctuary
5. Sandi Sanctuary
6. Sarsai Nawar Lake
7. Sur Sarovar
8. Upper Ganga
9. Bakhira Wildlife Sanctuary
10. Haiderpur Wetland

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2025 DECLARED INTERNATIONAL YEAR OF GLACIERS

2025 has recently been declared as the International Year of Glaciers’ Preservation(IYGP) in Geneva.

Key Points
z Declaration: The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) and the World
Meteorological Organization (WMO) have jointly made this declaration.
z Aim: UNESCO aims to raise awareness about the vital role glaciers, snow, and ice play in the climate system and
hydrological cycle, as well as the far-reaching impacts of rapid glacial melt.
z IYGP 2025 focuses on raising awareness, advocating for policy change, and facilitating actionable, sustainable
measures to preserve glaciers.
z This international year is part of a larger effort to gather global support, promote research, and improve access
to cryosphere data, aiming to mitigate the consequences of rapid glacier melting. WMO and UNESCO invite WMO
Members, other UN agencies, and scientific organizations to support the initiative.
z The UN General Assembly made this decision in December 2022.
z The first World Glacier Day was celebrated on March 21, 2025.

FRAMEWORK AGREEMENT ON INTERNATIONAL BIG CAT ALLIANCE

The Environment Ministry announced that the Framework Agreement on the establishment of the International Big
Cat Alliance (IBCA) has officially come into force.

Key Points
z From 23rd January, 2025, the IBCA and its Secretariat have become a full-fledged treaty based inter-governmental
international organization and international legal entity.
z Five countries – Nicaragua, Eswatini, India, Somalia, and Liberia – have deposited their instruments of ratification
under the Framework Agreement.
z As of now, 27 countries, including India, have consented to join the IBCA.
z Several international and national organizations working in the field of wildlife conservation have also partnered
with the IBCA.

About the IBCA

z The IBCA was launched by the Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi on 9th April,2023, during the event
‘Commemorating 50 years of Project Tiger’.
z The Union Cabinet, in its meeting held on 29th February 2024, approved the establishment of IBCA with
headquarters in India.
z It was launched with the aim of conservation of seven big cats - Tiger, Lion, Leopard, Snow Leopard, Cheetah,
Jaguar and Puma – with membership of all UN countries/the range countries harbouring the said species and
non-range countries where historically these species are not found but interested to support big cat conservation.
z The IBCA was established by Government of India, through the nodal organisation viz., National Tiger
Conservation Authority (NTCA), Ministry of Environment, Forest & Climate Change (MoEFCC), vide order
dated 12th March, 2024.
z The primary objective of IBCA is to facilitate collaboration and synergy among stakeholders, consolidating
successful conservation practices and expertise to achieve a common goal of conservation of big cats at global
level. This unified approach, bolstered by financial support, aims to bolster the conservation agenda, halt the
decline in big cat populations, and reverse current trends.

STAGE-IV OF GRAP IN DELHI

Commission for air quality management in NCR and adjoining areas ordered the imposition of the Graded Response
Action Plan (GRAP) stage IV restrictions as the Air Quality Index (AQI) in Delhi goes above 400.

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About Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP):
z The Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) is an emergency response plan that aims to reduce air pollution in
the Delhi-NCR region.
 The Supreme Court of India approved GRAP in 2016 in the case M. C. Mehta v. Union of India. The MoEFCC
notified GRAP in 2017.
z Implementation: The Commission for Air Quality Management in NCR & Adjoining Areas (CAQM) is responsible
for implementing GRAP.
 The CAQM uses forecasts from the India Meteorological Department (IMD) and the Indian Institute of
Tropical Meteorology (IITM) to inform its decisions.

Key Features of GRAP

z GRAP is a set of measures that are implemented when the Air Quality Index (AQI) in the Delhi-NCR region
reaches a certain level.
z Incremental Nature: GRAP is designed to be incremental, meaning as air quality worsens, measures from successive
stages are triggered.
 Stage 1 (Poor AQI - 201 to 300)
 Stage 2 (Very Poor AQI - 301 to 400)
 Stage 3 (Severe AQI - 401 to 450)
 Stage 4 (Severe + AQI - More than 450)

About Air Quality Index (AQI)

z It was introduced in 2014 to systematically monitor and report the air quality in India.
z Categories: The AQI is based on six categories:
 Good, Satisfactory, Moderately Polluted, Poor, Very Poor, and Severe.
z Pollutants Considered:
 The AQI is calculated using the average concentrations of eight key pollutants:
 PM10 (Particulate Matter ≤ 10 micrometers)
 PM2.5 (Particulate Matter ≤ 2.5 micrometers)
 Nitrogen dioxide (NO₂)
 Sulphur dioxide (SO₂)
 Carbon monoxide (CO)
 Ground-level ozone (O₃)
 Ammonia (NH₃)
 Lead (Pb)
z Development: The AQI was developed by the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) in collaboration with air
quality experts.

BLEACHING OF CORAL REEFS

The ICAR-Central Marine Fisheries Research Institute (CMFRI) found that coral reefs in the Lakshadweep Sea have
undergone severe bleaching due to prolonged marine heatwaves since October 2023.

About
z Coral bleaching occurs when the coral Polyp expels the marine algae ie. zooxanthellae from its tissue and breaks
the symbiotic relation.
z This results in them losing their color and source of nutrients and energy with coral’s bright white skeleton is
revealed.
z Bleached corals are not dead, but run the risk of starvation and disease. According to experts, without their algae,
corals can survive for about two weeks.

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BIODIVERSITY BEYOND NATIONAL JURISDICTION AGREEMENT
India signed an international agreement to protect marine biodiversity on the high seas at the United Nations General
Assembly.
Background
The Union Cabinet approved India’s participation in the agreement in July.
Key Points
z The pact, formally known as the Biodiversity Beyond National Jurisdiction (BBNJ) Agreement, was signed by
External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar.
z The BBNJ Agreement, or the ‘High Seas Treaty’, is an international treaty under the United Nations Convention
on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS).
z Aim: It aims to address the growing concerns over the long-term protection of marine biodiversity in the high seas.
It sets precise mechanisms for the sustainable use of marine biological diversity through international cooperation
and coordination.
z Sovereign rights: Parties cannot claim or exercise sovereign rights over marine resources derived from the high
seas and ensure fair and equitable sharing of benefits.
z Principle followed: It follows an inclusive, integrated, ecosystem-centric approach based on the precautionary
principle and promotes using traditional knowledge and the best available scientific knowledge.
z It helps minimise impacts on the marine environment through area-based management tools and establishes rules
for conducting environmental impact assessments. It would also contribute to achieving several SDGs, particularly
SDG14 (Life Below Water).

UNCLOS
z It was adopted on December 10, 1982, and came into force on November 16, 1994.
z It is crucial for the environmental protection of the seas and addressing maritime boundaries, rights to marine
resources, and dispute resolution.
z It establishes the International Seabed Authority to regulate mining and related activities on the ocean floor
beyond national jurisdiction.
z As of today, more than 160 countries have ratified UNCLOS. It is vital to maintaining order, equity, and fairness
in using the world’s oceans.
The BBNJ Agreement was agreed upon in March 2023 and is open for signature for two years starting September
2023. It will be an international legally binding treaty after it enters force 120 days after the 60th ratification,
acceptance, approval or accession. As of June 2024, 91 countries have signed the BBNJ Agreement, and eight Parties
have ratified it.

TIGER RESERVES IN INDIA: NEED AND CHALLENGES

Madhav National Park in Shivpuri, Madhya Pradesh, was recently declared India’s 58th tiger reserve.
z The designation aims to strengthen tiger movement in the Ranthambore-Kuno-Madhav corridor, enhancing
habitat connectivity.
Tiger Distribution in India
z India hosts 75% of the world’s tiger population.
z Estimated Population (2022-23): 3,681 tigers
z Top Tiger Reserves (by population): Corbett (260) | Bandipur (150) | Nagarhole (141) | Bandhavgarh (135) |
Dudhwa (135)
z State-wise Tiger Population: Madhya Pradesh (785) | Karnataka (563) | Uttarakhand (560) | Maharashtra (444).
About Tiger Reserves
z Definition: A Tiger Reserve is a protected area designated for the conservation of tigers and their ecosystem.
 It falls under Project Tiger (1973), a centrally sponsored scheme by the National Tiger Conservation
Authority (NTCA).

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z International Tiger Day: is celebrated each year on July 29 to turn the spotlight on the conservation of tigers
worldwide.
Need for Declaring Tiger Reserves in India
z Rapid Decline In the Tiger Population: There was a rapid decline in the Tiger Population in the 1960s, the
population dropped to between 2,000 and 4,000.
z Protecting Apex Predators: Tigers regulate prey populations, ensuring a balanced ecosystem.
z Combating Poaching and Illegal Wildlife Trade: Tiger reserves enhance anti-poaching efforts and wildlife crime
monitoring.
 Helps curb illegal hunting, trade of tiger parts, and habitat destruction.

Challenges in Tiger Conservation in India

z Uneven Tiger Distribution: Tiger populations are concentrated in a few reserves, while many struggle with low
numbers. Example: 26 reserves have over 50 tigers, while 27 have low density.
 16 reserves are critically low, with either no tigers, only males, or fewer than five individuals.
z Declining/Stagnant Populations: Some states are witnessing a drop or stagnation in tiger numbers. Example: As
per Tiger Census (2022), the Satkosia Tiger Reserve (STR) in Odisha does not have a single tiger.
z Habitat Threats: Deforestation, Agriculture, Urban expansion etc are fragmenting tiger habitats. Example: Coal
mining in Tadoba-Andhari (Maharashtra) and Hasdeo-Arand (Chhattisgarh) disrupts tiger movement.
z Human-Wildlife Conflict: Rising tiger-human interactions are leading to conflict and intervention measures.
 Example: Wildlife wardens (Wildlife Protection Act, 1972, Section 11) can order capture or culling.

Way Forward
z Expanding Protected Areas: Increasing tiger reserves and corridors ensures long-term conservation.
 Example: Strengthen the network under the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972, reconnect forest corridors, and restore
degraded habitats.
z Habitat Connectivity: Implement landscape-level conservation approaches to strengthen wildlife corridors so
as to facilitate the natural dispersal of tigers, preventing genetic isolation.
z Integration with CCTNS & WCCB: Link tiger poaching databases with the Crime and Criminal Tracking Network
& Systems (CCTNS) and Wildlife Crime Control Bureau (WCCB) to improve law enforcement coordination.
Conclusion
Ensuring the long-term survival of India’s tiger population requires a balanced approach that prioritizes eco-friendly
development, habitat restoration, and strict conservation measures.
z By integrating scientific advancements, strengthened law enforcement, and community participation, India can
safeguard its ecological integrity while securing a thriving future for tigers.

UNCCD-COP16
On 2nd December 2024, the United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification’s 16th Conference of Parties
(COP16) was held in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.
Key Points
z It was held in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia from 2nd to 13th December 2024.
z This was the first time West Asia is hosting this crucial environmental conference.
z The Conference of the Parties (COP) is the main decision-making body of UNCCD’s 197 Parties (196 countries
and the European Union).
z The theme of the convention was Our Land. Our Future.
z It aims to address critical issues of land degradation, drought resilience, and sustainable land management.
UNCCD
z The United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD) is the global voice for land and one of the
three major UN treaties known as the Rio Conventions, alongside climate and biodiversity.

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z It was established in 1994 to protect and restore our land and ensure a safer, just, and more sustainable future.
z The UNCCD is the only legally binding framework set up to address desertification and the effects of drought.
z There are 197 Parties to the Convention, including 196 country Parties and the European Union.

The UN declares 2025–2034 Decade on Combating Sand and Dust Storms.

MISSION MAUSAM
On 11th September 2024, the Union Cabinet approved ‘Mission Mausam’.
Key Points
z It is a mission to upgrade the capabilities of India’s weather department in forecasting, modelling and dissemination.
z Aim: The mission aims to invest heavily in improving weather surveillance, modelling, forecasting to directly
benefit key numerous sectors, such as agriculture, disaster management, defence, environment, aviation, water
resources, power, tourism, shipping, transport, energy, and health.
z Implementation: Mission Mausam will be spearheaded by three institutions funded by the Ministry of Earth
Sciences the IMD, Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology, Pune, and National Centre for Medium-Range
Weather Forecasting, Noida.

DEEP OCEAN MISSION

The Deep Ocean Mission has been launched as a Central Sector Scheme of the Ministry of Earth Sciences with
the approval of the Cabinet.
About:
z Samudrayaan is a project under the Deep Ocean Mission.
z Under the Samudrayaan project of Deep Ocean Mission, MATSYA 6000 manned submersible design has been
completed so far.
z Under the Mission, a Deep water Autonomous Underwater Vehicle (AUV) namely Ocean Mineral Explorer (OMe
6000) has been deployed for exploration.
z Deep sea mineral exploration was performed using OMe 6000 AUV during December2022 using research ship Sagar
Nidhi at Polymetallic Manganese Nodule (PMN) site ata depth of 5271 m in the allocated area of International Seabed
Authority at Central Indian Ocean Basin (CIOB).

NATIONAL BIODIVERSITY STRATEGY AND ACTION PLAN (NBSAP)

A National Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan (NBSAP) is a strategic policy framework developed by countries
to conserve and sustainably use biodiversity while aligning with national priorities and global commitments, such
as the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) and the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework
(GBF). Mandated under Article 6 of the CBD, NBSAPs serve as the primary tool for implementing biodiversity goals
at the national level. Here’s a concise explanation based on authoritative sources:
Key Components of NBSAPs
1. Assessment of Biodiversity Status: NBSAPs evaluate the current state of biodiversity, identifying ecosystems,
species, and threats like habitat loss, invasive species, or climate change.
2. National Targets and Priorities: They set specific, measurable targets tailored to national circumstances, often
aligning with the GBF’s 23 targets for 2030 (e.g., protecting 30% of land and seas, restoring degraded ecosystems).
3. Action Plans: These outline concrete actions, timelines, and responsibilities, involving government agencies, NGOs,
indigenous communities, and private sectors. Actions may include habitat restoration, protected area expansion, or
sustainable resource use.
4. Mainstreaming Biodiversity: NBSAPs integrate biodiversity into sectors like agriculture, forestry, and urban
planning to ensure cross-sectoral coherence.
5. Monitoring and Reporting: Countries track progress through indicators and report to the CBD, ensuring
accountability and adaptive management.

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Global Context
Adopted in 2022 at COP 15, the GBF guides NBSAP updates, aiming to halt and reverse biodiversity loss by 2030
and achieve harmony with nature by 2050. Countries are required to update NBSAPs to reflect GBF targets, with 194
nations having developed at least one NBSAP.
Some Examples are as Follows
z UK NBSAP (2030): Commits to all 23 GBF targets, emphasizing collaboration across its four countries and overseas
territories to expand protected areas and reduce pollution.
z Australia’s Strategy for Nature (2024-2030): Focuses on six priority areas, including 30% land/sea protection
and invasive species control, with clear enablers like data access and equitable participation.
z Malta’s NBSAP (2030): Includes 79 actions across 22 targets, adopting a whole-of-government approach with a
vision for biodiversity recovery by 2050.
z India’s Updated NBSAP (2024): A 208-page plan aligning with GBF, emphasizing national priorities.
Challenges
z Implementation Gaps: Weak financial support, conflicting interests, and poor institutional integration hinder
progress.
z Funding: The global biodiversity finance gap is estimated at $700 billion annually, requiring innovative solutions
like National Biodiversity Finance Plans.
z Capacity: Some countries face constraints, addressed by tools like the Bioland Tool or support from UNEP/UNDP.
Support Mechanisms
z UNEP and UNDP: Provide technical assistance, capacity building, and platforms like the NBSAP Forum.
z NBSAP Accelerator Partnership: Fosters collaboration and innovation for effective implementation.
z Global Environment Facility (GEF): Funds projects like GBF Early Action Support to align NBSAPs with global goals.
NBSAPs translate global biodiversity ambitions into actionable national strategies, raising awareness, mobilizing
resources, and fostering stakeholder collaboration. They are critical for addressing the biodiversity crisis, supporting
ecosystem services, and ensuring sustainable development.

MARINE PROTECTED AREAS (MPAS)

Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) are designated regions of the ocean where human activities, such as fishing, mining,
or drilling, are restricted or prohibited to conserve marine ecosystems, habitats, and species. They aim to protect
biodiversity, restore degraded areas, and support sustainable fisheries by preserving critical habitats like coral reefs,
seagrass beds, and mangroves.
Key Points
z Global Coverage: As of 2025, about 8.2% of the global ocean is under some form of protection, with a goal of 30%
by 2030 (the “30x30” target under the UN Convention on Biological Diversity).
z Types of MPAs:
 No-take zones: All extractive activities (e.g., fishing) are banned.
 Partially protected: Some activities are allowed under strict regulations.
 Multiple-use MPAs: Combine conservation with sustainable use, like tourism or limited fishing.
z Benefits:
 Biodiversity conservation: Protect endangered species and habitats.
 Fisheries recovery: Spillover effects increase fish stocks in adjacent areas.
 Climate resilience: Healthy ecosystems (e.g., mangroves, reefs) buffer against climate impacts.
 Economic value: Support tourism, recreation, and local livelihoods.
z Challenges:
 Enforcement: Illegal fishing and poaching are common in poorly monitored MPAs.
 Equity: Restrictions can impact local communities dependent on marine resources.
 Climate change: Ocean warming and acidification threaten MPA effectiveness.
 Connectivity: Many MPAs are too small or isolated to protect migratory species.

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Examples
z Great Barrier Reef Marine Park (Australia): A large, multiple-use MPA protecting coral reefs and diverse marine
life.
z Papahānaumokuākea Marine National Monument (USA): A no-take zone in Hawaii, one of the largest MPAs
globally.
z Chagos Marine Protected Area (Indian Ocean): A no-take zone, though controversial due to indigenous
displacement.
Recent Developments (2025)
z Progress toward 30x30 is uneven; only 3% of the high seas are protected despite the 2023 High Seas Treaty.
z New MPAs, like those in the Pacific (e.g., Cook Islands), focus on indigenous-led conservation.
z Technology (e.g., satellite monitoring, AI) is improving enforcement but faces funding gaps.
A Coastal Zone Management Plan (CZMP) is a strategic framework developed to balance environmental conservation,
sustainable development, and human activities in coastal areas. These plans aim to manage coastal resources, protect
ecosystems, and address challenges like erosion, pollution, climate change, and urban development. They are typically
implemented under national or regional coastal management programs, such as the U.S. Coastal Zone Management
Act of 1972 or similar frameworks globally.
Key Components of a CZMP
1. Resource Assessment:
 Mapping and evaluating coastal ecosystems (wetlands, mangroves, coral reefs, beaches).
 Identifying vulnerable areas (e.g., erosion-prone zones, floodplains).
2. Zoning and Land-Use Planning:
 Designating areas for specific uses (e.g., conservation, tourism, industry, fishing).
 Establishing setbacks to protect against sea-level rise or storms.
3. Environmental Protection:
 Measures to reduce pollution (e.g., runoff, plastic waste).
 Restoration of degraded habitats (e.g., dunes, marshes).
 Integration with Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) for ecosystem connectivity.
4. Climate Adaptation:
 Strategies for sea-level rise, coastal flooding, and extreme weather.
 Nature-based solutions like mangrove restoration or living shorelines.
5. Stakeholder Engagement:
 Involving local communities, indigenous groups, businesses, and governments.
 Addressing socio-economic needs, such as livelihoods for fishers.
6. Regulation and Enforcement:
 Permitting systems for development or resource extraction.
 Monitoring and penalties for non-compliance.
Objectives
z Protect biodiversity and critical habitats.
z Mitigate coastal hazards (erosion, storms, flooding).
z Support sustainable economic activities (tourism, fisheries, ports).
z Ensure equitable access to coastal resources.
z Enhance resilience to climate change impacts.
Global Context (2025)
z Challenges:
 Rapid coastal urbanization: Over 40% of the global population lives within 100 km of the coast.
 Climate impacts: Sea-level rise threatens 680 million people in low-lying coastal zones.

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 Funding gaps: Many developing nations lack resources for robust CZMPs.
 Conflicts: Balancing development (e.g., ports) with conservation.
z Trends:
 Emphasis on blue carbon (e.g., mangroves, seagrasses) for carbon sequestration.
 Use of technology: GIS mapping, satellite monitoring, and AI for planning and enforcement.
 Indigenous-led management: Increasing recognition of traditional knowledge in countries like Australia and
Canada.
 Integration with global goals: Aligning CZMPs with the UN’s 30x30 target and Sustainable Development Goals
(SDGs).

For examples
z United States: The Coastal Zone Management Program supports state-led CZMPs (e.g., California’s plan focuses on
wetland restoration and public access).
z India: CZMPs under the Coastal Regulation Zone (CRZ) Notification regulate development, though enforcement
varies by state.
z European Union: The Integrated Coastal Zone Management (ICZM) framework promotes cross-border cooperation,
like in the Baltic Sea.

COASTAL REGULATION ZONE (CRZ)

The Coastal Regulation Zone (CRZ) Notification, 2019, issued under the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986,
introduced several key amendments to replace the CRZ Notification, 2011, aiming to balance economic development
with coastal conservation. Below are the key amendments based on available information:
1. Relaxation of No Development Zone (NDZ):
 For CRZ-III A (densely populated rural areas with population density >2161 per sq.km): The NDZ was
reduced from 200 meters to 50 meters from the High Tide Line (HTL).
 For CRZ-III B (rural areas with population density <2161 per sq.km): The NDZ remains at 200 meters from
the HTL.
 For islands and backwater islands: A uniform NDZ of 20 meters from the HTL was stipulated.
2. Unfreezing of Floor Space Index (FSI)/Floor Area Ratio (FAR):
 The 2011 Notification had frozen FSI/FAR for CRZ-II (urban areas) as per 1991 Development Control Regulations.
The 2019 Notification de-froze these restrictions, allowing FSI/FAR for construction projects as per prevailing
norms on the date of the 2019 Notification. This enables larger building sizes in urban coastal areas.
3. Streamlined Clearance Procedures:
 Decentralized approvals: CRZ-II (urban) and CRZ-III (rural) project clearances were delegated to State Coastal
Zone Management Authorities (SCZMAs), while the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change
(MoEFCC) retains authority for CRZ-I (ecologically sensitive) and CRZ-IV (aquatic areas up to 12 nautical miles).
 Certain projects, such as standalone jetties, breakwaters, and salt works, can be approved by SCZMAs or State
Environment Impact Assessment Authorities (SEIAA) if covered under the EIA Notification, 2006.
4. Promotion of Tourism and Infrastructure:
 The Notification encourages tourism by allowing temporary facilities (e.g., shacks, toilet blocks, changing
rooms) with a reduced buffer of 10 meters from the HTL.
 Provisions were made to support housing, slum redevelopment, and fisheries-related activities to boost coastal
economies.
5. Exemptions for Specific Activities:
 Exploratory drilling for oil and natural gas, except in CRZ-I A (highly ecologically sensitive areas), was exempted
from prior CRZ clearance.
 Removal of sandbars by traditional communities was permitted under specific conditions.

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6. Management of Ecologically Sensitive Areas:
 Ecologically sensitive areas (e.g., Sundarbans, Gulf of Kutch) are to be managed with the involvement of coastal
communities, including fisherfolk, to ensure sustainable livelihoods.
 No developmental activities are permitted in designated turtle nesting sites (e.g., Mandrem, Morjim in Goa)
protected under the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972.
7. Sub-Categorization of CRZ-III:
 CRZ-III (rural areas) was divided into CRZ-III A (densely populated) and CRZ-III B (less populated) to apply
tailored development restrictions based on population density.

Critical Observations
z The 2019 amendments have been criticized for diluting protective provisions, potentially increasing ecological
risks and displacement of coastal communities. Fisherfolk and activists raised concerns about inadequate public
consultation and the environmental impact of relaxed development norms.
z Over 90% of objections to the 2018 draft (which formed the basis for the 2019 Notification) were reportedly ignored,
violating the 2014 Pre-Legislative Consultation Policy.
z The reduced NDZ and relaxed FSI norms may expose coastal areas to extreme weather events, given climate change
and sea-level rise concerns.
These amendments reflect a shift toward promoting economic activities like tourism and real estate, but they have
sparked debates about their long-term impact on India’s fragile coastal ecosystems and traditional communities. For
further details, refer to the official notification on the MoEFCC website or coastal management resources.

WETLAND CITY ACCREDITATION (WCA)

z Overview: Established in 2015 under Resolution XII.10 at the 12th Conference of the Parties (COP12) of the
Ramsar Convention, WCA is a voluntary scheme recognizing cities that prioritize the conservation and sustainable
management of urban and peri-urban wetlands. It is valid for six years, renewable upon meeting six international
criteria.
z Criteria: Cities must have Ramsar Sites or significant wetlands providing ecosystem services, adopt conservation
measures, implement restoration/management plans, integrate wetlands into spatial planning, raise public
awareness, and establish local committees for wetland management.
z Benefits: Accreditation offers international recognition, promotes sustainable urban development, enhances
resilience to climate change, and supports socio-economic benefits like flood mitigation, water purification, and
recreational spaces. It aligns with India’s Amrit Dharohar initiative, which promotes Ramsar Site conservation and
local livelihoods.
z Global Context: China leads with 22 accredited cities, followed by France with 9. The 31 new cities, including Indore
and Udaipur, were announced at the 64th Standing Committee meeting on January 24, 2025, and will be formally
recognized at COP15 in Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe, in July 2025.
The Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEF&CC) submitted nominations for three Indian cities–
Indore, Bhopal (Madhya Pradesh), and Udaipur (Rajasthan) for Wetland City Accreditation (WCA) under the Ramsar
Convention on Wetlands. Subsequently, on January 24, 2025, Indore and Udaipur were recognized as the first Indian
cities to join the global list of 31 newly accredited Wetland Cities, bringing the total to 74 cities across 27 countries.
Bhopal did not receive accreditation due to concerns about a proposed road project impacting the ecological integrity
of Bhoj Wetland, a Ramsar Site.

Key Details
z Indore: Recognized for Sirpur Lake, a Ramsar Site, which is a significant water bird congregation area and is being
developed as a bird sanctuary. The city has integrated wetland conservation into its urban planning, with over 200
wetland mitras (volunteers) supporting conservation efforts, including protecting the Sarus Crane.
z Udaipur: Noted for its five major wetlands Pichola, Fateh Sagar, Rang Sagar, Swaroop Sagar, and Doodh Talai—which
are integral to the city’s culture, microclimate regulation, and resilience against extreme weather events. These
wetlands support biodiversity and eco-tourism.

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INDIA’S PATH TO GLOBAL ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE (AI) LEADERSHIP

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is rapidly transforming India’s industry, economy and society.
z India is positioning itself as a major player in the global AI landscape, especially following its hosting of the
G20 and Global Partnership on AI meetings in 2023.

Artificial Intelligence (AI)

z Definition: Artificial Intelligence (AI) refers to the simulation of human intelligence in machines that are
designed to think, learn, and solve problems autonomously.
z Coined by: The term “Artificial Intelligence” was coined by American computer scientist John McCarthy in 1956.

Significance of AI for India

z Projected Growth of India’s AI Market: According to the Nasscom report, India’s AI market is expected to reach
$17 billion by 2027, growing at an annual rate of 25-35%.
z Transformative Tool: For India, an economy with over 1.4 billion people, AI can act as a tool in addressing
challenges like poverty, healthcare access, and education while propelling its economy into new dimensions.
Example:
 The Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission (ABDM) uses AI to integrate Electronic Health Records (EHR), to
make quality healthcare more accessible and affordable for the underprivileged.
 Pune’s Intelligent Traffic Management System (ITMS) uses artificial intelligence and data analytics to
streamline vehicle flow and bolster road safety.

Challenges Facing India on the Path to AI Leadership

z Data Related Challenges:
 Quality of Data: The effectiveness of AI models is hindered by inconsistent data availability and quality
across various sectors in India.
 Additionally, the absence of standardised data formats complicates the development of robust AI models.
 Insufficient Data Center Infrastructure in India: Despite producing 20 percent of the world’s data, India
is home to only 2 percent of global data centres.
z Infrastructural Challenges:
 Digital Divide: Large sections of the population, especially in rural areas, remain digitally excluded.
 Limited Computing Infrastructure Capacity in India: Current computing infrastructure accounts for less than
2 percent of the world’s capacity.
z Skill Related Challenges: There is a shortage of specialised skills required for advanced AI research and
development.
z Ethical and Governance Challenge: Ethical concerns in AI emerge from issues like algorithmic bias, lack of
transparency in decision-making, and potential misuse for surveillance.

Way Forward/Strategies for Global AI Leadership

z Investing in Education and Skill Development: There is a need to integrate AI education in universities and
technical institutes to help bridge the skills gap.
z Inclusive AI: Promoting Science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) education, especially for
women and marginalised communities, will foster inclusive participation in the AI economy.
z Leveraging AI for Social Good: Example: AI applications like predictive analytics for crop yields, diagnostic
tools, and personalised learning platforms can significantly enhance quality of life.
UPPSC CURRENT WALLAH
z Bridging the Skilling Gap: To enhance workforce AI capabilities, expanding initiatives like FutureSkills PRIME is
essential. Furthermore, skilling rural youth is crucial to bridge the rural divide.
India AI Mission: The Union Cabinet has approved the comprehensive national-level IndiaAI mission with a
budget outlay of Rs.10,371.92 crore for the period of 5 years.

Key Highlights of the Mission

z The Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology is the nodal ministry.
z It aims to ensure a structured implementation of the IndiaAI Mission through a public-private partnership model
to nurture India’s AI innovation ecosystem.
z The Mission will be implemented by ‘IndiaAI’ Independent Business Division (IBD) under Digital India Corporation
(DIC).

Conclusion
India is at a crucial juncture, ready to leverage strong government support and industry collaboration to lead
in the global AI landscape. By harnessing AI’s transformative power, the nation can drive significant economic
prosperity and social growth.

INDIA’S CRYPTOCURRENCY FRAMEWORK

As global attitudes toward cryptocurrencies shift, India faces a growing need to re-evaluate its Cryptocurrency
regulatory framework.

More about the News

z In 2024, incoming U.S. president Donald Trump pledged to appoint crypto-friendly regulators, vowing to position
the U.S. as the “crypto capital of the planet.”
z His evolving position reflects the growing influence and acceptance of digital assets on the global stage.
z As part of this push, he launched a memecoin named $Trump and signed an executive order to create a Strategic
Bitcoin Reserve and a U.S. Digital Asset Stockpile.
z Additionally, the White House hosted a crypto summit to explore future strategies and innovations in the digital
asset space.

About Cryptocurrency
z Cryptocurrency is a digital medium of exchange that operates on a blockchain.
 Blockchain is a decentralized digital ledger that records transactions across a peer-to-peer network without a
central authority.
z It uses cryptographic techniques to verify transactions and algorithms to regulate supply.

Potential Applications of Cryptocurrency

z Financial Services: Blockchain improves settlement speed, real-time transactions, and cost reduction.
z Healthcare: Blockchain enhances data security, electronic medical records, and fraud prevention.
z Retail: Retailers leverage NFTs for customer engagement and exclusive digital experiences.

Legal Status of Cryptocurrencies in India

z India has not classified cryptocurrencies as illegal, but they are not recognised as legal tender.
z Trading and investing in cryptocurrencies is allowed, but they are not authorised for use as currency.
 This legal ambiguity creates challenges for investors, traders, and even enforcement agencies.
z Cryptocurrency Taxation in India: The government’s taxation framework includes a 30% tax on gains and a 1%
TDS (Tax Deducted at Source) on cryptocurrencies.

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Why India Needs to Reevaluate Its Crypto Policy?
z Global Shift Toward Crypto-Friendly Policies: Countries like the U.S., U.K., and EU nations are adopting progressive
regulations to embrace cryptocurrencies.
 The U.S. under President Trump, aims to become the “crypto capital of the planet” by appointing crypto-friendly
regulators and creating a Strategic Bitcoin Reserve.
z Growing Crypto Adoption in India: Despite regulatory challenges, India has emerged as one of the largest crypto
markets globally, with millions of Indians investing in digital assets.
 According to a report by Chainalysis, India ranked second in the Global Crypto Adoption Index, with over
10 crore crypto users as of 2023.
z Economic and Technological Benefits: Cryptocurrencies and blockchain technology can drive financial inclusion,
especially in rural and underserved areas.
 Stellar and Ripple are blockchain platforms facilitating cross-border remittances at lower costs, which is
crucial for India, the world’s largest recipient of remittances.
The cryptocurrency revolution is reshaping the global financial landscape, and India has the potential to be at the
forefront of this transformation. By embracing innovation, ensuring investor protection, and fostering a supportive
regulatory environment, India can unlock the immense potential of cryptocurrencies while safeguarding its financial
stability.

INDIA’S DIGITAL PUBLIC INFRASTRUCTURE

India has positioned Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI) as a technology-enabled instrument for inclusive and
sustainable development.

About Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI)

z DPI refers to the digital platforms and systems that enable the delivery of public services, such as identification,
payments, health, education, and governance.
 It can be understood as an intermediate layer in the digital ecosystem.
z DPI can help solve global challenges such as poverty reduction, climate resilience, and digital transformation
by improving the efficiency, transparency, inclusion, and innovation of public service delivery.
z Three Pillars of DPI- DPI has 3 broad objectives- identity, payments and data management.
 India, through its India Stack Platform, has become the first country to develop all the three foundational
pillars of DPI.

India and Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI)

z India, through India Stack, became the first country to develop all three foundational DPIs through JAM Trinity
Initiative (JAM stands for Jan Dhan Yojana, Aadhaar and Mobile number):
 Jan-Dhan Accounts ensure access to various financial services like availability of basic savings bank account,
access to need based credit, remittances facility, insurance and pension to the excluded sections i.e. weaker
sections & low income groups.
 Real-time fast payment: India ranks 1 for Real-time payments globally, with 89.5 Bn payment transactions
in 2022 (76.8% YoY growth (2021-2022)).
z Digital identity (Aadhar): Till date, 1.3+ Bn Aadhaar cards have been issued and 15 Bn Aadhaar based E-KYC
verification has been done.
z Platform to safely share personal data: BHIM-UPI has emerged as the preferred payment method among users.
 UPI has set a new record of processing over 9 Bn transactions (worth $ 179 Bn) in May ‘23 .
 UPI accounts for 75% of the total retail digital payments in India.

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Significance of DPI
z Scalability: DPIs enable large-scale participation, evidenced by India’s over 1.3 billion Aadhaar enrolments and
more than 10 billion UPI transactions monthly, showcasing their capability to handle vast numbers.
z Platform Role: DPIs serve as foundational platforms that allow seamless integration and interaction for building
digital applications and services , enhancing overall functionality.
z Public-Private Collaboration: They encourage innovation through public-private partnerships, fostering rapid
development and value creation by leveraging the infrastructure.

Challenges Associated with Digital Public Infrastructures (DPIs) Include

z Market Concentration: DPIs can foster monopolies or oligopolies, where a few dominant players capture most of
the market.
 For example, UPI payment system has resulted in a duopoly, limiting competition and potentially stifling smaller
players from entering the market.
z Data Exploitation: Firms operating within DPIs can collect and leverage vast amounts of user data to expand into
related sectors, such as retail lending.
 This unchecked access to data creates an unfair competitive advantage, raising concerns about the balance
between innovation and anti-competitive practices.
z Regulatory Gaps: The absence of comprehensive regulatory frameworks around DPIs poses significant risks to
data privacy, security, and system interoperability. Without clear rules and governance, DPIs can be exploited by
private firms,
z Innovation Concerns: Government-supported DPIs might unintentionally entrench private entities without
sufficient regulatory oversight.

Way Forward
z Clear Role Delineation: There is a need to clearly define the roles and responsibilities of both public and private
entities involved in DPIs. This ensures accountability and transparency, especially given the scale and complexity
of these systems.
z Segmented Governance: There is a need to adopt a tailored governance approach by separating DPI elements that
require statutory or contractual regulation from those governable through soft law.
z Strengthening Cybersecurity Framework: Strengthen cybersecurity to protect digital assets and prevent cyber
attacks on important information like Aadhaar and banking data.
z Improve Digital Literacy: To enable citizens to fully utilize digital services and platforms, as many are unaware of
their benefits or lack the necessary skills to access and use them.

Conclusion
Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI) has revolutionised service delivery through platforms like Aadhaar, UPI, and CoWIN.
While DPIs enhance access and efficiency, challenges like market concentration and data privacy must be addressed.
A balanced approach, with clear roles and flexible regulation, can ensure DPIs continue to drive innovation while
protecting public interest.

INDIA’S SPACE SECTOR

ISRO successfully conducted the Space Docking Experiment (SPADEX) to demonstrate in-orbit docking technology,
a critical capability for refueling, satellite servicing, and future space station missions.
Recent Achievements of ISRO (Indian Space Research Organisation)
z Chandrayaan-3 Mission: ISRO successfully landed the Vikram Lander near the Moon’s south pole, making India
the first country to achieve this feat.
z ISRO’s Space Farming Trial: ISRO tested the growth of lobia (cowpea) seeds in space as part of its bio-regenerative
life support system experiments, paving the way for sustainable food production in space missions.

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z Aditya-L1 Mission: India’s first solar observatory, Aditya-L1, was launched to study the Sun’s atmosphere, including
the corona, solar winds, and magnetic storms. It marked a significant step toward space-based solar research.
z XPoSat: It is the second such space-based observatory after NASA’s Imaging X-ray Polarimetry Explorer (IPEX),
launched in 2021. The two instruments on board XPoSat, called XSPECT and POLIX, began operating after launch.
z PSLV-C57/Orbital Launch of Singapore’s DS-SAR Satellite: The PSLV-C57 mission launched the DS-SAR satellite
and six co-passenger satellites for Singapore, reaffirming ISRO’s reputation for cost-effective commercial satellite
launches.
z Gaganyaan Preparations: ISRO completed critical tests for the Gaganyaan Human Spaceflight Programme,
including a crew escape system test. The mission is scheduled for 2025, aiming to make India the fourth country
to send humans into space.
z LVM3-M3 OneWeb India-2 Mission: ISRO launched 36 OneWeb satellites into Low Earth Orbit, completing
OneWeb’s first-generation global satellite constellation. This further solidified ISRO’s position in the global satellite
launch market.
Space Docking: India has achieved success in space docking.

Key Points
z India became the fourth country after the US, China and Russia to carry out successful space docking of 2 satellites.
z The docking operation of the Space Docking Experiment (SPADEX) mission was successfully completed on January
16, 2025.
z Docking: Docking is a process of connecting two separate free-flying space vehicles.

SPADEX Space Mission

z ISRO launched the mission on December 30, 2024 with the successful launch of the SpadeX spacecraft using the
Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV)-C60 from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota.
 The Spadex mission consists of two small satellites, SDX01, which is the chaser, and SDX02, which is the target,
each weighing about 220 kg.
 The two satellites, target and chaser, were in the same orbit at a distance of 20 km, known as “Far Rendezvous”,
and then came close to dock.
 After docking, the two satellites will operate as a single spacecraft.

Role of Private Sector in Space

z Satellite Manufacturing and Launches: Skyroot’s Vikram-S became the first privately built rocket launched in
India in November 2022.
z Space-Based Applications: Startups like Pixxel are using satellites for earth imaging and data analytics, enabling
services in agriculture, disaster management, and urban planning.
z Collaboration with ISRO: L&T and HAL partnered with ISRO for the Gaganyaan mission.
z Driving Innovation: Agnikul Cosmos is working on 3D-printed rocket engines to revolutionize launch systems.

Potential of India’s Space Sector

z Expanding Market Size: The global space economy is estimated to reach $1 trillion by 2040, and India’s share,
currently at just 2%, has significant growth potential.
z Satellite Launch Services: PSLV has launched over 400 foreign satellites from 36 countries, earning ISRO substantial
revenue.
z Commercial Space Ventures: With the advent of private players like Skyroot Aerospace and Pixxel, India is
diversifying into small satellite launches, space-based imaging, and data analytics.
z Focus on Space Exploration: Chandrayaan-3’s success as the first mission to soft-land near the lunar south pole.
z Global Partnerships: ISRO-NASA’s NISAR satellite will study climate change and natural disasters.

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Challenges Faced by the Indian Space Sector
z Budget Constraints: Despite global recognition, ISRO operates on a relatively small budget compared to agencies
like NASA.
z Technological Gaps: Limited expertise in heavy-lift rockets and advanced reusable technologies delays ambitious
missions.
z Space Debris Management: Increasing satellite launches add to space debris, posing long-term challenges for
orbital sustainability.
z Brain Drain: Many top scientists seek better opportunities abroad due to limited funding and incentives in India.
z Geopolitical Constraints: Global collaborations face challenges due to international sanctions and technology denial
regimes like the MTCR (Missile Technology Control Regime).

Conclusion
ISRO’s recent achievements, including Chandrayaan-3, Aditya-L1, SPADEX, and space farming trials, showcase
India’s growing capability in space exploration. By addressing challenges through increased funding, technological
innovation, and global collaboration, ISRO can further enhance its contribution to scientific discovery, economic
growth, and global sustainability.

SPACE DEBRIS

A 500-kg metal object, suspected to be space debris, crashed in Kenya, raising concerns over accountability and legal
gaps in space governance.

About Space Debris

z Definition: The UN Committee on the Peaceful Uses of Outer Space (COPUOS) defines Space Debris as,
 Space debris is all man-made objects, including fragments and elements thereof, in Earth orbit or
re-entering the atmosphere, that are non-functional.
z Example: Space Debris comprise of pieces of spacecraft, tiny flecks of paint from a spacecraft, parts of rockets,
satellites (rocket boosters, fuel tanks that survive reentry), fragments from satellite collisions, or explosions of
objects in orbit flying.
z Orbits: The most polluted orbits in general are considered to be those between 200-2000 km above Earth
(Lower Earth Orbits or LEO), and the 36,000 km orbit (Geosynchronous).

Space Debris Law

z Article VI of the Outer Space Treaty 1967: It says states bear responsibility for all national space activities,
whether conducted by governmental or private entities.
z Convention for International Liability for Damage Caused by Space Objects of 1972: An “absolute liability”
clause was introduced for damage caused by space objects on the earth.
 Under ‘absolute liability’ conditions, no proof of negligence is required and launching states are automatically
responsible for harm caused by their debris.
z Rescue Agreement (1968):This treaty requires states to return any “foreign” space objects discovered in their
territory to their owners and notify the Secretary-General of any such discoveries.

Issues in Space Debris Governance

z No Universal Definition: There is No universally accepted legal definition for space debris in international
treaties.
z Enforcement Challenge: There is a gap between legal liability and practical enforcement, leaving affected
parties vulnerable to inadequate resolutions.
 Example: The Soviet satellite Cosmos 954, carrying a nuclear reactor, crashed in Canada in 1978. Canada
secured only $3 million of the estimated $6 million clean-up cost after prolonged diplomatic negotiations.

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z Source Identification of Debris: Older, undocumented objects or highly fragmented debris may defy
identification adding another layer of complexity in determining accountability.

Measures to be Taken
z A Binding Global Regulation for Controlled Reentries: The UN Committee on the Peaceful Uses of Outer Space
(COPUOS) must push for binding global regulations that require controlled reentries and penalties for non-
compliant actors.
z Strengthen Domestic Policies: National governments need to strengthen domestic policies, requiring
companies to adopt debris mitigation strategies as a condition for getting launch licenses.
z Tribunal: The 1972 Liability Convention must be modernised to include an independent international tribunal
with binding enforcement powers.

India’s Role in Tackling Space Debris:

z ISRO System for Safe and Sustainable Space Operations Management (IS4OM): It has been established to focus
all efforts related to spaceflight safety and debris mitigation and for dealing with the emerging challenges in
operating in a congested space environment.
z Network for Space object TRacking and Analysis (NETRA): It has been approved for Space Situational
Awareness (SSA) and capacity building.
z Collision Avoidance Analysis (COLA): For all Indian launch vehicles, Collision Avoidance Analysis (COLA) is
performed to select collision threat-free lift-off time within the launch window
z Debris Free Space Mission (DFSM) Initiative: It is being spearheaded by ISRO with an aim to achieve debris-
free space missions by all Indian space actors, both governmental and non-governmental, by 2030.

NUCLEAR ENERGY MISSION FOR VIKSIT BHARAT

The government in the Budget speech of 2025-26 has announced the setting up of the Nuclear Energy Mission
for Viksit Bharat for research and development of Small Modular Reactors (SMRs).

About the Nuclear Energy Mission for Viksit Bharat

z Aim: To enhance domestic nuclear capabilities, promote private sector participation, and deploy advanced
nuclear technologies.
z Funding: The Union Budget 2025-26 has allocated ₹20,000 crore for R&D in Small Modular Reactors, targeting
at least five indigenously designed operational SMRs by 2033.
 Target: India has targeted 100 GW nuclear power capacity by 2047
z Private Sector Entry: The government plans to amend the Atomic Energy Act of 1962 and the The Civil Liability
for Nuclear Damages Act to facilitate the entry of the private sector in nuclear energy with the motive of,
 Setting up Bharat Small Reactors,
 Research & development of Bharat Small Modular Reactor, and
 Research & development of newer technologies for nuclear energy.

About Small Modular Reactors

z SMRs are advanced nuclear reactors with the maximum power producing capacity of up to 300 MW(e) per
unit.
 It is about one-third of the generating capacity of traditional nuclear power reactors (capacities of 500 MW
of electricity or more)
z Modular Design: The modular design of the reactors means the systems and components are factory-assembled
and transported as a unit to a location for installation instead of being constructed on-site
z Application Areas: SMRs target varied outputs and different applications, such as electricity, hybrid energy
systems, heating, water desalinisation and steam for industrial applications.

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z Advantages:
 Design: SMRs are small and modular in design making them more affordable to build and install at any
given location. SMRs offer savings in cost and construction time, and they can be deployed incrementally to
match increasing energy demand.
 Inbuilt Safety Provisions: SMRs are passive systems that rely on physical phenomena (like, natural
circulation, convection, gravity and self-pressurization) significantly lowering the chance of unsafe release of
radioactive waste in the environment in case of an accident.

INDIA’S NUCLEAR ENERGY AGREEMENT

Recently, India and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for civil
nuclear cooperation.

Overview of India- UAE Civil Nuclear Energy Agreement

z Key Deal: The Nuclear Power Corporation of India Limited (NPCIL) signed an agreement with the Emirates
Nuclear Energy Company (ENEC) for the Barakah Nuclear Power Plant’s operations and maintenance.
z UAE’s Nuclear Energy Policy: This aligns with the UAE’s strategy to expand investments in the nuclear energy
sector.
z Prime Minister’s Visit: During Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to the UAE in August 2015, both nations
agreed to collaborate on the peaceful use of nuclear energy.
z Areas of Cooperation: Focus areas include nuclear safety, health, agriculture, and science and technology.

About Nuclear Energy Agreements

z Nuclear energy agreements are international or bilateral treaties and arrangements focused on the peaceful
use of nuclear energy.
z These agreements aim to facilitate cooperation between countries or organizations in the development, use, and
regulation of nuclear energy for civilian purposes.
z They cover various aspects like technology transfer, fuel supply, safety standards, and non-proliferation
commitments.

Significance of India’s Nuclear Energy Agreements

z Global Legitimacy in Nuclear Energy: India’s ability to sign nuclear cooperation agreements with major countries,
despite being a non-signatory to the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT), highlights its global diplomatic
success.
z Reliable Fuel Supply: India has limited domestic uranium resources, and securing long-term uranium supply
agreements with countries like Canada, Kazakhstan, and Australia is crucial for maintaining the continuous
operation of its nuclear reactors.
z Strengthening Civil Nuclear Program: The separation of India’s civilian and military nuclear programs, as
part of the 2008 India-US Civil Nuclear Agreement, has allowed India to focus more resources on expanding its
civilian nuclear energy program.

Major Concerns Associated With India’s Nuclear Energy Agreements

z Potential for Nuclear Accidents: One of the biggest concerns with expanding nuclear energy infrastructure is the
risk of accidents, as witnessed in disasters like Chernobyl (1986) and Fukushima (2011).
z Safety Protocols and Regulatory Challenges: Despite the important roles of Nuclear Power Corporation of India
Limited (NPCIL) and the Atomic Energy Regulatory Board (AERB), concerns about regulatory independence
and the adequacy of safety protocols persist.
 Protests around proposed nuclear sites, like the Kudankulam plant in Tamil Nadu, have highlighted public
safety concerns related to potential accidents or radiation leaks.

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z Radioactive Waste Disposal: High-level radioactive waste remains hazardous for thousands of years, and India
does not yet have a permanent solution for its disposal.
 India’s storage facilities for nuclear waste are temporary, and long-term strategies for safely containing and
disposing of high-level radioactive waste are still being developed.
z Dual-Use Technology Risks: Nuclear technology and materials that are intended for peaceful purposes can
potentially be diverted to military programs, leading to nuclear proliferation risks.
z Nuclear Liability Law: India’s Civil Liability for Nuclear Damage Act (2010) holds nuclear suppliers liable for
compensation in the event of an accident, which is unusual in the global nuclear industry, where operators
typically bear the primary liability.
 Many foreign nuclear suppliers, especially from countries like the US, have expressed reluctance to enter the
Indian market due to concerns over the liability law.

Conclusion
By focusing on advanced research, thorium utilization, public engagement, and regulatory reforms, India can
unlock the full potential of nuclear energy to meet its energy, environmental, and economic objectives in the coming
decades.

50 YEARS OF POKHRAN-I

Fifty years ago, on May 18, 1974, India conducted its first nuclear tests in Pokhran, Rajasthan, as part of the ‘Smiling
Buddha’ operation.

About Pokhran-I
z On September 7, 1972, Indira Gandhi authorized the Bhabha Atomic Research Center (BARC) to develop and prepare
a nuclear device for testing.
z Pokhran, an army test range located in the desert of western Rajasthan, was chosen and its code name “Operation
Smiling Buddha” came from the test’s date being on the same day as Buddha Jayanti.
z In 1998, under the leadership of Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee, India conducted a series of nuclear tests in
Pokhran once again, code-named Operation Shakti.

SECOND NATIONAL GENE BANK

The Indian government has announced the establishment of a second National Gene Bank, as a part of the Union
Budget 2025-26.

What is a Gene Bank?

z It is a storage facility that preserves seeds, pollen, or plant tissues to protect plant species from extinction.
z India’s First National Gene Bank
 Established in 1996 by the Indian Council of Agricultural Research-National Bureau of Plant Genetic
Resources (ICAR-NBPGR) in New Delhi.
z Purpose of the New Gene Bank
 The new gene bank aims to ensure food and nutritional security for the future.It will help conserve and
protect genetic resources for both the public and private sectors.

HUMAN METAPNEUMOVIRUS

A recent outbreak of Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) in China has raised alarm globally. Several countries, including
India, are monitoring the virus and its spread closely.

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What is Human Metapneumovirus?
z Human metapneumovirus (HMPV) is a common respiratory virus that causes lower and upper respiratory
infections (like a cold).
z It is a seasonal disease that usually occurs in the winter and early spring.
z It was discovered in 2001. HMPV is in the Pneumoviridae family along with respiratory syncytial virus (RSV).
z People of all ages, especially among young children, older adults, and people with weakened immune systems are
more prone to get infected.
z Symptoms: Symptoms commonly associated with HMPV include cough, fever, nasal congestion, and shortness
of breath.
z Transmission: HMPV is most likely spread from an infected person to others through
 secretions from coughing and sneezing
 close personal contact, such as touching or shaking hands
 touching objects or surfaces that have the viruses on them then touching the mouth, nose, or eyes
 Treatment: Currently, there is no specific antiviral therapy to treat HMPV and no vaccine to prevent HMPV.
Medical care is supportive.

“10,000 GENOME” PROJECT

The Department of Biotechnology (DBT) officially announced the completion of the “10,000 Genome” project.

Background of Genome India Project

z The initiative is funded by the Department of Biotechnology (DBT) to sequence at least 10,000 Indian genomes in
phase 1.
 Objective: To develop predictive diagnostic indicators for several high-priority diseases and other uncommon
genetic disorders.
z In phase 2, the project would collect genetic samples from patients with three broad categories - Cardiovascular
diseases, Mental illness, and Cancer.

About the Genome India Project

z Research Led By: The Genome India Project (GIP) is a research initiative led by the Bangalore-based Indian Institute
of Science’s Centre for Brain Research and involves over 20 universities nationwide.
z Objective: To gather samples, compile data, conduct research, and create an “Indian reference genome” grid.
z Applications: Advances agriculture, biotech, and healthcare for diseases like cancer and diabetes.

What is the 10,000 Genome Project?

z Initiative of: Department of Biotechnology
z Aim: To sequence 10,000 Indian genomes.
z Objective: Understanding variations in Indian genes to predict diagnosis.

THIRD LAUNCH PAD

The Union Cabinet approved the establishment of the ‘Third Launch Pad’ (TLP) project at Satish Dhawan Space
Centre of ISRO at Sriharikota, Andhra Pradesh.

About Third Launch Pad

z Key Features: Configured to support Launch of Next Generation Launch Vehicles (NGLV) and Launch Vehicle Mark-3
(LVM3) with Semi cryogenic stage as well as scaled up configurations of NGLV.
z Timeline: To be established within 4 years.
z Significance of TLP

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 Capacity augmentation: Enables higher launch frequencies and enhances the launch capacity for future human
spaceflight & space exploration missions, etc.
 Expanded vision of Indian Space Programme: Bharatiya Antariksh Station (BAS) by 2035 and an Indian Crewed
Lunar Landing by 2040 require a next generation of heavier launch vehicles with new propulsion systems.
 Future Transportation: It is highly essential so as to meet the evolving space transportation requirements for
another 25-30 years.

Existing Launch pads in India

z Currently, ISRO relies on 2 launch pads located at Shriharikota:
 First Launch Pad provides launch support for Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV) and Small Satellite Launch
Vehicle (SSLV).
 Second Launch Pad was established primarily for Geosynchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle (GSLV) & LVM3 and
also functions as standby for PSLV.

Conclusion
The expeditious establishment of a Third Launch Pad to cater to a heavier class of Next Generation Launch Vehicles
and as a stand by for SLP is highly essential so as to meet the evolving space transportation requirements.

NEXT GENERATION LAUNCH VEHICLE (NGLV) PROGRAMME

Overview
The NGLV programme is focused on developing an advanced rocket, tentatively named the Soorya Rocket, designed
to launch satellites, spacecraft, and diverse payloads. It aims to enhance India’s space capabilities with cutting-edge
technology, emphasizing cost-efficiency and sustainability.

Key Features
z Three-Stage Configuration: The NGLV is a three-stage vehicle with a reusable first stage, significantly reducing
launch costs through reusability.
z Green Propulsion Systems: Incorporates modular, eco-friendly propulsion technologies for enhanced efficiency
and reduced environmental impact.
z Semi-Cryogenic Booster Stages: Utilizes semi-cryogenic propulsion with refined kerosene as fuel and liquid oxygen
(LOX) as the oxidizer, offering superior performance.
z Enhanced Payload Capacity: Offers three times the payload capability of the LVM3 at only 1.5 times the cost,
ensuring cost-effective access to space.

Other ISRO Launch Vehicles

1. Small Satellite Launch Vehicle (SSLV)
 Overview: A compact, cost-effective vehicle tailored for launching small satellites into low Earth orbits.
 Configuration: Comprises three solid propulsion stages and a liquid propulsion-based Velocity Trimming Module
(VTM) as the terminal stage.
 Applications: Supports rapid and affordable access to space for small satellite missions.
2. Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV)
 Overview: India’s third-generation launch vehicle, renowned for its reliability in deploying satellites into polar
orbits.
 Configuration: A four-stage rocket alternating between solid rocket motors (1st and 3rd stages) and liquid
engines (2nd and 4th stages).
 Applications: Primarily used for launching satellites into sun-synchronous polar orbits.
3. Geosynchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle (GSLV)
 Overview: A fourth-generation operational vehicle designed for launching communication satellites into
geosynchronous transfer orbits (GTO).

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Configuration: Features a three-stage system with four liquid strap-on boosters and a cryogenic upper stage
for enhanced thrust.
 Applications: Ideal for deploying heavy communication satellites.
4. Geosynchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle Mk-III (LVM3)
 Overview: A heavy-lift launch vehicle designed for launching large payloads, including crewed missions and
communication satellites.
 Configuration: A three-stage vehicle with two solid strap-on motors (S200), a liquid core stage (L110), and a
high-thrust cryogenic upper stage (C25).
 Applications: Used for geostationary orbit missions and India’s human spaceflight program.
Sriharikota was chosen as India’s primary satellite launch pad due to several strategic and geographical
factors:
1. Proximity to the Equator: Sriharikota is located at approximately 13°N latitude, close to the equator. This allows
rockets to gain additional velocity from Earth’s rotational speed (about 460 m/s), reducing fuel requirements for
launching satellites into geosynchronous or polar orbits.
2. Eastern Coastline: Positioned on the east coast of India, Sriharikota enables launches over the Bay of Bengal,
minimizing risks to populated areas. The open sea provides a safe trajectory for rocket stages to fall without
endangering lives or property.
3. Clear Launch Corridor: The island’s location offers a clear path for polar and geostationary launches, avoiding
landmasses during the initial ascent. This is critical for polar sun-synchronous orbits, which require a southward
trajectory.
4. Stable Geology: The island’s stable geological foundation, with minimal seismic activity, is ideal for constructing
and maintaining sophisticated launch facilities, ensuring structural integrity during launches.
5. Favorable Weather Conditions: Sriharikota experiences relatively stable weather, with minimal extreme conditions
like hurricanes or heavy rainfall, allowing for a higher number of launch windows throughout the year.
6. Isolation and Security: The island’s relative isolation from densely populated areas ensures security and minimizes
disturbances. It also allows for controlled access, which is crucial for sensitive space operations.
7. Logistical Connectivity: Despite its isolation, Sriharikota is close to Chennai (about 100 km), providing access to
transportation networks, industrial support, and technical expertise for the Indian Space Research Organisation
(ISRO).
8. Natural Barrier: The island is separated from the mainland by the Pulicat Lake and surrounded by water bodies,
which act as a natural buffer, enhancing safety and security for launch operations.
These factors collectively make Sriharikota an optimal location for India’s spaceport, enabling efficient and safe
satellite launches since the establishment of the Satish Dhawan Space Centre (SDSC) in 1971.

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MENACE OF RAGGING IN HIGHER EDUCATIONAL INSTITUTIONS

Recently, incidents of ragging in Government College of Kerala have brought the ragging issue into the limelight.

Why Ragging Persists in India?

z Lack of Strict Enforcement: Court guidelines and UGC regulations are often not enforced strictly by educational
institutions.
z Cultural Normalization: Ragging is often seen as a “tradition” or “initiation ritual” in many elite institutions.
z Lack of Awareness and Sensitization: Many students, especially seniors, are unaware of the severe psychological
and physical harm ragging can cause.
z Inadequate Grievance Redressal Mechanisms: Many institutions have anti-ragging committees on paper, but they
are often non-functional or lack authority.
 Complaints are either ignored or not addressed promptly.
z Legal and Definitional Challenges: Ragging is not defined as a specific offense under the Indian Penal Code (IPC),
leading to inconsistent enforcement.
z Competitive and Hierarchical Environment: In professional colleges (e.g., medical and engineering), seniors often
use ragging to assert dominance over juniors in a highly competitive environment.
 The hierarchical structure of institutions fosters a culture of seniority and authority.
z Economic and Administrative Constraints: Many institutions, especially in rural areas, lack the resources to
implement anti-ragging measures effectively.
 Installing CCTV cameras, setting up helplines, and conducting regular inspections require financial and
administrative support.

Way Forward to Eradicate Ragging

z Strict Enforcement of Laws: Ensure strict implementation of UGC Regulations (2009) and Supreme Court
guidelines.
 Hold institutions accountable for failing to prevent ragging or address complaints.
z Awareness and Sensitization: Conduct regular orientation programs and workshops to educate students and
staff about the harmful effects of ragging.
 Use media campaigns to spread awareness and promote a culture of respect and inclusivity.
z Strengthening Grievance Redressal Mechanisms: Establish 24/7 helplines and secure complaint boxes for
anonymous reporting.
 Ensure timely action on complaints and protect whistleblowers from retaliation.

PERSONS WITH DISABILITIES (PWDs) IN INDIA

Context: Recently, the Supreme Court while hearing a plea to ban the film “Aankh Micholi” for derogatory portrayal
of people with disabilities laid down comprehensive guidelines to prevent stereotyping and discrimination of
persons with disabilities (PwDs) in visual media.

About the Framework

Following are the seven points the bench expects filmmakers to adhere to -
z On Discriminate Words: Call to avoid words which lead to institutional discrimination like words crippled, etc lead
to negative self image and perpetuate discriminatory attitudes.
z On Language: Language that individualises the impairment and overlooks disabling social barriers, for example,
words like “afflicted,” “suffering” and “victim”, should be avoided.
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z Adequate Information: Creators must check for adequate medical info about an impairment like night blindness
which may increase discrimination.
z Accurate Representation: It should not be based on myths, stereotypes show that impaired persons have enhanced
sensory superpowers and that may not be for all.
z Involvement: The court also asked creators to practise the principle of “nothing about us, without us,” and involve
persons with disabilities in the creation and assessment of visual media content.
z Protection of Rights: Convention of rights to protect rights of PWD includes measures to portray them after
consultation with their rights advocacy groups.
z Training and Sensitisation Programs: They should be implemented for individuals involved in creating visual
media content, including writers, directors, producers, and actors.

About Persons with Disabilities (PwDs) (Divyangjan)

z Refers: Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016 defines “Person with Benchmark Disability” as “a person
with not less than 40% of a specified disability”.
z Statistics: The 2011 census estimated that the number of people with disabilities in India is close to 2.68 crore
(or 2.2% of the population).

Only 36.3% (9.8 million)

disabled people work
in India

2.7 m
female workers
7.1 m
male workers

Literacy Rates

65% 45% 62%

All women Women with Men with

disability disability

Inidan Population with Inidan Population with

No Disability Intellectual Disability

72%
44%
are not are not
employed employed

27% 57%
are illiterate are illiterate

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Initiatives taken by the Indian Government to Support PwDs
z Mental Health Care Act (2017): To provide for
mental healthcare and services for persons with
mental illness and to protect, promote and fulfil
the rights of such persons during delivery of mental
healthcare and services and for matters connected
therewith or incidental thereto.
z Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016:
It is the disability legislation passed by the Indian
Parliament to fulfil its obligation to the United
Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with
Disabilities, which India ratified in 2007.
z National Trust Act (1999): It provides for the
constitution of a body at the National level for the
Welfare of Persons with Autism, Cerebral Palsy,
Mental Retardation and Multiple Disabilities and for
matters connected therewith or incidental thereto.
 The National Trust is a statutory body of the
Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment,
Government of India.
z Accessible India Campaign (Sugamya Bharat
Abhiyan): To make public spaces, transportation, and
information and communication technologies (ICT)
accessible to PwDs.
z Others: PM-DAKSH (Divyang Skill Development
and Rehabilitation Scheme), Deen-Dayal Disabled
Rehabilitation Scheme, National Fellowship for
Students with Disabilities, Indian Sign Language
Research and Training Centre, etc.

Key Challenges Faced by PwDs in India

z Inadequate Infrastructure: Many public buildings,
spaces, and transportation systems in India are not
designed to be accessible. This includes lack of ramps,
lifts, and accessible toilets.
 As per a 2018 report by the Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities, only 3% of buildings
in India were found to be fully accessible.
z Limited Access to Information and Communication: Persons with visual and hearing impairments often
face challenges in accessing information and communication due to the lack of Braille signage, sign language
interpretation, and audio descriptions.
z Attitudinal Barriers: They often face discrimination and stigma due to negative attitudes and stereotypes held
by society. Prejudice and misconceptions about disabilities contribute to the social marginalisation of people with
disabilities.
z Educational Barriers: Inaccessible facilities, a lack of appropriate accommodations, and a shortage of trained
educators contribute to the academic challenges faced by students with disabilities.
 About 45% of disabled people are illiterate, and only 62.9% of disabled people aged 3 to 35 have ever
attended regular schools.
z Employment Disparities: Discrimination, inaccessible workplaces, and lack of accommodations often limit
their employment opportunities.
 India has almost 3 crore PwD of which around 1.3 crore is employable but only 34 lakh of them have been
employed.

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z Technological Gaps: Access to assistive technology, such as hearing aids and mobility aids, is limited in India,
making it difficult for Divyangjans to perform daily tasks.
 In India, a study found that only 29% of people with disabilities own assistive devices, while 71% have
unmet needs (Karki et al., 2021).
z Digital Divide: Digital divide exacerbates existing inequalities in education, employment, and social participation.
 According to a 2020 report by the 2020 Web Accessibility Annual Report, 98% of websites fail to comply
with accessibility requirements for PwD.
In Rajive Raturi vs. Union of India & Ors.,the Supreme Court confirmed that the right to access environments,
services, and opportunities is a fundamental human right for persons with disabilities (PWDs).

More on News
z Basis of the Judgement: The judgement is based on a report submitted by the Centre for Disability Studies
(CDS), NALSAR University of Law.
z Issues faced by the PWD’s as per Center for Disability Studies at NALSAR:
 Accessibility Barriers: There are gaps in accessibility measures across courts, prisons, schools, public
transport, and other public spaces.
 Compounded Discrimination: The report pointed out that inaccessibility often leads to compounded
discrimination, creating additional layers of disadvantage for PWDs, particularly when these individuals
are also subject to other forms of marginalisation.

Key Observations of the Supreme Court

z Disability as a Societal Responsibility, Not a Personal
Tragedy: Chief Justice D.Y. Chandrachud emphasised that
disability becomes a tragedy only when society fails to
provide essential resources for the differently-abled to lead
fulfilling lives.
z Accessibility as Essential to Equality, Freedom, and
Dignity: The Supreme Court underlined that accessibility is
a prerequisite for equality, freedom, and human dignity,
enabling PWDs to exercise other rights meaningfully.
z Disparity in Accessibility Infrastructure Across Regions: The
court noted regional disparities in accessibility standards.
 For example, Delhi has 3,775 wheelchair-accessible
buses, while Tamil Nadu has only 1,917.
 Many older buildings, like the Bombay Art Gallery, lack
basic accessible features, including restrooms for PWDs.
z Overlooked Rights to Relationships and Emotional Well-
being
 The Supreme Court observed that society often ignores
the “right to relationships” for persons with disabilities,
including their emotional needs for privacy, intimacy, and
self-expression.
 The disabled individuals living with families are often denied private spaces for self-care and personal
expression.
z Need for Mandatory Accessibility Standards
 The court found that existing accessibility rules were not mandatory, leading to low compliance.
 The SC directed the Union Government to frame mandatory rules under Section 40 of the Rights of Persons
with Disabilities (RPwD) Act, 2016 for ensuring that public places and services are accessible to persons
with disabilities.
z Emphasis on the Social Model of Disability: The judgement called on the government to focus on removing
societal barriers, such as physical, organisational, and attitudinal obstacles, rather than trying to “fix” individuals.

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z Call for Universal Design in Public and Private Spaces
 The court recommended “universal design” principles, ensuring that public and private spaces, services, and
products are accessible to everyone from the start.
 Chief Justice Chandrachud stressed that accessibility should be integrated into the design of new services
and products from inception, as it is more efficient than making adjustments later.
Way Forward
z Implementing and Enforcing the Existing Laws and Policies: It protects the rights and interests of persons with
disabilities, such as the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016 and the Draft National Policy for Persons
with Disabilities, 2022.
z Change Perceptions about PwDs: There is a need to shift societal attitudes by promoting the use of empowering
terms such as “Divyang” instead of “Viklang” (disabled).
z Inclusive Digital Governance Platforms: There is a need to redesign e-governance platforms with a focus on
universal accessibility. It would involve creating multimodal interfaces (voice, text, video) for all government
services, ensuring compatibility with various assistive technologies, and providing real-time sign language
interpretation for video-based services.
z Promotion of Inclusive Education: For children with disabilities in regular schools, and providing them with
adequate support, resources, and training. This can help them develop their potential and skills, and integrate them
into the society.
z Enhancement of the Accessibility: For physical environment, transportation, information and communication,
technology and services for persons with disabilities, and removing any barriers or obstacles that hinder their
participation and inclusion.
z Providing Social Security Benefits: Such as healthcare services, insurance schemes, rehabilitation programs, and
other welfare measures for persons with disabilities, and ensuring their affordability and quality.
Conclusion
Ensuring accessibility for persons with disabilities is not only a fundamental right but also a societal responsibility
that requires comprehensive legal, social, and infrastructural reforms to guarantee their full participation in
society.

JUVENILES JUSTICE SYSTEM

Context: Juvenile justice has been a matter of great concern for policymakers, judges, and the public for many years.
In recent years, the trend of trying juveniles as adults has increased, and many are questioning the wisdom of
this approach.
More on News
z Recently, the Bombay High Court said that the Juvenile Justice (JJ) Act is “not only a beneficial legislation,
but is also a remedial one.”
About Juvenile Justice System
Juvenile Justice System is the most progressive and enlightened
system adopted by the world citizenry with all round growth of
children.
z Prime Focus: To reform the deviants and provide care to the
unprotected child. As far as practicable, a child to be rehabilitated
and restored to the family.
z Followed Doctrine: The special court to adopt the doctrine of
parens patriae while adjudicating the matter of child in conflict
with the law.
 Parens patriae is Latin for “parent of the country or homeland”.
Under parens patriae, a state or court has a paternal and
protective role over its citizens or others subject to its
jurisdiction.

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z On Statistics: The National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB) reports a significant decrease in juvenile crimes, with
numbers dropping from 43,506 in 2013 to 30,555 in 2022—a 30% reduction over 10 years.

About Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection of Children) Act

In India, a juvenile is a person less than 18 years
of age. The Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection of
Children) Act, 2015, addresses children in conflict
with law and children in need of care and protection.
z Categorisation of Offences: Into three categories
— petty offences, serious offences, and heinous
offences.
 The Act provides for trying juveniles in the age
group of 16-18 as adults in cases of heinous
offences.
z Juvenile Justice Boards: The Act provides for one
or more Juvenile Justice Boards to be constituted
in every district.
 Comprises: A Judicial magistrate of the first
class and two social workers of whom at least
one should be a woman.
z Child Welfare Committee: The Act provides for one or more Child Welfare Committees to be constituted in every
district.
 Mandate: The Committee is responsible for restoring abandoned or lost children to their families, declaring
them legally free for adoption, taking suo-moto cognizance of cases, taking action for rehabilitation of
sexually abused children, coordinating with agencies involved in the care and protection of children, etc.
z On Adoption: The Act streamlined adoption procedures for orphans, abandoned and surrendered children and the
existing Central Adoption Resource Authority (CARA) has been given the status of a statutory body to enable
it to perform its function more effectively.
z Commitment towards Global Conventions: The Act fulfils India’s commitment as a signatory to the United Nations
Convention on the rights of the child, the Hague Convention on Protection of Children and Co-operation in
respect of Inter-country Adoption (1993), and other related international instruments.
z Implementation Agency: The National Commission for Protection of Child Rights (NCPCR) is under a statutory
obligation under the JJ Act to monitor the proper implementation of the provisions of the Act.
z Amendment: In 2021, the Parliament passed The Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection of Children) Amendment
Act, 2021 which amended the Juvenile Justice Act, 2015.
 Provisions: The amendments include authorising District Magistrate including Additional District
Magistrate to issue adoption orders under the JJ Act, in order to ensure speedy disposal of cases and
enhance accountability.
 Previously, civil courts oversaw this process.

On Being Tried Juvenile as an Adult

The JJ Act allows for the possibility of trying adolescents above 16 as adults if they are accused of committing a
“heinous” offence. Prior to the 2015 amendment in the original JJ Act, all children below the age of 18 years were
treated as juveniles.
z Offence Committed: A “heinous” offence is one with a minimum punishment of seven years or more.
 Offences such as culpable homicide and causing death by negligence, which are common in drunken driving
cases, are not “heinous” offences because they do not have a prescribed minimum punishment.
 The JJ Act, amended in 2021, now categorises an offence that has no minimum sentence but has a maximum
sentence of more than seven years as a “serious offence” which, nonetheless, does not merit the transfer of
a case to the adult criminal justice system.

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z Assessment: According to Section 15, in any case, when an adolescent above 16 years of age is accused of a
“heinous” offence, the JJB, a quasi-judicial body, conducts a preliminary assessment to determine if they should
be tried as an adult.
 If it concludes that there is such a need, the adolescent is transferred to a sessions court, which independently
assesses the suitability of trying the adolescent as an adult.
 These protections are based on the understanding that adolescence is a temporary developmental stage
characterised by immature judgement and underdeveloped impulse control.
 Time Framework: The assessment is required to be done within three months from the date of first production
of the child before the JJB.
 Assistance from Experts: The Supreme Court also said that when the JJB does not comprise a practising
professional with a degree in child psychology or child psychiatry, it would have to mandatorily seek the
assistance of experts.
z Associated Judgement: The above protections are recognised by the Supreme Court in Dr. Subramanian Swamy
v. Raju (2014) and by the UN Committee on the Rights of the Child.
 Consequently, the juvenile justice system emphasises rehabilitation and social reintegration over punishment,
acknowledging that adolescents, due to their high neuroplasticity, are more receptive to change.

Arguments in Favour of Trying Juveniles as Adults Arguments Against Trying Juveniles as Adults
Capacity to Differentiate: Juveniles can differentiate Weak Implementation: Trying juveniles as adults
between good and bad, and choose to commit crimes sidesteps the issue of weak implementation of the
knowingly. juvenile justice system’s principles.
Seriousness of the Crime: Serious crimes, such as the Lack of Maturity: Juveniles lack the maturity of adults
Nirbhaya Gang Rape Case, warrant accountability in the and are less able to understand the consequences of
adult criminal justice system. their actions.
Accountability: Ensuring violent and dangerous Rehabilitation Focus: Juvenile justice systems aim for
criminals, regardless of age, are punished and held rehabilitation and education, while adult systems focus
accountable. on punishment.
Public Safety: Reducing the risk of re-offense by serious Lack of Rehabilitation in Adult System: The adult
juvenile criminals protects public safety. criminal system is not equipped to provide necessary
rehabilitation and education.
Deterrence: The threat of adult trial deters juveniles Permanent Consequences: Adult trials can have
from committing serious crimes. permanent, devastating impacts on a juvenile’s future,
limiting job opportunities and societal reintegration.

Way Forward
To achieve the positive gain on this juvenile justice front, there is a need for proper implementation of the juvenile
justice system along with following measures:
z Focus on Accountability and Rehabilitation: The juvenile justice system is rooted in holding offenders
accountable for their actions. When an adolescent is found to have committed a crime, the JJ Act empowers
the multidisciplinary JJB to tailor a response befitting the circumstances and the adolescent concerned. A
conviction can result in institutionalisation of the offender, but with the express goal of rehabilitation.
z Individual Care Plan: The JJBs can prescribe interventions such as therapy, psychiatric support, and de-addiction
during and after institutionalisation.
 An individual care plan is prepared for the adolescent’s rehabilitation keeping in mind their socioeconomic
conditions and the circumstances of the crime.
 This approach has the potential to foster accountability and healing, creating opportunities for justice that
are often unattainable within the rigid confines of the punitive adult justice system.
z Inclusion of Innovative Approaches: India can adopt various innovative processes as followed in US and Indonesia
such as practising Victim Impact Panel (VIP).
 Specifically in cases of deaths caused by motor accidents, innovative approaches have been attempted in
Indonesia and the US that enable offenders to face their victims and focus on personal accountability.

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 In some jurisdictions, convicted drunk drivers are required to face a victim impact panel (VIP) of relatives
of victims who express how the incident affected their lives.
 A report released in 2022 by Kevin Thompson and Sarah Joyce found a reduction in recidivism amongst
offenders exposed to VIPs in North Dakota.
 While this can never change the life-altering incident itself, it personalises the loss and grief experienced by
the victim and gives an opportunity to the offender to express regret.
z Family and Community Involvement: Engaging families and communities to support a nurturing environment for
juveniles that can address the underlying causes of delinquency, aiding reintegration.
z Educational and Vocational Training: Access to education and vocational skills equips juveniles for post-
rehabilitation life, reducing reoffending risks by providing legitimate livelihood avenues.
z Psychological Support and Counseling: Addressing mental health through counselling is vital, as many juveniles
in conflict suffer from untreated psychological issues.
z Community-Based Programs: Involvement in community service fosters responsibility and belonging. It also serves
restorative justice by allowing juveniles to make amends.
Conclusion
Children are the future resources of the country. They must be transformed from negative to positive
personalities. Critics argue that the system sometimes fails to fully apply its foundational principles, focusing
inadequately on rehabilitation and accountability.
z Trying juveniles as adults is seen as to bypass the core issues of systemic inefficiency, which underscores
the need for a more robust and consistently applied juvenile justice system that truly balances the goals of
rehabilitation and public safety.

FEMALE LABOUR FORCE PARTICIPATION IN INDIA

Context: The Economic Advisory Council to the
Prime Minister (EAC-PM) reports that female
labor force participation in rural India has risen
significantly, from 24.6% to 41.5% between 2017–
18 and 2022–23.
About Female Labour Force Participation In India:
z Female labour force participation refers to the
percentage of women engaged in the formal or
informal workforce, either employed or actively
seeking employment.
 It serves as an indicator of women’s economic
empowerment and social equality.
z Data Survey: The National Household survey, Periodic
Labour Force Survey, conducted by National
Statistics Office (NSO), Ministry of Statistics and
Programme Implementation (MoSPI), reveals the
female employment status in India.
z Global Labour Participation Rate For Women: The
global labor force participation rate for women is
just over 50% compared to 80% for men.
z India’s Participation Rate: Though female
participation rate is still not at par with global average,
however, it is improving over the years.
 As per the Periodic Labour Force Survey (PLFS)
data, during 2022-23, the women participation in
the labour force has notably increased to 37.0%.

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Factors Responsible for Low Female Participation in the Labour Force
z Unpaid Domestic Duties/Unpaid Care Work: There is a disproportionate burden of unpaid domestic work
and caregiving responsibilities, including childcare and home-making on Women.
 Example:
 According to the PLFS 2021-22, around 44.5% of women were outside the labour force due to child care
and personal commitments at home
z Social and Cultural Norms: Social expectations often assign women the role of caregivers and homemakers,
leading to a lack of participation in economic activities.
 Men are generally expected to be the primary earners, reinforcing the idea that women should focus on
household duties instead of contributing to the workforce.
z Marriage: Marriage, particularly early marriage, often reduces the female LFPR, as women are expected to take
on household and child-rearing responsibilities.
 According to the World Bank Report, it is estimated that in India, after marriage, women’s employment
rates decrease by 12 percentage points, which is about one-third of their employment rate before marriage,
even if they don’t have children.
z Rising Household Income: As household income rises, the financial necessity for women to work diminishes,
which can discourage them from seeking employment.
z Salary/Wage Disparity: Gender-based wage gaps and the undervaluation of women’s work discourage female
participation in the labour force.
 According to a report by DBS Bank India, in collaboration with CRISIL, 23% of salaried women in India
perceive a gender pay gap.
z Educational Barriers: Educational attainment plays a crucial role in influencing female participation in the labour
force.
 Example: According to the 2011 census, only 63 percent of women in the total population are literate,
significantly lower than the male literacy rate of 80 percent.
z Continued Study Preference: Around 33.6% prefer to continue their studies instead of entering the workforce,
which keeps them outside the labour force.
z Limited Avenues In Rural Areas: There are limited opportunities in rural India because of which women don’t
find jobs matching their preference.
 Low skill levels and non-farm jobs have also been found to be limited, leading to the withdrawal of women
from the labour force.
z Crime as a Hindrance: Crime against women is one of the major hindrances to their productive contribution to
the economy.
 The issues are majorly concerned with the commute to work and the resulting cost of traveling that deters
women from joining the labour force.
 Example: A report by National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB) revealed that crimes against women have
been on the rise, with 4,45,256 cases reported in 2022, which means 51 cases every hour

Significance of Increasing Female Labour Force Participation in India

z Economic Growth: A higher Labour Force Participation Rate (LFPR) means more women are contributing to
the workforce, which can lead to increased productivity and overall economic growth.
 For instance, a McKinsey Global Institute report estimates that by offering equal opportunities to women,
India could potentially add US$ 770 billion to its GDP by 2025​.
z Maximizing Demographic Dividend: Encouraging women to participate in productive activities ensures that a
larger segment of the population contributes to the economy.
z Economic Empowerment of Women: Employment offers women financial independence, reducing their dependency
on male family members.
 This enables them to make decisions in their personal, family, and social lives, leading to overall
improvements in well-being.

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z Social Transformation: As women join the labor force, traditional gender norms and societal perceptions gradually
shift, fostering greater gender equality.
z Attainment of SDG Goals: Improving female LFPR directly contributes to achieving key Sustainable Development
Goals (SDGs)- SDG 5, SDG 8 and SDG 10.

Government Initiatives to Improve the Female Labour Force Participation in India

z ‘Palna’ scheme: The Ministry of Women and Child Development runs the ‘Palna’ scheme, or the National
Programme on Anganwadi-cum-Crèche, which provides day-care facilities for children of working parents.
z Namo Drone Didi: It is a central sector scheme aiming to empower women-led Self-Help Groups (SHGs) by
equipping them with drone technology to provide agricultural services
z Skill India Mission: In order to enhance the employability of female workers, the Government is providing
training to them through a network of Women Industrial Training Institutes, National Vocational Training
Institutes and Regional Vocational Training Institutes.

Way Forward
z Challenging Social and Cultural Norms: There is a need to destigmatize unpaid care work, which will help break
down gender stereotypes and redefine caregiving roles.
 Public campaigns, educational programs, and media can promote the active involvement of men in
caregiving, creating a more balanced division of labor.
 This shift will allow women to participate more fully in the formal workforce, improving their labor force
participation.
z Flexible Working Arrangements: Flexible working arrangements, such as remote work and flexible hours, allow
women to balance professional and personal responsibilities, making it easier for them to join and remain
in the workforce.
z Promoting Vocational Training: Enhancing women with skills increases their employability and equips them
to contribute to the economy.
 Example: The Implementation of Pradhan Mantri Gramin Digital Saksharta Abhiyan (PMGDISHA) can
enhance digital literacy in rural areas.
z Formalisation of Jobs: This provides women with job security, equal pay, and legal protections, making
employment more attractive and can help boost female labour force participation.

UNIVERSAL HEALTH COVERAGE

Context: Debates have risen in the context of Universal Health coverage and how it can be made feasible to implement
‘Health for All’ in a developing country like India.
What is Universal Health Coverage?
Greater
As per WHO, Universal Health Coverage (UHC) is the goal equity
of ensuring that everyone has access to quality health Improved
services without financial hardship. UHC is based on the Financial
Protection health
principles of equity, non-discrimination, and the right to outcomes
health.
Universal
UHC includes: Health Efficient,
z Access: Everyone has access to the full range of health Increased Coverage accountable &
services, including health promotion, prevention, jobs transparent health
treatment, rehabilitation, and palliative care. system

z Equity: UHC ensures that the most marginalized

populations are reached and covered. Greater Reduction
productivity poverty
z Financial protection: UHC ensures that health services
do not lead to financial hardship.

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Constitutional Provisions
z Right to Health an integral part of right to life which is fundamental for all human beings under Article 21 of the
Constitution.
z Article 47 of the Directive Principles of the Constitution states that the state is responsible for improving
public health, raising nutrition levels, and improving the standard of living.

Current Status
z India has a mixed health system with both public and private sectors. The public sector provides healthcare
services, but the private sector dominates in terms of service delivery and expenditure.
z Spending: India spends around 2.1% of GDP on healthcare (2023), below the WHO-recommended 5%. A
significant portion of this is out-of-pocket (OOP) expenses.

Health Sector Overview in India

z Health Infrastructure: 1 government doctor per 1,511 people (WHO recommendation: 1:1,000).
z Public vs. Private: Private sector dominates healthcare, catering to nearly 70% of patients.
z Insurance Penetration: Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (PM-JAY) covers over 500 million people but leaves gaps
for informal workers and urban poor.

Healthcare Statistics in India

z Out-of-Pocket Expenditure (OOPE): Accounts for 55-60% of total health spending, pushing ~55 million people
into poverty annually.
z Life Expectancy: 69.6 years (Global average: 73 years).
z Infant Mortality Rate: 27 per 1,000 live births (2022), better than many developing nations but lags behind global
benchmarks.

Troubles Faced in Healthcare Sector

z Access to Healthcare:
 Approximately 70% of healthcare is financed through OOP expenditures, leading to financial hardship for many
families.
z Insurance Coverage:
 Only about 25% of the population is covered by health insurance, with significant disparities between urban
and rural areas.
z Healthcare Workforce:
 Shortage of healthcare professionals, with a doctor-to-population ratio of about 1:1,500, compared to the WHO
recommendation of 1:1,000.

Challenges in Achieving UHC

z Access and Equity: Urban-rural divide and regional disparities.
 70% of healthcare infrastructure is concentrated in urban areas, whereas 65% of India’s population resides
in rural areas.
z Skewed Workforce: Shortages of doctors, nurses, and paramedics in underserved areas.
 2.06 nurses per 1,000 population, short of the WHO recommendation of 3 per 1,000.
z Financial Protection: High OOPE due to low penetration of health insurance.
 Only 41% of the population is covered under any form of health insurance (NFHS-5).
z Quality of Care: Gaps in clinical care quality in public and private sectors.
 Less than 10% of private hospitals in India are accredited by NABH, indicating quality inconsistency.
z Governance Issues: Inefficient use of funds, corruption, and lack of accountability.

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Stakeholders Pros of UHC Cons of UHC
Patients Reduced OOPE, improved access to care, Risk of exclusion errors in schemes like PM-
healthier populations JAY.
Government Economic benefits via healthier workforce, High fiscal burden, implementation
social stability. challenges.
Private Sector Increased insurance uptake, innovation Potential profit loss under capped pricing
opportunities. schemes.

Best Practices
India
z Tamil Nadu: Robust public healthcare system with free medicines and diagnostics.
z Kerala: Achieved near-universal immunization and lowest IMR in India.
z Haryana: Mukhyamantri Mufti Ilaj Yojana ensures free treatment for the poor.
Global
z Thailand: UHC achieved via progressive taxation, high citizen satisfaction.
z Cuba: Universal primary care through community-centric models.
z Rwanda: Community-based insurance, achieving >90% health coverage.
Interlinkage between Poverty and Health in Society
z Health and Poverty: Poor health traps families in
cycles of poverty due to high OOPE. Persistence in
z Health and Society: Poor healthcare access low wages and
increases inequality and social unrest. poor health
z Health and OOPE: Financial hardships due to OOPE
reduce spending on education, food, and housing,
perpetuating poverty. Lower wage/
Adults engaged time poor families
Government Initiatives for supporting UHC in low wage work have less resources
z National Health Policy 2017 with poor heatlh to invest in their
z National Rural Health Mission (NRHM) children
z National Urban Health Mission (NUHM)
z Launched four mission mode projects Career Impacts on
 PM-Ayushman Bharat Health Infrastructure opportunites and educational
Mission (PM-ABHIM) ability to engage in attainment and
 Ayushman Bharat Health & Wellness Centres employment childhoood health
(ABHWCs)
 Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (PMJAY)
 National Digital Health Mission (NDHM)

Way Forward for Healthy India

z Integrated Approach: Combine public health campaigns with education and nutrition initiatives like PM POSHAN.
z Increase in the government’s health expenditure: To make universal healthcare accessible and affordable, the
public health expenditure of the Centre and states together should be increased in a progressive manner to reach
2.5% of GDP by 2025, as per Economic Survey 2022-23.
 WHO-recommended 5% of GDP.
z Focus on Preventive Care: Reduce disease burden through immunization, clean water, and sanitation.
z Global Cooperation: Share best practices, and collaborate on pandemic preparedness.
z Accountability Mechanisms: Use technology for fund tracking and public grievance redressal.
z Strengthen Public Systems: Build rural health infrastructure, hire more workforce.

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z Promote Insurance: Expand PM-JAY coverage, including informal workers.
z Regulate Private Sector: Cap treatment costs and ensure quality standards.
z Digital Health: Leverage telemedicine and health tech for remote areas.
z Rejuvenate UHC as part of India’s commitment towards achieving SDGs by 2030.
 UHC is included in Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) target 3.8.
z Participate in WHO Collaborations like the UHC 2030 Partnership.

Conclusion
z By addressing systemic gaps and drawing from successful models, UHC can transform India’s health landscape
while contributing to social equity and economic growth.
z Strengthening institutional capacity of the Indian Health system and fiscal devolution to the health sector will
make UHC a reality in India. This will help us reap the demographic dividend of the Indian populace.

WOMEN’S SAFETY IN INDIA

Context: The recent rape and murder of a doctor in Kolkata has once again highlighted the brutal atrocities
against women, even in 21st century India.

Reasons Behind Lack Of Women Safety In India

z Economic independence: A lack of
economic independence further cripples
women’s ability to protect themselves from
abuse and harassment.
 Share in Property: Despite legal
frameworks, most women are not
entitled to a share in property, due to
established social norms.
 Disproportionate Representation: Men
are disproportionately represented in
government and corporate positions
of power.
 This makes it an uphill battle and a
missed opportunity to acknowledge
the value that women contribute to
business.
 The female contribution to GDP is 18
per cent, one of the lowest in the
world, reflecting the fact that women
make up only 25 per cent of the
labour force.
z Women’s participation in the labour force:
It is mostly in the informal economy, which
gives them little access to social protection.
 Workplace Violence: In the workplace
too, women face a higher risk of gender
violence.
 POSH Act: Despite the existence of the Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace Act, 2013 (commonly
known as POSH Act).
 As per NCRB, the victim count for workplace sexual harassment against women has increased from 402
in 2018 to 422 in 2022.
 Concerning: This is cause for concern, because it is well-established that women actually under-report
crimes against them due to fear of repercussions, inadequate awareness, and societal biases.

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z Cultural Norms and Misogyny: Misogyny, which refers to the hatred of or prejudice against women, is prevalent
in many societies where women are objectified and devalued.
 For instance, consider ads for products like washing powder, where only women are shown, or how boys
are discouraged from playing with dolls and told to “be a man,” reinforcing the idea that only girls play
with dolls creates a prejudice.
 Cultural norms that promote male superiority, victim-blaming, and the sexualization of women contribute
to a mindset that justifies or normalizes sexual violence against women.
 There are instances where rape victims are trolled for speaking out, with comments like “a clap never
happens with a single hand” or “she might have been wearing short dresses, roaming out alone,” which
blame the victim instead of addressing the crime.
z Weak Legal Systems and Impunity:
 A significant factor in the prevalence of crimes like rape is the weakness of the legal system in dealing with
sexual crimes.
 When perpetrators believe they will not face serious consequences, they are more likely to commit such acts.
 The failure to swiftly prosecute and punish rapists creates a culture of impunity. Therefore, laws must be
designed to create a deterrent effect, instilling fear among potential wrongdoers.
z Patriarchy and Gender Inequality: Crimes like
Rape is deeply rooted in patriarchal structures
where men are often seen as dominant over
women.
 This inequality perpetuates the idea that
women are subordinate and can be controlled
or violated. Men begin to see themselves as
superior.
 The social conditioning of men to assert
dominance over women can lead to violent
expressions of power, such as rape
z Inadequate safety in public places: Inadequacies
in public infrastructure, such as poorly lit streets,
lack of safe transportation options, lack of
CCTVs, increase vulnerability of women to crime.
 For example: Nirbhaya Rape in a public
transportation and Kolkata rape in a public
hospital highlights the lack of public safe
spaces for women.
Challenges in Ensuring the Same Intention and Outcome of the Women Safety Laws
z Liberal Bail Regime: A liberal bail regime cannot be sustained independent of other judicial reform.
 Dowry Death: Of the 3,449 cases of dowry death cases disposed off by the courts in 2022, 64 per cent were
disposed of without a trial and only 35 per cent of the tried cases resulted in a conviction.
 Of the staggering 85,2598 cases of cruelty by husbands pending trial, a mere 7.7 per cent were disposed
of, of which 87 per cent were disposed of without a trial.
z Larger failure is the chasm between intention and outcome:
 Promises made in the aftermath of the horrific gangrape incident in 2012 have largely been reduced to lip
service
 Allocation of Funds: The 100 per cent increase in the budgetary allocation of the Nirbhaya Fund for 2024-
25 could be appreciable.
 Fund Used: But, data shows that between 2013 (when it was set up) and 2022, less than half of the
allocation had been used.
z Half-hearted implementation of Act: It has been found that the implementation of the Sexual Harassment of
Women at Workplace (Prevention, Prohibition, Redressal) Act, notified in 2013, has been half-hearted.
 In May 2023, the Supreme Court called out “authorities/management/employers” for failing to ensure a
“safe and secure workplace” for women.

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z Backlogged and Delayed Justice: India’s judicial system is notoriously backlogged and cases can take years to
go through the courts.
 For many women, this adds to the stigma of reporting a rape or sexual assault, because of the long delay
they face to get any form of justice.
z Police Force: The largely male police force also needs to change - women make up just under 11 per cent, far
behind the UK, where female officers constitute a third of overall law enforcement.
 In 2022: India Justice Report, which surveys the state of law enforcement, said it would take 24 years to reach
the police’s target of 33 per cent female representation.
z Ignoring Verma Committee Recommendation: The Verma Committee, which was formed after the December
2012 gangrape in Delhi, had recommended making command responsibility liable to prosecution, especially
when states ignore their duty to prevent mass scale sexual violence.
 The BNS also ignored the serious recommendations to redress and prevent sexual violence made repeatedly
by autonomous women’s movements.
Government Initiatives
z Mission Shakti: It is another noteworthy endeavour by the government, seeking to enhance women’s safety,
empowerment, and participation in the workforce.
 Mission Shakti has created an enabling environment for women to thrive and actively contribute to society.
 AIM: This mission aims to address gender biases, discrimination, and the care burden on women through
skill development, capacity building, financial literacy, and access to micro-credit.
z One-Stop Centres (OSCs): Integrated services provided under one roof, such as police, medical and legal aid,
counselling, and psycho-social support through One-Stop Centres (OSCs), ensure comprehensive assistance for
women affected by violence.
z A toll-free women’s helpline (181) further offers emergency and non-emergency support.
z Working Women Hostel: The objective of the scheme is to promote availability of safe and conveniently located
accommodation for working women
 With day care facility for their children,wherever possible, in urban, semi urban, or even rural areas where
employment opportunity for women exist.
z Community Policing Models: Initiatives like the Pink Patrol in Jaipur involve women police officers patrolling
public spaces to enhance visibility and address safety concerns
z Investigation Tracking System for Sexual Offenses: MHA has launched it to monitor and track time-bound
investigation in sexual assault cases in accordance with Criminal Law (Amendment) Act 2018.
z Meri Saheli Intiative: Launched by the railway Protection force, this intiative ensures security of lady passengers
that are traveling by train by a dedicated Mahila officers team.
Way Forward
z Reforming Policy And Law:
 Review the complete spectrum of crimes against Women:
 A serious legal response to women’s safety must entail a review of the complete spectrum of crimes
against them in order to truly inculcate society’s intolerance to any form of abuse.
 Graded penal provisions are required depending on the severity of the crime.
 Forcibly disrobing a woman or stubbornly stalking her with the intention of committing sexual assault
cannot be dealt at par with milder versions of “harassment”.
 The victim must not be made to wait for the potent penal sections to kick in till she is raped.
 Fast-Track Mode Trials: There is a crying need to develop a criminal justice system equipped to investigate
and try cases of crimes against women in a fast-track mode.
 Harder Punishment: When court cases drag on for a long time, the only way to make people fear the law is
to keep them in jail for a long period, depending on how serious the crime is.
 No extra judicial compromises must be ensured: Courts need to take strong action against extra judicial
compromises that are forced on victims due to the lengthy legal process or because society accepts such
deals.

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z Education: Gender-transformative approaches can be implemented via childhood education and household-
and community-level interventions.
 Innovative methods: Such as gameplay can be used to involve both men and women in gender equality
initiatives.
z Raising Awareness: Civil societies, SPOs, ASHA workers, SHGs, religious/faith-based institutions, and
government initiatives can also play a vital role in raising awareness about gender-based violence through social
gatherings and networking sites.
 These entities can raise awareness through educational campaigns, community outreach, and media
engagement.
 They operate by organising workshops, leveraging social media, and collaborating to address gender-
based violence and promote a culture of respect and equality.
z Other Methods include changing cultural attitudes, reforming policy and law, increasing support services for
survivors, and conducting more information campaigns, workshops, and training programmes, and designing
intervention programmes based on data.
Conclusion
People power has brought attention to the plight of women in India. But that is no longer enough. For meaningful
change, policymakers need to reform the institutions that can directly improve the lives of half the population.
Women in the world’s largest democracy deserve that.

SCHEDULED CASTES AND SCHEDULED TRIBES (PREVENTION OF ATROCITIES) ACT

Context: Recently, the Standing Committee on Social Justice and Empowerment has raised concerns over the
failure of several States to establish the necessary mechanisms to effectively address cases of atrocities against
Scheduled Castes (SC).
Key Concerns Raised by the Parliamentary Panel
z Lack of Financial Utilisation Despite Central Support: Despite no financial constraints at the central level, many
States fail to utilise available funds or take necessary action to address atrocities against SCs.
 States such as Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, Bihar, and Odisha were specifically mentioned for lagging behind
in fund utilisation and failing to meet implementation targets.

What are Scheduled Castes?

z Scheduled Castes refer to socially disadvantaged groups that faced historical discrimination, especially
untouchability.
z As per Article 341, the President of India may notify certain castes as Scheduled Castes through a public
notification.
What are Scheduled Tribes?
z Scheduled Tribes are indigenous communities that have distinct cultural identities, geographical isolation,
and socio-economic backwardness.
z As per Article 342, the President may notify a community as a Scheduled Tribe after consultation with the
Governor of the state.
z Poor Implementation of Welfare Schemes: Post-Matric Scholarship Scheme for SCs and the National Action Plan
for Mechanised Sanitation Ecosystem (NAMASTE) have faced underutilisation.
 Bottlenecks include:
 Incomplete documentation
 Errors in Aadhaar seeding
 Delays in the release of State contributions
z Gaps in Marginalised Community Programs: The panel also raised concerns over the uneven implementation
of programs for other marginalised groups, including:
 Support for Marginalized Individuals for Livelihood and Enterprise (SMILE) Initiative (for transgender
persons and beggars)
 The Scholarships for Higher Education for Young Achievers Scheme (SHREYAS)for SC students in higher
education)

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z Lack of measurable targets in schemes like:
 Pradhan Mantri Adarsh Gram Yojana
 Venture Capital Fund for SCs and OBCs
z Low awareness among eligible beneficiaries due to poor publicity of welfare programs.

About Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Act, 1989:
z The Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Act, 1989, aims to prevent atrocities against
Scheduled Castes (SCs) and Scheduled Tribes (STs) by individuals who do not belong to these communities.
Key Provisions of the Act:
z Prevention of Atrocities: The Act ensures that SCs and STs are protected from discrimination, violence, and
exploitation.
z Punishment for Offenders: Those committing atrocities against SCs and STs face strict legal consequences.
z Implementation:
 The Act is enforced by State Governments and Union Territories.
 The Central Government provides financial assistance under a Centrally Sponsored Scheme for its implementation.
z Power to Frame Rules: The Central Government can make rules to ensure the effective application of this Act.
z Anticipatory Bail: Under the Act, provision for anticipatory bail is not available to the offenders.
z Applicable Only to Non-SCs/STs: The Act does not cover crimes between SCs and STs or among individuals
within these communities.
z Investigation Process:
 All offenses under this Act are cognizable (police can arrest without prior approval).
 Investigation Officer: Only an officer of or above the rank of Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP) can
investigate cases under this Act.
 Timeline for Investigation: The probe must be completed within 30 days, and the report should be submitted
to the State Police Director.
Recent Amendments:
z Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Amendment Act, 2015:
 This amendment expanded the definition of offences, including acts like forcing manual scavenging, social
ostracism, sexual exploitation, and dedicating SC/ST women as devadasis.
 Public servants who fail to perform duties concerning SCs and STs can also face imprisonment.
z Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Amendment Act, 2018: This removed the
requirement for approval from a Senior Superintendent of Police before arresting an accused, allowing immediate
arrests without prior clearance.
Way Forward
z Stronger oversight: The central government
should impose stricter conditions on non-
performing States.
 The World Bank’s Program-for-
Results (PforR) financing model links
disbursement directly to achieve results.
India could adopt a similar model for CSS.
z Timely fund proposals: States must submit
accurate and timely proposals to unlock central
funding.
 The PFMS (Public Financial Management
System) has already improved fund
tracking. Expanding its scope to include
proposal submissions could streamline
the process.

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z Enhancing cooperative federalism: States should actively contribute their share for smooth execution of centrally
sponsored schemes.
z Improving Support for Sanitation Workers: The panel urged enhanced support for sanitation workers under the
NAMASTE programme, including:
 Better training
 Increased health insurance coverage
z Expanding the Reach of Welfare Schemes: Expand the reach of government schemes while addressing procedural
delays, such as those affecting free coaching and fellowship programs.
 The Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) system has already reduced leakages in schemes like PM-KISAN.
z Enhancing Awareness Through Outreach Programs: Report suggested scaling up Information, Education, and
Communication (IEC) campaigns to improve outreach.
 The Beti Bachao Beti Padhao campaign successfully used social media to raise awareness about gender
equality. A similar approach could be adopted for other schemes.

TRANSFORMING HEALTHCARE THROUGH DIGITALIZATION

Context: Recently, the World Economic Forum highlights India’s potential in building a resilient global digital health
ecosystem.

More on News
z The report emphasizes the role of public-private partnerships, the importance of interoperability, and the need
for robust data governance frameworks.
z It underscores how India’s initiatives, such as the Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission (ABDM) and the Digital
Health Incentive Scheme (DHIS), can set a global benchmark for digital healthcare transformation.

About Digital Health

z Digital health is the use of digital
technologies to improve health.
z It includes a wide range of technologies
and applications, such as:
 Electronic health
 Mobile health (mHealth)
 Telehealth
 Health information technology
(IT)
 Wearable medical devices
 Software as a medical device
(SaMD)
 Personalized medicine

Key Policies Shaping Digital

Healthcare
z National Health Policy (NHP) 2017: NHP 2017 emphasizes the use of digital technology to enhance healthcare
delivery.
z Health Data Management Policy (HDM Policy): It was released in Dec 2020 by the Ministry of Health and Family
Welfare, outlines data privacy, security, and governance standards for digital health records.
z National Digital Health Mission (NDHM): The mission was launched by the central government in 2020 to improve
healthcare in India by creating a digital health ecosystem.
z Pradhan Mantri Ayushman Bharat Health Infrastructure Mission (PM-ABHIM): It is a Centrally Sponsored
Scheme (CSS) that aims to improve health infrastructure and systems across the country which focuses on the
primary, secondary and tertiary care services.

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Significance of Digital Healthcare Transformation in India
z Enhanced Accessibility: Platforms like e-Sanjeevani have conducted over 30 crore consultations, bringing
healthcare services to remote and underserved areas​.
 Telemedicine services have reduced the need for physical visits.
z Scalable Solutions for Vaccination: The CoWIN platform facilitated the administration of over 2 billion vaccine
doses and was adopted by several countries​.
 It highlights how digital platforms can manage large-scale health initiatives effectively.
z Improved Health Data Management: The Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission (ABDM) integrates health records
through a Unified Health Interface (UHI), enabling secure data sharing​​.
z Global Leadership and Replicability: India’s CoWIN and ABDM platforms are now global templates, adopted by
other nations for vaccination and health record management​​.

Challenges in Digital Healthcare Transformation in India

z Digital Divide: Despite advances, rural areas often lack reliable internet and digital literacy, limiting access to digital
health services.
z Fragmented Healthcare Ecosystem: Health data exists in silos, making interoperability a challenge​.
 Limited integration between private and public healthcare providers slows the transition to a unified digital
health ecosystem.
z Privacy and Data Security Concerns: Only 20% of healthcare providers are fully compliant with Health Data
Management Policy standards​.
z Low Insurance Penetration: Non-life insurance penetration in India is just 1%, compared to the global average
of 7%​.
 Many citizens cannot afford digital healthcare services due to limited financial coverage.
z Lack of Standardization: Absence of uniform health record formats complicates interoperability and exchange​​.
 Private hospital chains like Apollo and Max use advanced systems, but data is not portable across providers.
z Resistance to Change: Many healthcare providers still rely on manual processes, finding digital systems burdensome​.
 Training programs and financial incentives are needed to encourage adoption among healthcare workers.

Way Forward for Digital Healthcare Transformation in India

z Bridge the Digital Divide: Focus on expanding high-speed internet connectivity through initiatives like BharatNet,
especially in remote and rural areas.
z Strengthen Data Privacy and Security: Implement robust frameworks under the Health Data Management Policy,
ensuring patient consent and secure data sharing.
z Promote Interoperability and Standardization: Develop uniform standards for health data exchange, ensuring
seamless integration across public and private healthcare providers.
 Enforce the adoption of standards like SNOMED and LOINC to enhance data consistency and usability.
z Encourage Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs): Foster collaboration between government bodies, private
hospitals, and health-tech companies to scale innovative solutions.
 Use successful models like e-Sanjeevani and ABDM as templates for new initiatives.
z Enhance Capacity Building and Training: Provide healthcare workers with training on digital platforms and tools,
reducing resistance to technology adoption.
 Offer financial incentives to hospitals and professionals for transitioning to digital systems under schemes like
DHIS.
z Implementing AI in healthcare: Integrate AI and machine learning for predictive diagnostics, personalized
treatments, and efficient resource allocation.

Conclusion
India’s digital healthcare transformation holds immense potential to enhance healthcare accessibility and efficiency.
With continued policy support, infrastructure development, and public-private collaborations, the country is poised
to emerge as a global leader in digital health.

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STUDENT SUICIDES IN INDIA
Context: The Supreme Court has established a task force to address student mental health concerns and prevent
suicides in higher educational institutions.
More on News
z The Court noted that student suicides have surpassed
instances of farmers’ suicides due to agrarian distress.
z The Supreme Court made these remarks in an order challenging
a Delhi High Court ruling.
z The Delhi HC had earlier dismissed pleas by the parents of
two Scheduled Caste IIT Delhi students who reportedly died
by suicide.
About the Task Force
z The 10-member Task Force is headed by the former Supreme
Court judge Justice S Ravindra Bhat.
Objectives and Duties of the Task Force
z Investigate Causes: The task force is responsible for identifying predominant factors leading to student suicides,
including ragging, caste and gender-based discrimination, sexual harassment, and mental health stigma.
z Evaluate Frameworks: They will assess current laws and policies to determine their effectiveness in preventing
student suicides and recommend necessary enhancements.
z Provide Recommendations: The task force will propose measures to bridge gaps in support systems, fostering
inclusive academic environments and ensuring equal opportunities for marginalized.
Causes of Student Suicide in India
z Academic Pressure: Intense
competition and high
expectations from parents
and institutions often lead to
mental health issues.
z Mental Health Issues: Lack
of awareness and stigma
surrounding mental health can
lead to untreated depression,
anxiety, and other disorders.
 One in seven young
people (ages 15-24) in
India experiences poor
mental health, including
symptoms of depression
and disinterest.
z Family Issues: Dysfunctional family dynamics, including domestic violence or financial instability, can contribute
to stress for students.
 Family pressure to perform can result in students feeling trapped.
z Social Isolation: Bullying or peer pressure can lead to feelings of loneliness and isolation among students.
z Lack of Counseling Services: Insufficient access to mental health resources in schools can leave students without
necessary support.
 India has only 0.75 psychiatrists per 100,000 people, far below the desired ratio of 3:100,000 .
z Economic Factors: Financial burden of education and expectations to support family can lead to despair.
z Substance Abuse: Involvement with drugs or alcohol can exacerbate mental health problems and lead to impulsive
actions.

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Way Forward to Curb Student Suicides
z Strengthening Anti-Ragging Laws: Despite existing bans, incidents continue. The government must enforce stricter
regulations and compliance.
z Expanding Mental Health Initiatives: Increased funding for mental health programs in educational institutions,
including dedicated helplines, is crucial.
z Open Communication With Children: Parents should encourage discussions about academic pressure and mental
health, avoiding excessive pressure on career choices.
z Enhance Counseling Services: Institutions should ensure accessible counseling and establish peer support
programs.
z Implement Stress Management Programs: Integrate programs into the curriculum focusing on mindfulness and
coping strategies.
 The “Mindfulness in Schools” program implemented in several schools in England shows that students who
participated in mindfulness training demonstrated better focus, emotional regulation, and reductions in anxiety.

Government Initiatives to Support Student Mental Health:

z Guidelines on Self-Harm: The Ministry of Education has proposed guidelines to foster understanding and
support among schools, families, and communities.
 UMMEED (Understand, Motivate, Manage, Empathise, Empower, Develop) guidelines aim to serve as
“directions to schools for enhancing sensitivity, understanding, and providing support in case of reported
self-harm”.
z Manodarpan Initiative: The Union Education Ministry launched Manodarpan, aimed at providing psychological
support to students.
 This program includes a national toll-free helpline and dedicated website resources to assist students facing
mental health challenges.
z National Suicide Prevention Strategy (NSPS): Launched by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare
(MoHFW) in November 2022.
 It is the country’s first comprehensive policy to address suicide prevention and aims to reduce suicide
mortality by 10% by 2030.
z National Mental Health Policy: The National Mental Health Policy aims to improve mental health infrastructure
and raise awareness within educational institutions.
 This policy focuses on promoting mental well-being and ensuring that adequate resources are available to
support students.
z Tele Mental Health Programme (Tele-MANAS): Launched in October 2022, Tele-MANAS is a 24/7 free tele-
mental health service.
 It is aimed at providing accessible counseling and care across India, particularly in remote and underserved
areas.
z Rajasthan Government Actions: The Rajasthan government has taken significant steps to enhance mental health
support:
 Issued mental health guidelines in 2022 and 2023, which are enforced by district administrations to ensure
implementation.

Conclusion
The rising incidence of student suicides in India is a pressing issue that necessitates collaborative actions from
governments, parents, and educational institutions. By fostering a supportive environment and addressing the
root causes of distress, it’s possible to combat this crisis and promote mental well-being among students.

CHALLENGE OF RISING INCOME INEQUALITY

Context: Recently, the ILO’s World Employment and Social Outlook study (September 2024) links the global
decline in worker’s income share to technological changes, especially automation and artificial intelligence (AI).

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Crucial Insights on the ILO Study
z Over the past two decades (2004-24), global labour
income share has dropped by 1.6%.
z Nearly 40% of this decline was in the pandemic
years of 2019-22.
z The study highlights that, In 2024, 28.2% of young
women worldwide are not in employment, education
or training, double that of young men (13.1%).
z This gender disparity presents significant challenges
for developing nations with large working age
population, such as India, where 83% of its
unemployed are youth.
About Income Inequality
Income inequality refers to the unequal distribution of
income among individuals or groups within a society.
It indicates the extent to which income is distributed
unevenly in a population. Income inequality can
manifest between different socioeconomic groups,
regions, genders, or even ethnic groups.
z Measuring Income Inequality:
 Gini Coefficient: A common measure of income
inequality that ranges from 0 (perfect equality)
to 1 (maximum inequality).
 Lorenz Curve: Graphically represents income
distribution, showing the proportion of total income earned by cumulative percentages of the population.
Major Reasons Leading To Income Inequality In India
Gini Coefficient:
z Gini Coefficient is one of the most widely used measures of income inequality.
z The Gini Coefficient score lies between 0 and 1, where complete equality would result in a Gini Coefficient of
zero and complete inequality would result in 1.
z Education and Skills: Individuals with higher education or specialized skills tend to earn more than those with
less education or fewer skills.
 The All India Survey of Higher Education (AISHE) showed in 2021-22, the overall gross enrolment ratio (GER)
in higher education for the age group 18-23 years was 28.4%, but this varied significantly by socioeconomic
status.
 Disparity in Access to Engineering Education: 70% seats are in higher-income states.
z Technological Change: While technology can create new job opportunities and increase productivity, it also leads
to job displacement and widens the skills gap.
 High-skilled workers often benefit from technological advancements, commanding higher wages and enjoying
job security, while low-skilled workers face job losses or wage stagnation.
z Globalization: Globalization, by way of integrating economies, culture, technology, and governance, significantly
affects income inequality.
 Global economic integration may favor skilled workers and capital owners, increasing inequality.
z Government Policies: Taxation and social welfare policies can either reduce or exacerbate income inequality.
 India’s Union government barely captures under 8% of the workforce in income tax; it does not have an
inheritance tax and has abolished its wealth tax.
z Historical Factors: The British and industrialists developed only those regions that possessed rich potential for
prosperous manufacturing and trading activities. For example, Kolkata, Mumbai and Chennai.

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z Labor Market Structures: Decline of labor unions, minimum wage laws, and bargaining power affect wage
distribution.
 Labour Force Disparity: In northern and central states, the labour force participation rate and the percentage
of workers with regular wage are below the national average.
 Unemployment in India stood at 8.1% in February 2022, as per Centre for Monitoring Indian Economy
(CMIE) data.

Consequences of Excessive Income Inequality

z Economic Growth: Income inequality can stifle growth by reducing the purchasing power of the lower-income
population, thereby curbing demand for goods and services.
z Social Mobility: It restricts opportunities for upward mobility, limiting access to resources that help individuals
from lower-income backgrounds advance.
z Health Disparities: Inequality is linked to worse health outcomes across populations, with more unequal societies
often seeing higher rates of illness and lower life expectancy.
z Education Disparities: Inequality affects access to education, with wealthier individuals having better access to
high-quality schooling, perpetuating skill gaps.
z Social Cohesion: Large income gaps can lead to social tension and unrest, eroding trust in institutions and fostering
a sense of injustice.
z Political Influence: The wealthy can have disproportionate political influence, leading to policies that may favor
their interests over the broader population.

Measures to Address the Issue of Income Inequality in India

z Progressive Taxation: Implement tax policies that redistribute wealth from affluent individuals to marginalized
communities.
z Education and Skill Development: Ensure access to quality education for all, focusing on equal opportunities
for marginalized communities.
z Fair Labor Laws: Enforce labor rights, including safe working conditions and minimum wage regulations.
 Eliminate child labor and ensure protection against worker exploitation.
 Strengthen collective bargaining rights to ensure workers benefit from economic growth.
z Investment in Infrastructure: Reduce regional disparities by investing in sustainable infrastructure development.
z Contribution of the Super Rich: Encourage billionaires and the wealthy to donate their wealth for public welfare.
 For example, support initiatives like the ‘Giving Pledge’ launched by Bill Gates and Warren Buffet.
z Introducing Special Inheritance Tax: It applies only to the super rich and large asset transfers. This tax has
been proposed by several people in the past in India. However, in India, there is currently no tax on inheritance.
 In many advanced countries there is a special inheritance tax (Japan 55%, South Korea 50%, France 45%,
and the United States 40%) before transferring wealth to the next generation.
z Following Gandhian Model of Development: The Gandhian model of development with a focus on decentralisation,
local needs, local talent, local resources, local production make sense in a hyper-connected world.

Conclusion
There is a need for locating the resources needed to lift millions more out of poverty and joblessness, and to do
this in ways that encourage value addition through production and efficiency, quality and consumption as well
as inclusion, sustainability, dignity and justice.

GENDER EQUALITY AND EMPOWERMENT

Context: The report titled “Charting New Paths for Gender Equality and Empowerment: Asia-Pacific Regional
Report on Beijing+30 Review” was launched by ESCAP and UN Women at the UN Ministerial Conference on Women’s
Empowerment, held in Bangkok, Thailand.
z It analyses the progress made and the challenges faced in implementing the Beijing Declaration and Platform
for Action (BPfA).

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About the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action (BPfA)
z Adoption of BPfA: The Beijing Declaration and Platform
for Action was adopted unanimously by 189 countries
at the 1995 Fourth World Conference on Women in
Beijing,China.
 It is a landmark global framework and key policy
document for advancing gender equality and
women’s empowerment.
z Review Mechanism: Reviews of the BPfA have been
conducted regionally and globally every five years
since 1995 to facilitate the tracking of its implementation.
 The 30 year review and appraisal of the Beijing
Platform for Action will take place during the
69th session of the Commission on the Status of
Women to be held in March 2025.
z Asia-Pacific Regional Review: The United Nations
Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the
Pacific (ESCAP) leads the regional review of BPfA
implementation in collaboration with UN-Women and in consultation with key stakeholders.
 The ESCAP is one of the five regional commissions under the jurisdiction of the United Nations Economic
and Social Council (one of the six principal organs of the United Nations).

About Asia-Pacific Regional Report on Beijing +30 Review

z The Asia-Pacific Regional Report on Beijing +30 assesses the progress made in gender equality and women’s
empowerment since the adoption of the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action in 1995.
 As part of the 30 year review process of BPfA, the report reflects on achievements, persistent challenges, and
emerging priorities across the region.

Key Highlights of the Asia-Pacific Regional Report on Beijing +30 Review

z Gender-Responsive Budgeting in Asia-Pacific: The adoption of Gender Responsive Budgeting (GRB) by Asia-
Pacific countries like India and Philippines demonstrates their strong commitment to ensuring the efficient
allocation of resources based on the identified needs of women and girls.
z India’s Achievements in Gender Budgeting:
 218% Increase in Gender Budgeting: India has experienced a 218% decadal increase in gender budgeting.
 Current Financial Year Allocation: In the current financial year, India has allocated $37 million for gender
budgeting.
 Women’s Leadership in Governance: India showcased its model of “women-led” development at the Asia
Pacific Ministerial Conference, particularly through women’s leadership in Panchayati Raj Institutions (PRIs)
and Urban Local Bodies (ULBs), driven by 33% reservation
 Empowerment through Self-Help Groups (SHGs): Women’s collectives and SHGs have played a significant role
in the financial empowerment of women, demonstrating India’s commitment to gender equality.
z India has worked on gender-responsive solutions to reduce “time poverty” of women such as clean cooking fuels,
tap water connections and construction of toilets.
 Time Poverty refers to the lack of sufficient time to meet essential needs and engage in activities that
improve well-being, often due to excessive work or caregiving responsibilities.
z Challenges: Despite progress, India faces challenges in implementing GRB due to the lack of sex-disaggregated
data and the exclusion of key programmes that benefit women.

Factors Affecting Gender Equality in India

z Entrenched Social Norms: Patriarchal mindsets, prevalence of the child marriage, son preference etc leads to
restricted mobility, education, and opportunities, contributing to skewed sex ratios in states like Haryana and
Punjab.

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z Unpaid Care Work: Women spend nearly five times more time on unpaid domestic work than men (UN Women),
limiting their access to education and paid employment.
z Gender Pay Gap: Significant pay disparities exist, with India achieving only 36.7% parity in economic participation
(Global Gender Gap Index 2023).
z Property Ownership: National Family Health Survey-5 (NFHS-5) indicates that more men as compared to women
own property.
 Overall, 42.3% of women and 62.5% of men own a house.
 31.7% of women and 43.9% of men own land either alone or jointly with someone else.
z Violence Against Women: According to the latest report by The National Family Health Survey (NFHS):
 29.3% married Indian women between the ages of 18-49 years have faced domestic violence/or sexual
violence.
 3.1% of pregnant women between the ages of 18-49 have experienced physical violence during any pregnancy.
z Education Gaps: According to the 2011 census, only 63 percent of women in the total population are literate,
significantly lower than the male literacy rate of 80 percent.
 In the Global Gender Gap Report released by the World Economic Forum (WEF) for 2024, India has been
ranked 129th out of 146 economies.
 There is a 17 percent literacy rate gap between males and females
z Political Underrepresentation: As on April 2024, India ranks 143 in the list of countries in the ‘Monthly ranking
of women in national parliaments’ published by the Inter-Parliamentary Union, a global organisation for national
parliaments.
 India’s Lok Sabha, 2024: Includes 74 women MPs, comprising only 13.63% of the Lower House, far below
the 33% reservation target set for implementation after the next delimitation exercise.
Measures taken to Improve Gender Equality In India
z Legal Reforms:
 Nari Shakti Vandana Adhiniyam 2023: Provides 33%
reservation for women in the Lok Sabha and State
Assemblies (pending implementation).
 Hindu Succession (Amendment) Act, 2005: Provision
of Equal property inheritance rights under it.
z Women-Centric Schemes:
 Beti Bachao Beti Padhao: Aims to improve child sex
ratios and promote girls’ education.
 Pradhan Mantri Matru Vandana Yojana: Offers
financial incentives for maternity care.
 Sukanya Samriddhi Yojana: Encourages savings for girl
children’s education and marriage.
z Economic Empowerment: Increased participation
in Self-Help Groups (SHGs) under the National Rural
Livelihoods Mission (NRLM).
 Focus on skilling women through programs like Skill
India and the Mahila E-Haat platform.
z Addressing Gender-Based Violence: Enactment of laws
like The Protection of Women from Domestic Violence
Act, 2005 and The Sexual Harassment of Women at
Workplace Act, 2013.
z Health and Nutrition: Janani Suraksha Yojana and
POSHAN Abhiyaan: Ensure maternal and child health and combat malnutrition.
z Education: Free or subsidised education for girls under schemes like Kasturba Gandhi Balika Vidyalaya.
z Awareness and Advocacy: Initiatives like Mahila Shakti Kendras promote awareness of gender equality and
empower women at the grassroots level.

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Way Forward
z Policy and Legal Reforms: Strengthen gender-sensitive laws and their enforcement.
 Expedite the implementation of 33% reservation for women in Parliament and State Assemblies.
z Investment in Social Infrastructure: Increase funding for health, education, and social protection systems.
z Data and Accountability: Enhance gender-disaggregated data collection to monitor progress effectively.
z Transforming Social Attitudes: Encourage male participation in domestic responsibilities to reduce the burden
of unpaid care work.
z Digital Empowerment: Addressing the gender digital divide by ensuring equitable access to technology and
digital literacy programs.
z Promote gender-sensitive education: by incorporating gender equality into curricula, training teachers to
address biases, and creating safe, inclusive learning spaces to empower all students equally.

Conclusion
Achieving gender equality requires sustained efforts across legal, social, and economic fronts to create an inclusive
society where everyone can realise their full potential.

COMMITMENT TO REDUCING INEQUALITY (CRI) INDEX 2024 RELEASED

Context: CRI has been released by Oxfam and Development Finance International.

More on News
z Assessment of 164 Countries: Report evaluates global efforts in reducing inequality.
z Three Pillars of Assessment:
 Education, health, and social protection
 Progressive taxation
 Labour rights and wages

Key Findings from Oxfam and DFI Report (2024)

z Top Performers
 High-Income Countries: Top countries include Norway, Canada, Australia, Germany, and Finland.
 These countries have lower wage inequality, high social spending, and higher tax revenue.
z Worst Performers
 Low- and Lower-Middle Income Countries: Countries like South Sudan, Nigeria, Zimbabwe, Haiti, and Vanuatu
rank the lowest.

Oxfam
z It is a Non-Governmental Organisation (NGO).
z Founded: 1942
z Known for: Recognised for research and reports on inequality, economic injustice, and human rights issues.
Development Finance International
z It is an international advisory organisation.
 It works to support the development of finance strategies particularly for low - middle income countries.
z Founded: 2002
Low tax revenues result in poor service coverage and high inequality. Regressive tax systems (VAT) place the most
burden on the poorest.
 80% of people in these countries are in vulnerable jobs without labor rights.
z India’s Rank: 127
 Other South Asian countries such as Nepal (115) and Sri Lanka (118) have performed better than India.

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GLOBAL MULTIDIMENSIONAL POVERTY INDEX 2024
Context: Recently, the Global Multidimensional Poverty Index 2024 has been released.
About Global Multidimensional Poverty Index
z It is an international resource that measures
acute multidimensional poverty across
over 100 developing countries. Nutrition
z Launch Year: 2010 Health
z Published by: The Oxford Poverty and Child mortality
Human Development Initiative (OPHI)
and the Human Development Report
Office of the UNDP. Three Years of schooling
z Criteria for MPI : Global MPI covers three Dimensions of Eduction
areas: health, education and standard of Poverty School attendance
living.
 Health: Nutrition and Child & Adolescent Cooking fuel
Mortality indicators. sanitation
 Education: Years of Schooling and Living Drinking water
School Attendance indicators Standards Electricity
Housing
 Standard of Living: housing, household Assets
assets, type of Cooking Fuel, access
to Sanitation, Drinking water and
Electricity
Global Multidimensional Poverty Index 2024 – Key Insights
z Acute Poverty: Over 1.1 billion people are living in acute poverty globally.
z Countries with Highest Poverty:
 India: 234 million people
 Pakistan: 93 million people
 Ethiopia: 86 million people
 Nigeria: 74 million people
 Democratic Republic of the Congo: 66 million people
 These five countries account for 48.1% of the global poor.
z Child Poverty
 Under 18: Approximately 584 million children are living in extreme poverty, making up 27.9% of all children
globally.
 Adults: 13.5% of adults are living in extreme poverty.
z Regional Distribution
 Sub-Saharan Africa and South Asia: 83.2% of the world’s poorest individuals reside in these regions.
 Low-Income Countries: Home to 34.8% of all poor people (400 million).
 Middle-Income Countries: Home to 65.2% of all poor people (749 million).
z Poverty in conflicted regions: The report noted that 2023 witnessed more conflicts than at any time since World
War II causing displacement of over 117 million people.
 Nearly 40% of the 1.1 billion people live in poverty, approximately 455 million, are situated in countries
experiencing conflict.
NITI Aayog MPI
z The national MPI by NITI Aayog is based on the internationally recognized Alkire Foster methodology.
z Number of indicators: NMPI uses 12 indicators, while global MPI uses 10 indicators. Two new indicators other
than 10 MPI indicators are Maternal Health and Bank Account.

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GLOBAL HUNGER INDEX 2024
Context: India’s ranking in the 2024 Global Hunger Index (GHI), at 105th out of 127 countries, reflects significant
challenges in addressing hunger and malnutrition.

Key Findings of the 2024 Report

Indicator India’s GHI 2024
Overall Score 27.3
Undernourished 13.7%
Stunted 35.5%
Wasted 18.7%
Under-Five Mortality Rate 2.9%
z India’s Rank: India ranks 105th out of 127 countries, placing it in the “serious” category for hunger levels.
z South Asia Comparison: India is ranked alongside Pakistan and Afghanistan in the “serious” category, while
Bangladesh, Nepal, and Sri Lanka are in the “moderate” category.
z Global Hunger: 733 million people face hunger globally, with 2.8 billion unable to afford a healthy diet.

About Global Hunger Index

z First published in 2006 by the International Food Policy Research Institute (IFPRI), along with Welthungerhilfe
(Germany) and later joined by Concern Worldwide (Ireland) in 2007.
z The GHI is published annually and is designed to measure and track hunger across the globe, reflecting multiple
dimensions of hunger through time.
z The score is calculated on a 100-point scale:
 0 represents the best possible score (no hunger),
 100 is the worst.

GHI Indicators
z Undernourishment: Share of the population with insufficient caloric intake.
z Child Stunting: Share of children under five with low height for their age (chronic undernutrition).
z Child Wasting: Share of children under five with low weight for their height (acute undernutrition).
z Child Mortality: Share of children who die before reaching the age of five, often due to malnutrition and poor
health environments.

WORLD HAPPINESS REPORT 2025

India Ranks 118th in World Happiness Report 2025.

Key Findings
z Top 3 Happiest Countries: Finland (1), Denmark (2), Iceland (3).
z Bottom 3 Countries: Lebanon (145), Sierra Leone (146), Afghanistan (147 – Unhappiest for four years).

India’s Ranking
z Rank: 118th out of 147 (Improved from 126th in 2024).
z Comparison: Below Pakistan (109th) and Nepal (92nd), despite strong economic growth.

About World Happiness Index

z Released By: Wellbeing Research Centre (Oxford), Gallup, UN Sustainable Development Solutions Network.
z Started in: 2012.
z Criteria for Ranking (6): GDP per capita, social support, life expectancy, Freedom to make life choices, generosity,
and Perception of corruption.

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z Bhutan’s resolution was adopted by the UN General Assembly on July 19, 2011 and the first World Happiness Report
was brought out in 2012.
z After the UN General Assembly adopted and declared March 20 as the International Day of Happiness, the World
Happiness Report is released around that day each year.

NATIONAL COMMISSION FOR SAFAI KARAMCHARIS

The Union Cabinet has given approval for the extension of the tenure of the National Commission for Safai Karamcharis
(NCSK) until March 31, 2028.
About the National Commission for Safai Karamcharis (NCSK)
z The NCSK was established as a statutory body in 1994 under the provisions of the National Commission for
Safai Karamcharis Act, 1993 for a tenure of three years.
z The Act governing the Commission was extended multiple times until the year 2004.
z After the expiry of the Act in 2004, the Commission continued to function as a non-statutory body under the
Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment
z Composition
 Chairperson: Union Minister of State rank
 Vice-Chairperson: Any person with a Secretary rank
 Five members :Secretary rank members including a Women member.
 Secretary: Person of Joint Secretary rank.

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11 Ethics

MEDICAL ETHICS IN INDIA

In India, the primary guardrails that are supposed to be a check on the abuse of medical ethics do not function.

Overview of Code of Medical Ethics

According to the Indian Medical Council (Professional Conduct, Etiquette and Ethics) Regulations, 2002 below
given are major duties and responsibilities of the Doctors in general:

Duty Description
1. Maintaining good medical practice Physicians must respect human dignity, continually improve skills,
share knowledge, follow scientific methods, engage in medical
societies, and participate in continuing education programs.
2. Use of Generic names of drugs Physicians should prescribe drugs using generic names and ensure
their use is rational.
3. H
 ighest Quality Assurance in patient Physicians should prevent unqualified individuals from joining the
care: profession and ensure only registered attendants assist in their
practice where professional skill is required.
4. Exposure of Unethical Conduct A Physician should expose, without fear or favour, incompetent or
corrupt, dishonest or unethical conduct on the part of members of
the profession.
5. Evasion of Legal Restrictions Physicians must follow medical laws, assist in enforcing sanitary
regulations, and comply with various health-related acts and
regulations for public health protection.

Need for Medical Ethics

z Ensures Beneficence and Non-Maleficence: Medical ethics ensures that these core principles guide medical
practice, promoting patient well-being and preventing harm.
z Respect for Patient Autonomy: Medical ethics provides guidelines for informed consent, ensuring patients are
fully aware of their treatment options and the potential risks and benefits.
z Ensures Justice: Medical ethics helps address disparities in healthcare access and treatment, promoting equity
and fairness in medical practice.
z Upholding Professional Integrity: Medical ethics maintains high standards of conduct, protecting the integrity
of the profession and fostering public trust.
z Foster High Standard of Moral Character: Medical ethics instills values that uphold the moral character of
physicians, guiding them to act with integrity and responsibility.

Ethical Issues Involved in the Medical Field

z Violations of Ethics Guidelines: The development of potential therapeutic agents is often complicated by subjective
and sometimes objective violations of ethical guidelines.
 For example, the letter written to the Prime Minister further alleged gross violations of ethics guidelines.
z Violation of Informed Consent: The bigger issue in our country is the historic and repeated violation of informed
consent when patients are enrolled in clinical studies.
 For example, more than anecdotal evidence exists that poor and uneducated people are enrolled in such
studies without fully informing them of potential harm from the therapeutic candidate being evaluated in a
clinical study.
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z Lack of Ethics Committees Functioning: The job of ensuring atrocities do not occur falls on an institutional ethics
committee. While such committees exist on paper and in our regulations, their function and effectiveness are
at best patchy.
 For example, a publication (2022) by Gayatri Saberwal et al. evaluated 1,359 Phase II or III interventional
studies registered in the Clinical Trials Registry–India (CTRI) identified as many as 30 problems with the
way in which our ethics committees function.
 These include clinical trials without any ethics committees, and trials with more sites than functional
ethics committees.

Conclusion
Swami Vivekananda’s quote “Service to Man is Service to God” can serve as a guiding light in medical ethics
highlighting the duty of compassionate, selfless care, emphasizing respect for human dignity and moral
responsibility in healthcare.

BUDDHISM CAN TEACH HOW TO COUNTER SECTARIANISM: PRESIDENT

Context: Recently, The President of India inaugurated the first Asian Buddhist Summit organised by the Union
Culture Ministry and the International Buddhist Confederation in New Delhi.

About First Asian Buddhist Summit 2024

z A significant international event aimed at fostering dialogue, promoting understanding, and addressing contemporary
challenges within the Buddhist community across Asia.
z Theme: “Role of Buddha Dhamma in Strengthening Asia” – emphasises collective, inclusive, and spiritual
development across the continent.

Key Highlights from the President’s speech

z Unity in Diversity: The President emphasized
the unity among the diverse attendees at the
summit, who come from different countries,
speak different languages, and wear robes of
various colors, but all are united in their striving
for the Dhamma.
z The Legacy of Buddha’s Teachings: The
President praised the Buddha’s enlightenment
as an unparalleled event in history, emphasizing
the Buddha’s message of peace, non-violence, and
compassion, which continues to inspire billions of
people around the world.
z India’s Commitment to Preservation: The
President highlighted India’s ongoing efforts to
preserve Buddhist heritage, such as the recent
recognition of Pali and Prakrit as classical
languages, ensuring financial support for their
preservation and revitalization.

Why Sectarianism, Communalism is

Challenge to Society
z Threat to National Unity: Sectarianism and
communalism divide the nation, weakening
social integration and fostering fragmentation.
 The ethnic clashes between Meitei and Kuki
communities in Manipur have led to widespread violence, displacement, and loss of life in 2023.

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z Social Disharmony: They fuel hatred, mistrust, and violence, disrupting societal peace.
 The 2002 Gujarat riots deepened communal rifts, fostering long-term mistrust between Hindus and Muslims.
z Political Manipulation: Politicians often exploit communal divides for electoral gain, deepening societal rifts.
z Economic Disruption: Communal violence disrupts trade and investment, hindering economic growth.
 According to the Institute for Economics and Peace (IEP) Global Peace Index 2023, the economic impact
of violence in India was estimated to be $1.2 trillion in 2022, which is approximately 6% of India’s GDP.
z Human Rights Violations: These issues marginalised minority groups, denying them equal rights and
opportunities.
 The persecution of the Rohingya Muslims in Myanmar involved violence and the denial of basic human rights.
z Undermines Secularism: Communalism challenges secularism by promoting religious intolerance and
discrimination.

Buddhist Dhamma and Relevance in the Contemporary World

z Climate Change and Environmental Ethics: The concept of Dhamma promotes living in harmony with nature.
 The principle of Ahimsa (non-violence) extends to environmental stewardship, advocating respect for all forms
of life.
 Countries like Bhutan have integrated
Buddhist principles into national policy,
resulting in their commitment to being
carbon-negative and prioritizing Gross
National Happiness over economic
growth.
z Peace and Conflict Resolution: The
teachings of non-violence and karuna
(compassion) emphasise peaceful dialogue
and understanding to resolve conflicts.
 The Right Speech component of the
Eightfold Path encourages communication
that is truthful and not harmful.
 The Dalai Lama’s advocacy for non-
violent approaches to the Tibet issue
exemplifies how Buddhist principles can
guide peaceful resistance and conflict
resolution.
z Mental Health and Well-being: Mindfulness
(sati) and meditation practices are central to
Buddhism and are recognized globally for
enhancing mental well-being and emotional
resilience. The Dhamma emphasises
managing desires and attachments to
reduce suffering.
z Economic Inequality and Ethical Leadership: Buddhism teaches the importance of Right Livelihood and
generosity (dana). Economic systems should aim for equitable distribution and discourage greed (lobha).
z Refugee Crisis and Compassionate Policies: The value of karuna calls for compassionate treatment of those in
need, such as refugees and displaced persons. This principle emphasises seeing humanity in all and acting with
empathy.
 Initiatives by Buddhist charities and organisations in Asia that provide aid and shelter to refugees, such as
those displaced by conflicts in Myanmar, demonstrate Dhamma’s influence on humanitarian efforts.

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z Extremism and Social Cohesion: The Buddha’s teachings advocate moderation and the avoidance of extreme
views. Metta (loving-kindness) and equanimity (upekkha) encourage harmonious living and the reduction of
hatred (dosa).
 Interfaith dialogues and peace-building efforts in multi-religious societies, such as Sri Lanka’s reconciliation
programs post-civil war, embody Buddhist approaches to reducing communal tensions.
z Consumerism and Sustainability: The Dhamma warns against excessive attachment and desire, which drive
unsustainable consumer habits. Practicing contentment (santutthi) helps mitigate environmental degradation.
 Minimalist lifestyles influenced by Buddhist teachings encourage reduced consumption and promote
sustainable living, countering modern issues of overconsumption and waste.

India’s Role in Preserving and Promoting Buddha Dhamma

z Historical Custodian of Buddhist Heritage: India is the birthplace of Buddhism, home to sacred sites such as Bodh
Gaya (the site of Buddha’s enlightenment), Sarnath (his first sermon), and Kushinagar (his Mahaparinirvana).
These sites are preserved and promoted for global pilgrimage, fostering a deeper connection to the Buddha’s
teachings.
z Cultural and Diplomatic Outreach: India’s foreign policy, including the Act East Policy, emphasizes cultural
diplomacy by promoting shared Buddhist heritage with Asian countries like Sri Lanka, Thailand, and Japan,
strengthening regional ties and soft power.
z Support for Buddhist Conferences and Summits: India has hosted and supported major international Buddhist
conferences, such as the Global Buddhist Summit, providing a platform for dialogue on applying Buddha Dhamma
to contemporary global issues, fostering peace and cooperation.
z Preservation of Buddhist Literature: Initiatives to preserve ancient texts, including digitization and restoration
efforts for the Tipitaka and other scriptures, help maintain this shared heritage. Recognition of classical languages
like Pali and Prakrit supports scholarly work and dissemination of Buddhist teachings.
z Establishment of Research and Study Centers: Institutions like the Nalanda University (re-established) and
Central Institute of Higher Tibetan Studies focus on Buddhist studies and promote academic exploration of the
Dhamma, attracting scholars globally.
z Monumental Efforts in Restoration and Tourism: India actively promotes Buddhist tourism circuits that
connect significant historical sites, contributing to the global understanding of the Buddha’s life and teachings
and aiding in cultural preservation and economic development.

Conclusion
India continues to play a vital role in preserving and promoting Buddha Dhamma, blending cultural heritage, academic
initiatives, and diplomatic efforts. This commitment not only honors its historical legacy but also fosters global peace
and unity through the timeless teachings of the Buddha.

GUIDELINES FOR THE WITHDRAWAL OF LIFE SUPPORT IN TERMINALLY ILL PATIENTS

Context: Recently, the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare released draft Guidelines for the
Withdrawal of Life Support in Terminally Ill Patients to operationalise the Supreme Court’s 2018 and 2023 orders
on the right to die with dignity for all Indians.

About Draft Guidelines for the Withdrawal of Life Support

z Medical Boards:
 Primary Medical Board: Composed of the treating doctor and two experts, it determines if further treatment
is beneficial.
 Secondary Medical Board: Confirms or rejects the Primary Board’s decision, includes members nominated by
the district Chief Medical Officer.

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z Living Will/Advance Medical Directive:
 A written document for individuals aged 18+, specifying end-of-life treatment preferences if they lose decision-
making capacity.
 Requires at least two surrogate decision-makers and must be signed, witnessed, and attested.
z Do-Not-Attempt-Resuscitation (DNAR) Orders:
 Issued by the treating physician with family/patient consent.
 Limits resuscitation efforts but continues other medical treatments for comfort.

About Terminally ill

z Terminally ill is a condition where a person has an incurable illness or malady that will ultimately result in
their death.
z People with terminal illness often will undertake a series of financial and administrative tasks in order to settle
their financial obligations and allocate assets to their beneficiaries upon death.
z Process of Withholding/Withdrawing Treatment
 Assessment:
 The Primary Medical Board assesses the patient’s condition.
 The Secondary Medical Board reviews the recommendation for another level of checks.
 Consent and Notification:
 Requires the consent of the patient’s nominated surrogate decision-makers.
 Decisions must be notified to the local judicial magistrate.
z Ethical and Practical Considerations
 Shared Decision-Making: Ensures joint decisions
between medical teams and families, upholding patient
autonomy and legal clarity.
 This approach provides legal protection for doctors,
honours the patient’s autonomy, incorporates family
preferences, and upholds ethical standards, ensuring
that responsibility does not rest solely on the physician.
 Palliative Care: Focuses on managing pain and providing
comfort when life-support is withdrawn, not considered
as giving up on the patient.
 Passive Euthanasia Misinterpretation: "Passive
euthanasia" refers to withholding/withdrawing life-
sustaining treatment, distinct from active euthanasia,
which is intentional killing for mercy.

About Euthanasia
z Refers: The practice under which an individual intentionally ends his/her life to get relief from an incurable
condition, or intolerable suffering.
z Etymology: The word ‘euthanasia’ is a product of two Greek words ‘eu’ meaning ‘good’ and ‘thanatos’ meaning
‘death’.
z Types of Euthanasia: There are four types of euthanasia.
 Active euthanasia: It involves an active intervention to end a person’s life with substances or external force,
such as administering a lethal injection.
 Passive euthanasia: It refers to withdrawing life support or treatment that is essential to keep a terminally ill
person alive.
 Voluntary euthanasia: It takes place with the consent of the patient.
 Involuntary euthanasia: It is administered without the patient’s consent.

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241st Law Commission Report on Euthanasia
z The 241st Law Commission Report, titled "Passive Euthanasia - A Relook," presents several key observations
on euthanasia.
z It asserts that both euthanasia and assisted suicide should remain illegal in India, while recommending that
withdrawal of life support be allowed for individuals in a persistent vegetative state, irreversible coma, or those
lacking decision-making capacity.
z The report emphasizes that medical professionals should act in the patient's best interests and recognizes
the right of conscious, competent terminally ill patients to refuse life-prolonging treatments, acknowledging
that modern medical interventions may lead to significant pain and suffering.

Ethical Dimensions of Euthanasia

z Respect for Autonomy and Informed Consent: Euthanasia prioritises individual autonomy, allowing mentally
competent individuals to make decisions about ending their suffering.
 Full informed consent is necessary to ensure the individual fully understands their condition and options.
z Balancing Quality of Life with Sanctity of Life: The debate centres on quality of life, where ending suffering and
preserving dignity are prioritised, versus sanctity of life, which views life as inherently valuable and not to be ended
prematurely.
z Implications for Law and Society: Euthanasia regulations vary widely by jurisdiction, reflecting different cultural
and ethical views.
 Socially, euthanasia raises questions about the role of medical professionals, societal responsibilities, and the
accessibility of palliative care.

Significance of the Guidelines

z Strengthening the Right to Die with Dignity:
These guidelines put into action the Supreme
Court’s 2018 and 2023 decisions in the Common
Cause case,
 It firmly establishes the legal right for
terminally ill patients to pass with dignity
under Article 21.
z Establishing a Framework for Decision-
Making: Guidelines require hospitals to form
Primary and Secondary Medical Boards.
 It provides oversight to ensure that decisions
to withdraw life support are carefully
reviewed and responsibly enacted.
z Defining Clear Procedures for Life Support
Withdrawal: The guidelines detail a clear process:
the Primary Board assesses, the Secondary Board
independently reviews, consent from designated
surrogates is obtained, and judicial notification
is completed.
 This framework ensures transparency and
accountability.
z Emphasising Ethical, Collaborative Decision-Making: Encourages collaboration between the medical team and
the patient’s family.
 It aligns treatment with the patient’s wishes, protecting medical professionals legally, and easing the decision-
making burden on families.

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Challenges with the Guidelines
z Complexity in Medical Board Formation: Setting up Primary and Secondary Medical Boards in every hospital can
be resource-intensive, particularly for smaller or rural hospitals with limited facilities and personnel.
z Absence of Specific Legislation: Without a dedicated law on the Right to Die, implementation might be inconsistent,
leading to legal ambiguities. This could discourage hospitals from applying the guidelines comprehensively.
Terminological Confusion: Continued use of terms like “passive euthanasia” may create social discomfort and
misunderstandings, potentially hindering societal acceptance of the right to die with dignity.
z Complicated Living Will Process: The process of creating a living will is complex, involving documentation,
witnesses, executors, and notary verification, which could make it inaccessible to many people.
z Potential Delays in Decision-Making: The multi-step process—medical board assessments, family consent, and
judicial notification—might slow decision-making, delaying timely withdrawal and impacting the right to die with
dignity.
z Emotional and Ethical Burden on Families and Doctors: Shared decision-making, although essential for patient
rights, places significant emotional strain on families and an ethical burden on physicians.

Way Forward
z Legislative Action to Provide Clarity: Lawmakers should consider drafting specific legislation on life-support
withdrawal in terminal cases, providing a robust legal framework to support the right to die with dignity.
z Training and Awareness for Medical Professionals: Medical staff should receive training on the ethical, legal,
and procedural aspects of life-support withdrawal to enhance their understanding and approach to end-of-life care.
z Simplifying the Living Will Process: Streamlining the procedure for creating and verifying a living will could make
it more accessible to people across different backgrounds.
z Public Education and Awareness Initiatives: Educating the public on end-of-life choices will help families make
well-informed decisions aligned with their loved ones’ wishes, fostering understanding and reducing unnecessary
suffering.
z Strengthening Palliative Care Services: Expanding access to quality palliative care across hospitals and healthcare
centers can offer terminally ill patients comfort and relief from suffering, ensuring that their remaining life is as
pain-free as possible.
z Building Support Systems for Families and Caregivers: Providing psychological counselling and support for
families and caregivers
 It can help them navigate the emotional and ethical challenges associated with end-of-life decisions, reducing
stress and ensuring compassionate care for patients.

Conclusion
z The guidelines for life-support withdrawal mark a crucial step towards recognizing the right to die with dignity,
balancing legal clarity, patient autonomy, and ethical medical practice.
z By addressing legislative gaps, enhancing public awareness, and strengthening support systems, India can ensure a
compassionate, well-structured approach to end-of-life care.

CODE OF CONDUCT FOR JUDGES

Context: The recent comments made by the Allahabad High Court judge alleged against the Minority community
at an event have reignited debates on judicial conduct and accountability.

Background
z Alleged Communal Statements: Statements included references to polygamy, Halala, triple talaq, and the
Uniform Civil Code.
z Supreme Court’s Response: It said details have been asked from the Allahabad High Court and that the “matter
is under consideration”.

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About Code of Conduct Of Judges
z The Code of Conduct for Judges refers to a set of ethical guidelines and standards that judges must adhere to in
order to maintain integrity, impartiality, and public confidence in the judicial system.
 Codes of conduct are essential to guide judges in navigating the complexities of their role while maintaining
public trust.

Necessity of a Code of Conduct for Judges in India

z Safeguarding Judicial Integrity: Judicial integrity is a cornerstone of strong judicial systems and a necessary
prerequisite for the rule of law, the right to a fair trial and the public trust in the judiciary.
 Impartiality and Judicial Independence: The Code of Conduct For Judges ensures that judges maintain
impartiality and independence in their judgments.
 Prevents any behavior that could undermine public confidence in the judiciary.
z Upholding Public Trust: Judicial authority is rooted in public acceptance and faith in the system.
 Ethical conduct reassures citizens of the judiciary’s fairness and transparency.
 Guidance in Complex Situations: Provides judges with a structured framework to navigate ethical dilemmas.
 Helps avoid conflicts of interest and maintain professional standards.
 Ensuring Accountability: Establishes benchmarks for acceptable behavior in and out of court.
 Promotes accountability within the judiciary, safeguarding its credibility.
z Strengthening the Rule of Law: Ethical conduct by judges reinforces the principles of justice, equality, and fairness.
 Enhances the judiciary’s role as a guardian of the Constitution and democratic values.
z Preventing Bias and Misconduct: Acts as a deterrent against personal bias or misconduct that could affect
judicial decisions.
z Promoting Diversity and Inclusivity: Codes like the Bangalore Principles emphasise understanding and
respecting societal diversity.
 Helps judges treat all litigants equally, irrespective of their background.
z Protecting Judicial Independence: Preserves the judiciary’s autonomy by fostering self-regulation and discipline.

Code of Conduct For Judges In India

z The Supreme Court of India, in its full Court meeting on 7th May, 1997, adopted two Resolutions namely
 “The Restatement of Values of Judicial Life” which lays down certain judicial standards and principles to be
observed and followed by the Judges of the Supreme Court and High Courts.
 “In-house procedure” for taking suitable remedial action against judges who do not follow universally
accepted values of Judicial life including those included in the Restatement of Values of Judicial life.

Consequences for Judges Who Violate the Code of Conduct in India

z Impeachment
 The most severe consequence for a judge in India found guilty of misconduct is impeachment.
 The Constitution mandates that judges of the Supreme Court and High Courts can be removed by an order of the
President after a successful process of impeachment on the grounds of “proved misbehaviour or incapacity”.
z In House Procedure: As per the established “In-house procedure” for the Higher Judiciary, the Chief Justice of
India is competent to receive complaints against the conduct of Judges of the Supreme Court and the Chief
Justices of the High Courts.
 Similarly, the Chief Justices of the High Courts are competent to receive complaints against the conduct of
High Court Judges.
z Public Reprimand or Suspension: For less severe violations, judges may receive a formal reprimand or
temporary suspension from their duties.
 The severity of the action depends on the nature of the violation and its impact on the judiciary’s integrity.
z Transfer to Another Bench: In some instances, a judge found guilty of misconduct may be transferred to another
bench or location as a corrective measure.

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Consequences of Lapses In Judicial Conduct
z Undermine Judicial Credibility: Public trust in the
judiciary diminishes, leading to skepticism about the
fairness of judicial decisions.
z Encourage Political Polarisation: Perceived biases
in the judiciary can exacerbate divisions in society.
z Impact the Rule of Law: Judicial impartiality is
critical to upholding the rule of law.
 Ethical lapses risk turning the judiciary
into a partisan institution, threatening the
democratic fabric.
 Diminished judicial integrity can weaken
democratic governance.
z Increased Calls for Accountability: Incidents of unethical behavior can lead to public and institutional demands
for accountability.
z Could result in disciplinary action, including impeachment or voluntary retirement of the judge.

Global Best Practices:

z Queja System of Chile: The Queja system in Chile allows for the discipline of judges for acts that are not
criminal but are considered immoral or unethical.
 It addresses judicial misconduct or abusive judicial actions that do not necessarily involve criminal offenses.
z United Kingdom: In 2004, the UK published its Guide to Judicial Conduct.
z Inspector General: Senegal and Tunisia have introduced the position of an inspector general to oversee judicial
conduct.
z Magna Carta of European Judges: In 2000, the Council of Europe established the Council of European Judges
(CCJE) to act as an advisory body to the Committee of Ministers and the Council of Europe on the independence
and impartiality of judges.

Way Forward
z Regular Training and Sensitization: Judges should undergo periodic training on ethical standards, societal
diversity, and contemporary issues to align their perspectives with evolving societal norms.
 Example: Judges should be counseled to avoid statements that suggest prejudice against individuals and
groups or opinions about issues that may arise in litigation.
z Mechanisms for Ethical Oversight: Strengthening in-house grievance redressal systems and empowering
oversight committees can ensure swift action against ethical violations.
 Example: There is a need to reconsider the Judicial Standards and Accountability Bill, 2010 that provided for
establishing the National Judicial Oversight Committee, the Complaints Scrutiny Panel, and an investigation
committee.
z Advisory Councils: The Judicial ethics advisory committees can be established to address unresolved questions
and guide judges who are uncertain about the propriety of their conduct. These committees can be composed of
sitting or retired judges.
 For instance, most U.S. states have their own advisory committees to support judicial ethics.

Conclusion
z Judges must uphold dignity and avoid behavior that undermines the judiciary’s integrity, ensuring public trust
and confidence in justice.
z As custodians of justice, their conduct in both personal and professional matters must inspire public confidence,
reinforce trust in the rule of law, and reflect the highest ethical standards.

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TOXIC WORK CULTURE
Context: A recent case of a tragic death of Anna Sebastian Perayil, the 26-year old chartered accountant, working
for Ernst and Young Pune due to excessive work pressure highlights the prevailing toxic work culture of the
techno-corporate world.
z Also, employees of SEBI in a letter to the finance ministry titled “Grievances of SEBI officers - A call for
Respect,” has highlighted unprofessional behaviour and toxic work environment on part of the top management.

About Toxic Work Culture

z A toxic working environment can be defined as negative attitudes, behaviour and practices that undermine an
employee’s overall wellbeing (mental and physical), job satisfaction, and productivity of the company.
z Work Culture In India:
 Overworked Workforce: As per an International Labour Organisation Report, India has the most
overworked workforce in Asia, with 50.5% of employees working over 49 hours weekly in 2023.
 India’s Best Workplaces in Health and Wellness 2023 Report:
 Workplace wellness scores have declined across industries in 2023 with a significant drop in mental
health support, professional growth and development, and effective management and engagement.
 Higher Rank: Construction, infrastructure and real estate industry and retail leads
 Low Ranked Industries: NGOs, education and training, and professional services have the lowest ratings.
z Attributes of Toxic Work Culture:
 Non Inclusiveness: Inequities
manifested by discriminating against
LGBTQ, Diasabled, Caste, Religion,
Gender, Age, Favouritism and Nepotism
etc.
 Unethical Work Culture: Promoting
Unethical conducts, Dishonesty, and
Lack of regulatory compliance
 Cutthroat Competition: Backstabbing
behaviour and office Politics fomented
by ruthless competition
 No Recognition or Appreciation:
Employees need to be valued and
appreciated for their work and
progress, a lack of which will result in
the low level of productivity of both
the company and employee.
 High Turnover Rates: A revolving door
of employees due to microaggressions
and workplace politics etc. can cause
absenteeism and higher turnover
rates.
 Corporate Donkeys: Indians corporate
employees are considered as corporate
donkeys because of the glorified
‘overwork-underpaid’ culture it
imbibes.
 No Work-Life Balance: A culture which discourage taking breaks or personal days and solely focuses on
work can lead to burnout and exhaustion.
 Example: Narayan Murthy asking youngsters to work 70 hours a week.

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 Culture of Blame: When employees are afraid of making mistakes, they become risk-averse and may miss
opportunities for innovation and growth.
 Micromanagement: When management doesn’t trust its employees to do their jobs it hinders their creative
drive leading to Job alienation.
 Discrimination and Harassment: Discriminatory behavior like gender bias, caste bias, verbal abuse, intimidation,
or discrimination, is tolerated or ignored can lead to feelings of isolation, depression, and anxiety.
 Unrealistic Expectations:Setting up unattainable goals or deadlines and promoting toxic positivity, dismissing
valid concerns can create a stressful and unproductive work environment.
 Example: SEBI employees complaining about unrealistic work deadlines and targets.
z Impacts:
A Toxic Work environment results in workplace ‘illnesses’ and as per the McKinsey Health Institute report
published in 2022, more than 60 percent of negative workplace outcomes are due to toxic workplaces,
 Physical Health:
 Headaches, fatigue, and physical discomfort
 Sleep disturbances and insomnia
 Burnout: It affects over 62% of Indian employees (three times the global average) as per ILO report.
 Unhealthy coping mechanisms, such as substance use
 Mental Health:
 Increased stress levels and heightened anxiety, depression.
 A pervasive sense of negativity, cynicism, and low morale
 Lack of enthusiasm and lower productivity
 Suicides: As per the National Crime Records Bureau data, suicides linked to professional stress in the
age group of 18-30 accounted for 38.5% of the total cases in 2022
 For Organisation:
 Higher absenteeism and turnover rates impacting Productivity
 Damage to the organization’s reputation as well as good will of company.
 On Social Behaviour:
 Frequent conflicts and disputes among colleagues
 Decreased collaboration and strained interpersonal relationships
 Isolation or withdrawal from team activities

Way Forward
z Acknowledge Employee Feedback: Companies should work on swift, thorough, and compassionate responses
to employee grievances taking all the reports of employee feedback seriously.
z Preventative Measures: Implement policies and programs to prevent future toxicity, such as anti-bullying training
and clear communication channel
z Corrective Actions: Identify the source of the toxicity and take appropriate corrective action involving disciplinary
measures, conflict resolution, or cultural training.
z Framework for Well Being: An engagement of all the stakeholders including legislators, businesses, labour
organisations, and mental health advocates should create a comprehensive framework promoting worker well-
being.
 It includes revising labour laws to reflect modern realities, such as remote work, and establishing stricter
penalties for companies that violate these regulations.
z Cultural Shift: The glorification of overwork by leaders in corporate India has set a benchmark that equates long
hours with success which needs to be challenged and instead focus on the companies respecting the employees
personal time.
z Stop Victim Blaming: The prevalent discourse that work stress is the responsibility of the employee and any mishap
is not the organisation concern needs to be changed for a better conversation of the issue
 Example: Trivializing Anna’s Sebastian death as lack of inner strength is a concerning discourse.

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IMPACT OF ETHNIC CONFLICT IN MANIPUR ON THE ALL INDIA SERVICES OFFICERS
Context: The ongoing ethnic conflict in Manipur between the Meiteis and Kukis, which began on May 3, 2023,
poses a significant challenge for All India Services (AIS) officers.

About Ethnic Conflict

z Ethnic conflict refers to disputes or hostilities between different ethnic groups, often due to competition for
resources, political power, cultural recognition, or historical grievances.
 These conflicts can manifest as violence, discrimination, displacement, social unrest etc.

Causes of Ethnic Conflicts

z Historical Grievances: Long-standing resentments and past injustices create deep-seated animosities.
z Competition for Resources like land, water etc: Example: Conflicts in Darfur, Sudan, where competition over
land and water resources between Arab and non-Arab groups has led to violence and displacement.
z Political Power Struggles: Disputes over representation and autonomy exacerbate tensions in multi-ethnic societies.
 Example: The South Sudan Civil War, where power struggles exists between the Dinka and Nuer ethnic
groups.
z Cultural Differences: Divergent languages and customs foster misunderstandings and prejudice.
 Example: Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
z Economic Factors: Example: The Kurdish conflict in Turkey, where economic marginalisation of Kurdish regions
has fueled resentment and demands for greater autonomy.

Background Of Conflict Between Meiteis and Kukis

z Geographical Divisions: Manipur, located There are 16 districts in Manipur, but the state
in India’s Northeast, is home to various is commonly thought of as divided into
tribal groups, including the Meitei, Nagas, 'valley, and 'hill' districts.
and Chin-Kuki-Mizo tribes. In these hill areas, which comprise
 The Meiteis, mostly Hindus, live in the the bulk of Manipur's geographical
Imphal valley. area, live 15 Naga tribes and the
Chin-Kuki-Mizo-Zomi group.
 The Kukis, primarily Christians, mostly
inhabit the hills.
Imphal
 They have disputes over conflicting
(East and West)
homeland demands and religious
differences. Kukis and Nagas point
out that tribal areas
z Triggering Events are 90% of state's
 Protests for Tribal Status: Tensions geographical area, but
the bulk of its budget
escalated when Kukis protested
and development
against Meitei demands for official Valley areas Thoubal work is focused on
tribal status, fearing it would enhance Bishnupur
Kakching
the Meitei-dominated
Meitei influence in government and Imphal valley.
society. The Maniput valley is
 Illegal Migration: and concerns
encircled by skirts of
low hills that spread into
of demographic changes as well Nagaland and Mizoram.
as marginalisation of the Meitei
community has intensified tensions While tribals can buy land in the valley,
between communities. Meiteis are prohibited from buying
 Example: The higher decadal land in the hills
growth rate of the population in
the hills compared to the valley in the 2011 Census has raised suspicions that people are illegally migrating
from neighbouring countries like Myanmar, Nepal, and Bangladesh.

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 Drug Issue: Manipur shares a border with conflict-ridden Myanmar, which is infamous for poppy cultivation
and drug trafficking.
 Poppy grown in Manipur’s hill areas feeds the drug trade and is an important source of livelihood for
tribal groups living there.
 The state government’s war on drugs has evoked resentment among the Kukis, who see it as a ploy to
deprive them of their livelihood.
 Fatalities: At least 130 people have been killed and 400 wounded in violence that began in May.
 More than 60,000 have been forced from their homes as the army, paramilitary forces and police struggle to
quell violence.

Ethical Dimensions Involved for the Administrative Officers in Conflict Zones

z Public Service Obligation: IAS officers must prioritise the welfare of the community, which entails working
towards peace and stability while ensuring that their actions do not exacerbate existing tensions.
 The conflict has created deep fault lines within the state’s administration, fragmented along the ethnicity of
the officers, especially those from All India Services.
z Impersonality and Integrity: Maintaining impartiality is crucial.
 As per Max Weber Bureaucratic Theory: Bureaucracy should be characterised by impersonality, where
decisions are made based on objective criteria rather than personal relationships or preferences.
 In this Situation, Officers posted in Manipur must manage their personal identities while ensuring that they do
not let ethnic affiliations cloud their judgement or professional responsibilities.
z Mental Health and Well-being: Officers are isolated in administrative cocoons, with geographical barriers and
a pervasive fear dampening their willingness to take field postings.
 This can lead to burnout and moral distress.
 Ethical leadership necessitates recognizing these
challenges and seeking support for oneself and
fellow officers.
z Collaboration and Unity: Fostering a spirit of
collaboration among officers from different ethnic
backgrounds is vital for effective governance.
z Accountability and Transparency: Officers must
be accountable for their actions, ensuring that
decisions are made transparently and ethically,
particularly in a context filled with hate speech,
misinformation and propaganda.
 As per Carl Friedrich’s Administrative
Responsibility: Public administrators are
accountable to the public they serve.
 Cultural Sensitivity: Recognising the cultural
dimensions of conflict and respecting the
values and traditions of all parties involved is
also a vital dimension.

Way Forward
z Enhanced Training Modules: Developing specialised
training on conflict management and reconciliation
should be a priority for institutes like Lal Bahadur
Shastri National Academy of Administration (LBSNAA)
and the Indian Institute of Public Administration
(IIPA)

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 Example: Incorporating real-life case studies from Manipur can help in better management of ethnocentric
politics and conflicts.
z Regular Communication Channels: Establish clear communication channels and implement virtual
meetings among officers from different ethnic backgrounds to facilitate dialogue, promote unity, and combat
misinformation during crises.
z Support Systems for Officers: Establishing mental health support and peer counselling can help officers cope
with the stresses of working in conflict zones, ensuring their well-being and effectiveness.
 There is a need for fostering a culture of continuous collaboration among officers from diverse backgrounds to
reinforce a unified front in conflict management.
z Community Engagement Initiatives: Officers should actively engage with local communities through outreach
programs, promoting trust and understanding while working towards conflict resolution.
 There is a need to promote dialogue, peacebuilding, and reconciliation between the communities involved.
z Formation of High Level Committee: Forming a committee to look into the genuine development issues raised
by different communities could be a positive step toward addressing the grievances and concerns of the affected
communities.
Conclusion: The ethnic violence in Manipur exposes weaknesses in India’s administrative system for handling
communal conflicts, posing challenges to the All India Services while offering a chance to reform governance in
conflict prone areas.

IMMANUEL KANT: LESSONS FOR A WORLD AT WAR

Context: The world will celebrate Immanuel Kant (1724-1804) 300th birth anniversary this year.
Immanuel Kant
z Born: He was born on April 22, 1724 in the East Prussian city of
Königsberg, or today’s Kaliningrad (Russia) near the southeastern
shore of the Baltic Sea.
z He is the central figure in western modern philosophy, setting
the terms for much of 19th and 20th century philosophy and
synthesizing early modern rationalism and empiricism.
z Field of work: He has left indelible imprints in the field of
metaphysics, epistemology, ethics, political philosophy,
aesthetics etc
z Key Ideas of Kant:
 The Idea of a World Citizen: Kant favoured the idea of a global
citizenship, whereby there is no restriction to travel, The trade
is open and free, unrestricted immigration and the right to
refuge and rejected imperialism, colonialism and slavery.
 He believed in reason, rationality and morality guiding
political action.
 The Idea of perpetual peace: Kant clearly states that perpetual
peace is possible only when governments have a specific
political organization and the need for the formation of a federation of free countries or international
governments to eliminate the tendencies of engaging in war-the worst evil of human societies and achieve
perpetual peace.
 Kant’s deontological/ duty based Ethics: Kant believes that the moral worth of an action can be judged not
by its outcome but, rather by its motive ie. He favors Right Means over Ends.
 The motive behind an action has moral value only when it arises from universal principles discovered by reason.

Relevance of Kant’s Idea in Modern World

z The Crisis in Multilateralism: Major power rivalry driven by narrow consideration of power and authority based
on expedient rationale, and not rationality is leading to demise of multilateralism.
 Example: The UN Charter was expected to provide a common ethical bedrock for international relations but
instead has become a body to please the self-serving rationale of the permanent members of the UNSC.

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z Rationality v/s Rationale: Rationality is to being guided by reason and logic but they are also shaped by history,
collective civilisational and cultural experiences, nationalism, religious beliefs, clan and class loyalties etc giving way
to rationale, bereft of values or morality.
 Example: Contemporary challenges like terrorism and aggression by nations (Israel- Hamas War) are accepted
as truth by rationale explanations behind devastating actions.
z Contemporary Challenges: Today the world is facing a war of narratives that blurs the distinction between
reality and fiction whereby reality is often a creation of geopolitical and geo-economic interests.
 Artificial Intelligence and digital revolution altering objective reality and lethal autonomous weapons
redefining battlefields. The challenge of fake news, hatred based on identities, global terrorist organisations,
The climate crisis etc.
z Remnants of colonialism: Kant rejected imperialism, colonialism and slavery but although colonialism and
imperialism are deemed to be a closed chapter in history, but the UN website still lists 17 Non-Self-Governing
Territories as the unfinished agenda of the Special Committee on Decolonisation.
 Modern day economic colonialism in the form of debt diplomacy is posing a significant challenge to the
independence of nations.

RULES GOVERNING CIVIL SERVANTS: PUJA KHEDKAR CONTROVERSY

Context: The Centre constituted a single-member committee under the Department of Personnel and Training
(DoPT) to examine all documents submitted by probationary IAS officer Puja Khedkar to secure her candidature
in the civil services.

Background
z Questions raised about the appointment: Khedkar secured a rank of 821 in the 2022 UPSC Civil Services
Examination, and was allotted the Indian Administrative Service (IAS) under the Other Backward Classes
(OBC) and Physically Handicapped (PH) quotas.
 Questions have been raised about her appointment under these categories.Allegations of Misconduct as a
Probationer: Khedkar faces multiple allegations of misconduct, including seeking special privileges not
entitled to her as a probationer and improperly occupying the ante chamber of the District Collector’s office.

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z Additionally, she used an unauthorised red-blue beacon on her private luxury Audi sedan, which she claims to
have received as a “gift.”
z Constitution of a Single member committee: A committee is constituted by the Centre to examine all her
documents.

Ethical Issues Involved in the Case of Trainee IAS Officer Puja Khedkar
z Questionable Disability Claims: One of the core ethical issues
in this case is the alleged dishonesty in misrepresenting personal
information related to the disability and OBC status.
 Civil servants are expected to uphold the highest standards
of integrity, and falsifying official documents violates this
principle.
z Misuse of Affirmative Action: By allegedly falsifying OBC and
disability documents, there is a potential misuse of affirmative
action policies designed to provide opportunities to underprivileged
and marginalised groups.
z Misuse of Official Position: Allegations of using unauthorised
privileges such as a red-blue beacon on a private vehicle and
occupying official spaces without proper authorization.
 If true, this could represent an abuse of policies designed to help
disadvantaged groups.
z Nepotism and Undue Influence: Khedkar’s father allegedly pressured
officials to fulfil his daughter’s demands, potentially misusing family
connections and status.
z Abuse of Power and Privilege:
 Khedkar allegedly demanded special treatment not typically afforded to trainee officers, such as a separate
office and official car.
 She occupied an additional collector’s chamber without permission and removed furniture.
z Integrity and Accountability: Concerns about adherence to AIS (Conduct) Rules, especially regarding the ethical
standards expected from civil servants.
z Violation of Trust:
 Erodes trust in Government Institutions: Falsifying documents erodes public trust in government institutions
and their ability to ensure honesty and fairness in administrative processes.
 Breaches trust in Administrative Services: It breaches the trust placed in civil servants to adhere to legal and
ethical standards.
 Questions raised on UPSC: This case also raises questions on the functioning of the Union Public Service
Commission (UPSC).
z Fairness in competitive examinations: If the allegations of misusing disability and OBC quotas are true, it raises
concerns about the fairness of the UPSC examination process and how it may disadvantage other deserving
candidates.

Way Forward
z Institutional Oversight and Reforms: The UPSC and other relevant institutions should strengthen Verification
Processes in the All India Services Exam for candidate qualifications, including thorough checks on disability
claims and age certificates.
 Third Party verification is needed to ensure the authenticity of the documents submitted by candidates.
 Cross-referencing documents with issuing authorities and employing advanced technologies for detecting
forgeries.
z Clear Guidelines: Clear guidelines regarding the eligibility criteria and documentation required for various
categories, including the physically disabled category should be laid out.

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z Training for the staff involved in the verification process: There is a need to provide training for staff involved
in the verification process to ensure they are equipped to identify discrepancies and handle sensitive information
appropriately.
z Corrective Measures: If any evidence of falsified documents is found by the committee, the probationer should be
discharged from the duty.
z In depth Investigation should be launched: Conduct a thorough fact-finding investigation to understand how
the alleged fraud was committed despite the UPSC’s high-security measures.

Conclusion
Addressing these ethical concerns is crucial not only for ensuring accountability in public service but also for
upholding the principles of integrity and trustworthiness expected from civil servants.

CONFLICT OF INTEREST
Context: Recently, Hindenburg Research, the US-based short seller, alleged in a report that Madhabi Puri Buch,
the chairperson of stock market regulator Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI), and her husband had
a stake in offshore entities connected to the Adani group.
z In such a scenario, SEBI board is supposed to address conflicts of interest.

More on News
The market regulator SEBI said that it had “duly investigated” Hindenburg’s allegations against the Adani Group.
z The SEBI also said that its chairperson had made the required disclosures in “terms of holdings of securities
and their transfers”, and that she had recused herself in matters involving “potential conflicts of interest”.

About Conflict of Interest

z Refers: Conflict of Interest means “any
interest which could significantly
prejudice an individual’s objectivity in
the decision making process, thereby
creating an unfair competitive advantage
for the individual or to the organisation
which he/she represents”.
 It also encompasses situations where
an individual, in contravention to the
accepted norms and ethics, could
exploit his/her obligatory duties for
personal benefits.

Types of Conflict of Interest

z Financial Conflicts of Interest: It occurs
when an individual or organisation stands
to benefit financially from decisions or
actions taken in their professional capacity.
 This conflict can arise when a financial advisor receives kickbacks from institutions for recommending or selling
certain financial products.
z Relational Conflicts of Interest: It arises when personal relationships influence professional decisions. These can
include familial ties, friendships, etc.
 Example: A manager might favour a friend or relative for a promotion, or a board member might advocate for
a contract with a company owned by a family member.
z Professional Conflicts of Interest: It occurs when competing professional duties or allegiances interfere with
impartiality.
 Example: A lawyer representing two clients with opposing interests faces a professional conflict.

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z Ideological Conflicts of Interest: It arises when personal beliefs or values clash with professional responsibilities.
 Example: A researcher with strong environmental views might struggle to remain objective while conducting a
study funded by an oil and gas corporation.
z Time-Based Conflicts of Interest: It occurs when an individual’s commitments to multiple roles or projects lead
to divided attention and compromised effectiveness.
 Example: An employee working for two companies simultaneously might not be able to fully dedicate themselves
to either role.
z Organisational Conflicts of Interest: It occurs when an entity’s interests conflict with those of its stakeholders
or the public.
 Example: A non-profit organisation that receives funding from a corporation might face pressure to align its
activities with the interests of the donor, even if it conflicts with its mission.
Challenges Associated with Conflicts of Interest
z Biased Decision-Making: Conflicts of Interest may prioritise personal interests or the interests of a particular thing
over others when faced with a conflict of interest.
 This can lead to decisions that benefit themselves or their associates rather than the broader cause.
z Loss of Objectivity: Conflicts of interest can affect judgement and undermine objectivity which may find it
challenging to make impartial decisions when personal interests are at stake.
z Favouritism: Persons with conflicts of interest may show favouritism towards individuals or organisations with
whom they have a personal relationship or financial interest, leading to unfair treatment of others.
z Compromised Integrity: Engaging in decision-making while having a conflict of interest can compromise the
integrity and erode trust.
Management of Conflict of Interest
z Spotting Conflicts: First off, there is a need to identify any conflicts of interest. With disclosure, one can quickly
assess and address any conflicts before they escalate.
z Grasping the Impact: Understanding the consequences of conflicts of interest is vital. They can lead to legal troubles,
financial losses, and erosion of trust. .
z Maintaining Transparency: Transparency needs to be involved in all scenarios to counter the abuse of power.
z Focus on Objectivity: This skill helps to take impartial decisions and help establish integrity.
z Behavioural Integrity: Ensuring high standards of behavioural integrity is must.
z Need for Legislation: There is a need to provide clear guidance to address the conflict, ensuring fairness and
transparency throughout.
 There is a need for legislation to make non-disclosure of conflict of interest punishable.
z Monitoring and Review: Regular review and assessment can help identify any new conflicts or changes that
require attention. Continuously monitor the situation to ensure that the conflict of interest is effectively managed.
Creating Awareness: There is a need to create awareness about conflict of interest and its potential impact, and
the importance of avoiding such situations.
z Training is Valuable: There is no substitute for education. In training sessions, there has an opportunity to become
familiar with the terms, learn how to deal with conflicts and run through some scenarios.
Conclusion
In any situation, the individual’s personal interests could potentially influence their professional duties, creating
a conflict of interest. It is important for professionals to be aware of these potential conflicts and take steps to
manage them, such as recusing themselves from decision-making processes, disclosing potential conflicts to relevant
parties, or seeking guidance from an ethics committee.

GENDER JUSTICE IN THE CONTEXT OF RAPES

Context: The recent incident of sexual assault and Rape of a medical Intern in RG Kar Medical Hospital in Kolkata
has again shed light on the precarious living conditions of women in India and their never ending struggle for gender
Justice.

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About Rape
z Definition: Rape is any non-consensual vaginal, anal or oral penetration of a sexual nature of the body of another
person with any bodily part or object, including through the use of physical violence
z Prevalence: As per the National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB) Data,
 Rapes: The Crime in India 2021 annual report, reports 31,677 rape cases, a rise from 2020 with 28,046 cases.
 Of these, 10 per cent were rapes of minors
 On an average India reported 90 cases per day in 2022.
 Conviction Rates: It ranged between 27%- 28% from 2018-2022

Gender Justice
z Gender Justice is the principle of equality and equity for all people, irrespective of one’s gender, in all areas of life
and is an intersectional approach focusing on the needs of the most discriminated and oppressed.
 The concept of gender justice is inclusive of transgender and nonbinary people.
z Constitutional Provision Promoting Gender Justice: Article 14 (Right to Equality), Article 15(1)( Right against
Discrimination), Article 16 (Right to equal opportunity for all citizens in matters of public employment), Article 21
(Right to Life), Article 23 (Prohibits Trafficking in humans, begar, and other forms of forced labor), Article 42 (state’s
responsibility to provide just and humane working conditions and maternity relief).

How the Principles of Gender Justice Can Combat Sexual Crimes?

z Equal rights: Everyone should have equal rights and be free from discrimination manifested in violence, abuse and
unequal treatment at home, at work and wider communities. Everyone should be well versed about their gender
specific rights and Gender Curriculum should be introduced in schools and colleges.
z Equal Access: Everyone should have equal access to resources and opportunities to learn, to earn and to lead, which
will lead to safe places at work.
 Follow the Vishakaha guidelines stringently and also adopt some women specific initiatives like period leaves,
separate resting rooms at workplace (RG Kar Hospital) etc.
z Representation: Equal representation of women as per their population will help shape the policies, structures and
decisions affecting their lives and society as a whole. Women make up only 11 per cent of the police force.
 Example: Gender Budgeting; Gender Policing; Transgender Laws etc.
z Safety: Everyone should have the right to bodily autonomy and safety with steps such as Gender Policing, Street
Lighting, One Stop Centres for Crimes against women and Transgenders taken to make them feel secure. Workplaces
should adopt a Zero Tolerance Policy.
z Freedom to Express Gender: Sexual Crimes are Gender Neutral affecting everyone, thus everyone should be free
to express their gender in any way they choose, or to not express a gender at all without shame or fear.
z Accountability: There should be increased accountability for sexual and gender-based violence with proactive and
sensitive and speedy policing and trials of such cases

Way Forward
z Adopt the RESPECT Framework: RESPECT women stands for (Relationship skills strengthening; Empowerment of
women; Services ensured; Poverty reduced; Enabling environments (schools, work places, public spaces) created;
Child and adolescent abuse prevented; and Transformed attitudes, beliefs and norms).
z Promoting Gender Sensitization: Conducting widespread gender sensitization programs to challenge and change
the Societal attitudes towards women and sexual violence.
 Example: National campaigns like Beti Bachao Beti Padhao should be expanded to include comprehensive gender
sensitization at the community level.
z Expanding Victim Support Services: Establishing comprehensive support services for rape survivors, including
legal aid, counseling, and rehabilitation.
 Example: The government could expand the scope of One Stop Centres to provide holistic support for survivors
across the country.

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z Implementing Mandatory Sex Education: Integrating comprehensive sex education into school curriculums to
foster a culture of respect and consent from an early age.
 Example: States can implement an Adolescent Education Programme (AEP) more widely to educate young
people about gender equality and sexual rights.

ETHICAL PERSPECTIVES ON BRIBERY

Context: In a case that could significantly impact corruption cases lodged before 2018, the Supreme Court is set to
decide whether offering a bribe is punishable under the Prevention of Corruption Act, 1988 (PCA), even if the
public official refuses the offer.

About the Case

z Issue: The issue in this case is whether offering a bribe (even if it is refused) is punishable under the PCA
1988, both before and after the 2018 amendments.
 The case involves a person, who in 2016 offered a Rs. 2 lakh bribe to a police officer in Orissa and was
subsequently charged under Section 12 of the PCA.
z Main legal argument: Whether the mere act of offering a bribe constitutes “abetment” under the PCA before
the 2018 amendment.

Reasons Behind Bribery

z To Access Basic Services: People face institutional inefficiencies or deliberate delays, forcing them to pay bribes
to access essential services like healthcare, education, or welfare benefits.
 A 2020 survey by Transparency International revealed that 39% of Indians reported paying bribes to access
public services, including healthcare and education.
z To Expedite Processes: Bureaucratic inefficiencies
and red tape compel citizens to bribe officials to avoid
prolonged delays in services like issuing licenses,
registrations, or approvals.
 A 2024 survey by LocalCircles revealed that
approximately 66% admitted to paying bribes to
government officials in the past year to facilitate
processes and avoid delays.
z To Avoid Harassment: Individuals bribe to escape
harassment or undue obstacles created by officials,
often under threat of legal or administrative action.
 A Transparency International survey (2020)
revealed that 42% of Indians paid bribes to police
officers to avoid fines or arrest.
z To Gain Undue Advantage: Individuals and businesses
use bribes to secure unfair benefits, such as contracts,
favorable decisions, or approvals.

Judicial Views on Bribery

z Kishor Khachand Wadhwani v. State of
Maharashtra (2019): Bombay HC held offering a
bribe wasn’t an offence before 2018; the amendment
introduced the “offence of bribing a public servant,”
requiring a “demand” under Section 7.
z Ghanshyam Aggarwal v. State (2020): Madras HC
ruled offering a bribe was already punishable under
IPC Section 165A, replaced by PCA, with the 2018
amendment clarifying it as a substantive offence.

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z In October 2024, CBI arrested five CGST officials in Mumbai for allegedly demanding a ₹50 lakh bribe to settle
a tax evasion case and prevent a businessman’s arrest.
z To Circumvent Regulations: Bribes are used to bypass legal or regulatory hurdles, often to secure illegal or
unethical advantages.
z To Secure Employment: In competitive job markets, individuals are forced to pay bribes to secure employment
or promotions.
 The Vyapam Scam (2013) involved bribery for government jobs and medical college admissions in Madhya
Pradesh.
z To Protect Livelihoods: Small business owners and farmers bribe to avoid disruptions caused by local authorities
or bureaucratic hurdles, ensuring continuity of their work.
 Farmers have reported paying bribes to access subsidies or loans, fearing denial of support if they resist.

“Corruption comes from the never-ending greed. The fight for corruption-free ethical society will have to be
fought against this greed and replace it with ‘what can I give’ spirit”. Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam

Ethical Implications of Bribery

z Undermines Integrity and Trust: Bribery erodes the integrity of public officials and institutions, leading to
a loss of trust among citizens. It compromises ethical governance and creates skepticism about the fairness of
public administration.
 The 2019 PDS Scam in Karnataka exposed officials diverting food meant for the poor into black markets,
eroding trust in public welfare schemes.
z Encourages Corruption: Bribery fosters systemic corruption by normalizing unethical practices and reducing
accountability.
 The Commonwealth Games Scam (2010) in India involved large-scale corruption, with bribes paid to officials
and contractors inflating costs for infrastructure projects.
z Inequality and Unfair Practices: Bribery creates an unequal playing field, where those unable or unwilling to pay
bribes are at a disadvantage.
 The 2018 Global Corruption Barometer revealed that 56% of Indians felt excluded from accessing services
due to bribery demands.
z Erosion of Meritocracy: Decisions influenced by bribes undermine principles of meritocracy, leading to
inefficiencies and a lack of competence in institutions.
 Recruitment scams, such as SSC paper leaks, replace meritorious candidates with those who pay bribes.
z Hampers Development: Bribery diverts public funds from development projects and welfare schemes into private
pockets.
 The World Bank estimates that corruption costs developing countries $1.26 trillion annually, reducing
resources for critical projects.
z Loss of Credibility: Bribery damages the credibility and reputation of public institutions, weakening citizens’
trust in governance.
z Moral Degradation: Bribery normalizes unethical behavior, causing moral degradation in society and weakening
personal and organizational values of accountability and honesty.
z Harm to Vulnerable Groups: Bribery disproportionately affects marginalized and vulnerable groups, limiting
their access to basic services and opportunities.
 Rural families often pay bribes to access government schemes like MGNREGA, defeating the purpose of
empowering the poor.

Suggestions for Curbing Bribery

z Strengthen Whistleblower Protection: Implement robust laws and mechanisms to protect individuals who
report bribery from retaliation.
 Establish confidential reporting channels and provide legal safeguards for whistleblowers.

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z Promote Transparency in Processes: Simplify bureaucratic procedures and reduce discretionary powers to
minimize opportunities for bribery.
 Digitize public services like property registration
or welfare schemes to ensure accountability and
transparency.
z Encourage Ethical Leadership: Promote leaders who
demonstrate integrity and discourage corrupt practices
in organizations and institutions.
 Incorporate ethical leadership training in public
administration and corporate governance programs.
z Strengthen Legal and Institutional Frameworks: Enforce
stringent anti-corruption laws and ensure timely
punishment for offenders to deter bribery.
 Fast-track corruption cases and impose penalties that
include confiscation of illicit gains.
z Incorporate Ethics Education: Introduce ethics training
in schools, colleges, and workplaces to foster a culture
of honesty and accountability.
 Include real-world scenarios and ethical dilemma
workshops to equip individuals with decision-making skills.
z Encourage Social Accountability: Empower communities to monitor public projects and report discrepancies
through social audits.
 Use platforms like Right to Information (RTI) for public participation in governance.

Conclusion
Bribery undermines trust, meritocracy, and ethical governance, perpetuating inequality and corruption. The Supreme
Court’s pending decision on whether offering a bribe, even if refused, constitutes an offense under the pre-2018 PCA
will clarify ambiguities in corruption laws, shaping the legal framework and enforcement against bribery in India.

ETHICAL USE OF AI
Context: IndiaAI has invited Expressions of Interest
(EOI) for collaborative proposals for undertaking ‘safe
& trusted’ AI projects, including establishing ethical
AI frameworks and creating AI risk assessment
and management tools and deepfake detection
tools.
AI Ethics
z Definition: AI ethics is the multidisciplinary
study of moral principles applied to AI systems,
focusing on maximizing AI’s beneficial impact
while minimizing risks and adverse outcomes.
z Increasing adoption of AI in governance, medicine,
education, finance, and defense raises critical
ethical issues.
Purpose of IndiaAI’s proposal to call for
ethical AI
z To advance the responsible adoption of AI by
creating guardrails for ethical use under the Safe
& Trusted AI pillar of the IndiaAI Mission.
z To promote transparency, accountability, fairness,
and societal awareness in AI applications.

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Importance of AI Ethics
z Ensuring Fairness and Reducing Bias: AI systems
can inherit biases from training data, leading to Privacy & Data
discriminatory practices. Governance
 A Capgemini survey revealed that 85% of
organizations encountered ethical concerns in
their AI implementations​.
Reproducibility Fairness
z Safeguarding Privacy and Data Protection: AI relies
on large datasets, raising concerns about misuse of
personal information.
AI Ethics
 Recently, ANI sued OpenAI for unauthorized use of
copyrighted news articles
z Promoting Transparency and Accountability:
Transparent AI ensures public trust and helps assign
Explainability Accountability
responsibility for decisions.
 The “black box problem” in deep learning models
makes AI decision-making opaque, hindering
accountability. Transparency
z Preventing Security Risks and Misuse: Adversarial
attacks on AI systems can lead to catastrophic outcomes
in critical domains.
 AI-enabled cyberattacks, such as deepfakes, are rising; e.g., the fake video of Ukrainian President Zelenskyy
surrendering during the Russia-Ukraine conflict​.
z Fostering Inclusive Growth: Ethical AI ensures benefits reach all sections of society, avoiding digital divides.
 AI solutions like NIRAMAI (early breast cancer detection) must address inclusivity to ensure adoption in
rural areas​.
 The “AI for All” strategy by India aims to democratize AI benefits across underserved communities​.
z Building Public Trust in AI Systems: Ethical AI usage fosters trust, ensuring widespread adoption and acceptance.
 Ethical guidelines for facial recognition by Microsoft and Google improved user trust.

AI Ethics in Other Countries

Germany: The Institute for Ethics in Artificial Intelligence
z Human-centric engineering and a focus on the cultural and social anchoring of rapid advances in AI, covering
disciplines including philosophy, ethics, sociology, and political science.
United States: The AI Now Institute
z The social implications of AI, especially in the areas of: Rights and liberties, labour and automation, bias and
inclusion, and safety and critical infrastructure
United Kingdom: The Institute for Ethical AI & Machine Learning
z The Institute aims to empower all from individuals to entire nations to develop AI, based on principles for
responsible machine learning.
Belgium: AI4People
z The social impacts of AI, and the founding principles, policies, and practices upon which to build a ‘good AI society’.

Challenges for India in Ethical Use of AI

z Data Privacy and Protection: India lacks a comprehensive data protection law, making it difficult to regulate
how AI systems collect and use data.
 The absence of strong privacy laws like the EU’s GDPR raises concerns about misuse of personal data by AI
applications.

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z Bias and Discrimination in AI Models: Training datasets often reflect social, cultural, and systemic biases,
leading to discriminatory AI decisions.
 A NITI Aayog report highlights the need for
inclusive datasets that reflect India’s linguistic
and cultural diversity.
z Digital Divide: Unequal access to AI technologies
and infrastructure limits ethical and inclusive AI
adoption in rural and underserved areas.
 AI applications like e-health solutions remain
inaccessible to marginalized communities due
to lack of internet penetration.
z Dual-Use Nature of Technology: The dual-use
nature of AI poses challenges for India, enabling both
beneficial applications (e.g., healthcare, security)
and harmful misuse (e.g., surveillance, deepfakes),
requiring robust regulations, ethical oversight, and
public awareness.
z Lack of AI Regulations and Standards: India lacks
specific regulations to govern AI development and
deployment, leaving ethical concerns unaddressed.
 The Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) recently
initiated work on AI standards, but progress is
slow.
z AI Governance: India lacks a centralized
regulatory framework to govern the ethical use
of AI across sectors. Overlapping responsibilities
between MeitY, NITI Aayog, and other bodies create
ambiguities in AI governance.
 A dedicated AI ethics and governance body, similar to Singapore’s Model AI Governance Framework, has not
yet been established in India.
z Use of AI in Surveillance: AI-powered surveillance systems risk violating privacy and civil liberties if misused.
 The deployment of facial recognition systems in public spaces has raised concerns about mass surveillance
without adequate oversight.
 A 2021 report by Freedom House classified India as “partly free” in terms of digital rights, highlighting risks
of AI misuse.

RBI sets up 8-member panel to develop framework for ethical use of AI

z The committee will be headed by Dr. Pushpak Bhattacharyya, who serves as a Professor in the Department of
Computer Science and Engineering at IIT Bombay.
z Objective:
 To develop a Framework for Responsible and Ethical Enablement of Artificial Intelligence (FREE-AI) in
the Financial Sector.
z Mandates of the Committee:
 The committee will assess the current level of adoption of AI in financial services, both globally and in India.
 The committee will also identify potential risks associated with AI.
 It will recommend an evaluation, mitigation, and monitoring framework
z Key Focus Areas:
 Ensure fairness, transparency, and accountability in AI/ML applications.
 Address challenges like biases, data privacy, and cybersecurity risks.

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IndiaAI Mission and its significance:
z IndiaAI Mission:
 A national initiative aimed at positioning India as a global leader in AI by fostering innovation, developing
robust infrastructure, and promoting ethical AI use.
Key pillars of IndiaAI Mission
z IndiaAI Compute Capacity: Establishing scalable AI computing infrastructure with over 10,000 GPUs via public-
private partnerships.
z IndiaAI Innovation Centre (IAIC): Developing foundational AI models, including Large Multimodal Models
(LMMs).
z IndiaAI Datasets Platform: Enhancing access to high-quality public datasets for research and innovation.
z IndiaAI FutureSkills Program: Expanding AI education through graduate/post-graduate programs and setting
up Data and AI Labs across cities and towns.

Way Forward for Ethical AI in India

z Establish a Comprehensive Legal Framework: Implement robust laws for data protection, AI governance, and
ethical standards.
 A law similar to the EU’s GDPR can regulate data usage by AI systems.
z Promote Indigenous AI Research and Development: Invest in AI research tailored to India’s diverse needs and
values.
z Encourage collaborations between government, academia, and industry to create inclusive and culturally
sensitive AI solutions.
z Develop Ethical AI Standards: Establish AI standards through the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) for fairness,
transparency, and accountability.
 Standards aligned with international frameworks like OECD principles can ensure ethical global collaboration.

Global Initiatives Promoting Ethical AI

z OECD Principles on Artificial Intelligence
 The Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) established principles for trustworthy
AI.
 Endorsed by 46 countries, these principles guide governments in creating ethical AI policies.
z UNESCO’s Recommendation on the Ethics of Artificial Intelligence
 A global framework adopted by UNESCO in 2021 to ensure ethical AI use.
 Focuses on inclusion, sustainability, privacy, and data protection.
z GPAI (Global Partnership on Artificial Intelligence)
 A collaborative effort by 29 countries, including India, to advance ethical and inclusive AI.
 Focuses on bias reduction, data governance, and ensuring AI benefits are shared equitably.

z Bridge the Digital Divide: Ensure equitable access to AI technologies across rural and underserved areas.
 Strengthen infrastructure like internet connectivity and AI literacy programs to reduce disparities in AI adoption.
z Build Awareness and Ethical Capacity: Conduct public awareness campaigns and introduce AI ethics as part
of educational curricula.
 Train stakeholders, including policymakers, developers, and the public, on ethical AI practices.
z Establish a Regulatory Body for AI Oversight: Create an independent regulatory authority to oversee AI
deployments and enforce ethical practices.
 This body should monitor AI systems for compliance, assess risks, and address grievances.

Conclusion
AI offers incredible potential for progress and problem-solving, but without strong ethical guidelines, it risks
causing serious harm. Therefore, as AI development and deployment advance, adhering to ethical AI principles is
crucial to ensure this technology benefits all of humanity.

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ETHICS OF CAPITAL PUNISHMENT
Context: The CBI has filed an appeal before the Calcutta HC seeking
enhancement of life imprisonment to the death penalty for the convict
in the rape and murder of the doctor at the R.G. Kar Medical College
and Hospital.
Background of the Case
z In August, 2024, female postgraduate trainee doctor was raped and
murdered at R.G. Kar Medical College and Hospital in Kolkata.
z A male civic volunteer working for the Kolkata Police was arrested
under suspicion of committing the crime.

Recent Judgement about the Case

z The Kolkata sessions court has ruled the case as not being “rarest
of rare”.
z The court has denied the death penalty to prime accused, despite
public outcry and sentenced him for life imprisonment.

About Capital Punishment

z Capital punishment refers to the process of sentencing convicted
offenders to death for the most serious crimes (capital crimes) and
carrying out that sentence.
z The specific offenses that determine if a crime is eligible for a death
sentence are defined by Law (e.g. IPC/BNS, UAPA, TADA etc).
z Some convicts who have been awarded the death penalty:
 Ajmal Kasab (2012): For involvement in the 2008 Mumbai Terror Attacks (26/11).Afzal Guru (2013): He was
involved in the 2001 Indian Parliament Attack.
 Yakub Memon (2015): Involvement in the 1993 Bombay Bombings.
 Dhananjoy Chatterjee (2004): Murder of the Basu family in Kolkata in 1990.
 Nirbhaya convicts (2020): Four convicts of the Delhi rape and murder case in 2012.

Doctrine of “Rarest of the Rare”

z The doctrine of “rarest of the rare” emerged from the landmark judgment in Bachan Singh vs. State of Punjab
(1980).
z Key Highlights of the Doctrine:
 The doctrine established that sentencing should consider not just the crime but also the circumstances of the offender.
 It ensures that the punishment is proportionate to the crime.
z Subsequent Developments:
 The “rarest of the rare” doctrine has been further clarified in cases like Machhi Singh vs. State of Punjab
(1983), which outlined aggravating and mitigating factors.
 The courts have evolved the principle to avoid arbitrary or biased use of the death penalty.

Challenges in Maintaining Judicial Ethics

z Public Opinion and Populism: In high-profile cases, public outrage or demands for harsh punishment can unduly
influence judicial decisions.
z Political Interference: The judiciary, though independent, is occasionally pressured by political forces to deliver
judgments favorable to the ruling government or influential groups.
z Media Trial and Sensationalism: Media coverage often creates a parallel trial outside the courtroom, putting
undue pressure on judges.
z Ethical Dilemmas: Judges often face moral conflicts, such as balancing the need for justice with considerations of
compassion or mercy.

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z Lack of Uniform Sentencing Guidelines: India lacks a comprehensive, structured sentencing policy, leading to
discrepancies in punishment for similar crimes.

Arguments in Support of the Death Penalty

z Justice for Victims: The death penalty is seen as fair retribution for those who commit the most heinous crimes,
giving justice to the victims and their families.
z Forfeiture of the Right to Life: Individuals who commit murder forfeit their right to life, as they have taken
someone else’s life.
Arguments Against the Death Penalty
z Disproportionate Punishment: When used for lesser crimes, the death penalty is deemed immoral as it is
disproportionate to the harm caused.
z Violation of Human Rights: Everyone has a right to life. Taking a person’s life through the death penalty is seen
as cruel, inhuman, and degrading.
Way Forward for Addressing Capital Punishment and Judicial Ethics Issues
z Clear Legal Guidelines: Establish comprehensive legal frameworks for awarding the death penalty, ensuring that
it is only imposed in the “rarest of rare” cases, as outlined in the Bachan Singh v. State of Punjab case.
z Reducing Political Influence: Strengthen safeguards
for judicial independence, ensuring that judges are not
influenced by political pressure, populism, or media trials.
 A judicial accountability law could be considered to
prevent external interference.
z Public Awareness and Education: Promote public
understanding of judicial processes, ensuring that
decisions are not swayed by sensational media coverage
or populist sentiments.
z Training for Judges: Provide training programs for
judges on the ethical and practical challenges in sentencing,
particularly in complex cases involving capital punishment.
 Training should help judges understand the
psychological and societal dimensions of crime and
punishment.
z Strengthening Accountability Mechanisms within the
Judiciary:
 Transparent Decision-Making: Mandating detailed
reasoning for judgments to ensure fairness and build
public trust.
 Role of Higher Judiciary: Appellate courts should
review and address inconsistencies in lower court
sentencing, promoting uniformity and adherence to
ethical standards.
z Considering the Abolition of the Death Penalty: The
262nd Law Commission of India report on death penalty
has recommended the abolition of death penalty for all
offences except those related to terrorism.

Global Status of Capital Punishment:

z The stance on capital punishment varies globally: countries like India, the U.S., and China retain it, while many
countries, such as those in the European Union, have abolished it.
z More than 70% of the world’s coun­tries have abol­ished capital punishment in law or practice.
z In 2023, the countries with the highest number of executions were China, Iran, Saudi Arabia, Somalia and the
USA – in that order.

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OBSCENE HUMOUR AND OBSCENITY LAWS IN INDIA
Context: Ranveer Allahbadia, founder of a YouTube channel ‘Beer Biceps’, has become the subject of a Mumbai police
probe for the allegedly obscene comments he made during a guest appearance on a YouTube show.

Obscenity in India
z Anything that is offensive to modesty or decency, or lewd, repulsive, or filthy, is considered obscene under Indian law.
z The concepts of decency and morality are linked to obscenity, ensuring that actions align with societal standards.
z Common law recognizes indecent exposure and publication as criminal offenses.

Arguments for Freedom of Speech in Humour

z Humour as a Tool for Political Critique & Accountability:
Satire and comedy hold power accountable by exposing
corruption, hypocrisy, and inefficiency in governance.
 Democracies thrive on dissent; humour is a non-violent
form of critique.The Supreme Court in S. Rangarajan v.
P. Jagjivan Ram (1989) ruled that threats of public
outrage should not be used to silence free speech.
z Comedy Promotes Social Change & Challenges Stereotypes:
Humour questions regressive norms related to gender,
caste, religion, and sexuality.
 It creates awareness and dialogue about sensitive issues.
 Indian comedians like Vir Das (Two Indias speech, 2021)
have highlighted class divides and social hypocrisy
through satire.
z Humour Helps in Coping with Trauma & Mental Health:
Humour is therapeutic and helps society cope with tragedy
and crises.
 Laughing at difficult realities can be a form of emotional
resilience.
 According to the American Psychological Association,
humour reduces stress and boosts mental well-being.
z Censorship of Humour Leads to Authoritarianism:
Countries that curb humour often suppress dissent and
erode democratic values.
 Heckler’s veto (banning content due to potential outrage)
creates a culture of fear.
 Freedom House (2023) ranks Saudi Arabia & North Korea among the most censored countries, where satire
is illegal.
z Offensive Humour is Subjective & Context-Dependent: What is considered offensive in one culture may be
normal in another.
 Courts have ruled that intent and audience perception must be considered.
 Aveek Sarkar v. State of West Bengal (2014): SC rejected the “Hicklin Test”, ruling that context matters in
deciding obscenity.
z Audiences Have the Right to Choose, Not the State: Viewers should self-regulate—if they don’t like something,
they can switch off or boycott instead of demanding bans.
 Excessive censorship infantilizes citizens and assumes they cannot think critically.
 The Supreme Court in Shreya Singhal v. Union of India (2015) struck down Section 66A of the IT Act, ruling
that the right to be offended does not override free speech.

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Arguments Against Obscene Humour
z Obscene Humour Degrades Public Morality & Cultural Values: Obscene jokes erode moral standards, normalizing
vulgarity, sexual objectification, and indecency.
z Normalization of Sexual Jokes Contributes to Gender Inequality: Sexist jokes and hypersexualized humour
contribute to rape culture, workplace harassment, and gender discrimination.
 Laughing at inappropriate jokes about women normalizes misogyny and toxic masculinity.
 Utsav Chakraborty Case (2018): A comedian accused of sexual harassment had previously made sexist jokes,
reflecting the danger of normalizing such behaviour.
z Exposure to Obscene Humour Negatively Affects Children & Adolescents: Children and teenagers exposed to
obscene humour develop distorted views on relationships, sexuality, and respect.
 Explicit jokes in public spaces, social media, or TV shows create an unsafe environment for young audiences.
 A study by Harvard School of Public Health found that exposure to sexually explicit media increases risky sexual
behaviour among teenagers.
z Obscene Humour Can Lead to Workplace Harassment & Legal Consequences: Sexual jokes at workplaces create
hostile environments and encourage inappropriate behaviour.
 India’s #MeToo Movement (2018): Many workplace harassment cases involved jokes with sexual undertones,
later used as evidence against perpetrators.
z Public Spaces & Digital Platforms Are Not Private – Obscene Humour Violates Community Standards: Not
everyone consents to listen to or watch obscene humour in public places, social media, or mainstream media.
 Unregulated vulgarity in online content can expose millions to inappropriate material.
 OTT Show “Tandav” (2021) faced backlash for offensive content, leading to new OTT content regulation policies
in India.
 Freedom of Speech is Not Absolute – Societal Harmony Must Be Respected: Free speech does not give the
right to offend public morality, religious sentiments, or community values.
 The Supreme Court in Aveek Sarkar v. State of West Bengal (2014) ruled that public decency is a valid restriction
on speech.
Way Forward for Obscene Humour in India
z Clearer Legal Definitions of Obscenity: Define obscene
humour separately from hate speech and artistic
expression.
 Use the Community Standards Test rather than the
outdated Hicklin Test.
z Self-Regulation by Comedians & Content Creators:
Comedy platforms & artists should establish content
guidelines (e.g., trigger warnings for explicit jokes).
 Encourage ethical humour that critiques social issues
without degrading individuals or communities.
z Strengthening Digital & OTT Regulations Without
Censorship: Age restrictions & content classifications
for stand-up specials & digital comedy.
 Independent grievance redressal mechanisms rather
than direct government censorship.
z Community-Based Content Moderation: Use a
Community Standards Model—content should be
reviewed based on evolving public sentiment, not
outdated moral codes.
 Allow public feedback mechanisms instead of legal
bans.

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z Judicial Oversight to Prevent Arbitrary Arrests: Courts should require clear legal justification before allowing
arrests for offensive humour.
 Establish a legal distinction between “offensive” and “criminal” humour.
z Promoting Counter-Speech Instead of Bans: Encourage counter-speech, debates, and discussions instead of legal
bans.
z Social awareness campaigns to educate audiences on ethical humour and responsible consumption.
z Adopting International Best Practices: Follow models like the US “Miller Test” for defining obscenity.
 Allow self-regulatory content ratings like the UK Film Classification Board.
 France protects satire under free speech laws, but imposes penalties on hate speech and targeted obscenity.
z Need for Balanced Regulation: Society must strike a balance between protecting sensitivities and preserving free
speech.
 Courts must balance societal decency with artistic freedom, ensuring that laws are not misused to suppress
legitimate expression.
 A hybrid approach, where platforms implement strong moderation with periodic regulatory oversight, can
balance creative freedom with public decency.

Conclusion
The Ranveer Allahbadia controversy highlights the ongoing debate between creative freedom and societal
sensitivities in India. While humour and satire are essential for free expression, they must also be responsible
and respectful of diverse sentiments. The way forward lies in self-regulation, clear legal frameworks, and open
dialogue, rather than excessive censorship or legal intimidation.

ETHICS IN INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS

Context: The recent talks between the US and Ukrainian presidents have drawn global attention, sparking questions
about whether this is the right approach for leaders to address a situation that continues to impact lives.

About Ethics in International Relations

z Ethics in international relations refers to the moral principles that guide the behavior of states and their leaders
in the global arena.
z Leaders must balance national interests, strategic foresight, and ethical diplomacy.
z The role of ethics becomes crucial in war, peace negotiations, and global diplomacy.

Key Ethical Principles in International Relations

z Sovereignty and Non-Intervention: States should not intervene in the internal affairs of other nations unless there
is a clear violation of human rights or a threat to global peace.
 Example: The UN Charter emphasizes sovereignty, but interventions like those in Rwanda (1994) or Kosovo
(1999) raise ethical questions about when intervention is justified.
z Human Rights: States and international organizations have a moral obligation to protect human rights, even if it
conflicts with national interests.
 Example: The Universal Declaration of Human Rights (1948) sets a global standard, but violations in conflicts
like Syria highlight the gap between principle and practice.
z Justice and Fairness: International agreements and policies should aim for equitable outcomes, especially in trade,
climate change, and resource distribution.
 Example: Climate justice debates—developed nations bear more responsibility for emissions, as per the Common
but Differentiated Responsibilities (CBDR) principle.
z Peace and Non-Violence: War should only be a last resort, and even then, it must be conducted ethically, minimizing
harm to civilians (jus in bello).
 Example: The Iraq War (2003) is often criticized for failing to meet the ethical criteria of a “just war.”

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z Global Cooperation and Solidarity: Nations should work together to address global challenges like climate change,
poverty, and pandemics.
 Example: The COVID-19 pandemic highlighted the need for global cooperation in vaccine distribution and
healthcare support.
z Environmental Stewardship: Protecting the environment and ensuring sustainable development for future
generations.
 Example: The Kyoto Protocol and Paris Agreement are international efforts to combat climate change, though
enforcement remains a challenge.
z Transparency and Accountability: Corruption, secrecy, and lack of accountability undermine trust and ethical
governance in international relations.
z Example: International Criminal Court (ICC) cases against African leaders but reluctance to prosecute Western
leaders.
z Equality of Nations: All nations, regardless of size or power, should have equal voice and representation in
international forums.
 Example: The UN Security Council’s veto power is often criticized for favoring powerful nations like the US,
Russia, and China.
z Non-Discrimination: Nations and international actors should avoid discrimination based on race, religion, gender,
or nationality.
 Example: The Refugee Convention (1951) aims to protect the rights of refugees without discrimination.

Ethical Issues in International Relations

z Human Rights Violations and Selective Intervention: Nations and international organizations often apply human
rights norms selectively, intervening in some crises while ignoring others.
 The US and EU sanctions on Russia (2022) for the Ukraine war but limited action against Saudi Arabia over
Yemen.
 As per the UNHCR, there were over 114 million forcibly displaced people worldwide by 2023, many due to
human rights abuses.
z War Ethics and Justification for Military Interventions: Ethical dilemmas arise in deciding when military
intervention is justified and whether civilian casualties can be deemed “collateral damage.”
 US invasion of Iraq (2003), justified on false claims of weapon of mass destruction (WMDs), raising ethical
concerns.
 According to Brown University’s “Costs of War” project, post-9/11 wars by the US led to 4.5 million deaths
due to direct and indirect impacts.
z Climate Change and Environmental Justice: Developed countries, historically responsible for the majority of
greenhouse gas emissions, have been reluctant to take full responsibility or provide sufficient aid to vulnerable
nations.
 Paris Climate Agreement (2015)—Developing nations demanded financial help under the Loss and Damage
Fund, but contributions remain inadequate.
 China (30%) and the US (14%) account for nearly 44% of global CO₂ emissions, while Africa contributes
only 4%, yet faces disproportionate climate disasters.
z Economic Exploitation and Unequal Trade Policies: Richer nations exploit weaker economies through unfair
trade agreements, debt traps, and resource extraction.
 IMF and World Bank structural adjustment programs (SAPs) have often led to economic hardships in African
and Latin American nations.
 According to UNCTAD, Africa loses $88.6 billion annually due to illicit financial flows and unfair trade.

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z Refugee Crisis and Migration Policies: Nations have an ethical responsibility to provide asylum to displaced
persons, but policies often prioritize national
security over humanitarian needs.
 Syrian Refugee Crisis (2015)—Europe
received over 1.3 million refugees, but many
states restricted entry.
 The UNHCR (2023) reports that over 117.3
million people were forcibly displaced
worldwide, including 36.4 million refugees, by
the end of 2023..
z Cyber Ethics and Digital Surveillance:
Governments and corporations engage in mass
surveillance, hacking, and misinformation
campaigns, raising ethical concerns.
 Russian cyberattacks—Targeted elections in
the US and Europe, raising ethical concerns
about foreign interference.
 The World Economic Forum (2023) listed
cyber threats among the top 10 global risks,
with hacking incidents costing the global
economy over $6 trillion annually.
z UN Effectiveness and Accountability: The UN
and international institutions are often criticized
for being biased, slow, or ineffective in conflict
resolution.
 Failure to prevent genocides—UN inaction in
Rwanda (1994) and Myanmar (2017) led to
mass atrocities.
 Over 90% of UN peacekeeping missions have
been deployed in Africa and Asia, often criticized
for being underfunded and politically influenced.

Way Forward for Strengthening Ethics in International Relations

z Strengthening International Legal Mechanisms: Enhance the enforcement power of the International Criminal
Court (ICC) and International Court of Justice (ICJ) to hold violators accountable.
 Reform the UN Security Council veto system to prevent political bias in global conflict resolutions.
z Promoting Ethical Diplomacy and Conflict Resolution: Encourage peaceful negotiations over military
interventions through mediation efforts by the UN and regional bodies.
 Strengthen the role of track-II diplomacy (non-governmental conflict resolution) to promote ethical dialogue.
z Ensuring Fair Global Economic Policies: Reform institutions like the IMF and World Bank to prioritize ethical
lending and reduce economic exploitation.
 Promote fair trade agreements that benefit developing nations and prevent debt traps.
z Addressing Climate and Environmental Ethics: Ensure that developed countries fulfill their commitments under
the Paris Agreement and Loss and Damage Fund for climate justice.
 Encourage ethical investment in renewable energy and sustainable development.

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z Strengthening Human Rights and Refugee Protections: Ensure the UN Human Rights Council takes unbiased
action against human rights violations.
 Strengthen the global refugee protection framework by ensuring equitable responsibility-sharing among
nations.
z Encouraging Transparency and Accountability: Implement stricter regulations to prevent cyber warfare,
misinformation, and digital surveillance abuses.
 Promote independent watchdogs like NGOs and investigative journalism to expose global ethical violations.

Conclusion
Ethics in international relations is essential for promoting peace, justice, and global cooperation. Strengthening
international institutions, promoting ethical diplomacy, and ensuring global accountability can help create a more
fair, just, and sustainable world order.

198 MAINS 2024 COMPILATION