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  • Planetary Formation observed around HOPS‑315 Star

    Why in the News?

    A study in Nature has provided the first observational evidence of solid rock forming from vapour in a distant star system HOPS-315, marking early planet formation.

    About HOPS-315:

    • Type: A young star system located in the Orion constellation.
    • Protoplanetary Disc: Surrounded by a flat, rotating disc of gas and dust, where new planets can form.
    • Orientation: The disc’s tilt offers a clear line of sight from Earth, allowing deep observation.
    • Observational Tools:

    Clue on New Planet Formation:

    • Rock Vapour Crystallisation: Scientists captured rock vapour cooling and forming crystals, marking the first direct observation of solid matter forming around a star.
    • Detected Elements:
      • Silicon monoxide gas at 470 Kelvin, close to the star.
      • Crystalline silicates such as forsterite, enstatite, and silica found within 2.2 astronomical units of the star.

    Scientific Significance:

    • Similarity to Earth: The crystallisation mimics processes found in primitive meteorites on Earth.
    • Chemical Confirmation: Suggests universal chemical processes in early planet formation across star systems.
    • Location of Minerals: Crystals were detected in the disc’s atmosphere, not in stellar outflows.
    • Temperature Conditions: Simulations confirmed dust vaporises and re-forms into solids at around 1300 Kelvin.
    • Formation Stage: Marks the earliest stage of rocky planet formation ever observed.
    [UPSC 2015] The term ‘Goldilocks Zone’ is often seen in the news in the context of-

    Options: (a) the limits of habitable zone above the surface of the Earth (b) regions inside the Earth where shale gas is available (c) search for the Earth-like planets in outer space* (d) search for meteorites containing precious metals

     

  • Realities behind the global experiment of ‘remote work’ 

    Why in the News?

    A new “Global Survey of Working Arrangements” (2024–25) by the Ifo Institute and Stanford University has spotlighted the growing mismatch between workers’ desire for remote work and its actual availability worldwide.

    Why does a gap remain between the preference for remote work and its adoption?

    • Employer Reluctance Due to Team Dynamics: Many managers believe that remote work reduces collaboration, innovation, and team bonding. Eg: In India’s tech sector, firms like TCS and Infosys have mandated office returns to maintain team culture.
    • Cultural Bias Toward Presenteeism: In several countries, especially in Asia, being physically present at work is linked to loyalty and productivity. Eg: Japanese companies often expect employees to stay late in office, even if not productive, as a show of commitment.
    •  Inadequate Home Infrastructure: Remote work demands reliable internet, quiet spaces, and ergonomic setups, which are lacking for many, especially in urban India or Southeast Asia. Eg: A Mumbai-based employee may live in a 1BHK flat with family, limiting concentration and comfort.
    • Health and Mental Well-being Concerns: Long-term remote work has led to increased backaches, eye strain, and mental stress due to isolation and blurred work-life boundaries. Eg: A Microsoft global report showed rising burnout levels among fully remote workers during the pandemic.

    How do culture and infrastructure hinder remote work in Asia?

    • Cultural Preference for Physical Presence: Many Asian workplaces equate being physically present with dedication and productivity. Eg: In Japan and South Korea, staying late in the office is considered a sign of commitment, discouraging remote setups.
    • Hierarchical Management Style: Traditional Asian work cultures rely on face-to-face supervision and top-down communication, making remote work less trusted. Eg: In India, many managers still believe in monitoring employee performance through in-person interactions.
    • Weak Digital and Housing Infrastructure: Many households lack reliable internet, private workspaces, or quiet environments, especially in urban slums or dense family homes. Eg: In Indonesia or the Philippines, remote employees often face disruptions due to unstable power or cramped living conditions.

    What is Remote work?

    Remote work (also known as work from home or telecommuting) is a work arrangement where employees perform their job duties outside of a traditional office environment, typically from their home or another location of their choice, using digital tools and internet connectivity.

    What are the gender implications of remote work trends?

    • Increased Unpaid Care Work for Women: Remote work has led to a disproportionate care burden on women, affecting their productivity and well-being. Eg: According to a 2022 UN Women report, women globally spent 3 times more hours on unpaid care work than men during the pandemic, even while working from home. In India, this gap was wider due to joint family setups and lack of domestic help.
    • Improved Flexibility, Aiding Workforce Re-entry: Remote work has provided flexible job opportunities for women who otherwise drop out due to childcare or household responsibilities. Eg: A 2021 LinkedIn report found that 60% of Indian women professionals preferred remote jobs to maintain work-life balance, and 30% rejoined the workforce post-pandemic due to such options.
    • Risk of Career Stagnation and Isolation: Remote women employees often face reduced visibility, leading to fewer promotions or leadership roles. Eg: A 2023 McKinsey study found that women working remotely were 1.5 times less likely to be promoted compared to their in-office peers, especially in mid-career roles.

    Why are employers reluctant to allow full remote work?

    • Concerns Over Productivity and Supervision: Employers fear a drop in productivity and difficulty in monitoring performance when employees work remotely full-time. They believe in-person settings enable better oversight, collaboration, and accountability.
    • Impact on Organisational Culture and Innovation: Physical workplaces are seen as essential for team bonding, mentorship, and creative brainstorming, which are harder to replicate virtually. Employers worry that remote work weakens organisational culture and slows innovation.

    What are the steps taken by the Indian Government?

    • Remote Work in SEZ Rules: The government amended the Special Economic Zones (SEZ) Rules (2006) by adding Rule 43A, allowing 100% of IT/ITeS employees in SEZs to work remotely for up to one year, extendable with permission.
    • Inclusion in New Labour Codes: The Occupational Safety, Health and Working Conditions Code, 2020 and the Social Security Code, 2020brought home-based workers under their ambit, addressing safety, health, and social protection for remote employees.

    What measures can ensure remote work is fair and sustainable? (Way forward)

    • Clear Legal and Social Protection Framework: Establish comprehensive labour regulations covering working hours, overtime, health and safety, and right to disconnect for remote workers. This helps prevent exploitation, burnout, and ensures work-life balance.
    • Inclusive Digital Infrastructure and Skill Development: Invest in pan-India broadband access, especially in rural and Tier-2/3 cities, and promote digital literacy programs. This ensures equal opportunities and reduces the urban-rural digital divide, making remote work accessible to all.

    Mains PYQ:

    [UPSC 2022] Explore and evaluate the impact of ‘Work From Home’ on family relationships.

    Linakge: The Unfinished Revolution of Remote Work,” delves into the complexities of remote work beyond just its flexibility and freedom. It highlights several key realities that make the “revolution of remote work” far more complicated than initially imagined.  This question directly addresses one of the significant “realities” and impacts of remote work, specifically focusing on “family relationships”.

  • [pib] Ashokan Pillars of Rampurva and Lauriya Nandangarh

    Why in the News?

    A replica of the Ashoka Pillar was unveiled at Waskaduwa Sri Subhuthi Viharaya highlighting Buddhism in Sri Lanka.

    The original pillars, like those at Rampurva and Lauriya Nandangarh in Bihar, are key symbols of India’s Buddhist and Mauryan heritage and are on UNESCO’s Tentative List.

    [pib] Ashoka Pillars of Rampurva and Lauriya Nandangarh

    About Rampurva Ashoka Pillars (West Champaran, Bihar):

    • Location: Near the Nepal border in West Champaran district, Bihar.
    • Discovery: Found by archaeologist Alexander Cunningham, Lamb Carlleyle in 1876.
    • Pillars: Two monolithic sandstone pillars, 300 meters apart:
      • Lion Capital Pillar: Contains Major Pillar Edicts I–VI in Brahmi script.
      • Bull Capital Pillar: Known for artistic refinement and Persian-inspired motifs.
    • Design Features:
      • Polished sandstone with Mauryan craftsmanship.
      • Height: 12–15 meters; Weight: Up to 50 tons.
      • Lion Capital: Preserved at Indian Museum, Kolkata.
      • Bull Capital: Housed at Rashtrapati Bhavan, New Delhi; praised for its lifelike form and “velvet touch” finish.
      • Decorative motifs include rosette, palmette, and acanthus—showing Persian influence.
    • Legend: Marks the site of Buddha’s renunciation near the Anoma River.

    About Lauriya Nandangarh Ashoka Pillar (West Champaran, Bihar):

    • Location: 22–28 kilometers northwest of Bettiah town.
    • Surviving Structure: Only one complete pillar remains from an original group.
    • Material and Size:
      • Made of Chunar sandstone.
      • Stands about 12 meters above ground with ~3 meters underground; Weighs over 50 tons.
    • Capital Design:
      • Features a seated lion with hind legs extending beyond the abacus.
      • The abacus is adorned with hamsa (flying geese), symbolizing spiritual liberation.
    • Inscriptions:
      • Engraved with Major Pillar Edicts I–VI in Brahmi script, dated to 244 BCE.
      • Promotes dharma, non-violence, religious tolerance, and compassion.
    • Symbolism:
      • The lion capital represents Mauryan imperial strength and Buddha’s Sakya lineage.
      • The lion’s open mouth symbolizes the dissemination of Ashoka’s ethical and Buddhist teachings.
    [UPSC 2019] In which of the following relief sculpture inscriptions is ‘Ranyo Ashoka’ (King Ashoka) mentioned along with the stone portrait of Ashoka?

    Options: (a) Kanganahalli* (b) Sanchi I (c) Shahbazgarhi (d) Sohgaura

     

  • [pib] 10 years of Winter Fog Experiment (WiFEX)

    Why in the News?

    The Winter Fog Experiment (WiFEX) at Delhi’s IGI Airport, has marked 10 years of pioneering research on dense winter fog in North India.

    [pib] 10 years of Winter Fog Experiment (WiFEX)

    About Winter Fog Experiment (WiFEX):

    • Purpose: It is a long-term, open-field research project dedicated to studying winter fog—a major hazard in North India.
    • Launch: Initiated in 2015 at Indira Gandhi International Airport, New Delhi.
    • Lead Institution: Managed by the Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology (IITM) under the Ministry of Earth Sciences.
    • Supporting Agencies: Supported by the India Meteorological Department (IMD) and the National Centre for Medium Range Weather Forecasting.
    • Objective: To understand fog variability, dynamics, and microphysics, and to improve fog forecasting across the Indo-Gangetic Plain.

    Key Features:

    • Network: Began at Indira Gandhi International Airport; expanded to Jewar Airport (Noida) and Hisar (Haryana).
    • Instruments Used: Includes micrometeorology towers, ceilometers, and high-frequency sensors.
    • Data Collected: Covers temperature profiles, humidity, wind, turbulence, soil heat flux, and aerosol concentrations.
    • Scientific Goal: To model the full fog life cycle and develop operational forecasting systems.
    • Next Phase – WiFEX-II:
      • Will provide localized, runway-specific fog forecasts.
      • Will expand to more airports for real-time winter decision-making.

    Outcomes:

    • Forecasting Model: A high-resolution fog prediction model with 3-km resolution and 85% accuracy for very dense fog (visibility <200 metres).
    • Operational Benefits: Reduced flight delays and diversions; enhanced runway safety.
    • Research Insights: Clarified the role of air pollution, urban heat islands, and land-use changes in fog formation.
    • Significance:
      • Aviation Planning: Helps airlines, pilots, and passengers manage winter fog disruptions.
      • Science-Policy Link: Demonstrates successful collaboration between scientific institutions and public policy to address climate and aviation challenges.
    [UPSC 2014] Photochemical smog is a resultant of the reaction among-

    Options: (a) NO2, O3 and peroxyacetyl nitrate in the presence of sunlight ** (b) CO2, O2, and peroxyacetyl nitrate in the presence of sunlight (c) CO, CO2, and NO2 at low temperature (d) high concentration of NO2, O3 and CO in the evening

     

  • [pib] PRATIBHA Setu Initiative

    Why in the News?

    The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) has launched the PRATIBHA Setu initiative to channel the potential of civil service aspirants who reach the interview stage but do not make the final merit list.

    About PRATIBHA Setu:

    • Meaning: Stands for Professional Resource And Talent Integration – Bridge for Hiring Aspirants.
    • Purpose: Connects candidates who cleared the interview stage of Union Public Service Commission exams but didn’t make the final merit list with verified employers.
    • Launch: Rolled out during CSE Examination 2023 results; evolved from the Public Disclosure Scheme (2018).
    • Objective: Utilizes the Union Public Service Commission’s rigorous selection process to support alternate career pathways for high-performing aspirants.
    • Talent Pool:
      • Scale: Over 10,000 high-performing candidates available for recruitment.
      • Merit-Based: Offers employers access to a pre-tested, well-evaluated talent group.

    Key Features:

    • Eligibility:
      • Included: Civil Services, Indian Forest Service, Engineering Services, Central Armed Police Forces, Combined Medical Services, etc.
      • Excluded: National Defence Academy, Naval Academy, and certain Limited Departmental Competitive Examinations.
    • Access for Recruiters: Organizations register using Corporate Identification Number through the Ministry of Corporate Affairs portal.
    • Platform Tools:
      • Functions: Dashboard for shortlisting, wish-listing, and making selections or rejections.
      • Data Access: Employers can view candidates’ educational profiles and contact details in digital format.

    Impact:

    • Candidate Benefit: Opens alternate career paths for deserving UPSC aspirants.
    • Employer Advantage: Enables transparent and efficient hiring from India’s top talent.
    • Wider Utility: Extends the relevance of the UPSC selection process beyond final appointments.
    [UPSC 2020] In the context of India, which one of the following is the characteristic appropriate for bureaucracy?

    Options: (a) An agency for widening the scope of parliamentary democracy (b) An agency for strengthening the structure of federalism (c) An agency for facilitating political stability and economic growth (d) An agency for the implementation of public policy*

     

  • In news: International Seabed Authority (ISA) 

    Why in the News?

    Despite growing global pressure, the International Seabed Authority (ISA) has yet to finalize regulations for deep sea mining.

    Deadlock Over Deep Sea Mining Rules:

    • ISA’s 36-member executive council concluded a line-by-line reading of the draft “mining code” containing 107 regulations.
    • These regulations govern mining for cobalt, nickel, and manganese in international waters.
    • Key concerns remain unresolved, especially around environmental protection mechanisms.
    • Chile and 36 other countries demand a moratorium until scientific assessments confirm minimal harm to marine ecosystems.
    • Also, the US is not a member of the ISA or party to UNCLOS.

    About International Seabed Authority (ISA):

    • Establishment: Formed under the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (1982) and the 1994 Agreement relating to Part XI of the Convention.
    • Headquarters: Located in Kingston, Jamaica.
    • Membership: Comprises 168 member states including India and the European Union.
    • Jurisdiction: Governs “The Area” — the seabed and ocean floor beyond national boundaries, covering around 54% of global oceans.
    • Guiding Principle: Operates on the principle that deep-sea resources are the common heritage of humankind.

    Key Functions:

    • Regulation of Mineral Activities
      • Licensing: Grants licenses for exploration of seabed mineral resources.
      • Transition Oversight: Manages the shift from exploration to commercial exploitation.
    • Mining Code Development: Maintains the Mining Code—rules for environmental impact, royalties, benefit sharing, and technology transfer.
    • Environmental Protection
      • Standards: Sets and enforces environmental norms for seabed activities.
      • Risk Management: Applies precautionary principles to minimize ecological harm.
    • Oversight and Compliance
      • Monitoring: Oversees contractors and states for legal and environmental adherence.
      • Enforcement: Investigates violations and recommends corrective action.

    India’s Engagement with the International Seabed Authority:

    • Active Participation: India contributes to rule-making and sustainable seabed governance.
    • Existing Contracts:
      • Polymetallic nodules in the Central Indian Ocean Basin.
      • Polymetallic sulphides in the Central Indian Ridge.
    • New Applications (2024):
      • Polymetallic sulphides in the Carlsberg Ridge.
      • Cobalt-rich crusts in the Afanasy-Nikitin Seamount.
    • Mining Code Engagement: Participates in drafting and negotiating legal standards.
    • Equity and Protection: Supports fair benefit-sharing and strong environmental safeguards.
    [UPSC 2021] Consider the following statements:
    1. The Global Ocean Commission grants licences for seabed exploration and mining in international waters.
    2. India has received licences for seabed mineral exploration in international waters
    3. ‘Rare earth minerals’ are present on the seafloor in international waters.
    Which of the statements given above are correct?
    (a) 1 and 2 only (b) 2 and 3 only* (c) 1 and 3 only (d) 1, 2 and 3

     

  • MiG-21s to retire by September

    MiG-21s to retire by September

    Why in the News?

    The Indian Air Force’s longest-serving combat aircraft, the Russian-origin MiG (Mikoyan and Gurevich)-21, is set to be phased out by September 2025.

    About MiG-21:

    • Type: Single-engine, single-seater, multi-role fighter and ground attack aircraft.
    • Origin: Originally inducted as an interceptor; later upgraded for multi-role capabilities.
    • Key Indian Variants: Type-77, Type-96, MiG-21 BIS and MiG-21 Bison (most advanced variant with upgraded radar, avionics, and missile systems).
    • Safety Concerns:
      • High accident rate, especially in recent decades.
      • Earned the nickname “flying coffin” due to frequent crashes and pilot fatalities.
    • Combat Features:
      • Performance: Known for high speed, agility, and rapid climb capability.
      • Armament: Capable of deploying both air-to-air and air-to-ground missiles.
      • War Record: Played key roles in- 1965 War with Pakistan; 1971 Bangladesh Liberation War; 1999 Kargil Conflict.
    • Notable Operation: In 2019, a MiG-21 Bison piloted by Group Captain Abhinandan Varthaman shot down a Pakistani F-16 during aerial combat.

    Induction and Retirement:

    • Induction:
      • Timeline: Inducted into the Indian Air Force in 1963 during tensions with China and Pakistan.
      • Assembly: First units assembled in India at Chandigarh with Soviet assistance.
      • Scale: Over 700 MiG-21s were procured, forming the backbone of the Indian Air Force for decades.
    • Retirement:
      • Current Status: As of now, three MiG-21 Bison squadrons remain, each with 16–18 aircraft.
      • Replacement: To be replaced by the indigenously developed Tejas Mark-1A aircraft.

    Back2Basics: LCA Tejas

    • Type: Indian single-engine, fourth-generation, multirole light fighter aircraft.
    • R&D: Designed by the Aeronautical Development Agency in collaboration with the Aircraft Research and Design Centre of Hindustan Aeronautics Limited.
    • Origins: Developed under the Light Combat Aircraft programme launched in the 1980s to replace India’s ageing MiG-21 fleet.
    • Indigenous Content:
      • By Value: 59.7% of the aircraft’s components are sourced indigenously.
      • By Units: 75.5% of the line replaceable units are domestically produced.

     

    [UPSC 2024] Consider the following aircraft:

    1. Rafael 2. MiG-29 3. Tejas MK-1

    How many of the above are considered fifth generation fighter aircraft?

    Options: (a) Only one (b) Only two (c) All three (d) None*

     

  • Hatti Tradition of Polyandry

    Why in the news?

    The recent polyandrous marriage in Himachal Pradesh has brought the spotlight back on the customary practices of the Hatti tribe.

    About Hatti Tribe:

    • Location: Indigenous to the Trans-Giri region (Himachal Pradesh) and Jaunsar Bawar region (Uttarakhand).
    • Rivers: Settled around the Giri and Tons rivers, tributaries of the Yamuna.
    • Etymology: “Hatti” derives from “haat” (traditional village markets).
    • Population: Around 2.5 lakh in 2011; now estimated at 3 lakh.
    • Traditional Governance: Khumbli (tribal council) handles disputes and key decisions.
    • Social Structure: Divided into upper castes (Bhat, Khash) and lower castes (Badhois).
    • Livelihood: Depend mainly on agriculture; eco-tourism also provides seasonal income.
    • Backwardness: Social and educational deprivation due to geographical isolation.
    • Scheduled Tribe Status:
      • Jaunsar Bawar (Uttarakhand) recognized in 1967.
      • Trans-Giri region (Himachal Pradesh) granted status in 2023–24.

    Legal Status of Polygamy and Polyandry:

    • Prohibition: Banned under Hindu Marriage Act (1955), Special Marriage Act, and Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita.
    • Exemption for Scheduled Tribes: These laws do not automatically apply to Scheduled Tribes unless notified by the Central Government.
    • Constitutional Provision: Article 342 gives Scheduled Tribes distinct legal recognition.
    • Legal Exemption Clause: Section 2(2) of the Hindu Marriage Act exempts Scheduled Tribes unless otherwise notified.
    • Definition of Custom: Recognised if the practice is long-standing, reasonable, and not against public policy.
    • Judicial Requirement: Courts need clear evidence to validate customary laws.
    • Uniform Civil Code (Uttarakhand, 2024): Explicitly excludes Scheduled Tribes.
    • UCC Rules (2025): Confirms UCC does not apply to groups protected under Part XXI of the Constitution.

    Related Judicial Pronouncements:

    • Customs vs Fundamental Rights: The Supreme Court strikes down customs that violate equality, dignity, or liberty.
    • Triple Talaq Case: Declared unconstitutional as it violated Articles 14 and 21.
    • Ram Charan v. Sukhram (2024): Tribal women cannot be denied inheritance based on customary male preference.
    • Judicial Outlook: Customs must adapt and cannot override fundamental rights.
    [UPSC 2019] Which Article of the Constitution of India safeguards one’s right to marry the person of one’s choice?

    Options: (a) Article 19 (b) Article 21* (c) Article 25 (d) Article 29

     

  • At FTA’s heart, the promise of Global Capacity Centres

    Why in the News?

    India and the United Kingdom are nearing the finalisation of a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) that is expected to significantly reshape their bilateral economic relationship. A key area of focus is the expansion of Global Capability Centres (GCCs) in India.

    What are GCCs (Global Capability Centres)?

    GCCs are offshore units set up by multinational companies (MNCs) in countries like India to handle critical business functions.

    How can GCCs boost the India-U.K. FTA?

    • Enhance Digital Collaboration: GCCs in India offer services like AI, cybersecurity, and R&D that align with the UK’s digital economy goals. Eg: British companies like Barclays use India’s GCCs for advanced analytics and digital banking solutions.
    • Support Professional Mobility: GCC operations require movement of skilled professionals between India and the UK, pushing for smoother visa and work policies. Eg: Infosys and TCS facilitate cross-border staff exchanges for UK-based projects.
    • Strengthen Global Supply Chains: GCCs act as strategic hubs for managing global operations and reducing dependency on single markets. Eg: Unilever runs global compliance and finance functions from its India GCC, supporting resilience and efficiency.

    Why is India a preferred hub for GCCs?

    • Cost Advantage: Operating a GCC in India is more cost-effective compared to Western countries, enabling firms to maintain quality while optimizing costs. Eg: Target Corporation runs its Indian GCC in Bengaluru to handle IT services and supply chain support at reduced costs.
    • Robust Digital Infrastructure: India’s expanding digital ecosystem and government support through policies like Digital India attract companies to establish innovation hubs here. Eg: Bosch established a smart manufacturing and AI innovation centre in Bengaluru as part of its India-based GCC.

    What policy steps support GCC growth in India?

    • Digital India Mission: Promotes digital infrastructure and connectivity, enabling a strong foundation for tech-driven operations. Eg: A U.S. retail firm’s GCC in Hyderabad leverages India’s broadband push to manage global e-commerce platforms.
    • Startup India & Innovation Support: Encourages collaboration between GCCs and Indian startups for agile solutions and R&D. Eg: A financial GCC in Pune co-develops regtech tools with local fintech startups.
    • Special Economic Zones (SEZs) & IT Parks: Offer tax incentives, simplified compliance, and ready infrastructure for foreign firms. Eg: GCCs in Bengaluru’s SEZs benefit from lower operational costs and faster approvals.
    • Ease of Doing Business Reforms: Simplified registration, relaxed FDI norms, and labor reforms attract foreign investors. Eg: A healthcare MNC establishes a GCC in Chennai due to smoother FDI entry and single-window clearances.
    • Skill Development Schemes: Programs like PMKVY and FutureSkills Prime build a skilled digital workforce for GCCs. Eg: GCCs in Noida hire AI and cybersecurity professionals trained through FutureSkills.

    What are the challenges? 

    • Talent saturation in Tier-1 cities: Intense competition for skilled tech professionals increases costs. Eg: In Bangalore, GCCs like Walmart Global Tech and Goldman Sachs compete for the same AI/ML talent pool, pushing up salary levels and attrition.
    • Infrastructure gaps in Tier-2 cities: Poor connectivity, weak urban infrastructure, and limited office space deter expansion. Eg: Despite interest in Nagpur for cost-effective operations, Deloitte limited its operations due to lack of reliable internet and skilled ecosystem.
    • High attrition rates: Rapid job-switching among mid-career professionals disrupts continuity. Eg: JPMorgan Chase’s GCC in Hyderabad faced over 22% attrition in 2023, especially among cybersecurity analysts.
    • Regulatory & compliance hurdles: Navigating data protection and labor laws adds to legal burden. Eg: Meta’s GCC in Gurugram had to rework its data storage policies post the DPDP Act, 2023, causing operational delays.
    • Limited R&D ownership: Indian GCCs often do not drive core product innovation. Eg: While Apple’s Bengaluru GCC handles app testing, core iOS design decisions remain with teams in California.

    Way forward: 

    • Promote Tier-2 city readiness: Improve digital infrastructure, urban planning, and talent development in emerging tech hubs like Coimbatore, Indore, and Kochi through targeted government-industry partnerships.
    • Encourage innovation and R&D ownership: Provide tax incentives, faster IP approvals, and create collaborative platforms with academia to help GCCs move beyond support roles to core product development.

    Mains PYQ:

    [UPSC 2024] The West is fostering India as an alternative to reduce dependence on China’s supply chain and as a strategic ally to counter China’s political and economic dominance.’ Explain this statement with examples.

    Linkage: The UK wants better access to India’s fast-growing digital economy and aims to strengthen its global services presence. India is becoming more important in global supply chains, especially in digital services and transformation, where Global Capability Centres (GCCs) play a key role.

  • Legal Status of Right to Vote

    Why in the News?

    The ongoing Supreme Court hearings on the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls in Bihar have reignited discussions on the legal status of the ‘right to vote’ in India.

    About Right to Vote in India:

    • Overview: It is also known as suffrage, allows citizens to elect their representatives in democratic institutions.
    • Constitutional Basis: Guaranteed under Article 326 of the Constitution of India, which provides for universal adult franchise.
    • Eligibility: Every citizen of India aged 18 and above is entitled to vote, unless disqualified by law.
    • Supervision: Organised and overseen by the Election Commission of India.
    • Supporting Laws:
      • Representation of the People Act, 1950: Defines voter eligibility and grounds for disqualification.
      • Representation of the People Act, 1951: Governs the procedures for conducting elections.

    Judicial Interpretation:

    • N.P. Ponnuswami v. Returning Officer (1952): Declared the Right to Vote as a statutory right.
    • Jyoti Basu v. Debi Ghosal (1982): Reiterated that the Right to Vote is neither a fundamental right nor a common law right.
    • People’s Union for Civil Liberties v. Union of India (2003): Recognised the Right to Vote as at least a constitutional right.
    • Kuldip Nayar v. Union of India (2006): Held that the Right to Vote continues to be a statutory right.
    • Raj Bala v. State of Haryana (2015): Recognised the Right to Vote as a constitutional right.
    • Anoop Baranwal v. Union of India (2023):
      • Majority View: Right to Vote is a statutory right.
      • Dissenting Opinion by Justice Ajay Rastogi:
        • Linked the Right to Vote with the freedom of speech and expression under Article 19(1)(a).
        • Considered it essential to free and fair elections and thus part of the basic structure of the Constitution.

    Current Legal Status:

    • Nature: It is legally a statutory right.
    • Constitutional Context: It is shaped by constitutional provisions but does not hold the status of a fundamental right.

    Back2Basics: Other Types of Rights in India

    Description Enforceability
    Natural Rights Inherent and inalienable rights (e.g., life, liberty); not directly enforceable unless linked to fundamental rights. Indirectly through Fundamental Rights
    Fundamental Rights Guaranteed under Part III of the Constitution (e.g., right to equality, speech, life). Enforceable in Supreme Court under Article 32
    Constitutional Rights Rights given in the Constitution but outside Part III (e.g., property, trade). Enforceable under Article 226 via High Courts
    Statutory Rights Granted by ordinary laws (e.g., MGNREGA, Forest Rights Act, Food Security Act). Enforceable as per respective legislations

     

    [UPSC 2017] Right to vote and to be elected in India is a:

    Options: (a) Fundamental Right (b) Natural Right (c) Constitutional Right* (d) Legal Right