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GS Paper: GS2

  • As US pulls back, China is primed to expand its Soft Power

    Why in the News?

    Under President Trump, the U.S. withdrew from key global commitments like WHO and the Paris Agreement. Meanwhile, China is expanding influence by offering financial aid and increasing global investments.

    Why has the U.S. withdrawn from key international bodies like the WHO and the Paris Agreement?

    • Perceived Bias and Mismanagement: The U.S. accused the World Health Organization (WHO) of being biased towards China and mismanaging the COVID-19 pandemic response. Eg: President Trump alleged that the WHO failed to hold China accountable during the early stages of the outbreak.
    • Disproportionate Financial Burden: The U.S. claimed it was contributing significantly more than other countries, creating an unfair financial burden. Eg: The U.S. contributed around 20% of the WHO’s assessed funding, while China contributed much less until recently.
    • Rejection of Global Climate Commitments: The Trump administration viewed international climate agreements like the Paris Agreement as detrimental to American economic interests. Eg: The U.S. withdrew from the Paris Agreement and announced it would cease all financial commitments under the UNFCCC.

    What steps has China taken to increase its global influence in response to the U.S.’s retreat?

    • Increased Financial Contributions to Global Institutions: China has significantly raised its funding to international bodies like the WHO to fill the vacuum left by the U.S. Eg: After the U.S. announced its withdrawal from the WHO, China pledged an additional $500 million over five years and increased its assessed contribution from 6.5% (2015–16) to 15% (2024–25).
    • Expansion of Bilateral Lending and Debt Diplomacy: China has extended massive loans to developing countries, becoming a dominant bilateral creditor globally. Eg: China’s share in global bilateral sovereign debt rose from around 1% in 2003 to 26% in 2023, making it the largest lender worldwide.
    • Strategic Soft Power and Infrastructure Investments: China has expanded its Belt and Road Initiative and other overseas investments to enhance influence and dependency. Eg: China’s investments across Asia, Africa, and Latin America have increased, with more than 60% of respondents in a 2024 Pew survey acknowledging China’s economic influence in their countries.

    How has China’s financial contribution to the WHO changed after the pandemic?

    • Increased Assessed Contributions: China’s assessed contribution to the WHO rose from 6.5% in 2015–16 to 15% in 2024–25. This increase reflects China’s growing economic stature and its commitment to global health initiatives.
    • Significant Financial Pledges: In response to the U.S. withdrawal from the WHO, China pledged an additional $500 million over five years to support the organization’s activities. This move positions China as a leading state donor and underscores its intent to enhance its influence in global health governance.

    Where does China stand in terms of global bilateral debt holdings compared to the U.S.?

    • China as the Leading Bilateral Creditor: As of 2023, China holds approximately 26% of the external bilateral debt of developing countries, making it the largest bilateral creditor globally. Eg: China is the primary bilateral creditor for 53 countries and ranks among the top five creditors in three-quarters of all developing nations.
    • Decline in U.S. Bilateral Lending: The U.S.’s share in global bilateral debts has significantly decreased over the decades. Eg: In 1973, the U.S. held 36% of global bilateral debt, but by 2023, this share had dropped to just 4%.
    • China’s Influence on Debt Repayments: China’s substantial lending has led to a significant portion of debt repayments from developing countries being directed to it. Eg: In 2025, developing countries are projected to allocate over 30% of their bilateral debt service payments to China, surpassing payments to multilateral lenders and private creditors.

    What is the status of India in soft power? 

    • Strong Cultural Influence Globally: India’s rich culture, including yoga, Bollywood, and its large diaspora, enhances its global soft power. Eg: The International Day of Yoga is celebrated worldwide, promoting Indian culture and wellness.
    • Growing Economic and Diplomatic Presence: India is increasing its influence through diplomacy, international aid, and participation in global forums. Eg: India’s development projects and humanitarian aid in Africa and neighboring countries strengthen its soft power.
    • Challenges Affecting Soft Power Projection: Internal challenges like social issues and governance impact India’s image abroad. Eg: India’s ranking slipped to 29th in the 2024 Global Soft Power Index, indicating room for improvement.

    Way forward: 

    • Strengthen Multilateral Engagements and Global Leadership: India should actively enhance its financial and diplomatic contributions to key international bodies like WHO and climate forums to build credibility and influence, positioning itself as a responsible global leader.
    • Leverage Cultural Diplomacy While Addressing Domestic Challenges: Amplify India’s soft power by promoting cultural exports and diaspora ties, while simultaneously improving governance and addressing social issues to boost its global image and rankings.

    Mains PYQ:

    [UPSC 2024] The USA is facing an existential threat in the form of a China, that is much more challenging than the erstwhile Soviet Union.’ Explain

    Linkage: The depiction of China advancing its position while the U.S. is perceived as pulling back, creating a dynamic of increased competition and challenge between the two powers. This question presents the U.S. perspective on China as a major challenge.

  • Elections to the Rajya Sabha

    Why in the News?

    The Election Commission of India has announced biennial elections for eight Rajya Sabha seats, including two seats from Assam and six seats from Tamil Nadu.

    These elections are part of the regular process through which

    About Elections to the Rajya Sabha:

    • Rajya Sabha members are indirectly elected by the elected members of the State Legislative Assemblies and Union Territory electoral colleges (Delhi and Puducherry).
    • The elections follow the proportional representation system through the Single Transferable Vote (STV) method.
    • Voting is done using an Open Ballot to ensure transparency and party discipline.
    • Composition of the Rajya Sabha:
      • It can have a maximum of 250 members.
      • Out of these, 238 members are elected, and 12 are nominated by the President of India for contributions to art, literature, science, and social service.
      • As of now, the RS has 245 members — 233 elected and 12 nominated.
      • One-third of RS members retire every two years.
    • Voting Requirements and Process:
      • A candidate must be proposed by at least 10 members of the State Legislative Assembly or 10% of the party’s strength in the Assembly.
      • Voters rank candidates by preference under the Single Transferable Vote system.
      • If a candidate is eliminated or elected, their votes are transferred to the next preference on the ballot.
      • Voting is done using an Open Ballot system to promote transparency.
    • Quota for Election:
      • To win, a candidate must secure a vote quota, calculated as:
        (Total valid votes / (Number of vacancies + 1)) + 1.
    • Tenure of Members:
      • RS is a permanent body and cannot be dissolved.
      • However, one-third of its members retire every two years, and new members are elected.
      • Each Rajya Sabha member serves a six-year term.
    • Chairmanship and Leadership:
      • The Vice President of India is the ex-officio Chairman of the Rajya Sabha.
      • A Deputy Chairman is elected by the Rajya Sabha members from among themselves.
    • Eligibility (as per Article 84):
      • A candidate must be a citizen of India.
      • The minimum age required is 30 years.
      • The candidate must also meet other qualifications specified by the Constitution or law.
    • Disqualification of Members:
      • A member can be disqualified for defection under the anti-defection law.
      • Disqualification can also happen due to criminal convictions, bankruptcy, or being declared of unsound mind.
    • Administrative and Historical Details:
      • The first sitting of the Rajya Sabha was held on May 13, 1952.
      • The Secretary General of the Rajya Sabha acts as the chief executive and administrative head of the Rajya Sabha Secretariat.

    Tap here to read everything about the Rajya Sabha.

    [UPSC 2020] Rajya Sabha has equal powers with Lok Sabha in:

    Options: (a) the matter of creating new All India Services (b) amending the Constitution* (c) the removal of the government (d) making cut motion

     

  • Time for a new India-Africa digital compact

    Why in the News?

    Africa Day (May 25) marks the anniversary of the founding of the Organisation of African Unity in 1963.In this context, India’s pivot towards digital diplomacy in Africa marks a significant evolution in South-South development cooperation.

    What is the goal of Africa’s Digital Strategy?

    • Accelerate socio-economic development by placing digital innovation at the center of growth — e.g., promoting e-governance, digital education, and telemedicine through national digital platforms.
    • Enable inclusive and sustainable development by encouraging governments to adopt digital solutions aligned with continental initiatives — e.g., the Smart Africa Alliance supports digital transformation across sectors like health, education, and finance.

    How is India supporting Africa’s digital shift?

    • Sharing Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI): India is sharing scalable and affordable DPI models like Aadhaar (digital ID), UPI (digital payments), and DIKSHA (digital education). Eg: In 2024, the Bank of Namibia partnered with NPCI to develop a UPI-like payment system.
    • Technical Collaboration and Capacity Building: India is collaborating with African countries for technical implementation and skills development. Eg: Togo partnered with IIIT-Bangalore to develop a national digital ID system using India’s open-source technology.
    • Academic and Institutional Support: India is investing in long-term educational infrastructure to build digital talent. Eg: IIT Madras opened its first overseas campus in Zanzibar, offering courses in AI and Data Science.
    • Tele-education and Telemedicine Platforms: Early initiatives like the Pan-African e-Network (2009) provided digital healthcare and education through satellite and fiber-optic systems. Eg: Enabled real-time learning and consultation from Indian institutions across several African nations.
    • Promoting Open-Source and Inclusive Models: India promotes DPI as digital public goods, making them open-source and adaptable, unlike proprietary systems. Eg: Ghana linked its payment system to India’s UPI to facilitate fast and inclusive financial transactions.

    Why is India’s digital diplomacy seen as distinct from that of countries like China or the U.S.?

    • Public Good and Open-Source Model: India promotes its digital platforms as Digital Public Goods (DPGs)—open-source, scalable, and designed for inclusive access, unlike the proprietary models of the U.S. or surveillance-heavy systems of China. Eg: India’s open-source Modular Open-Source Identification Platform adopted by Togo shows its focus on affordability and public benefit.
    • Co-development and Capacity Building: India emphasizes partnership over patronage, focusing on skill-building and co-creating solutions rather than just exporting tech or infrastructure. Eg: The IIT Madras campus in Zanzibar trains African students in AI and Data Science, linking digital growth with education and job creation.
    • Respect for Local Priorities: India’s approach is non-impositional, engaging with African countries based on their needs without attaching strategic conditions, unlike U.S. or China’s often interest-driven engagements. Eg: Countries like Ghana and Zambia adopted India’s DPI voluntarily because it suited their national digital goals—not due to debt obligations or geopolitical pressure.

    What challenges block Africa’s digital growth?

    • High Cost of Digital Access: Expensive data and devices make it difficult for many people, especially in low-income and rural areas, to access digital services. Eg: In several African countries, mobile data costs over 5% of average monthly income, limiting internet usage.
    • Digital Divide and Inequality: There is a significant rural-urban gap in internet connectivity and a gender gap in digital access and literacy. Eg: Women in sub-Saharan Africa are 37% less likely than men to use mobile internet, widening socio-economic disparities.
    • Weak Energy Infrastructure: Reliable electricity is essential for digital services, but many African regions lack consistent power supply, slowing digital infrastructure deployment. Eg: In countries like Nigeria, frequent power outages disrupt digital services and internet reliability.

    Way forward: 

    • Enhance Affordable Access: Invest in low-cost internet infrastructure and subsidize digital devices to bridge the digital divide, especially in rural and underserved communities.
    • Strengthen Energy and Digital Infrastructure: Expand renewable energy solutions and resilient digital networks to ensure reliable connectivity and power for sustained digital growth.

    Mains PYQ:

    [UPSC 2015]  Increasing interest of India in Africa has its pros and cons. Critically examine.

    Linkage: The emergence of a digital partnership and the idea of an India-Africa digital compact are manifestations of this increasing interest. Examining the pros and cons of such engagement would involve considering various aspects, including digital collaboration.

  • India’s first ICMR-SCD Stigma Scale 

    Why in the News?

    The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) has developed the ICMR-SCD Stigma Scale for India (ISSSI) to help understand and reduce stigma faced by patients and caregivers from sickle cell disease (SCD).

    What is Sickle Cell Disease (SCD)?

    • Nature of Disease: SCD is a genetic disorder where red blood cells become sickle-shaped, reducing oxygen delivery in the body.
    • Complications: These sickle cells can block blood vessels, break easily, and cause anemia, organ damage, and painful episodes.
    • Cause: The disease is inherited, requiring one defective gene from each parent; one gene leads to sickle cell trait.
    • Symptoms: Common symptoms include fatigue, body pain, swollen limbs, frequent infections, and organ damage.
    • Treatment Options: There is no universal cure, but bone marrow transplants and gene therapy offer potential solutions; supportive care helps manage symptoms.

    Note:

    • Anaemia is a condition where the blood lacks enough healthy red blood cells (RBCs) or haemoglobin.
    • All SCD patients have anaemia, but not all anaemia is due to Sickle Cell Disease.

    About the ICMR-SCD Stigma Scale for India (ISSSI):

    • Purpose: The ISSSI is India’s first tool designed to measure stigma faced by sickle cell disease (SCD) patients and their caregivers.
    • Developing Authority: It was developed by ICMR to understand and address the social impact of SCD in India’s diverse communities.
    • Global Context: This is the fourth stigma scale worldwide and the first validated for Indian conditions.
    • Scientific Validation: The tool was validated in a study published in The Lancet (Regional Health – South-East Asia).
    • Availability: The ISSSI is now approved for use in both clinical and research settings across India.
    • Components: It includes two formats — ISSSI-Pt for patients and ISSSI-Cg for caregivers.
    • Stigma Dimensions: It captures issues related to family expectations, reproductive concerns, social disclosure, illness burden, interpersonal challenges, and negative healthcare experiences.
    • Data Sources: The scale was developed using inputs from 6 culturally diverse districts: Alluri Seetharama Raju, Anuppur, Chhoteudepur, Kandhamal, Mysuru, and Udalguri.

    India’s Strategy: Anaemia Mukt Bharat (AMB)

    • Launch Year: The AMB Mission was launched in 2018 to reduce anemia using a 6x6x6 strategy.
    • Target Groups: It covers six groups — young children, school children, adolescents, women of reproductive age, pregnant women, and lactating mothers.
    • Key Interventions: Actions include iron and folic acid supplements, deworming, nutrition education, digital health tools, IFA-fortified foods, and disease screening (including SCD).
    • Supporting Systems: It is backed by inter-ministerial coordination, state-level units, research centers, the AMB Dashboard, digital tracking, and supply chain support.
    • Reach: The mission aims to impact around 450 million people, focusing on real-time monitoring and last-mile delivery.
    [UPSC 2023] Consider the following statements in the context of interventions being undertaken under Anaemia Mukt Bharat Strategy:

    1. It provides prophylactic calcium supplementation for pre-school children, adolescents and pregnant women. 2. It runs a campaign for delayed cord clamping at the time of child-birth. 3. It provides for periodic deworming to children and adolescents. 4. It addresses non-nutritinoal causes of anaemia in endemic pockets with special focus on malaria, hemoglobinopathies and fluorosis.

    How many of the statements given above are correct?

    Options: (a) Only one (b) Only two (c) Only three* (d) All four

     

  • What is the Golaknath v. State of Punjab (1967) Case?

    Why in the News?

    The Golaknath case (IC Golaknath v. State of Punjab, 1967) is one of the most important judgments in India’s constitutional history. It was the first time the Supreme Court said that Parliament cannot amend fundamental rights.

    About the Golaknath v. State of Punjab (1967) Case:

    • Case Name: IC Golaknath v. State of Punjab (1967) is a landmark case in Indian constitutional history.
    • Background: The Golaknath family from Punjab challenged the Punjab Security of Land Tenures Act, 1953, which declared their land surplus under land ceiling laws.
    • Claim of Violation: They argued the law violated their Fundamental Right to property, protected under Articles 19(1)(f) and 31.
    • Ninth Schedule Issue: The Act was placed under the Ninth Schedule by the 17th Constitutional Amendment, making it immune to judicial review.
    • Main Legal Question: Could Parliament amend Fundamental Rights under Article 368, or are such amendments invalid under Article 13(2)?
    • Arguments: The petitioners claimed Fundamental Rights are sacrosanct, while the government asserted Parliament’s full power to amend the Constitution.
    • Supreme Court Verdict: On February 27, 1967, in a 6:5 majority, the Court held that:
      • Parliament cannot amend Fundamental Rights.
      • Amendments are “law” and subject to Article 13(2).
      • The ruling would apply only prospectively, not to past amendments.
    • Overruled Judgments: The decision overturned earlier rulings in Sankari Prasad (1951) and Sajjan Singh (1964) that allowed unrestricted amendments.

    Article 13 of the Constitution of India

    Article 13 is a key provision under Part III (Fundamental Rights) of the Indian Constitution. It ensures that any law violating Fundamental Rights can be declared void. It is the constitutional basis of judicial review in India.

    Main Provisions of Article 13

    Article 13(1)

    All pre-Constitution laws inconsistent with Fundamental Rights become void to the extent of inconsistency.

    Article 13(2)

    The State cannot make any law that takes away or abridges Fundamental Rights. Any such law is void to the extent of violation.

    Article 13(3)

    Defines “law” broadly. It includes:

    • Ordinances
    • Rules
    • Regulations
    • Notifications
    • Customs and usages having force of law
    • Article 13(4): Constitutional amendments under Article 368 are excluded from Article 13. This clause was added through the 24th Constitutional Amendment, 1971.

    Legacy of the Golaknath Case:

    • Judicial Restraint on Parliament: This was the first case to restrict Parliament’s power to amend Fundamental Rights.
    • Judiciary’s Role Strengthened: It reinforced the Supreme Court’s duty to protect civil liberties and limit legislative overreach.
    • Prospective Overruling: Introduced the concept to ensure legal stability without undoing past amendments.
    • Constitutional Values Upheld: Affirmed that the Constitution has core values that must be protected, especially Fundamental Rights.

    Influence on Future Cases:

    • Indira Gandhi Election Case (1975): Built upon the idea that democracy is a basic feature of the Constitution.
    • Minerva Mills Case (1980): Reaffirmed limits on Parliament’s amending power and emphasised judicial review.
    • Foundational Impact: Although later rulings allowed some flexibility, the Golaknath case laid the foundation for the Basic Structure Doctrine.
    • Lasting Message: It ensured that Fundamental Rights remain untouchable, securing the heart of Indian democracy against future misuse.
    [UPSC 2018] Consider the following statements:

    1.The Parliament of India can place a particular law in the Ninth Schedule of the Constitution of India.

    2.The validity of a law placed in the Ninth Schedule cannot be examined by any court, and no judgment can be made on it.

    Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

    Options: (a) 1 only *(b) 2 only (c) Both 1 and 2 (d) Neither 1 nor 2

     

  • [24th May 2025] The Hindu Op-ed: A medical oxygen access gap SE Asia must bridge

    PYQ Relevance:

    [UPSC 2024] In a crucial domain like the public healthcare system, the Indian State should play a vital role to contain the adverse impact of marketisation of the system. Suggest some measures through which the State can enhance the reach of public healthcare at the grassroots level.

    Linkage: The role of the state in the public healthcare system and asks for measures to enhance the reach of public healthcare, particularly at the grassroots level. The “medical oxygen access gap” is fundamentally a problem of the public healthcare system’s inability to reach everyone with this essential medicine.

    Mentor’s Comment: Recently, the oxygen shortage has been very serious in South Asia and East Asia-Pacific, where 78% and 74% of people do not have proper access to medical oxygen. Even though oxygen is essential for saving lives and became widely known during the COVID-19 pandemic, many low- and middle-income countries still face problems with its high cost, low supply, and poor access. Unlike medicines, there is no replacement for oxygen, which makes this a serious issue of fairness, basic rights, and survival. The WHO and The Lancet have suggested solutions, but progress has been slow. This is not just about fixing systems—it’s about saving lives, and action is urgently needed.

    Today’s editorial talks about the problem of oxygen shortage in Southeast Asia. This topic is useful for GS Paper II (International Relations and Health Sector).

    _

    Let’s learn!

    Why in the News?

    Recently,’ The Lancet Global Health Commission has pointed out a serious and ongoing medical oxygen crisis, with 5 billion people around the world unable to get safe, good-quality, and affordable medical oxygen.

    What challenges hinder global access to medical oxygen?

    • Lack of Equipment: Many hospitals in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) lack basic tools like pulse oximeters and oxygen supply systems. Eg: Only 54% of hospitals in LMICs have pulse oximeters; 58% have access to medical oxygen.
    • High Financial Burden: Expanding oxygen infrastructure requires large investments, which LMICs struggle to afford. Eg: An estimated $6.8 billion is needed globally, with $2.6 billion required in South Asia alone.
    • Shortage of Trained Technicians: Lack of biomedical engineers leads to poor maintenance of oxygen plants and frequent equipment failures. Eg: In rural areas, oxygen concentrators remain unused due to absence of trained personnel.
    • Power Supply Issues: Unreliable electricity hinders oxygen production, especially in remote or rural regions. Eg: Nigeria and Ethiopia adopted solar-powered oxygen systems to address power disruptions.
    • Weak Policy and Regulatory Frameworks: Absence of strong regulations affects the quality, storage, and distribution of medical oxygen. Eg: In Bangladesh, a 2021 health system assessment by PATH and USAID found that lack of national oxygen guidelines and standardised protocols led to irregular supply chains and compromised oxygen quality in many public hospitals, especially in rural areas.

    Why is oxygen demand high in South and East Asia?

    • High Population Density: These regions have some of the world’s most densely populated countries, leading to higher disease burden and medical oxygen demand. Eg: India and China together account for over one-third of the global population, increasing strain on healthcare infrastructure during health crises like COVID-19.
    • Prevalence of Respiratory Diseases: High rates of respiratory illnesses such as pneumonia, tuberculosis, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) elevate oxygen needs. Eg: According to WHO, India sees over 120,000 pneumonia-related child deaths annually, many requiring oxygen therapy.
    • Inadequate Healthcare Infrastructure in Rural Areas: Many remote and underserved areas lack sufficient oxygen production, storage, and delivery systems. Eg: During the second COVID-19 wave in Nepal, rural hospitals reported severe oxygen shortages due to lack of concentrators and cylinders.

    Where has WHO improved oxygen access through cooperation?

    • Bhutan: WHO partnered with Nepal’s National Health Training Center to train biomedical engineers and technicians. Eg: This led to the installation of state-of-the-art PSA oxygen plants in Bhutan, ensuring sustainable operations and maintenance.
    • Nepal: WHO supported capacity-building through regional training programs and technical support. Eg: Trained personnel strengthened Nepal’s oxygen infrastructure, especially during COVID-19.
    • South-East Asia Region (broad cooperation): WHO facilitated intra-regional collaboration to boost oxygen capacity and resource sharing. Eg: Regional cooperation helped countries like Bangladesh and Sri Lanka improve oxygen planning and emergency response.

    Who is responsible for strengthening oxygen ecosystems?

    • Governments: They must integrate oxygen access into universal health coverage and emergency preparedness plans, while ensuring quality standards and regulatory frameworks. Eg: The Indian government scaled up PSA oxygen plants under the PM CARES Fund during the COVID-19 crisis.
    • Private Sector: Industry must invest in local manufacturing, supply chain optimisation, and cost-effective technologies. Eg: Indian companies like Inox Air Products ramped up production and collaborated with the government to meet surging oxygen demand.
    • Global Health Agencies: Agencies like WHO and UNICEF must provide technical and financial support for infrastructure and workforce training. Eg: WHO supported several LMICs (e.g., Bhutan) in installing and operating oxygen plants through cross-border cooperation.

    What has been done by the Indian government in Southeast Asia? 

    • Oxygen Supply to Bangladesh: In July 2021, India dispatched 200 metric tonnes of Liquid Medical Oxygen (LMO) to Bangladesh via the ‘Oxygen Express’ train service. This marked the first international deployment of the Oxygen Express, showcasing India’s commitment to assisting neighboring countries in crisis.
    • Medical Aid to Vietnam: In August 2021, the Indian Navy’s INS Airavat delivered 100 metric tonnes of LMO and 300 oxygen concentrators to Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam. 

    Way forward: 

    • Strengthen Local Infrastructure: Governments and partners must invest in decentralised oxygen production, solar-powered systems, and skilled workforce development to ensure reliable access, especially in rural and remote areas.
    • Establish Robust Policies & Partnerships: Create strong regulatory frameworks and foster public-private-global collaborations to improve oxygen quality, supply chain efficiency, and emergency preparedness across regions.

  • NE to be gateway for trade with Southeast Asia: Modi

    Why in the News?

    The Prime Minister said on Friday that the eight states of India’s Northeast are now leading in development and growth, and he encouraged investors to explore opportunities there.

    What did the Prime Minister describe the Northeast region as, and why?

    • Frontrunner of Growth: PM  described the Northeast as no longer a “frontier region”, but a “frontrunner of growth”. Eg: Hosting of the Rising Northeast Summit to attract investment and highlight regional potential.
    • Gateway to Southeast Asia: This aligns with the idea of Northeast as a growth leader because its strategic location makes it a natural gateway for trade with Southeast Asia. Eg: Projects connecting Northeast with Myanmar, Thailand, Laos, and Vietnam under the Act East Policy.
    • Powerhouse of Energy: It is a frontrunner because it is rich in natural resources, making it a “powerhouse of energy”. Eg: Assam’s tea industry and Arunachal Pradesh’s hydroelectric potential.
    • Cultural and Economic Diversity: The region leads in development because its cultural and economic diversity fosters innovation in tourism, crafts, and trade. Eg: Nagaland’s Hornbill Festival promotes both culture and economic activity.
    • Ashta Lakshmis (Eight Goddesses of Wealth): PM called the eight states “Ashta Lakshmis” because each contributes uniquely to India’s prosperity, reinforcing its status as a growth frontrunner. Eg: Government initiatives like NESIDS aim to unlock each state’s economic strengths.

    Why did the Directorate General of Foreign Trade order the closure of land ports with Bangladesh?. 

    • To Provide a Level Playing Field for the Northeast: Goods entering via Bangladesh were bypassing local supply chains, hurting Northeast producers and manufacturers. Eg: Cheaper Bangladeshi products undercutting Assam’s handicrafts and processed food sectors.
    • To Boost Internal Supply Chains and Manufacturing: Closure of land ports encourages the development of local industries and competitive manufacturing within the Northeast. Eg: Promoting local textile and bamboo industries in Tripura and Mizoram to supply regional demands.
    • Strategic Economic Repositioning: Part of a broader effort to reorient the Northeast as a commercial and trade hub within India and toward Southeast Asia. Eg: Integrating Northeast into projects like India-Myanmar-Thailand trilateral highway for long-term trade advantage.

    Which sectors are identified as key economic strengths of the Northeast region?

    • Bio-economy and Natural Resources: The region is rich in bamboo, tea, and petroleum resources. Eg: Assam is a major hub for tea production; Arunachal Pradesh is emerging in bamboo-based industries.
    • Tourism and Eco-tourism: Scenic landscapes, cultural diversity, and biodiversity promote sustainable tourism. Eg: Meghalaya’s living root bridges and Sikkim’s eco-tourism model attract both domestic and international tourists.
    • Sports and Youth Potential: High sports participation and talent make it a center for sports development and allied industries. Eg: Manipur and Mizoram produce national-level athletes in football, boxing, and weightlifting.

    How is India planning to connect the Northeast with Southeast Asia?

    • Infrastructure Development Projects: India is building roads and highways to enhance cross-border connectivity. Eg: The India-Myanmar-Thailand Trilateral Highway aims to link the Northeast to Southeast Asia by road.
    • Multilateral and Bilateral Linkages: Strategic projects are underway to connect Northeast India with ASEAN countries. Eg: Projects to directly connect Myanmar, Thailand, Vietnam, and Laos to India are in progress.
    • Transforming the Region into a Trade Gateway: The Northeast is being positioned as the “gateway for trade” with Southeast Asia. Eg: Investment in border trade hubs and logistics parks in states like Manipur and Mizoram supports trade facilitation.

    Way forward: 

    • Accelerate Infrastructure & Connectivity Projects: Ensure timely completion of highways, rail links, and trade corridors to integrate the Northeast with ASEAN markets and boost regional trade.
    • Promote Local Industries & Skill Development: Strengthen regional supply chains by supporting local entrepreneurship, MSMEs, and skill training aligned with emerging sectors like eco-tourism, agri-business, and clean energy.

    Mains PYQ:

    [UPSC 2016] Evaluate the economic and strategic dimensions of India’s Look East Policy in the context of the post-Cold War international scenario.

    Linkage: The “Look East Policy” was the predecessor to the current “Act East” policy. The Act East Policy, which emphasizes the Northeast as a gateway for trade and connectivity with Southeast Asia, is essentially a more action-oriented evolution of the Look East Policy.

  • E-Zero FIR to speed up action on Cyber Frauds

    Why in the News?

    The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has launched a pilot project for the e-Zero FIR (First Information Report) system in Delhi to help police take faster action in high-value cyber financial frauds.

    What is Zero FIR?

    • Purpose: Zero FIR allows any police station to register an FIR for a cognisable offence without assigning a regular FIR number initially.
    • No diary: Whereas FIRs have serial numbers assigned to them, zero FIRs are assigned the number ‘0’. Hence the name.

    About the e-Zero FIR System:

    • Launch and Objective: The MHA has launched a pilot e-Zero FIR project in Delhi to speed up action in cyber financial frauds over ₹10 lakh.
    • System Developer: It has been developed by the Indian Cybercrime Coordination Centre (I4C) under the MHA.
    • How It Works: Victims can file complaints via the National Cybercrime Reporting Portal (NCRP) or by calling the 1930 helpline.
    • FIR Process: The e-Crime Police Station in Delhi registers the FIR digitally, which is then transferred electronically to the correct local police station.
    • Legal Basis: The project is implemented under Section 173(1) and 173(1)(ii) of the Bharatiya Nagrik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), 2023.
    • Jurisdiction-Free Filing: Victims can report crimes without worrying about police station limits.
    • Digital Integration: The system connects the I4C’s NCRP, Delhi Police’s e-FIR portal, and NCRB’s CCTNS platform.

    Key Features and Victim Support:

    • Automatic Registration: FIRs are automatically registered for cyber frauds involving over ₹10 lakh.
    • Anywhere Access: Victims can file from any location, ensuring jurisdiction-free access.
    • Fast FIR Transfer: FIRs are sent electronically to the appropriate police station for follow-up.
    • Mandatory Visit: Victims must visit a cybercrime police station within 3 days to convert the Zero FIR into a regular FIR.
    • Improved Recovery: Early registration improves the chances of recovering lost funds in time-sensitive fraud cases.
    • Simplified Process: The system makes legal action easier and more accessible for cybercrime victims.
    [UPSC 2021] With reference to India, consider the following statements:

    1. Judicial custody means an accused is in the custody of the concerned magistrate and such an accused is locked up in a police station, not in jail.
    2. During judicial custody, the police officer in charge of the case is not allowed to interrogate the suspect without the approval of the court.

    Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

    Option: (a) 1 only (b) 2 only * (c) Both 1 and 2 (d) Neither 1 nor 2

     

  • WHO members adopt ‘Pandemic Agreement’

    Why in the News?

    At the 78th World Health Assembly held in Geneva, the World Health Organisation (WHO) adopted a new Pandemic Agreement that aims to make the global response to future pandemics more equitable and effective.

    About the WHO Pandemic Agreement:

    • Adoption: It was unanimously adopted at the 78th World Health Assembly in Geneva after 3 years of negotiation since the COVID-19 pandemic.
    • Legal Basis: It was adopted under Article 19 of the WHO Constitution, making it only the second such legally binding agreement after the WHO Framework Convention on Tobacco Control (2003).
    • Primary Goal: To ensure fair and timely access to vaccines, medicines, and diagnostic tools during future pandemics.
    • Stakeholders: It promotes collaboration among countries, WHO, pharmaceutical firms, civil society, and other stakeholders.
    • Next Steps: It will come into force once ratified by at least 60 countries; the final annex is expected by May 2026.
    • Irritant: The US has not joined, raising concerns about the agreement’s global effectiveness.

    Key Highlights of the Agreement:

    • Pathogen Access and Benefit Sharing (PABS): A new system will ensure quick virus sample sharing with companies, who must give 20% of vaccines and medicines to WHO—10% as donations and 10% at affordable prices.
    • Global Supply Chain and Logistics Network (GSCL): A WHO-managed network will ensure emergency access to critical supplies during pandemics.
    • Coordinating Financial Mechanism: A funding system will support countries in pandemic preparedness and response.
    • Sustainable Local Production: Countries are encouraged to build vaccine and medicine production capacity to ensure rapid and equal access.
    • Technology and Knowledge Transfer: Supports technology sharing with developing nations using licensing, financing, and regulatory tools, coordinated via WHO-managed hubs.
    • Pandemic Prevention and Surveillance: Countries must improve early detection, routine vaccinations, and address lab safety, antimicrobial resistance, and zoonotic threats.
    • Respect for Sovereignty: The WHO will not enforce national policies like lockdowns, vaccine mandates, or travel bans; countries retain full control over responses.
    [UPSC 2022] In the context of vaccines manufactured to prevent COVID-19 pandemic, consider the following statements:

    1. The Serum Institute of India produced COVID-19 vaccine named Covishield using mRNA platform.

    2. Sputnik V vaccine is manufactured using vector-based platform.

    3. COVAXIN is an inactivated pathogen-based vaccine.

    Which of the statements given above are correct?

    Options: (a) 1 and 2 only (b) 2 and 3 only* (c) 1 and 3 only (d) 1, 2 and 3

     

  • Trade diplomacy: on India-Bangladesh trade-related tensions

    Why in the News?

    India has taken a sharp turn from its traditionally cooperative trade approach by recently imposing restrictions on Bangladeshi readymade garments and other goods.

    Why did India impose trade restrictions on Bangladesh?

    • Bangladesh move to China: India imposed trade restrictions to express displeasure with Bangladesh’s interim government led by Mohammed Yunus, which has moved closer to China and Pakistan, straining India-Bangladesh relations. Eg: Yunus inviting Chinese access to India’s northeast during his China visit triggered India’s concerns.
    • Political statement against the North East: India blocked access to its Northeast markets for Bangladesh’s key garment exports in response to recent political comments that called Northeast India landlocked and claimed Bangladesh is its gateway to the sea.
    • Signaling Disapproval of Political Moves: India seeks to signal its objection to the interim government’s ban on the Awami League and its deviation from democratic norms promised to the international community.

    What did Yunus say about India’s northeast during his China visit?

    • Described India’s northeast as landlocked: Yunus publicly referred to the northeastern region of India as lacking direct access to the sea, highlighting its geographical constraints. Eg: He emphasized that the region is dependent on access through neighboring countries like Bangladesh.
    • Invited China to access the region via Bangladesh: He suggested that China could use Bangladesh as a transit route to reach India’s northeast, implicitly offering strategic passage. Eg: During his March 2025 China visit, he proposed trade and connectivity links that would allow China to reach the northeast.
    • Undermined India’s regional security concerns: By involving China in a sensitive area, Yunus ignored India’s strategic sensitivities and long-standing opposition to Chinese presence near its borders. Eg: His comments were seen as aligning with China’s Belt and Road ambitions in South Asia, alarming Indian policymakers.

    How could the trade move affect India’s strategic interests?

    • May worsen anti-India sentiment in Bangladesh: The restrictions could be seen as punitive and fuel nationalist or anti-India narratives, especially among radical groups. Eg: Elements opposing India’s influence may use the trade ban to rally public anger and portray India as interfering in domestic affairs.
    • Could destabilize India’s northeast region: Heightened tensions and instability in Bangladesh may spill over, leading to cross-border security issues in India’s sensitive northeastern states. Eg: Increased radical activity or refugee influx due to unrest in Bangladesh can strain local governance and security in Assam and Tripura.
    • Limits diplomatic space for constructive engagement: Economic restrictions reduce India’s leverage to influence political developments in Bangladesh through dialogue and soft diplomacy. Eg: Trade ties often help maintain dialogue even during political tensions — restricting them weakens India’s long-term strategic hold.

    Which key political stakeholders in Bangladesh should India engage?

    • Awami League (AL): Despite being currently banned by the interim government, the Awami League, led by Sheikh Hasina, has been India’s most trusted ally and played a key role in maintaining bilateral stability and counterterrorism cooperation. Eg: India and the Awami League worked closely on cross-border security and infrastructure projects like the Akhaura-Agartala rail link.
    • Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP): As a major opposition party, the BNP represents a significant voter base. India should maintain open lines of communication to understand its stance on regional issues and democratic reforms.
    • Civil society and democratic reform advocates: Engaging with non-party actors such as human rights groups, independent media, and student movements can strengthen India’s image as a supporter of democracy and people-to-people ties.

    Why is the delay in Bangladesh’s elections a significant concern for India?

    • Regional stability and security risks: Prolonged political uncertainty in Bangladesh may lead to unrest, radicalisation, and law and order issues, which can spill over into India’s northeast, impacting border security. Eg: A destabilised Bangladesh could lead to increased cross-border infiltration or refugee inflows into Assam and Tripura.
    • Strained diplomatic and strategic relations: The delay weakens India’s ability to engage with a legitimate and stable government, affecting long-term strategic cooperation, trade, and connectivity projects. Eg: Uncertainty may halt progress on initiatives like the India-Bangladesh power grid or transit routes through Bangladesh.

    Way forward:

    • Engage All Political Stakeholders: India should maintain dialogue with all major political actors in Bangladesh — including the Awami League, BNP, and civil society — to encourage democratic transition and ensure long-term regional stability.
    • Balance Strategic Interests with Economic Diplomacy: India must ease trade restrictions while using diplomatic channels to address security concerns, preventing alienation and preserving influence in Bangladesh and the Northeast region.

    Mains PYQ:

    [UPSC 2013] The protests in Shahbag Square in Dhaka in Bangladesh reveal a fundamental split in society between the nationalists and Islamic forces. What is its significance for India?

    Linkage: The current trade-related tensions between India and Bangladesh are a result of deteriorating political relations which have spilled over into economic ties.