💥Join UPSC 2027,2028 Mentorship (July Batch) + XFactor Notes & Microthemes PDF
Talk to Mentor

Civilsdaily

Login

GS Paper: GS2

  • National Song Guidelines Issued by Government of India

    Why in the News

    The Ministry of Home Affairs has reiterated guidelines regarding the playing and singing of the National Song, including procedural aspects such as drum roll before band performance and mass singing protocols.

    What are the Special Orders

    • The Government of India, through the Ministry of Home Affairs, has issued executive instructions regulating the manner in which the National Song Vande Mataram may be played and sung on official and significant occasions.
    • These are executive guidelines issued under Article 73 of the Constitution, not under any specific Act of Parliament.

    Key Provisions

    • Playing by Band: When played by a band, the National Song should be preceded by a roll of drums to alert the audience, unless another clear indication is given.
    • Official Version: Only the official version should be used. It should be accompanied by mass singing on occasions such as
      • Unfurling of the National Flag
      • Cultural or ceremonial functions other than parades
      • A trained choir may be arranged to coordinate with the band. Adequate public address systems should be ensured. Printed lyrics may be circulated where required.
    • Other Significant Occasions: It may be sung on occasions invested with significance due to the presence of Ministers or dignitaries. There is no exhaustive list of such occasions. Respect and proper decorum must always be maintained.
    • In Schools: The day may begin with community singing of the National Song. School authorities should promote respect for
      • National Song
      • National Anthem
      • National Flag

    Constitutional and Legal Position

    • The National Song is not mentioned in the Constitution of India.
    • There is no law mandating compulsory singing.
    • It does not have statutory protection similar to the National Anthem under the Prevention of Insults to National Honour Act, 1971.
    [2023] Consider the following statements in respect of the National Flag of India according to the Flag Code of India, 2002: Statement-I: One of the standard sizes of the National Flag of India is 600 mm × 400 mm. 

    Statement-II: The ratio of the length to the height (width) of the Flag shall be 3 : 2. 

    Which one of the following is correct in respect of the above statements? 

    (a) Both Statement-I and Statement-II are correct and Statement-II is the correct explanation for Statement-I 

    (b) Both Statement-I and Statement-II are correct and Statement-II is not the correct explanation for Statement-I 

    (c) Statement-I is correct but Statement-II is incorrect 

    (d) Statement-I is incorrect but Statement-II is correct

  • [11th February 2026] The Hindu OpED: The approaching AI surge, its global consequences

    PYQ Relevance

    [UPSC 2023] Introduce the concept of Artificial Intelligence (AI). How does Al help clinical diagnosis? Do you perceive any threat to privacy of the individual in the use of Al in healthcare?

    Linkage: It falls under GS III-Awareness in the fields of IT, testing conceptual clarity, application of emerging technologies, and governance implications. The article’s focus on AI-driven decision-making and reduced human oversight directly parallels concerns over clinical autonomy and patient data privacy in AI-based healthcare.

    Mentor’s Comment

    Artificial Intelligence is no longer confined to laboratories, it is entering courtrooms, government systems, and battlefields. This topic is crucial because it shows how technology is reshaping institutions, decision-making structures, and even global power equations. Understanding these wider implications makes it highly relevant for GS III.

    Why in the News?

    Artificial Intelligence has reached a structural inflection point comparable to the Industrial Revolution. Large Language Models now process and generate language at speeds exceeding human capacity. Rivalry between the United States and China has intensified in AI development. AI has begun transforming military systems, governance processes, and economic sectors.

    The World Economic Forum (Davos) identified AI as a force multiplier in an ongoing global rupture. Unlike earlier technological shifts, AI directly affects decision-making systems, judicial reasoning, battlefield operations, and autonomous weapons deployment. The scale extends beyond economic disruption to structural transformation of global power equations.

    WHAT MAKES AI DIFFERENT FROM EARLIER TECHNOLOGIES?

    1. Cognitive Automation:
      1. Replaces or supplements human reasoning in speech, language, vision, and analysis.
      2. Extends beyond mechanization into decision-making systems.
    2. Cross-sector Penetration:
      1. Impacts communication, judicial systems, military operations, and industrial production.
      2. Integrates into existing civilizational networks rather than remaining sector-specific.
    3. Speed and Scale:
      1. Enables instantaneous data processing and predictive analysis.
      2. Operates across global networks simultaneously.

    How is AI affecting governance and judicial systems?

    1. Judicial Reliance Risks:
      1. Increases dependence on AI in courtrooms.
      2. Raises risks of hallucinations, fabricated judgments, and improper citations.
    2. Predictive Justice Tools:
      1. AI-based risk assessment systems like the U.S. COMPAS algorithm influences bail and sentencing decisions.
      2. Criticised for racial bias and opaque decision-making
    3. E-Courts & Case Management Automation:
      1. India’s SUPACE (Supreme Court Portal for Assistance in Court’s Efficiency) assists judges in legal research.
      2. Improves efficiency but does not replace judicial discretion.
    4. Administrative Automation:
      1. Enhances policy modelling and governance analytics.
      2. Expands state surveillance and algorithmic control mechanisms.
    5. Algorithmic Public Service Delivery:
      1. AI used in welfare fraud detection systems such as the Netherlands’ SyRI system.
      2. Struck down by a Dutch court (2020) for violating privacy and human rights.
    6. Facial Recognition in Policing:
      1. Delhi Police used facial recognition during protests (2019-20).
      2. Raised concerns over mass surveillance and lack of statutory safeguards.

    How is AI transforming warfare?

    1. Autonomous Weapon Systems:
      1. Enables unmanned aerial vehicles capable of autonomous targeting.
      2. Reduces requirement of direct human intervention.
    2. Battlefield Transformation:
      1. Shifts from traditional warfare to AI-enabled, data-driven operations.
      2. Integrates night vision systems, AI-capable surveillance, and automated targeting.
    3. Drone Warfare Escalation:
      1. Facilitates swarm drones conducting coordinated attacks.
      2. Expands risk from state actors to terror and non-state actors.
    4. Decision Autonomy:
      1. Develops self-sustaining weapon systems capable of independent action.
      2. Reduces human oversight in lethal operations.

    What are the strategic and geo-political implications?

    1. US-China Rivalry: Intensifies technological competition and reconfigures global power hierarchies.
    2. Military Asymmetry: Provides disproportionate advantage to technologically advanced states. It reshapes deterrence dynamics and strategic stability.
    3. Global Order Disruption: It challenges existing balance-of-power structures. It signals transition toward algorithm-driven strategic competition.

    What are the systemic risks identified?

    1. Loss of Human Control: 
      1. Risks displacement of human judgment in governance and conflict. 
      2. Enables autonomous systems beyond human override.
    2. Escalation Risk: Increases probability of accidental conflicts due to automated decision chains.
    3. Ethical Vacuum: Lacks universally accepted regulatory framework. It creates an imbalance between technological capability and normative governance.

    What type of oversight is required?

    1. Institutional Balances: 
      1. Ensures human oversight in high-risk applications.
      2. Establishes accountability mechanisms in judicial and military AI use.
    2. Global Governance Framework:
      1. Facilitates multilateral dialogue on AI regulation.
      2. Prevents arms race in autonomous weapons systems.
    3. Ethical Safeguards:
      1. Incorporates human control principles in lethal technologies.
      2. Strengthens transparency in algorithmic systems.

    Conclusion

    Artificial Intelligence is no longer a peripheral technological development but a foundational force influencing governance systems, military doctrines, and global power hierarchies. Its integration into judicial processes, administrative structures, and autonomous weapon systems signals a transition toward algorithm-driven decision architectures. The challenge before states is not whether to adopt AI, but how to ensure human oversight, ethical accountability, and strategic stability in its deployment. The future of global order will depend not merely on technological superiority, but on the ability to embed AI within robust institutional and normative frameworks.

  • Motion to Remove Lok Sabha Speaker: Constitutional & Procedural Aspects

    Why in the News?

    • Om Birla has decided not to preside over proceedings of the Lok Sabha until the Opposition’s notice seeking his removal is processed. The notice alleges partisan conduct during House proceedings.
    • Meanwhile, Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju released footage alleging disorderly conduct by Opposition MPs near the Prime Minister’s seat.

    Constitutional Provisions

    • Article 93: Provides for election of the Speaker and Deputy Speaker of the Lok Sabha.
    • Under Article 94 of the Constitution of India, a Speaker of the Lok Sabha can be removed by a resolution passed by a majority of all the then members of the House (effective majority).
    • Article 95: When the office of the Speaker is vacant or the Speaker is absent, the Deputy Speaker performs the duties.

    Notice Requirement

    • A minimum of 14 days’ notice must be given.
    • The notice must be signed by at least 50 Members of Parliament.
      • This requirement comes from the Rules of Procedure and Conduct of Business in Lok Sabha, not directly from the Constitution.

    Procedure for Removal

    1. Written notice signed by required number of MPs.
    2. Secretary General examines admissibility.
    3. After 14 days, motion may be taken up.
    4. Speaker does not preside during discussion of the motion.
    5. Requires effective majority of the House.
    [2024] With reference to the Speaker of the Lok Sabha, consider the following statements: While any resolution for the removal of the Speaker of the Lok Sabha is under consideration: 

    1. He/She shall not preside. 

    2. He/She shall not have the right to speak. 

    3. He/She shall not be entitled to vote on the resolution in the first instance. 

    Which of the statements given above is/are correct? 

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

  • Bangladesh–U.S. Trade Deal: Shift from Indian to U.S. Cotton

    Why in the News?

    Bangladesh has announced that it will replace Indian cotton with U.S. cotton following a new trade deal with the United States. The agreement is expected to boost Bangladesh’s access to the U.S. textile market but may impact cotton trade with India.

    Key Features of the Deal

    1. Tariff Concession

    • Standard tariff fixed at 19 percent, lower than rivals like Cambodia and Indonesia.
    • Zero tariff access if Bangladesh’s textile producers use U.S. cotton or manmade fibre.
    • Strong incentive to shift sourcing away from India and Central Asia.

    2. Strategic Significance

    • U.S. is the largest textile export market for Bangladesh. The deal strengthens Bangladesh’s export competitiveness. Bangladesh does not produce significant cotton domestically, giving it flexibility in sourcing decisions.

    India–Bangladesh Cotton Trade Context

    • Bangladesh is one of the largest importers of Indian cotton and yarn.
    • India exported:
      • $1.6 billion worth cotton yarn (2024)
      • $85 million manmade fibre yarn

    Tit-for-Tat Trade Restrictions (2025)

    • Bangladesh restricted yarn imports from India through land ports (April 2025).
    • India imposed curbs on Bangladeshi readymade garment imports (May 2025).
    • Trade tensions followed a broader diplomatic strain in 2024.

    Impact on India

    • Possible decline in cotton and yarn exports to Bangladesh.
    • Impact on Indian textile supply chains, especially land port trade.
    • Strategic trade competition in South Asia.
    [2020] Consider the following statements: 1. The value of Indo-Sri Lanka trade has consistently increased in the last decade. 

    2. “Textile and textile articles” constitute an important item of trade between India and Bangladesh. 

    3. In the last five years, Nepal has been the largest trading partner of India in South Asia. 

    Which of the statements given above is/are correct? 

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

  • IT Rules 2026 Amendment on AI Content

    Why in the News?

    The Union Government has amended the IT Rules to mandate prominent labelling of AI generated photorealistic content and sharply reduce takedown timelines for unlawful material. The rules take effect from February 20, 2026.

    Key Highlights

    • Definition of Synthetic Content: AI generated audio, visual or audiovisual content that appears real and indistinguishable from natural persons or real events.
    • Mandatory Labelling: Platforms must seek disclosure if content is AI generated. 
      • If no disclosure, platforms must label it prominently. 
      • Non consensual deepfakes must be removed.
    • Reduced Takedown Timeline: Court or government declared illegal content: within 3 hours. 
      • Non consensual nudity and deepfakes: within 2 hours. Earlier limit was 24 to 36 hours
    • Safe Harbour Impact: Under the Information Technology Act, 2000, intermediaries enjoy safe harbour under Section 79. 
      • Failure to exercise due diligence may lead to loss of immunity.
    • States’ Power: States can now notify more than one officer to issue takedown orders.
    [2020] With the present state of development, Artificial Intelligence can effectively do which of the following? 1. Bring down electricity consumption in industrial units 

    2. Create meaningful short stories and songs 

    3. Disease diagnosis 

    4. Text-to-Speech Conversion 

    5. Wireless transmission of electrical energy 

    Select the correct answer using the code given below: 

    (a) 1, 2, 3 and 5 only (b) 1, 3 and 4 only (c) 2, 4 and 5 only (d) 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5

  • [10th February 2026] The Hindu OpED: Back on track: On Malaysia India ties

    PYQ Relevance

    [UPSC 2024] Discuss the geopolitical and geostrategic importance of Maldives for India with a focus on global trade and energy flows. Further also discuss how this relationship affects India’s maritime security and regional stability amidst international competition?

    Linkage: UPSC often asks such questions to assess India’s strategic engagement with key maritime neighbours in the context of sea lanes of communication, energy security, and great-power competition in the Indian Ocean Region.

    Mentor’s Comment

    India–Malaysia relations witnessed strain over terrorism discourse and multilateral positioning. The recent high-level visit marks a strategic recalibration with implications for ASEAN engagement, trade negotiations, and counter-terror diplomacy.

    Why in the News?

    After a year of visible strain, ties between India and Malaysia are being recalibrated through Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s 24-hour visit to Kuala Lumpur. The visit is significant because it marks his first overseas destination of the new year and comes after diplomatic discomfort over Malaysia’s remarks on the Pahalgam terror attacks and its outreach to Pakistan.

    What led to the strain in India-Malaysia ties?

    1. Pahalgam Remarks: Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim called for a “full and thorough enquiry” and “de-escalation and meaningful dialogue” between India and Pakistan, which drew unease in New Delhi.
    2. Mediation Offer: Ibrahim offered to mediate if required, signalling an interventionist posture.
    3. Pakistan Outreach: Hosting Pakistani PM Shabaz Sharif in October 2025 intensified diplomatic sensitivities.
    4. Contentious Issues: Continued stay of preacher Zakir Naik, wanted in India under UAPA, remained unresolved but deliberately not discussed publicly.

    How did the visit signal diplomatic repair?

    1. First Overseas Visit: Modi chose Malaysia as his first foreign destination of the year, signalling priority.
    2. Joint Condemnation: Both countries unequivocally condemned terrorism, including “cross-border terrorism.”
    3. Counter-terror Cooperation: Strengthened intelligence sharing and coordination at the UN and FATF.
    4. MoUs Signed: Agreements signed to deepen ties, including in semiconductors.

    What major agreements were signed?

    1. Audio-visual co-production agreement: Promotes joint film and media production to enhance cultural and creative industry collaboration
    2. Disaster management cooperation: Strengthens coordination in disaster response, preparedness and institutional capacity-building
    3. Combating and preventing corruption: Facilitates cooperation in anti-corruption measures, including information-sharing and best practices
    4. UN peacekeeping cooperation: Extends collaboration in United Nations peacekeeping operations through exchange of letters.
    5. Semiconductor cooperation: Establishes a framework to advance collaboration in the semiconductor sector as a strategic priority
    6. International Big Cats Alliance framework agreement: Marks Malaysia’s participation in India’s IBCA initiative to enhance wildlife conservation cooperation
    7. Social security cooperation (ESIC-PERKESO): Enables coordination of social security benefits for Indian citizens working in Malaysia
    8. Vocational education and training (TVET): Enhances collaboration in skills development and technical training through exchange of notes
    9. Security cooperation between National Security Councils: Formalises closer engagement on national security matters.
    10. Health and medicine cooperation: Deepens collaboration in healthcare, medical research and public health systems.
    11. 10th Malaysia-India CEO Forum report: Presents joint recommendations to strengthen bilateral trade and investment ties.

    What economic and technological outcomes emerged?

    1. Semiconductor Cooperation: MoU builds on cooperation between IIT Madras Global and the Advanced Semiconductor Academy of Malaysia.
    2. Trade and AITIGA Review: Visit may revive negotiations on reviewing the ASEAN-India Trade in Goods Agreement (AITIGA), previously impacted by India skipping the ASEAN summit.
    3. Sectoral Expansion: Emphasis on trade, defence, energy, and digital technologies.

    What were the multilateral implications?

    1. ASEAN Engagement: Repair of ties follows India’s absence from the ASEAN summit despite accepting the invitation.
    2. Trade Frictions: Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal’s criticism of FTAs as “badly negotiated” and remarks referring to ASEAN countries as “B-teams” to China had caused unease.
    3. BRICS Coordination: India will chair the BRICS summit; Malaysia’s aspiration for membership was “noted.”
    4. Indonesia’s Entry: Indonesia has already become a BRICS partner country.

    Why is this reset strategically significant?

    1. Geographic Proximity: India-Malaysia cooperation influences broader ASEAN dynamics.
    2. Balancing China Factor: Trade sensitivities and FTA negotiations occur in a context of China’s influence.
    3. Regional Stability: Stronger coordination enhances counter-terror diplomacy and multilateral positioning.

    Conclusion

    The visit reflects calibrated diplomacy: contentious bilateral issues were set aside, counter-terror cooperation reaffirmed, economic engagement deepened, and multilateral coordination restored. The reset positions India and Malaysia for closer engagement within ASEAN and BRICS frameworks amid evolving global alignments.

  • India–Seychelles Joint Vision SESEL

    Why in the News

    India and Seychelles adopted a Joint Vision for Sustainability, Economic Growth and Security through Enhanced Linkages (SESEL) during the State Visit of Seychelles President Patrick Herminie to India. The visit coincides with 50 years of Seychelles’ independence and 50 years of India–Seychelles diplomatic relations.

    Key Outcomes 

    Strategic and Political

    • Reaffirmation of special maritime partnership between India and Seychelles
    • Seychelles recognised as a key pillar of India’s Vision MAHASAGAR
    • Agreement to intensify political and parliamentary exchanges

    Development Partnership

    • India announced a Special Economic Package of USD 175 million
      • USD 125 million Rupee denominated Line of Credit
      • USD 50 million Grant assistance
    • Focus areas include sustainability, defence, maritime security, capacity building and inclusive growth

    Digital Public Infrastructure

    • India to assist Seychelles in building Digital Public Infrastructure
    • Includes digital payments and e governance systems

    Health and Food Security

    • Donation of 10 ambulances to Seychelles
    • Seychelles to recognise Indian Pharmacopoeia, easing access to affordable medicines
    • Donation of 1000 metric tonnes of grains to strengthen food security
    • Cooperation on hospital construction and public health capacity

    Capacity Building

    • Expanded cooperation under Indian Technical and Economic Cooperation
    • Training for civil servants, defence personnel and health professionals
    • Customised training through National Centre for Good Governance
    • Cooperation in cybersecurity, financial intelligence and MSME promotion

    Climate Action and Renewables

    • Cooperation under the International Solar Alliance
    • Support for Multi Hazard Early Warning Systems
    • Seychelles to join the Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure
    • India to provide technical support for green transport and power grid management

    Trade, Tourism and Connectivity

    • Direct flights boosted Indian tourist arrivals
    • Agreement to explore further air connectivity
    • Focus on blue economy, fisheries, AI, digital services and affordable housing

    Hydrography and Blue Economy

    • Establishment of Seychelles Hydrographic Unit with Indian assistance
    • Conduct of joint hydrographic surveys
    • Third Joint Commission Meeting on Hydrography to be held in Seychelles in 2026
    [2025] Consider the following countries: I. United Arab Emirates 

    II. France 

    III. Germany 

    IV. Singapore 

    V. Bangladesh 

    How many countries amongst the above are there other than India where international merchant payments are accepted under UPI? 

    (a) Only two (b) Only three (c) Only four (d) All the five

  • NHRC takes suo motu cognizance of stranded Indian workers in Dubai

    Why in the News

    The National Human Rights Commission has taken suo motu cognizance of reports that Indian migrant workers from Jharkhand are stranded in Dubai, allegedly facing passport seizure, unpaid wages and denial of return to India.

    Key Facts  

    • Number of workers affected: At least 14
    • Home districts: Giridih, Hazaribagh and Bokaro in Jharkhand
    • Nature of employment: Transmission line work
    • Allegations:
      • Passports seized by employer
      • Wages unpaid
      • Salary deductions to recover airfare costs
      • Charges imposed for accommodation
      • Inability to afford food
    • Action by NHRC:
      • Issued notices to the Chief Secretary of Jharkhand
      • Notice to the State Migrant Workers Control Room
      • Sought a detailed report within two weeks

    Note:

    • The present case directly demonstrates the suo motu powers of NHRC based on media reports.
    • NHRC is a statutory body, not constitutional.
    • Its recommendations are advisory, not binding.
    • It does not have punitive powers but can recommend action.
    [2023] Consider the following organizations/bodies in India: 1. The National Commission for Backward Classes 

    2. The National Human Rights Commission 

    3. The National Law Commission 

    4. The National Consumer Disputes Redressal Commission 

    How many of the above are constitutional bodies? 

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

  • [9th February 2026] The Hindu OpED: A social media ban will not save our children

    PYQ Relevance

    [UPSC 2023] Child cuddling is now being replaced by mobile phones. Discuss its impact on the socialization of children.

    Linkage: This GS-I (Society) question examines the impact of digital technology on family structures, early childhood development, and patterns of socialization.

    Mentor’s Comment

    The debate on banning social media for minors has intensified following policy moves globally and in India. The article argues that prohibition is a simplistic response to a complex structural problem. It cautions against moral panic-driven regulation and instead calls for building a healthy digital media ecosystem grounded in accountability, research, and child protection safeguards.

    Why in the News?

    The issue gains prominence due to a growing global shift toward restricting adolescent access to social media platforms. In 2024, Australia passed a law prohibiting anyone under 16 from holding accounts on major platforms such as Instagram, TikTok, YouTube, Snapchat, and X. It mandates age verification and imposes fines up to $50 million for non-compliance. In February 2026, Spain announced similar restrictions. These measures represent one of the first large-scale legislative attempts to exclude minors from digital platforms entirely. In India, policymakers are considering comparable measures amid rising concern over screen addiction and adolescent mental health.

    Why is a Social Media Ban Being Considered?

    1. Adolescent Mental Health Concerns: Links heavy social media use with anxiety, depressive symptoms, self-harm, and body image dissatisfaction. Evidence remains associational, not causal.
    2. Screen Addiction Narrative: Frames excessive digital engagement as primary cause of adolescent distress.
    3. Policy Response Shift: Australia’s 2024 legislation bans under-16 accounts on major platforms. Imposes mandatory age verification and fines up to $50 million.
    4. International Replication: Spain (February 2026) announced similar prohibition for minors under 16.
    5. Moral Panic Dynamics: Political responses seek visible control measures during public tragedies, producing symbolic crackdowns.

    Does Evidence Justify Blanket Prohibition?

    1. Systematic Reviews: Identify small but consistent associations between heavy usage and mental health challenges.
    2. Gendered Impact: Greater vulnerability among adolescent girls.
    3. Absence of Causality: Studies do not establish direct cause-effect relationship.
    4. Indian Context Gap: Limited domestic studies, but global findings signal caution in usage effects.

    Why May Bans Fail in the Indian Context?

    1. Enforcement Constraints: Adolescents evade age restrictions easily.
    2. VPN Circumvention: Strict age-gating pushes minors toward unregulated platforms or dark web spaces.
    3. Encrypted Migration: Movement to platforms like Instagram or encrypted environments reduces oversight.
    4. Mass Surveillance Risk: Identity verification frameworks risk linking minors’ online activity to government databases.
    5. Gender Inequality Reinforcement: 33.3% of women in India use internet versus 57.1% of men. Bans may disproportionately restrict girls’ mobility and digital access.
    6. Community Loss: For queer and differently-abled teens in small towns, social media provides safe communities otherwise unavailable offline.
    7. Democratic Deficit: Policy decisions occur without consulting adolescents directly.

    What Structural Problems Are Being Ignored?

    1. Platform Design Incentives: Engagement-maximizing algorithms encourage addictive use.
    2. Profit Model Dependence: Revenue tied to user attention and data extraction.
    3. Content Moderation Gaps: Inconsistent enforcement and opaque governance structures.
    4. Digital Protection Weakness: India’s Digital Personal Data Protection Act, 2023 relies on parental consent gating, which may result in exclusion or false declarations.
    5. Under-Regulated AI Integration: Generative AI chatbots integrated into platforms increase exposure to unverified health advice and harmful interactions.
    6. Emerging Risks: AI-related cases include sexualised interactions with minors and alleged self-harm inducement.

    What are the Policy Alternatives Available?

    1. Platform Accountability: Legally enforceable “duty of care” obligations.
    2. Independent Regulation: Oversight by expert regulators, not solely by the Ministry of Electronics and IT.
    3. Research Infrastructure: Longitudinal studies on children’s digital well-being across class, caste, gender, and region.
    4. Notice-and-Repair Model: Move beyond takedown mechanisms to systemic platform design reform.
    5. Healthy Media Ecology: Balance innovation with child safety and democratic transparency.
    6. Avoid Illusion of Control: Recognize that bans offer symbolic reassurance without systemic resolution.

    Conclusion

    Blanket prohibition simplifies a complex structural issue. It risks deepening inequalities, encouraging circumvention, and expanding surveillance frameworks. Sustainable reform requires platform accountability, independent oversight, evidence-based research, and systemic redesign of digital environments.

  • How is India tackling mental health crisis?

    Why in the News?

    The Economic Survey flagged rising digital addiction and screen-related mental health disorders, particularly among children and adolescents. The Union Budget announced strengthening of mental health infrastructure, including establishment of a second campus of NIMHANS in North India and upgradation of premier institutions in Ranchi and Tezpur. Despite increased allocation from ₹683 crore (2020-21) to ₹1,898 crore (2024-25), mental health spending remains about 2% of total health outlay.

    What is the Scale of India’s Mental Health Burden?

    1. Suicide Burden: Accounts for nearly one-third of global suicides; depression and addiction contribute significantly to disease burden.
    2. Economic Impact: Mental health conditions impose an estimated economic loss of $1.03 trillion between 2012 and 2030.
    3. Treatment Gap: 70-92% of individuals with mental disorders lack proper treatment due to low awareness, stigma, and workforce shortages.
    4. Human Resource Deficit: 0.75 psychiatrists per 1,00,000 population against the recommended 3 per 1,00,000.
    5. Adolescent Vulnerability: Rising digital addiction and screen-related disorders flagged in the Economic Survey.

    What Institutional Measures Have Been Announced?

    1. National institute of mental health and Neuro Sciences (NIMHANS) Expansion: Establishes second campus of National Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences in North India.
    2. Institutional Upgradation: Upgrades premier institutions in Ranchi and Tezpur to improve regional access.
    3. Centre of Excellence Expansion: Sanctions over 20 Centres of Excellence to train postgraduate students in mental health.
    4. Advanced Treatment Infrastructure: Establishes 47 PG departments in mental health.
    5. Primary Healthcare Integration: Integrates mental health services under Ayushman Arogya Mandirs and Health and Wellness Centres.
    6. Tele-MANAS Helpline: Provides 24×7 free mental health support via toll-free number 14416 and 1-800-891-4416; operational across 36 States/UTs and supported by 23 specialised mentoring institutes.

    How Has Budgetary Allocation Evolved?

    1. Allocation Increase: Raises allocation from ₹683 crore (2020-21) to ₹1,898 crore (2024-25).
    2. Relative Share: Maintains mental health share at approximately 1% of total health budget and about 2% of national health outlay.
    3. Historical Underfunding: Reflects long-standing low fiscal prioritisation despite rising burden.

    Where Do Structural Gaps Persist?

    1. Low Budgetary Share: Limits impact due to marginal share within overall health expenditure.
    2. Underutilisation of Funds: Prevents full utilisation of allocated funds at national level.
    3. Institution-Centric Focus: Directs significant funds towards tertiary institutions such as NIMHANS and Centres of Excellence.
    4. Limited Community-Based Models: Weakens early intervention and preventive mental health services.
    5. Capacity Constraints: Maintains shortage of trained professionals, with only 9% gap reduction in access to mental healthcare.

    What Approach is Required Going Forward?

    1. Affordable Access: Ensures continuity of care and long-term treatment.
    2. Preventive Focus: Reduces years lived with disability through early detection.
    3. Human Resource Strengthening: Expands trained workforce capacity.
    4. Community Integration: Integrates mental well-being into school curricula and workplace policies.
    5. Whole-of-Community Model: Mainstreams mental health beyond hospital-centric systems.

    Conclusion

    India’s mental health crisis reflects a structural mismatch between the scale of the burden and the scale of response. Rising suicides, a 70-92% treatment gap, severe psychiatrist shortages, and mental health spending hovering around 1-2% of the health budget indicate systemic under-prioritisation despite recent institutional expansion.

    Strengthening tertiary institutions alone cannot address a crisis rooted in access, stigma, affordability, and preventive failure. A shift towards community-based care, workforce expansion, full utilisation of allocated funds, and integration of mental well-being into schools and workplaces is essential to convert policy intent into measurable public health outcomes.

    PYQ Relevance

    [UPSC 2023] Explain why suicide among young women is increasing in Indian Society. 

    Linkage: UPSC frequently frames GS-I Society questions around emerging social vulnerabilities reflected in current data trends. The article highlights India accounting for nearly one-third of global suicides and flags rising mental health distress, making youth and gender-specific suicide patterns directly relevant to contemporary exam themes.