PYQ Relevance
[UPSC 2022] Discuss the role of the Election Commission of India in the light of the evolution of the Model Code of Conduct.”
Linkage: Just as the Model Code of Conduct (MCC) evolved as a tool by the Election Commission of India (ECI) to ensure free and fair elections in a changing political landscape, the present crisis of migrant disenfranchisement in Bihar shows the need for the ECI to evolve its mechanisms to safeguard inclusivity similarly. The deletion of 3.5 million migrant voters highlights that electoral integrity today is not only about regulating political behaviour (through MCC) but also about ensuring universal participation by adapting to realities of circular migration, dual belonging, and portable identities. Strengthening ECI’s role in creating mobile and flexible voter registration systems, like Kerala’s migration surveys or cross-State verification, would be a natural extension of its democratic mandate. |
Mentor’s Comment
The article highlights a silent but serious crisis unfolding in Bihar, where nearly 3.5 million voters, largely migrants, have been deleted from electoral rolls due to the Special Intensive Revision (SIR). This not only exposes flaws in India’s electoral infrastructure but also deepens the democratic deficit in migrant-heavy States. For UPSC aspirants, this issue links to democracy, citizenship, federalism, migration, and social justice, making it highly relevant for GS 2 (Polity & Governance) and GS 1 (Society).
Introduction
In a democracy of 1.4 billion citizens, every vote matters. Yet, millions of India’s migrant workers are quietly being left out of the democratic process. In Bihar, where migration is both an economic lifeline and a survival strategy, the recent mass deletion of 3.5 million voters (4.4% of the total electoral roll) raises critical questions about representation, inclusivity, and the design of India’s electoral system. The crisis is not an isolated administrative lapse but a systemic failure rooted in an outdated model of citizenship tied to permanent residence, ignoring the realities of circular and seasonal migration.
The disenfranchisement of Bihar’s migrants in the news
- Mass deletion: Nearly 3.5 million voters were deleted under the Special Intensive Revision (SIR).
- Reason given: “Permanently migrated”, migrants absent during house-to-house verification.
- Permanent loss of rights: These voters cannot vote either in host States (where they work) or in home States (where their names are deleted).
- Democratic rupture: Bihar’s voter turnout is already low, 53.2% in the last four Assembly elections, compared to 66.4% in Gujarat and 70.7% in Karnataka.
- Scale of migration: 7 million annual outflow from Bihar, of which 4.8 million migrate seasonally. Around 2.7 million return during October–November festivals, yet many will be unable to vote this year.
Electoral system and the migrant challenge in India
- Sedentary citizen model: Voter registration tied to proof of residence and in-person verification.
- Documentation barriers: Migrants often live in rented rooms, construction sites, or slums with no accepted address proof.
- Regionalism & exclusion: Migrants in host States are seen as “outsiders” with fears of electoral influence discouraging registration.
- Dual belonging demonised: Migrants contribute economically in host States but are denied political identity both at origin and destination.
Studies revealing migrant exclusion in electoral participation
- TISS Study (2015): “Inclusive Elections in India” (funded by ECI) confirmed marginalisation of migrants.
- Triple burden: Administrative barriers, digital illiteracy, social exclusion.
- Correlation: Higher migration = Lower voter turnout in source States.
- Mobile data estimates: 7 million circular migrants annually from Bihar, proving large-scale exclusion.
Welfare exclusions and the migrant voting crisis
- One Nation One Ration Card Scheme (2019):
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- Limited uptake: only 3.3 lakh households from Bihar availed portability by May 2025.
- Barriers: Dual residency, bureaucratic hurdles, fear of losing entitlements.
- Parallel with voter IDs: migrants keep origin-based documents for security.
- Cross-border complexities: Along the 1,751 km India-Nepal border, traditional “roti-beti” ties now face exclusion due to restrictive documentation, disproportionately affecting women.
Reforms to safeguard migrant voting rights
- Portable voter identity: Mobile, flexible, and portable voter ID system.
- Cross-verification model: Coordination between origin and destination States to prevent disenfranchisement.
- Local bodies’ role: Panchayats and civil society to aid migrant re-registration.
- Kerala model of migration surveys: Replicate in high-migration States like Bihar and UP.
- Immediate halt to blanket deletions: Safeguard against the “largest silent voter purge in post-Independence India.”
Conclusion
Migrants embody India’s paradox, economic backbone but political invisibility. The deletion of millions of voters from Bihar is not just an administrative failure; it is a systemic denial of democratic rights. If India’s electoral infrastructure does not adapt to the realities of migration, democracy risks leaving behind its most hard-working and vulnerable citizens. Ensuring portable electoral rights is not charity, it is the essence of a living democracy.
Value Addition
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Constitutional and Legal Angle
- Article 326: Provides for universal adult suffrage — any exclusion of migrant workers undermines this fundamental principle.
- Representation of People Act, 1950 & 1951: While they govern electoral rolls and voting procedures, they are silent on portable voting rights for internal migrants.
- Supreme Court in PUCL vs Union of India (2003): Declared the right to vote as part of freedom of expression under Article 19(1)(a). Denial to migrants raises constitutional concerns.
Scale of the Problem – National Context
- Census 2011: 45.6 crore internal migrants in India (37% of the population).
- Economic Survey 2017: ~9 million people migrate annually for work, education, or marriage.
- Migrants form a huge electoral constituency, yet remain politically invisible.
Policy/Election Commission (EC) Initiatives Beyond Bihar
- EC’s Remote Voting Machine (RVM) Proposal, 2023: Aimed to allow migrants to vote from remote locations, but postponed after opposition from political parties.
- E-EPIC (Electronic Voter Photo ID Card), 2021: Step toward portability but lacks full integration across States.
Comparative Global Insights
- Philippines: Overseas absentee voting law enables migrants abroad to vote in national elections.
- Mexico: Postal voting rights for citizens abroad.
- South Africa: Mobile registration and voting stations in migrant-dense areas.
- India lags in creating portable political rights for its massive migrant population.
Democratic & Governance Implications
- Political alienation → weakens democratic legitimacy in migrant-heavy States (Bihar, UP, Odisha).
- Rise of sub-nationalism → exclusion in host States deepens identity politics.
- Urban governance: Migrants in cities are tax contributors (indirectly via consumption) but lack political representation → urban policies ignore their needs.
Ethical & Social Justice Dimension
- Ambedkar’s warning: “Political democracy cannot last unless… social democracy is its foundation.” Excluding the poor migrants fractures this balance.
- Gandhian perspective: True Swaraj is when “the last man” (Antyodaya principle) participates in democracy — migrant exclusion violates this ethic.
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Mapping Microthemes
- GS Paper I (Society): Migration, regionalism, exclusion of vulnerable groups.
- GS Paper II (Polity & Governance): Electoral reforms, federal coordination, democratic rights.
- GS Paper III (Economy): Migration as economic survival strategy.
- GS Paper IV (Ethics): Justice, fairness, and democratic inclusivity.
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Introduction
The recognition of gender identity in India rests on strong legal foundations, the NALSA v. Union of India (2014) judgment and the Transgender Persons (Protection of Rights) Act, 2019. Yet, lived realities remain different, as shown in the Manipur High Court order directing fresh academic certificates for Dr. Beoncy Laishram. What should have been a routine correction instead became a legal battle, exposing the gap between law and practice.
Why is this issue in the news?
The Manipur High Court directed the State to issue fresh academic certificates to Dr. Beoncy Laishram, a transgender doctor, after her university refused to update her records citing procedural hurdles. This is significant because it highlights how basic rights, already guaranteed by law, are still denied in practice. The case reflects a larger systemic problem where bureaucratic rigidity overrides constitutional guarantees under Articles 14 and 21, forcing transpersons into prolonged legal battles to claim what is already legally theirs.
Bureaucratic Inertia vs. Transgender Justice
- Administrative inertia: Officials often defer to rigid procedural rules rather than the spirit of the law.
- Sequential corrections: Universities and boards insisted that records must be corrected starting from the earliest certificate, creating cascading hurdles.
- Binary mindset: Authorities still stick to birth-assigned gender over self-identity.
The NALSA Judgement Mandate on Self-Identification
- Right to self-identify: In NALSA v. Union of India (2014), the Supreme Court recognised transgender persons’ right to self-identify their gender.
- Welfare entitlements: Declared them socially and educationally backward, eligible for reservations and welfare schemes.
- Constitutional backing: Linked to Articles 14 (equality before law) and 21 (right to life and dignity), making recognition a constitutional obligation.
Statutory Guarantees under the Transgender Persons (Protection of Rights) Act, 2019
- Statutory obligation: Authorities are legally required to recognise self-identified gender and update official records.
- Codification of self-identification: Law translated the NALSA principle into binding statutory practice.
- Gap in implementation: Despite clarity in law, officials often refuse compliance unless compelled by courts.
The Precedent of Dr. Laishram’s Case (A Landmark for Institutional Accountability)
- Individual justice: The order ensures her academic and professional records reflect her affirmed identity.
- Precedential value: Signals to other institutions that procedural rigidity cannot override constitutional rights.
- Systemic spotlight: Reveals how transpersons are forced into legal struggles for routine matters, expending time and resources disproportionately.
Reforms for Bridging Law and Reality
- Institutional reform: Simplify procedures and enforce compliance through clear administrative circulars.
- Cultural change: Bureaucracy must embrace gender as lived reality, not paperwork.
- Awareness and sensitivity training: Officials must be sensitised to constitutional principles and human dignity.
Conclusion
The Manipur High Court’s ruling is a milestone, but it also highlights how rights guaranteed in law often falter in practice. True empowerment will come only when institutions operationalise constitutional principles with sensitivity, ensuring that gender identity is recognised as a matter of dignity, not just paperwork.
Value Addition
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Key Features of the Transgender Persons (Protection of Rights) Act, 2019
- Definition of Transgender Person: Includes trans-men, trans-women, persons with intersex variations, genderqueer, and persons with socio-cultural identities (like hijra, aravani, jogta).
- Right to Self-Perceived Gender Identity: Allows individuals to identify as male, female, or transgender.
- Prohibition of Discrimination: No discrimination in education, employment, healthcare, housing, access to services, or public places.
- Recognition and Certificates: Provides for a certificate of identity issued by the District Magistrate, recognising a person as “transgender.”
- Welfare Measures: Mandates governments to frame welfare schemes for education, healthcare, vocational training, and social security.
- Offences and Penalties: Criminalises denial of services, removal from household, physical/sexual abuse; punishable with imprisonment (6 months–2 years) and fine.
- National Council for Transgender Persons (NCT): Advisory body to monitor implementation, headed by Union Minister for Social Justice & Empowerment.
Criticisms
- Certification process: Seen as bureaucratic and violating the spirit of self-identification under NALSA (2014)
- No reservation policy: Act does not clearly guarantee reservations in jobs/education despite Supreme Court directions.
- Weak enforcement: Implementation depends heavily on state-level rules; lack of accountability mechanisms.
International Value Addition
- Argentina’s Gender Identity Law (2012): Considered the most progressive globally; allows self-declared gender without medical/psychological proof.
- Nepal (2007): One of the first Asian countries to legally recognise a “third gender” category.
- Yogyakarta Principles: International guidelines on sexual orientation and gender identity as human rights.
Reports & Data
- National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) Report, 2017 – Found that over 92% of transpersons are denied basic rights like jobs, healthcare, education.
- Transgender Persons (Protection of Rights) Rules, 2020 – Prescribed simple process for self-identification, but implementation is patchy.
Governance & Ethics Lens
- Administrative Sensitisation: Training needed to reduce “file-based rigidity” and promote human dignity.
- Constitutional Morality vs. Social Morality: Governance must align with constitutional principles rather than prevailing biases.
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Mapping Microthemes
- GS Paper I: Social empowerment, issues faced by vulnerable sections.
- GS Paper II: Constitutional provisions (Articles 14, 21), governance issues, judicial interventions.
- GS Paper IV: Ethics in governance, dignity, empathy, sensitivity in administration.
PYQ Relevance
[UPSC 2017] Does the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016 ensure effective mechanisms for empowerment and inclusion of the intended beneficiaries in the society? Discuss.
Linkage: Just as UPSC asked in 2017 about whether the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016 ensures real empowerment, a similar question can be framed on the Transgender Persons (Protection of Rights) Act, 2019. Both laws highlight that while statutory recognition exists, bureaucratic inertia and weak implementation dilute inclusion, making judicial intervention critical for the intended beneficiaries. |
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India is entering a new era of space exploration with lunar success, Gaganyaan, and the proposed Bharat Antariksh Station. Yet, one critical element is missing, a national space law. While India has ratified global treaties like the Outer Space Treaty (1967), it lacks a domestic legal framework to regulate private participation, ensure liability, and attract investment. As space activities expand beyond government agencies to startups and private players, the absence of clear laws poses risks to accountability, innovation, and global competitiveness.
The Urgency of a National Space Law
- Major milestone vs. missing law: India’s scientific achievements are unmatched, but the legal architecture remains absent, risking accountability gaps.
- Private participation: With startups entering, lack of clarity on licensing, FDI rules, liability, and insurance creates operational hurdles.
- International responsibility: Under the Outer Space Treaty, India is responsible for both governmental and private activities, yet it lacks the domestic framework to enforce compliance.
- Global contrast: Countries like the U.S., Japan, and Luxembourg already have national legislation that provides legal certainty and attracts investment.
Principles of the Outer Space Treaty
- Foundational principles: Space is the province of all mankind, prohibiting national appropriation and militarisation.
- State responsibility: Nations are responsible for activities in space, whether by state or private entities.
- Liability framework: Countries bear liability for damages caused by their space objects.
- Not self-executing: According to UNOOSA, national laws are essential to translate treaty principles into enforceable domestic regulations.
India’s Incremental Approach to Space Legislation
- Methodical strategy: India is incremental and cautious, ensuring technical regulations precede overarching law.
- Catalogue of Indian Standards: A framework to ensure safety of space operations.
- Indian Space Policy (ISP), 2023: Encourages non-governmental participation in space activities.
- IN-SPACe Norms, Guidelines and Procedures (NPG): Provide procedures for authorisation of space activities.
- Pending gap: The broader Space Activities Law that incorporates treaty obligations is still not enacted.
Industry Concerns and Operational Challenges
- Statutory authority gap: IN-SPACe lacks formal legal backing, leaving decisions open to procedural challenges.
- Licensing and delays: Companies face multiple ministry clearances, creating uncertainty.
- FDI rules: Industry demands clarity, such as 100% automatic FDI in satellite components to attract capital.
- Liability and insurance: While India is internationally liable, companies need affordable third-party insurance to cover risks.
- Intellectual property protection: Current frameworks risk talent and tech migration to IP-friendly nations.
- Space debris management: Absence of mandatory accident investigations and debris laws increases operational risks.
The Importance of Affordable Insurance for Space Startups
- High-value assets: Satellites and payloads involve massive investments; startups cannot absorb losses alone.
- Global liability: India bears responsibility internationally, so private players must secure third-party insurance.
- Investor confidence: Insurance frameworks encourage investors, reducing risk aversion.
- Innovation support: Affordable insurance ensures startups can experiment and grow, without fear of crippling liability.
Conclusion
India’s space programme has made historic strides, but without a comprehensive national space law, its progress risks being undermined by regulatory gaps. A forward-looking framework ensuring clarity, liability management, insurance, IP protection, and statutory backing for IN-SPACe is essential to balance innovation with responsibility. The future of India’s space leadership will depend as much on strong laws as on strong rockets.
Value Addition
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- UNOOSA Insight: National laws act as the domestic enabler of international obligations. Without them, treaty principles remain unenforceable.
- Comparative Perspective:
- United States: Commercial Space Launch Act allows private launches with liability coverage.
- Luxembourg: Pioneered space mining rights to attract global investors.
- Japan: Provides licensing, insurance, and debris mitigation guidelines.
- Governance Lens: Reflects the larger theme of state capacity to regulate frontier technologies, similar to how data protection laws govern digital economies.
- Economic Angle: A robust legal framework will strengthen India’s space economy, valued at nearly $9.6 billion (2020) and projected to grow to $13 billion by 2025.
- Investor Confidence: Insurance frameworks, clear FDI rules, and IP protection create a trustworthy ecosystem for global investors.
- Security Dimension: Dual-use nature of space technologies necessitates clarity in export controls and defence linkages.
- Ethical Dimension: Covers responsibility towards space debris management and sustainability of outer space as a global commons.
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Mapping Microthemes
- GS Paper II (Governance, International Relations):
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- Outer Space Treaty (1967) – India’s obligations and global responsibility
- Role of UNOOSA – multilateral governance of outer space
- Need for National Legislation – predictability, legal clarity, statutory backing for IN-SPACe
- GS Paper III (Science & Technology, Economy, Security):
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- Growth of India’s Space Economy – Chandrayaan-3, Gaganyaan, startups, private players
- Insurance and Liability – affordability for startups, international responsibility for damages
- Intellectual Property Rights – preventing brain drain, encouraging innovation
- Space Debris Management – sustainability and accident investigation procedures
- Dual-Use Technology Challenge – balancing civilian and defence aspects
- GS Paper IV (Ethics & Governance):
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- Accountability in Outer Space – who bears liability for damage?
- Ethics of Space Exploration – sustainability, “province of mankind” principle
- Equitable Access – preventing monopolisation of space resources by few nations
PYQ Relevance
[UPSC 2016] Discuss India’s achievements in the field of Space Science and Technology. How the application of this technology has helped India in its socio-economic development?
Linkage: While India’s space achievements like Chandrayaan-3 and Gaganyaan highlight scientific progress, the absence of a national space law shows a governance gap. A legal framework is crucial to translate these achievements into sustainable socio-economic gains through private participation, investment, and accountability. |
Practice Mains Question
With India emerging as a global space power, discuss the urgency of enacting a comprehensive national space law. What key provisions should such legislation include to balance innovation, liability, and global responsibility?
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Why in the News?
The African Union (AU) has endorsed the Correct the Map campaign to replace the 16th-century Mercator projection with more accurate maps.
About the African Union (AU):
- Establishment: Formed in 2002, replacing the Organisation of African Unity (1963).
- Membership: 55 African countries.
- Headquarters: Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.
- Vision: “An Integrated, Prosperous, and Peaceful Africa, driven by its own citizens.”
- Agenda 2063: Blueprint for socio-economic growth and continental unity.
- Main Organs: Assembly, Executive Council, AU Commission, Peace and Security Council.
What is a Mercator Map?
- Creation: Designed in 1569 by Gerardus Mercator.
- Projection: Cylindrical map with straight longitude and latitude lines intersecting at 90°.
- Purpose: Enabled sailors to plot straight-line courses for compass navigation.
- Adoption: Became the standard map in schools, atlases, and wall charts by the 19th century.
Issues with the Mercator Map:
- Distortion: Enlarges high-latitude regions (Europe, Russia, North America) while shrinking Africa and South America.
- Example: Greenland appears equal to Africa, though Africa is ~14 times larger.
- Colonial Bias: Reinforced Western dominance narratives and downplayed Africa’s size and importance.
- Impact: Supported marginalisation and exploitation during colonialism.
- Alternatives: Gall-Peters (1970s) and Equal Earth (2018) projections show continents in correct proportion.
- AU Stand: Advocates replacing Mercator maps to restore Africa’s rightful global image.
| [UPSC 2024] The longest border between any two countries in the world is between:
Options: (a) Canada and the USA * (b) Chile and Argentina (c) China and India (d) Kazakhstan and Russian Federation |
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Why in the News?
China has launched the Xinjiang–Xizang Railway Line, a strategic, economic, and engineering milestone, connecting Xinjiang with Tibet.
About the Xinjiang–Xizang Railway Line:
- Overview: A major high-altitude railway project connecting Hotan in Xinjiang to Shigatse and Lhasa in Tibet (Xizang).
- Total length planned: ~2,000 km, part of China’s larger 5,000 km rail grid in Tibet by 2035.
- Construction is phased:
- Shigatse–Pakhuktso section (by 2025)
- Pakhuktso–Hotan section (by 2035).
- Terrain: Himalayas, Karakoram, Kunlun ranges, deserts, glaciers, and permafrost — average altitude above 4,500m.
- Significance: Seen as one of China’s most advanced and difficult transport projects, comparable to the Qinghai–Tibet Railway (2006).
Strategic Implications of the Project:
- Military Mobility: Proximity to Aksai Chin and Line of Actual Control (LAC) enhances Chinese troop deployment and logistics capabilities.
- Regional Integration: Links Xinjiang (Uyghur region) and Tibet (Buddhist region) with mainland China, supporting Sinicisation and demographic shifts.
- Economic Role: Opens remote high-altitude areas to trade, energy transport, and tourism, reducing isolation of minority regions.
- Political Control: Strengthens Beijing’s hold over restive border provinces and suppresses separatist tendencies.
- India Factor: Raises security concerns as India is also upgrading border infrastructure post-2020 Galwan clash.
- Part of “Go West Strategy” (2000): Long-term plan to develop western provinces with infrastructure and integrate them into China’s national economy.
| [UPSC 2023] With reference to India’s projects on connectivity, consider the following statements :
1. East-West Corridor under Golden Quadrilateral Project connects Dibrugarh and Surat.
2. Trilateral Highway connects Moreh in Manipur and Chiang Mai in Thailand via Myanmar.
3. Bangladesh-China -India -Myanmar Economic Corridor connects Varanasi in Uttar Pradesh with Kunming in China. How many of the above statements are correct?
Options: (a) Only one (b) Only two (c) All three (d) None* |
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Why in the News?
India has successfully test-fired the Agni-5 Intermediate-Range Ballistic Missile (IRBM) from the Integrated Test Range, Chandipur (Odisha).
What are Ballistic Missiles?
- Powered by: Solid propellant rocket motors; thrust generated by exhaust gases forces missile upward.
- Three phases:
- Boost Phase – missile consumes propellant; trajectory fixed.
- Midcourse Phase – missile coasts in space on momentum.
- Terminal Phase – warheads re-enter atmosphere and strike target.
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About Agni-5:
- Type: Intercontinental Ballistic Missile (ICBM) developed by DRDO.
- Range: 5,000–5,500 km (upgrade under development up to 7,500 km).
- Propulsion: Three-stage, solid-fuel rocket motors.
- Payload: ~1.5 tonnes, nuclear-capable.
- Multiple Independently Targetable Re-entry Vehicle (MIRV) Technology: Can carry multiple nuclear warheads that target different locations.
- Features: Fire-and-forget system, advanced navigation, guidance and propulsion technologies.
- First Test: 2012 from Wheeler Island (Odisha).
- Strategic Role: Strengthens India’s nuclear deterrence posture, especially vis-à-vis China.
Back2Basics: Agni Series and its Development
- Origins: Began in 1983 under the Integrated Guided Missile Development Programme (IGMDP) led by A.P.J. Abdul Kalam.
- Evolution: Started as technology demonstrators for re-entry vehicles; later developed into full-fledged strategic missiles.
- Variants:
- Agni-I: 700–1,200 km range, inducted 2007.
- Agni-II: 2,000–3,000 km range, inducted 2010.
- Agni-III: 3,500 km range, highly accurate, tested 2007.
- Agni-IV: 4,000 km range, advanced avionics, tested 2011.
- Agni-V: 5,000+ km range, ICBM, MIRV capable.
- Agni Prime (Agni-P): 1,000–2,000 km, lighter, tested 2021.
- Agni-VI: Under development, 6,000–10,000 km, MIRV + submarine launch capable.
- Significance: Backbone of India’s nuclear triad, enhancing deterrence against regional and global adversaries.
| [UPSC 2023] Consider the following statements:
1. Ballistic missiles are jet-propelled at subsonic speeds throughout their fights, while cruise missiles are rocket-powered only in the initial phase of flight.
2. Agni-V is a medium-range supersonic cruise missile, while BrahMos is a solid-fuelled intercontinental ballistic missile.
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* |
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Why in the News?
German researchers found that P. aeruginosa bacteria can switch a key gene (glpD) on or off, even though the bacteria are genetically identical — a survival trick called epigenetic bistability.
About Pseudomonas aeruginosa:
- Nature: Rod-shaped bacterium found in soil, water, and hospital environments.
- Pathogen Type: Opportunistic; infects mainly those with weakened immunity.
- Resistance: Forms biofilms (protective layers), making it highly resistant to antibiotics.
- Genetic Flexibility: Large genome (~6,000 genes) allows adaptation to diverse environments.
Impact on Humans:
- Hospital Infections: Leading cause of hospital-acquired infections.
- Vulnerable Groups: Burn patients, catheter users, cystic fibrosis patients.
- Diseases Caused: Keratitis (eye infection), urinary tract infections, pneumonia, bloodstream infections.
- Mortality: Strong antibiotic resistance makes treatment difficult, leading to high hospital deaths.
Recent Research Findings:
- Discovery: German researchers identified bistable expression of the glpD gene (active in some cells, inactive in others).
- Survival Advantage: This variability helps bacteria survive hostile conditions and trigger infections even from small populations.
- Experiments:
- Cells with glpD active were more lethal in moth larvae and mouse immune models.
- Cells without glpD showed reduced infection ability.
- Significance: On–off switching of glpD is a survival and infection strategy; targeting this mechanism may lead to new treatments for resistant infections.
| [UPSC 2010] Which bacterial strain, developed from natural isolated by genetic manipulations, can be used for treating oil spills?
Options: (a) Agrodbacterium (b) Clostridium (c) Nitrosomonas (d) Pseudomonas* |
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Why in the News?
The Trump administration sanctioned judges and prosecutors of the International Criminal Court (ICC) over arrest cases involving Israeli leaders and past probes into U.S. officials.
About the International Criminal Court (ICC):
- Established: 2002 under the Rome Statute (1998); headquartered at The Hague, Netherlands.
- Nature: First permanent international court to try individuals for grave crimes.
- Jurisdiction over 4 core crimes:
-
- Genocide
- Crimes against humanity
- War crimes
- Crime of aggression
- Members: 124 States Parties
- NON-members: India, China, USA, Russia, Israel, Ukraine
- Structure:
- Office of the Prosecutor – investigates and prosecutes cases.
- 18 Judges – elected for 9 years.
- Assembly of States Parties – governs ICC administration.
- Trust Fund for Victims, Detention Centre
- Languages: English, French, Arabic, Chinese, Russian, Spanish
- Funding: Annual budget (2025) ~ €195 million (mostly from member states)
Jurisdiction and Reach of an ICC Warrant:
- Applicability:
- Crimes by nationals of member states
- Crimes committed on member state territory
- UNSC referrals can extend jurisdiction to non-member states (e.g., Libya, Darfur)
- Obligations on States:
- Member states must execute arrest warrants and cooperate fully.
- Non-compliance can be reported to Assembly of States Parties or UN Security Council (for UNSC referrals)
- Challenges:
- ICC lacks an independent enforcement mechanism
- Non-members (e.g., US, Russia) are not bound to cooperate
- Political and diplomatic constraints hinder the execution of warrants
- Special Mechanisms: ICC established an Arrest Working Group (2016) to enhance warrant enforcement through better intelligence-sharing.
| [UPSC 2022] Which one of the following statements best reflects the issue with Senkaku Islands, sometimes mentioned in the news ?
Options:
(a) It is generally believed that they are artificial islands made by a country around South China Sea.
(b) China and Japan engage in maritime disputes over these islands in East China Sea. *
(c) A permanent American military base has been set up there to help Taiwan to increase its defence capabilities.
(d) Though International Court of Justice declared them as no man’s land, some South-East Asian countries claim them. |
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PYQ Relevance
[UPSC 2022] Discuss global warming and mention its effects on the global climate. Explain the control measures to bring down the level of greenhouse gases which cause global warming, in the light of the Kyoto Protocol, 1997.
Linkage: If such a theme on international climate governance and mechanisms can be asked, then India’s Climate Finance Taxonomy also becomes a significant area. It connects global agreements like the Paris Agreement (Article 6.4) with India’s domestic instruments such as the Carbon Credit Trading Scheme and green bonds. |
Mentors Comment
In May 2025, the Ministry of Finance released the draft Climate Finance Taxonomy, India’s first attempt to formally define what counts as climate-aligned investment. The framework seeks to mobilise green finance, prevent greenwashing, and give clarity to investors. Its success, however, depends on strong review systems, accountability, and stakeholder engagement.
Introduction
The draft taxonomy marks a turning point in India’s climate governance. This is India’s first unified framework for climate finance, introduced amid rising greenwashing risks and investor uncertainty. Arriving alongside the operationalisation of the Carbon Credit Trading Scheme and the rise of green bonds, it comes at a moment of growing pressure to align finance with net-zero goals. As a “living framework,” it promises adaptability to evolving national and global priorities. But without transparency, legal coherence, and institutional accountability, the taxonomy risks undermining India’s climate finance ecosystem instead of strengthening it.
The Review Architecture for a Living Framework
- Two-tier review system: Suggestion of annual reviews for short-term corrections and five-year reviews for deep reassessment.
- Annual reviews: Triggered by implementation gaps, international obligations, or stakeholder feedback, with structured timelines, documentation protocols, and public consultation.
- Five-year reviews: Linked with India’s NDC cycle and global stocktake under the UNFCCC; ensures long-term resilience in a changing climate finance ecosystem.
Key aspects of the Substantive Review
- Legal coherence: Taxonomy must align with Energy Conservation Act, SEBI norms, Carbon Credit Trading Scheme, and India’s international commitments.
- Harmonisation: Review should remove overlaps, clarify redundancies, and integrate with green bonds, blended finance, and environmental risk disclosures.
- Content clarity: Definitions must remain readable, coherent, and technically precise. Quantitative thresholds (e.g., emissions reduction, energy efficiency benchmarks) must be regularly updated with empirical data.
- Inclusivity: Framework must remain accessible to MSMEs, informal sector, agriculture, and small manufacturing with staggered compliance timelines and proportionate expectations.
Strengthening Governance through Accountability Structures
- Standing unit in the Ministry of Finance: Dedicated body within the Department of Economic Affairs or an expert committee involving financial regulators, climate science institutions, civil society.
- Public dashboards: Mechanisms to receive inputs, document experiences, and publish reports.
- Transparency: Annual review summaries and five-year revision proposals should be made public in consolidated formats to enhance investor trust and policy coherence.
Significance of the Climate Finance Taxonomy for India’s Green Transition
- Carbon Credit Trading Scheme: Soon to be fully operational, requiring clear rules for market credibility.
- Green bonds: Entering mainstream portfolios and stock exchanges, need alignment with taxonomy standards.
- Public investment flows: Rising pressure to align fiscal spending with long-term climate goals.
- Risk of failure: A weak or opaque taxonomy could undermine India’s net-zero transition by encouraging greenwashing and eroding investor trust.
Conclusion
India’s climate taxonomy is more than a definitional exercise, it is a governance tool that can determine the credibility of India’s climate finance system. A “living document” is meaningful only if it is kept alive through active review, structured revision, and transparent engagement. By embedding legal coherence, inclusivity, and accountability, India can ensure the taxonomy becomes a reliable foundation for mobilising investments, reducing greenwashing, and achieving its climate goals.
Value Addition
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- Article 6.4 of the Paris Agreement: Provides a framework for carbon market instruments with legal and editorial review mechanisms; offers a model for India’s taxonomy to ensure transparency, credibility, and alignment with global norms.
- Carbon Market Types:
-
- Compliance Markets: Mandated by law (e.g., EU ETS, upcoming India’s Carbon Credit Trading Scheme).
- Voluntary Markets: Corporate/individual offsetting of emissions beyond legal requirements.
- Green Bonds in India:
-
- First Sovereign Green Bonds issued in 2023 worth ₹16,000 crore.
- Used for renewable energy, clean transport, and climate adaptation projects.
- Support India’s target of net-zero by 2070 and deepen climate finance flows.
|
Mapping Microthemes
- GS Paper II: Governance, public consultation, accountability mechanisms.
- GS Paper III: Climate finance, carbon markets, sustainable development, green bonds, energy efficiency.
- GS Paper IV: Ethical finance, transparency, preventing greenwashing.
Practice Mains Question
India’s draft Climate Finance Taxonomy has been called a “living framework.” Discuss its significance for India’s climate governance and examine the challenges of ensuring credibility, inclusivity, and accountability.
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Why in the News?
On August 12, 2025, The Wire’s editors Siddharth Varadarajan and Karan Thapar were summoned by the Assam Police under Section 152 of the BNS, even as the Supreme Court had that very day issued protection while examining the constitutional validity of the new sedition law. This open defiance of judicial authority and the use of procedurally defective summons marks a serious blow to press freedom. What makes this moment significant is that the law being challenged is wider and harsher than colonial sedition provisions, despite India claiming to have moved away from such colonial baggage.
Introduction
The sedition debate in India has returned in a new form. While Section 124A IPC was suspended in 2022, the government introduced Section 152 of the BNS, which critics say is “sedition by another name.” The law widens state powers and lowers the threshold for prosecution, making legitimate criticism vulnerable to criminalisation. Recent cases against journalists show how easily this provision can be misused.
Section 152 and Its Differences from the Old Sedition Law
- Expanded scope: Goes beyond “disaffection” against government, criminalising acts deemed to endanger sovereignty, unity, and integrity.
- Lower bar for prosecution: Words like “knowingly” dilute intent requirements; mere criticism can be dragged into criminality.
- Colonial continuity: Despite being marketed as decolonisation, Section 152 retains the same suppressive essence as 124A IPC.
The Wire Case and Procedural Violations
- Summons despite SC protection: Assam Police issued notices on the very day of SC’s order, reflecting executive defiance.
- Lack of transparency: Summons omitted FIR dates, details of offence, and copies of FIR, violating BNSS safeguards.
- Political overtones: Linked to The Wire’s report on Operation Sindoor, raising concerns of vendetta-driven policing.
Threats to Press Freedom
- Chilling effect: Journalists may self-censor for fear of harassment.
- Vague definitions: Broad terms like “unity” and “sovereignty” give unchecked power to authorities.
- Targeting dissent: Questioning government policy risks being equated with undermining national integrity.
Judicial Response and Challenges
- Supreme Court scrutiny: SC is examining the constitutional validity of Section 152.
- Precedent of 2022: Earlier suspension of sedition cases showed judicial recognition of misuse.
- Executive overreach: Assam Police’s defiance underlines the need for stronger judicial safeguards and guidelines.
Broader Democratic Implications
- Freedom of expression at stake: Democracy thrives on criticism; silencing it weakens accountability.
- Comparative perspective: UK repealed sedition in 2009; US limits it only to violent overthrow.
- Governance paradox: Instead of transparency, India risks sliding into a majoritarian security state.
Way Forward
- Clear legislative safeguards: Narrow the scope of Section 152 with precise definitions of terms like “unity” and “sovereignty” to prevent misuse.
- Judicial guidelines: The Supreme Court can lay down binding principles (on the lines of Kedar Nath Singh and Shreya Singhal) that limit sedition to cases of direct incitement to violence or armed rebellion
- Independent oversight: A judicial or quasi-judicial body should vet sedition cases before FIR registration, reducing frivolous prosecutions.
- Strengthening press freedom: Institutional mechanisms like a Media Commission or independent ombudsman can address grievances without criminalisation.
- Comparative best practices: India can draw from the UK model of repeal and the US model of narrow application, balancing national security with democratic freedoms.
- Civic education: Promoting awareness among citizens, journalists, and law enforcement about constitutional morality and reasonable restrictions can ensure a culture of restraint and accountability.
Conclusion
Section 152 represents the persistence of colonial-style suppression under a new name. Unless the judiciary firmly strikes it down or introduces robust safeguards, it will continue to erode press freedom and democratic dissent, pillars without which India’s constitutional promise cannot stand strong.
Value Addition
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Constitutional Angle
- Article 19(1)(a): Freedom of speech.
- Article 19(2): Reasonable restrictions (sovereignty, unity, public order, etc.).
- Basic Structure Doctrine: Democracy, liberty, and rule of law as inviolable.
Judicial Precedents
- Kedar Nath Singh vs State of Bihar (1962): Sedition valid only when incitement to violence/public disorder is proven.
- Shreya Singhal vs Union of India (2015): Vague terms in laws (like IT Act Section 66A) struck down for chilling free speech.
- SC Order 2022: Suspended all 124A cases, acknowledging misuse.
Reports & Perspectives
- Law Commission of India (2018): Recommended clearer safeguards; questioned necessity of sedition.
- Global practices: UK repealed sedition; US restricts it narrowly.
- BNSS debate: Marketed as decolonisation but seen as repackaging colonial control.
|
Mapping Microthemes
- GS Paper II: Freedom of speech, judiciary, Centre-State federalism
- GS Paper III: Internal security vs. dissent.
- GS Paper IV: Misuse of power, ethics in public life, constitutional morality.
PYQ Relevance
[UPSC 2014] What do you understand by the concept “freedom of speech and expression”? Does it cover hate speech also? Why do the films in India stand on a slightly different plane from other forms of expression? Discuss.
Linkage: The 2014 question on freedom of speech, hate speech, and films mirrors today’s debate on Section 152. Just as films face stricter scrutiny due to mass impact, the new sedition law risks wrongly placing legitimate criticism and dissent in the same bracket as hate speech or violent incitement. This makes the boundary of free expression a central issue in both contexts. |
Practice Mains Question
“Section 152 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita is sedition in a new form. Discuss in the context of press freedom and democratic governance in India.”
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Introduction
In the 1960s, India was reeling under the threat of famine, dependent on food aid like PL-480 imports from the U.S. It was during this crisis that M.S. Swaminathan, in collaboration with Norman Borlaug and with strong political support from leaders like Lal Bahadur Shastri and C. Subramaniam, spearheaded the Green Revolution. By introducing high-yielding dwarf wheat varieties, India moved from “ship-to-mouth” dependence to food self-sufficiency.
His story is not just about agricultural science, it is about leadership, political will, and atmanirbharta in its truest sense. Today, as India aspires for Viksit Bharat and faces the challenge of climate change, his legacy offers critical lessons.
M.S. Swaminathan in the news today:
- Centenary Year: 2025 marks 100 years since the birth of Swaminathan, celebrated with the release of a biography M.S. Swaminathan: The Man Who Fed India.
- Historical Significance: His leadership in the 1960s achieved food self-sufficiency, India’s most successful experiment in aatmanirbharta.
- Relevance Today: India now faces a new agricultural crisis due to climate change, water stress, and soil degradation, making Swaminathan’s lessons critical for the future.
- Striking Contrast: In the 1960s, India relied on foreign food aid; today, India is a food grain exporter, largely due to the foundation Swaminathan built.
Collaboration and scientific exchange in shaping the Green Revolution
- Cross-fertilisation of ideas: Swaminathan’s initial experiments with radiation-induced mutations failed. A Japanese scientist’s input on dwarf wheat and Norman Borlaug’s Mexican varieties changed the course.
- Networking with global scientists: Swaminathan leveraged his contacts to bring Borlaug’s seeds to India, overcoming bureaucratic hurdles.
- Lesson: Science thrives on openness, collaboration, and reduced bureaucracy, not isolation.
The role of political leadership in Swaminathan’s success
- Direct dialogue with scientists: C. Subramaniam (Agriculture Minister) listened directly to Swaminathan, bypassing bureaucratic resistance.
- Evidence-based decisions: Lal Bahadur Shastri personally visited fields to see the new wheat varieties before approving large-scale imports.
- Leadership support: Indira Gandhi carried forward the momentum after Shastri’s death, ensuring continuity.
- Lesson: Strong political will + scientific advice = transformative policy outcomes.
Challenges and criticisms of the Green Revolution
- Opposition from multiple fronts: Finance Ministry resisted spending ₹5 crore in forex; Planning Commission doubted the seeds; Left parties opposed U.S. connections (Rockefeller Foundation funding).
- Environmental fallout: Excessive water use, soil degradation, and fertilizer dependence became long-term challenges.
- Swaminathan’s foresight: He himself warned against unsustainable practices and advocated for “evergreen revolution”, productivity with sustainability.
Lessons from Swaminathan’s legacy for Viksit Bharat
- Science-Policy Linkages: Scientists must be given autonomy, direct access to policymakers and freedom from bureaucratic bottlenecks.
- R&D Investment: India spends 0.43% of agricultural GDP on R&D, half of China’s share; none of India’s agricultural institutes are in the world’s top 200, while China has eight in the top 10.
- Sustainability: A climate-resilient agriculture strategy is urgent to prevent food insecurity in the era of global warming.
- Atmanirbharta parallel: Just as Swaminathan made India self-sufficient in food, similar investments are needed in the digital economy, AI and green technologies.
Conclusion
M.S. Swaminathan’s work reminds us that nation-building rests on the fusion of science and statesmanship. His Green Revolution made India food-secure, but his vision of an “evergreen revolution”, where productivity meets sustainability, remains unfulfilled. To truly honour him, India must invest in agricultural research, empower scientists, and align policy with long-term sustainability. The man who fed India has left us with not just a legacy but also a roadmap for the future.
Value Addition
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Key Achievements
- Food Self-Sufficiency: India moved from being a food-deficit, aid-dependent country (“ship-to-mouth”) to self-sufficiency in food grains by the 1970s.
- Wheat Production Boom: From 12 million tonnes (1965), 23 million tonnes (1971), over 100 million tonnes (2020s).
- Avoided Famines: Helped avert large-scale famine during population boom (India’s population doubled between 1950–1980).
- Global Recognition: M.S. Swaminathan + Norman Borlaug collaboration hailed as a model of science-policy partnership.
Criticisms & Limitations
- Regional Imbalance: Benefits concentrated in Punjab, Haryana, Western UP; other states lagged behind.
- Mono-cropping: Focus on wheat and rice discouraged diversification → vulnerability in nutrition and soil health
- Environmental Degradation:
-
- Over-extraction of groundwater → water table crisis in Punjab & Haryana.
- Excessive fertilizer/pesticide use → soil toxicity & health hazards.
- Inequality: Large farmers gained more due to access to credit, irrigation, inputs → widening rural inequality.
- Neglect of Coarse Grains & Pulses: Led to declining production of millets, crucial for nutrition and climate resilience.
Reports & Data
- NITI Aayog (2021): 89% of India’s groundwater used for irrigation → unsustainable.
- FAO Report (2019): Green Revolution improved calorie sufficiency but failed in ensuring nutrition security.
- ICAR Data: Only 0.43% of agricultural GDP is spent on R&D in India vs ~0.86% in China.
Concepts Introduced
- Evergreen Revolution (Swaminathan): Increasing productivity in perpetuity without ecological harm → focus on sustainability.
- Second Green Revolution: Emphasis on pulses, oilseeds, and eastern states under the National Food Security Mission (2007).
- Climate-Resilient Agriculture: Shift towards water-use efficiency, precision farming, and millets revival (2023: International Year of Millets).
Comparative Perspective
- China vs India: China diversified faster into horticulture, aquaculture, and biotech crops; India stayed wheat-rice centric.
- Mexico: Norman Borlaug’s work initially focused there, but India scaled it into a nationwide revolution.
- Africa: “Green Revolution for Africa” attempts underway, but limited success due to weak infrastructure.
|
Mapping Microthemes for GS Papers
- GS Paper I: Post-independence consolidation, Nehruvian vision, famine & food security history.
- GS Paper II: Science-policy interface, role of political leadership, bureaucratic hurdles in governance.
- GS Paper III: Food security, Green Revolution, R&D in agriculture, climate change impact, sustainable agriculture.
- GS Paper IV: Leadership ethics, scientific integrity, foresight (Swaminathan warning about sustainability).
PYQ Relevance
[UPSC 2019] How was India benefited from the contributions of Sir M.Visvesvaraya and Dr. M. S. Swaminathan in the fields of water engineering and agricultural science respectively?
Linkage: Dr. M.S. Swaminathan’s pioneering role in the Green Revolution transformed India from a food-deficit nation into a self-sufficient one, ensuring food security and laying the foundation for agricultural atmanirbharta. |
Practice Mains Question
“The Green Revolution transformed India from a food-deficit nation to a self-sufficient one. Critically evaluate its successes and limitations in light of M.S. Swaminathan’s vision of an evergreen revolution.”
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Why in the News?
The government is considering measures to ensure uniform application of the ‘creamy layer’ condition in OBC reservations across central and state government jobs, public sector enterprises, universities, and autonomous bodies.
About the Concept of Creamy Layer:
- Origin: Emerged from Indra Sawhney vs Union of India (1992); excluded affluent Other Backward Class (OBC) groups from reservations.
- 1993 DoPT Rules: Defined creamy layer – children of Group A/Class I officers, early-promoted officials, Group B parents, senior armed forces, high constitutional functionaries, professionals, traders, and large landowners.
- Income Criteria:
- Ceiling: ₹1 lakh in 1993, revised to ₹8 lakh in 2017.
- Exclusions: Salary and agricultural income not counted.
2004 Clarification & Implementation Issues:
- Clarification: DoPT directed separate assessment of salary and other income (except agriculture).
- Rule: If either exceeded limit (₹2.5 lakh then) for 3 consecutive years → creamy layer.
- Problem: Poor enforcement (2004–14) due to political sensitivities; stricter checks after 2014.
- Impact: Between CSE 2015–23, over 100 OBC caste certificates rejected under new interpretations.
Equivalence Efforts:
- Consultations: Involved Social Justice, Education, Law, Labour Ministries, DoPT, NITI Aayog, NCBC.
- Goal: Standardise creamy layer rules across universities, Public Sector Undertakings (PSUs), and autonomous bodies.
- Proposal: Retrospective relief suggested by Home Minister Amit Shah and NCBC.
Key Proposals Under Consideration:
- University Teachers: Salaries start at Group A-equivalent → children to be creamy layer.
- Autonomous Bodies: Posts aligned with central pay scales.
- Non-Teaching Staff: Categorisation based on equivalence with government jobs.
- PSU Executives: Already included since 2017; those ≤₹8 lakh excluded.
- Aided Institutions: Staff categorised based on parity with govt. employees.
Likely Beneficiaries:
- Lower Govt. Staff: Children of employees earning just above ₹8 lakh gain most.
- Correction of Anomalies: Ensures parity between teachers and aided staff.
- State PSU Issues: Fixes cases like fuel pump attendants in PSUs being declared creamy layer.
- Private Sector: No change; creamy layer based only on income/wealth criteria.
| [UPSC 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?
Options: (a) Only one *(b) Only two (c) Only three (d) All four |
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Why in the News?
The Opposition (INDI Alliance bloc) is considering moving a motion of removal of the Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) in Parliament.
About Election Commission of India (ECI):
- Establishment: Permanent constitutional body set up on 25 January 1950 (National Voters Day).
- Constitutional Basis: Articles 324–329, Part XV of the Constitution.
- Mandate: Conducts elections to Lok Sabha, Rajya Sabha, State Legislative Assemblies, and the offices of President and Vice President.
- Structure: Since 1993, functions as a three-member body with Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) and two Election Commissioners.
- Status of CEC: Same salary, status, and perks as a judge of the Supreme Court of India.
Appointment to ECI:
- Law: Chief Election Commissioner and Other Election Commissioners (Appointment, Conditions of Service and Term of Office) Act, 2023 (replaced 1991 Act).
- Appointing Authority: President of India.
- Selection Committee: Prime Minister (Chairperson), Leader of Opposition in Lok Sabha, and a Union Cabinet Minister nominated by the Prime Minister.
- Eligibility: Must have served as a Secretary-level officer in Government of India with proven integrity and election management experience.
- Tenure: 6 years or until 65 years of age, whichever is earlier.
Removal:
- CEC: Removed like a Supreme Court judge (Article 324(5)) on grounds of proved misbehaviour or incapacity. Requires a motion passed by two-thirds majority in both Houses of Parliament and Presidential order.
- Other Election Commissioners: Removed only on recommendation of the Chief Election Commissioner.
| [UPSC 2012] Consider the following statements with reference to India:
1. The Chief Election Commissioner and other Election Commissioners enjoy equal powers but receive unequal salaries
2. The Chief Election Commissioner is entitled to the same salary as in provided to a judge of the Supreme Court
3. The Chief Election Commissioner shall not be removed from his office except in like manner and on like grounds as a judge of the Supreme Court
4. The term of office of the Election Commissioner is five years from the date he assumes his office or till the day he attains the age of 62 years, whichever is earlier
Which of these statements are correct?
Options: (a) 1 and 2 (b) 2 and 3* (c) 1 and 4 (d) 2 and 4 |
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Why in the News?
The Union Minister of State for the Ministry of Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution has provided crucial information regarding the Anna-Chakra Tool to the Parliament.
About Anna-Chakra:
- Purpose: Digital tool to optimise supply chain of the Public Distribution System (PDS).
- Developed by: World Food Programme (WFP) and Foundation for Innovation and Technology Transfer (IIT-Delhi).
- Implementation: Adopted in 30 States/UTs, except Manipur.
- Coverage: Supports 4.37 lakh Fair Price Shops and 6,700 warehouses.
- Savings: Reduces logistics/fuel costs, saving about ₹250 crore annually.
- Environmental Impact: Route optimisation reduces travel distance by 15–50%, cutting CO₂ emissions.
Back2Basics: Public Distribution System (PDS) in India:
- Objective: Provides subsidised food grains to poor households, ensuring food security.
- History: Originated in inter-war years; expanded after 1960s food shortages.
- Reforms: Revamped PDS (1992) extended coverage to rural and poverty-prone areas.
- Structure:
- Centre (FCI) – procurement, storage, transportation, bulk allocation.
- States – distribute food grains to families via Fair Price Shops.
- Coverage: Serves ~800 million people through 5 lakh+ Fair Price Shops.
- Items Distributed: Wheat, rice, sugar, kerosene; some states add pulses and oils.
- Significance: Shields poor households from food price shocks and economic distress.
|
| [UPSC 2008] Consider the following statements:
1. Regarding the procurement of food grains, Government of India follows a procurement target rather than an open-ended procurement policy.
2. Government of India announces minimum support prices only for cereals.
3. For distribution under Targeted Public Distribution System (TPDS), wheat and rice are issued by the Government of India at uniform Central issue prices to the States/Union Territories.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?”
Options: (a) 1 and 2 (b) 2 only (c) 1 and 3* (d) 3 only |
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Why in the News?
SEBI has released a consultation paper proposing changes in Minimum Public Shareholding (MPS) and Minimum Public Offer (MPO) norms for listed companies.
What is Minimum Public Offer (MPO)?
- Meaning: When a company launches an Initial Public Offer (IPO), it must sell a minimum number of shares to the public.
- Analogy: Like a new shop ensuring enough goods are displayed for customers — otherwise trading is thin and controlled by a few.
|
What is Minimum Public Shareholding (MPS)?
- Concept: A company is like a cake. Promoters (founders/owners) usually keep most of it, but SEBI mandates at least 25% must be shared/sold with the public.
- Purpose:
- Broader ownership and participation.
- Fairer prices by reducing manipulation.
- Greater accountability of companies.
What SEBI is proposing?
- Flexibility: Large companies find it difficult to release big chunks of shares at once; rules will be eased.
- Extended Timelines:
- Companies valued at ₹50,000–1,00,000 crore now get up to 10 years (instead of 5) to meet 25% MPS.
- They must reach 15% in 5 years first, then 25% in 10 years.
- Reduced Burden: For very large companies, the initial Minimum Public Offer (MPO) will be lowered.
Significance of the Move:
- Market Stability: Selling too many shares too quickly is like flooding the market — prices may fall even if the company is strong.
- Benefits:
- More big companies will list in India.
- Investors can enter gradually without sudden shocks.
- Encourages fund-raising while maintaining fair trading.
| [UPSC 2024] Consider the following statements:
I. India accounts for a very large portion of all equity option contracts traded globally, thus exhibiting a great boom.
II. India’s stock market has grown rapidly in the recent past, even overtaking Hong Kong’s at some point in time.
III. There is no regulatory body either to warn small investors about the risks of options trading or to act on unregistered financial advisors in this regard.
Which of the statements given above are correct?”
Options: (a) I and II only * (b) II and III only (c) I and III only (d) I, II and III |
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Why in the News?
This newscard is an excerpt from the article originally published in The Hindu.
Who was Henry Vivian Louis Derozio?
- Birth–Death: Born 1809, died- 22 in 1831; Indo-Portuguese origin.
- Identity: Radical thinker, poet, and educator in British India.
- Recognition: Called the first national poet of modern India; pioneer of Anglo-Indian poetry.
- Influences: Inspired by Enlightenment ideals and the French Revolution.
- Career: Became lecturer at Hindu College, Calcutta in 1826 at just 17.
- Role: Inspired students with rationalism, liberty, and free thought.
- Writings: Poems (1827), The Fakeer of Jungheera (1828), and To India – My Native Land (first modern patriotic poem in English).
- Themes: Expressed India’s decline with images of a caged eagle and a broken instrument; advocated freedom and abolition of slavery.
- Dismissal: Removed from Hindu College in 1831 on charges of spreading atheism.
The Young Bengal Movement:
- Formation: Radical group of his students, also called Derozians.
- Association: Founded the Academic Association, debating social and political reform.
- Ideals: Advocated rationalism, women’s rights, freedom of thought; opposed caste, superstition, idolatry.
- Political Role: In 1843, with George Thompson, formed India’s first political party – Bengal British India Society.
- Notable Member: Radhanath Sikdar, mathematician who first calculated Mount Everest’s height and openly resisted colonial injustices.
- Perception: Described by missionary Alexander Duff as a “new race of men”; historian Rosinka Chaudhuri called them India’s “first radicals.”
- Legacy and Intellectual Impact:
-
- Awakening: Though short-lived, the movement sparked Bengal’s intellectual revolution.
- Seeds of Reform: Laid foundation for later reformist and nationalist currents.
- Independence of Mind: Marked a sharp break from Macaulay’s vision of Anglicised Indians — Derozians were assertive and original.
| [UPSC 2021] Who among the following was associated as Secretary with Hindu Female School which later came to be known as Bethune Female School?
Options: (a) Annie Besant (b) Debendranath Tagore (c) Ishwar Chandra Vidyasagar * (d) Sarojini Naidu |
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Why in the News?
A 2025 survey by the West Bengal Forest Department shows an increase in saltwater crocodile population in the Sundarbans Biosphere Reserve (SBR).
About Saltwater Crocodile (Crocodylus porosus):
- Largest living reptile and the largest of all crocodilians.
- Males grow much larger than females; females usually 2.5–3 m in length.
- Habitat: mangrove forests, swamps, rivers, and coastal waters; tolerant of varying salinity.
- Distribution in India: Odisha, West Bengal (Sundarbans), Andaman & Nicobar Islands.
- Behaviour: Apex predator, feeds on carcasses and diverse prey; communicates through barks, hisses, growls, chirps.
- Conservation Status:
- IUCN Red List: Least Concern.
- CITES: Appendix I (except populations of Australia, Indonesia, PNG → Appendix II).
- Wildlife Protection Act (1972): Schedule I.
- Conservation Efforts: Bhagabatpur Crocodile Project (1976, West Bengal) – breeding and conservation programme; 577 crocodiles released till 2022.
Other Crocodile Species in India:
- Gharial: Critically Endangered; survives in only 2% of former range; Found in small stretches of Chambal and a few other rivers.
- Mugger/Marsh Crocodile: Vulnerable; found in freshwater lakes, rivers, marshes.
|
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Why in the News?
The Union Home Minister is set to introduce three bills in the Lok Sabha to provide legal framework for removal of the Prime Minister, Union Ministers, Chief Ministers and Ministers in States and UTs who are “arrested and detained in custody on account of serious criminal charges.”
Which are the three Bills?
- 130th Constitutional Amendment Bill, 2025 (discussed below)
- Jammu and Kashmir Reorganisation (Amendment) Bill, 2025 – Provides clarity on removal of CM and Ministers in J&K.
- Government of Union Territories (Amendment) Bill, 2025 – Defines similar provisions for Puducherry and other UTs.
About the 130th Constitutional Amendment Bill, 2025:
- Scope: Applies to Prime Minister, Chief Ministers, and Ministers at Union, State, and Union Territory levels.
- Grounds for Removal: Arrest and detention for 30 consecutive days for an offense punishable by five years or more.
- Reappointment: Possible after release from custody.
- Objective: Prevent prolonged tenure of arrested leaders in office (e.g., recent case involving Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal).
Amendments proposed to the following Articles:
|
Current Provision |
Limitation |
Changes Proposed |
| Article 75 (Union – PM & Union Ministers) |
PM appointed by President; Ministers appointed on PM’s advice. They hold office during the pleasure of the President. Removal is political (loss of confidence, resignation, dismissal). |
No explicit mechanism to remove PM/Ministers if detained/arrested for long periods. |
New provision: If PM or any Union Minister is detained in custody for 30 consecutive days for a serious offense (≥5 years punishment), they must resign by 31st day or automatically cease to hold office. They may be reappointed after release. |
| Article 164 (States – CM & State Ministers) |
CM appointed by Governor; Ministers appointed on CM’s advice. They hold office during the pleasure of the Governor. Council of Ministers collectively responsible to State Assembly. |
No clear rule for automatic removal if CM/Ministers remain in custody. |
Similar to Union level: If CM or Minister is detained in custody for 30 consecutive days under serious charges (≥5 years punishment), they automatically lose office. Reappointment allowed after release. |
| Article 239AA (Union Territory of Delhi – CM & Ministers) |
Special status for Delhi (NCT). CM and Council of Ministers aid & advise LG. They hold office as per political responsibility to the Assembly. |
No explicit provision for automatic removal on detention. |
A new Section 5A to be inserted: CM/Ministers of NCT of Delhi cease office if detained for 30 days under serious charges (≥5 years). Reappointment possible after release. |
Rationale and Significance:
- At present, the Constitution has no provision for automatic removal of ministers in custody.
- Bill ensures that office bearers uphold public trust and do not undermine governance during detention.
- The statement of objects emphasized that elected representatives must rise above political interests and maintain conduct beyond suspicion.
- Promotes integrity of democracy by aligning ministerial positions with constitutional morality and accountability.
| [UPSC 2020] Consider the following statements:
1. According to the Constitution of India, a person who is eligible to vote can be made a minister in a State for six months even if he/she is not a member of the Legislature of that State.
2. According to the Representation of People Act, 1951, a person convicted of a criminal offence and sentenced to imprisonment for five years is permanently disqualified from contesting an election even after his release from prison.
Options: (a) 1 only (b) 2 only (c) Both 1 and 2 (d) Neither 1 nor 2* |
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UPSC Mains Relevance
[UPSC 2017] Hunger and Poverty are the biggest challenges for good governance in India still today. Evaluate how far successive governments have progressed in dealing with these humongous problems. Suggest measures for improvement.
Linkage: India’s recent success in reducing undernourishment by 30 million people and transforming its PDS shows definite progress in tackling hunger and poverty, aligning with welfare-driven governance. Yet, challenges of affordability, malnutrition, and nutrition security highlight that while gains are visible, deeper reforms in agrifood systems and social protection are still required. |
Mentor’s Comment
The world is finally seeing a decline in hunger after years of setbacks. At the centre of this shift is India, whose food security programmes have reduced undernourishment at an unprecedented scale. For UPSC aspirants, this story reflects governance, technology, and welfare delivery working together.
Introduction
The State of Food Security and Nutrition in the World 2025 report shows undernourishment fell to 673 million people globally in 2024, down from 688 million in 2023. India has been decisive in this progress, reducing hunger for nearly 30 million people in just two years. The Public Distribution System (PDS) alone supports over 800 million beneficiaries with digital efficiency unmatched in scale. This progress stands in sharp contrast with the bleak COVID-era surge in hunger and makes India a global anchor in the journey towards SDG 2 – Zero Hunger.
India’s Pathway to Ending Hunger:
Transformation of the Public Distribution System (PDS)
- Digital shift: Aadhaar-based targeting, real-time tracking, and biometric authentication improved delivery.
- Portability: One Nation One Ration Card enabled migrants and vulnerable households to access entitlements anywhere.
- Rapid Scale of support: Over 800 million people received subsidised food grains during the pandemic.
Shifting of Focus from Calories to Nutrition
- High Cost of Healthy Diets: Over 60% of Indians cannot afford nutrient-rich foods due to inflation, poor cold chains, and weak market linkages.
- Nutrition-Centric Schemes: PM POSHAN (2021) and ICDS are addressing dietary diversity and nutrition sensitivity.
- Dual Challenge: Even as hunger declines, malnutrition, obesity and micronutrient deficiencies are rising.
Need for Agrifood System Structural Reforms
- Boosting Production of Nutrient-Rich Foods: Pulses, fruits, vegetables, and animal products must be scaled for affordability.
- Reducing Post-Harvest Losses: About 13% of food is lost between farm and market due to weak cold storage and logistics.
- Supporting Women-Led Enterprises and Farmer Producer Organization: Promoting climate-resilient crops enhances both nutrition and livelihoods.
Digital governance drives agrifood transformation
- AgriStack & e-NAM: Enhance planning, digital logistics, and market access for farmers.
- Geospatial Tools: Enable better agricultural mapping and nutrition-sensitive targeting.
- Data-Driven Agriculture: Improves service delivery and strengthens supply-demand alignment.
Why is India’s success globally significant?
- Leadership in Global South: India’s digital and governance innovations can be replicated in developing nations.
- Global SDGs: With only five years left for 2030 SDGs, India’s example shows that hunger reduction is possible with political will and smart investments.
- Symbol of Hope: FAO calls India’s progress not just a national achievement but a contribution to global food security.
Conclusion
India’s recent performance marks a historic pivot in the fight against hunger. The country has shown that scale, digital governance, and targeted welfare can turn crisis into opportunity. Yet, the journey forward must emphasise nutrition, resilience, and inclusivity not just calories. If sustained, India will not only feed itself but also light the path for global hunger eradication.
Value Addition
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Reports & Indices
- State of Food Security and Nutrition in the World 2025 (SOFI Report) – Global undernourishment fell from 688 million (2023) to 673 million (2024); India reduced undernourishment from 14.3% to 12% (30 million fewer hungry people).
- FAO Food Loss Report – Around 13% of food is lost between farm and market in India, affecting affordability.
SDG Linkage
- SDG 2 (Zero Hunger) – Ending hunger by 2030.
- SDG 3 (Good Health & Wellbeing) – Tackling malnutrition, obesity, micronutrient deficiencies.
- SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption & Production) – Reducing food loss and wastage.
Keywords with UPSC Relevance
- Calorie-to-Nutrition Shift – Moving beyond staple food security to nutrient-rich diets.
- Hunger Paradox – Coexistence of undernourishment and obesity/micronutrient deficiency.
Examples for Enrichment in Answers
- COVID-19 Response – India’s rapid PDS scale-up fed 800+ million people, one of the largest welfare interventions globally.
- Digital Governance – ONORC portability cited as a global best practice by the World Bank and FAO.
- Women-led FPOs – Strengthening climate-resilient crops while improving local nutrition outcomes.
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Microtheme Mapping:
- GS Paper I – Hunger and poverty, demographic vulnerabilities.
- GS Paper II – Governance, digital welfare, social justice, schemes.
- GS Paper III – Agrifood systems, logistics, cold chains, technology in agriculture.
Practice Mains MCQ
“India’s progress in food security has global significance. Discuss how India can move from hunger eradication to nutrition security.”
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Introduction
Plastic pollution represents one of the gravest environmental crises of our times. Despite decades of regulation and bans, plastics remain ubiquitous, cheap, and nearly indestructible. Talks in Geneva involving 180 countries failed to secure an internationally binding legal agreement to limit plastic pollution, reflecting deep divisions over whether the treaty should target waste alone or include production.
Global Plastic Treaty Deadlock: Why It Matters
- Global deadlock: 180 countries failed to agree on a binding treaty on plastic pollution in Geneva, despite a UNEP-backed resolution already in place.
- First-time sharp focus on health: Unlike earlier discussions centred only on waste management, the health impact of plastics is now central.
- Scale of problem: Plastics contain more than 16,000 chemicals, with little knowledge on 10,000+ of them. A Nature study showed 4,000 chemicals of concern are present across major plastic types.
- Striking evidence: Microplastics detected in blood, breast milk, placenta, bone marrow, bringing urgency to the debate.
The Persistence and Ubiquity of Plastics
- Symbol of consumption economy: Cheap and versatile, plastics reflect today’s global consumption.
- Persistence and flexibility: Synthetic, fossil-fuel-derived polymers are non-biodegradable and endure for decades.
- Waste mismanagement: Cheap production, ubiquity, and limited recycling capacity turn plastics into the prime source of litter.
Plastics and Human Health: Emerging Evidence
- Chemicals of concern: Plastics use ethylene, propylene, styrene derivatives, along with bisphenols, phthalates, PCBs, PBDEs, and PFAS.
- Products of exposure: Found in food containers, bottles, teething toys, polyester, IV bags, cosmetics, paints, electronics, adhesives.
- Health links: Studies link plastic chemicals to thyroid dysfunction, hypertension, kidney/testicular cancer, gestational diabetes.
- Evidence base: Around 1,100 studies, involving 1.1 million individuals, compiled by Boston College & Minderoo Foundation dashboard.
- Nature of studies: Mostly associative; longitudinal studies (gold standard) are still underway.
The Microplastic Menace
- Definition: Plastics smaller than 5 mm, found in additives or broken-down products.
- Recent discoveries: Detected in human blood, breast milk, placenta, bone marrow.
- Health uncertainty: Exact impacts still under study, but linked to multiple disorders.
Policy Responses: Global and Indian Perspectives
- Global scene: Negotiations divided on waste vs production; developing countries demand funding support.
- India’s stance:
- Ban on single-use plastics in ~20 States
- Administrative push for Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR)
- Views plastics as a waste management issue, not a health issue.
- Prefers health dimension to be dealt with at WHO, not in the plastics treaty.
Conclusion
The Geneva deadlock reflects not just a failure of diplomacy but the widening gap between scientific evidence and policy action. Plastics are no longer an invisible convenience; they are a pervasive health hazard. While India treats plastics as a waste issue, ignoring health risks leaves a blind spot in policy. A robust, binding treaty addressing both production and health impact is indispensable if the world is to prevent plastics from becoming the new tobacco of the 21st century.
PYQ Relavance
| [UPSC 2023] What is oil pollution? What are its impacts on the marine ecosystem? In what way is oil pollution particularly harmful for a country like India?
Linkage: Since UPSC has already asked about oil pollution (2023), it shows the exam’s focus on pollution and ecosystem impacts. Plastic pollution, like oil, originates from fossil fuels and has severe effects on marine life and human health. Hence, a direct question on plastic pollution and its health–environment nexus is highly probable. |
Practice Mains Question
Plastics are no longer merely a waste management problem but a serious health hazard. Critically examine the health risks associated with plastic use and evaluate India’s stance in global plastic treaty negotiations.
Mapping Microthemes
- GS-1: Impact of industrialisation and consumerism on environment.
- GS-2: International negotiations, India’s foreign policy stance in environmental treaties.
- GS-3: Pollution, waste management, health-environment nexus.
- GS-4: Ethics of sustainability, intergenerational justice, corporate responsibility.
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