Why in the News?
The ongoing Supreme Court hearings on the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls in Bihar have reignited discussions on the legal status of the ‘right to vote’ in India.
About Right to Vote in India:
- Overview: It is also known as suffrage, allows citizens to elect their representatives in democratic institutions.
- Constitutional Basis: Guaranteed under Article 326 of the Constitution of India, which provides for universal adult franchise.
- Eligibility: Every citizen of India aged 18 and above is entitled to vote, unless disqualified by law.
- Supervision: Organised and overseen by the Election Commission of India.
- Supporting Laws:
- Representation of the People Act, 1950: Defines voter eligibility and grounds for disqualification.
- Representation of the People Act, 1951: Governs the procedures for conducting elections.
Judicial Interpretation:
- N.P. Ponnuswami v. Returning Officer (1952): Declared the Right to Vote as a statutory right.
- Jyoti Basu v. Debi Ghosal (1982): Reiterated that the Right to Vote is neither a fundamental right nor a common law right.
- People’s Union for Civil Liberties v. Union of India (2003): Recognised the Right to Vote as at least a constitutional right.
- Kuldip Nayar v. Union of India (2006): Held that the Right to Vote continues to be a statutory right.
- Raj Bala v. State of Haryana (2015): Recognised the Right to Vote as a constitutional right.
- Anoop Baranwal v. Union of India (2023):
- Majority View: Right to Vote is a statutory right.
- Dissenting Opinion by Justice Ajay Rastogi:
- Linked the Right to Vote with the freedom of speech and expression under Article 19(1)(a).
- Considered it essential to free and fair elections and thus part of the basic structure of the Constitution.
Current Legal Status:
- Nature: It is legally a statutory right.
- Constitutional Context: It is shaped by constitutional provisions but does not hold the status of a fundamental right.
Back2Basics: Other Types of Rights in India
|
Description |
Enforceability |
| Natural Rights |
Inherent and inalienable rights (e.g., life, liberty); not directly enforceable unless linked to fundamental rights. |
Indirectly through Fundamental Rights |
| Fundamental Rights |
Guaranteed under Part III of the Constitution (e.g., right to equality, speech, life). |
Enforceable in Supreme Court under Article 32 |
| Constitutional Rights |
Rights given in the Constitution but outside Part III (e.g., property, trade). |
Enforceable under Article 226 via High Courts |
| Statutory Rights |
Granted by ordinary laws (e.g., MGNREGA, Forest Rights Act, Food Security Act). |
Enforceable as per respective legislations |
| [UPSC 2017] Right to vote and to be elected in India is a:
Options: (a) Fundamental Right (b) Natural Right (c) Constitutional Right* (d) Legal Right |
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Why in the News?
The Vice-President of India, Jagdeep Dhankhar resigned citing health reasons, creating a rare mid-term vacancy in India’s second-highest constitutional office.
What happens if VP resigns?
- The Deputy Chairman of Rajya Sabha presides in his absence. No provision exists for an “acting” Vice-President.
- Unlike the President, whose vacancy must be filled within six months, the VP election must be held “as soon as possible.”
- The Election Commission will notify the schedule.
- Election governed by the Presidential and Vice-Presidential Elections Act, 1952.
- The elected candidate will serve a full 5-year term, not the remainder of Dhankhar’s term.
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About Vice-President (VP) of India
- Position: Second-highest constitutional post; deputy to the President.
- Parliamentary Role: Serves as ex-officio Chairman of the Rajya Sabha.
- Succession: Ranks second in order of precedence and first in line to become President.
- Membership: Is a member of Parliament, not directly elected by the people.
- Qualifications:
- Citizenship: Must be a citizen of India.
- Age: Minimum 35 years.
- Office of Profit: Should not hold any.
- Parliamentary Eligibility: Must qualify for election to Rajya Sabha (unlike President, who must qualify for Lok Sabha) due to the VP’s role in the Upper House.
- Roles and Responsibilities:
- Rajya Sabha Chairmanship: Presides over sessions and ensures order.
- Bill Classification: Refers money bills to the Lok Sabha Speaker.
- No Independent Powers: Has no executive or legislative powers unless acting as President.
Election Procedure:
- Constitutional Basis: Governed by Article 66.
- Electoral College: Comprises 543 Lok Sabha MPs, 233 elected Rajya Sabha MPs, and 12 nominated Rajya Sabha members.
- Voting Method: Proportional representation by single transferable vote and secret ballot.
- No Whip Allowed: Parties cannot issue voting whips.
- Conduct: Managed by the Election Commission; Returning Officer is the Secretary-General of either House (on rotation).
- Winning Quota: Requires 50% of valid votes + 1; votes are transferred in rounds if no candidate secures majority in the first round.
Resignation and Removal:
-
- Article 67(a): VP submits his/her resignation to the President. Parliamentary approval is NOT needed, and the resignation takes effect immediately upon receipt.
- No Acting VP: Constitution doesn’t provide for an acting Vice-President.
- Presiding in Absence: Deputy Chairman of Rajya Sabha presides in VP’s absence (currently Harivansh Narayan Singh).
- Example: Dhankhar, who took office in 2022, is only the third VP in Indian history to resign before completing his term, after V.V. Giri and R. Venkataraman.
-
- Article 67(b): Removal process begins in Rajya Sabha with 14 days’ notice.
- Voting Requirement: Needs effective majority in Rajya Sabha and simple majority in Lok Sabha.
- No Grounds Specified: Constitution doesn’t list specific removal grounds.
- Judicial Immunity: Article 122 bars courts from questioning parliamentary proceedings related to removal.
- No Precedent: No VP has been removed so far.
| [UPSC 2013] With reference to Parliament, consider the following statements:
1.The Chairman and the Deputy Chairman of the Rajya Sabha are not the members of that House.
2.While the nominated members of the two Houses of the Parliament have no voting right in the presidential election, they have the right to vote in the election of the Vice President.
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?
Five strong offshore earthquakes hit Russia’s Kamchatka Peninsula, the strongest measuring 7.4 in magnitude.
About Kamchatka Peninsula:
- Location: Situated in Far Eastern Russia, bordered by the Sea of Okhotsk (west) and the Pacific Ocean and Bering Sea (east).
- Size and Shape: Stretches about 1,200 km north to south and 480 km at its widest point.
- Area: Covers approximately 370,000 square kilometers—comparable in size to New Zealand.
- Ethnic Composition: Majority are ethnic Russians; around 13,000 belong to the indigenous Koryak community.
- Climate: Harsh with long, snowy winters and wet, cool summers.
- Topography: Highest peak is Klyuchevskaya Sopka, an active volcano in the Eastern Mountain Range.
- Global Recognition: Hosts the “Volcanoes of Kamchatka,” a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Tectonic Significance:
- Geological Setting: Lies on the Pacific Ring of Fire, making it a global hotspot for seismic and volcanic activity.
- Volcanic Density: Contains over 150 volcanoes, 29 of which are currently active.
- Kuril–Kamchatka Trench: Located just offshore, reaches depths of about 10,500 meters and drives regional seismicity.
- Tectonic Cause: Caused by subduction of the Pacific Plate beneath the Eurasian Plate.
| [UPSC 2004] Consider the following geological phenomena:
1. Development of a fault 2. Movement along a fault
3. Impact produced by a volcanic eruption 4. Folding of rocks
Which of the above cause earthquakes?
Options: (a) 1, 2 and 3 (b) 2 and 4 (c) 1, 3 and 4 (d) 1, 2, 3 and 4* |
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Why in the News?
The Prime Minister will attend a function in Tamil Nadu marking 1000 years since King Rajendra Chola I’s conquest of the Gangetic plains.
About Rajendra Chola I:
- Reign & Dynasty: Ruled from 1014 to 1044 CE, succeeding his father Rajaraja Chola I.
- Titles:
- Gangaikonda Cholan (“Bringer of the Ganges”) – adopted after his victorious northern campaign.
- Kadaram Kondan (“Conqueror of Kedah (Malaysia)”) – earned following his Southeast Asian naval expeditions.
- Capital Foundation: Established Gangaikonda Cholapuram, shifting the capital from Thanjavur to the Kollidam River area.
- Temple Building: Built the Gangaikondacholeshwaram (Shiva) Temple to commemorate his conquests.
- Succession: Succeeded by his son, Rajadhiraja I.
- Religious Policy:
- Devout Shaivite, but practiced religious pluralism—patronised Buddhism, including building stupas in South India and Southeast Asia.
- Diplomacy & Trade: Strengthened international ties with Song Dynasty China and Arab merchants.
- Administration: Pioneered local self-governance, showcasing notable administrative sophistication.
His Legend:
- Northern Conquest: Rajendra led a military campaign to the Gangetic plains, defeating the Pala ruler Mahipala of Bengal and Bihar, and commemorated this victory by bringing Ganga water to his capital.
- Overseas Expeditions: He commanded what is considered the largest blue-water navy in Indian history. Successfully conducted naval expeditions to:
- Srivijaya Empire (covering parts of modern-day Sumatra, Java, and Malaysia)
- Burma, Andaman & Nicobar Islands, Lakshadweep, Maldives, and Pegu Islands
- Extracted tribute from Thailand and the Khmer kingdom of Cambodia.
- First Indian king to undertake large-scale overseas military campaigns.
- Trade and Diplomacy: Established trade and diplomatic links with Song China and Arab merchants.
- Administration: Promoted local self-governance, showcasing the Cholas’ administrative efficiency.
- Wealth and Power: Under his reign, the Chola Empire became one of the wealthiest and most powerful empires of the time.
| [UPSC 2025] Who among the following led a successful military campaign against the kingdom of Srivijaya, the powerful maritime state, which ruled the Malay Peninsula, Sumatra, Java and the neighbouring islands?
Options: (a) Amoghvarsha (Rashtrakuta) (b) Prataprudra (Kakatiya) (c) Rajendra I (Chola) * (d) Vishnuvardhana (Hoysala) |
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Why in the News?
The Comptroller and Auditor General of India’s (CAG) audit has flagged ₹573 Crore irregularities in Indian Railways.
About Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) of India:
- Foundation: Established under Article 148 of the Constitution of India.
- Independence: A constitutional authority, not subject to executive control.
- Appointment: Appointed by the President of India.
- Tenure: Holds office for 6 years or until the age of 65 years, whichever is earlier.
- Removal: Can be removed by the President in the same manner and on the same grounds as a judge of the Supreme Court of India.
- Post-Retirement Bar: Ineligible for further office under the Government of India or any State after demitting office.
- Funding: Administrative expenses are charged upon the Consolidated Fund of India, ensuring financial autonomy.
- Parliamentary Independence: No minister can represent the CAG in Parliament.
- Role: Known as the guardian of the public purse and a key pillar of Indian democracy.
Powers and Functions:
-
- Fund Audits: Audits expenditures from the Consolidated Fund of India, State Consolidated Funds, and Union Territory funds.
- Other Fund Audits: Audits Contingency Fund and Public Account at both Central and State levels.
- Departmental Audits: Reviews profit and loss accounts, balance sheets, and subsidiary accounts of government departments.
- Authority Audits: Audits bodies and authorities substantially financed by the government.
- Company Audits: Examines accounts of government-owned companies and corporations.
- Special Audits: Audits other authorities when requested by the President or Governor.
- Parliamentary Role: Acts as a guide, friend, and philosopher to the Public Accounts Committee of Parliament.
- Public Accountability: Exposed major scams such as the 2G spectrum and coal block allocation cases.
- Sectoral Reviews: Highlighted inefficiencies in defence, railways, and other public enterprises.
Limitations of the office of CAG:
- Lack of Real-Time Control: Cannot stop or approve withdrawals from the Consolidated Fund; cheques can be issued without CAG’s prior clearance.
- Opaque Appointment: No prescribed qualifications or transparent procedure for selection; appointment is entirely executive-controlled.
- Limited Audit Scope:
- Excludes certain public entities like Life Insurance Corporation and public sector banks.
- Cannot audit public-private partnerships and funds like Prime Minister’s Citizen Assistance and Relief in Emergency Situations Fund and Prime Minister’s National Relief Fund.
- Off-budget borrowings (e.g., through National Investment and Infrastructure Fund) remain outside audit scope.
- Post-Facto Nature: Audits occur after expenditure, limiting preventive or real-time oversight.
| [UPSC 2012] In India, other than ensuring that public funds are used efficiently and for intended purpose, what is the importance of the office of the Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG)?
1. CAG exercises exchequer control on behalf of the Parliament when the President of India declares national emergency/financial emergency.
2. CAG reports on the execution of projects or programmes by the ministries are discussed by the Public Accounts Committee.
3. Information from CAG reports can be used by investigating agencies to press charges against those who have violated the law while managing public finances.
4. While dealing with the audit and accounting of government companies, CAG has certain judicial powers for prosecuting those who violate the law.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
Options: (a) 1, 3 and 4 only (b) 2 only (c) 2 and 3 only* (d) 1, 2, 3 and 4 |
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Why in the News?
The Prime Minister paid tribute to the great freedom fighter Mangal Pandey on his birth anniversary.
Who was Mangal Pandey?
- Birth: Born on 19 July 1827 in Nagwa village, Ballia district, Uttar Pradesh.
- Military Service: Joined the British East India Company’s army in 1849 as a sepoy in the 34th Bengal Native Infantry at Barrackpore.
- Trigger of Revolt: Opposed the use of Enfield rifle cartridges greased with cow and pig fat, offensive to religious beliefs.
- Rebellion: On 29 March 1857, attacked British officers and encouraged sepoys to rise in revolt.
- Punishment: Arrested, tried, and executed by hanging on 8 April 1857.
- Legacy: Regarded as the “Hero of the First War of Indian Independence” and a symbol of resistance.
Back2Basics: 1857 War of Independence
- Overview: The First War of Indian Independence or the Great Rebellion of 1857.
- Sepoy Composition: Indians made up over 87% of the British Indian Army but faced severe discrimination.
- Root Causes:
- Military Discontent: Unequal pay, poor promotion prospects, denial of allowances.
- Religious Insensitivity: Use of animal fat-greased cartridges insulted Hindu and Muslim beliefs.
- Economic Hardship: Heavy land taxes, decline in traditional crafts, and rising unemployment.
- Political Grievances: Annexation of Indian states and enforcement of oppressive laws.
- Outbreak:
- Barrackpore: Mangal Pandey’s defiance on 29 March 1857 marked the beginning.
- Meerut: On 10 May 1857, sepoys rebelled after refusing cartridges and were imprisoned.
- Delhi: Rebels marched to Delhi and declared Bahadur Shah II as Emperor.
- Spread of Revolt: Uprising expanded to Kanpur, Lucknow, Jhansi, Bihar, Bareilly, Faizabad, and beyond.
- Mass Participation: Involved sepoys, peasants, landlords, and regional rulers.
Suppression and Its Aftermath:
- Brutal Suppression: Rebellion was crushed by 1859; Delhi was recaptured in September 1857.
- Administrative Shift: British East India Company was dissolved; India came under direct British Crown rule, initiating the British Raj.
- Military Reorganization: Indian representation in the army was reduced and reorganized to prevent future revolts.
- Increased Repression: Racial discrimination and harsh policies intensified post-revolt.
|
| [UPSC 2006] Who was the Governor-general of India during the Sepoy Mutiny?
Options: (a) Lord Canning* (b) Lord Dalhousie (c) Lord Hardinge (d) Lord Lytton |
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PYQ Relevance:
[UPSC 2024] Despite comprehensive policies for equity and social justice, underprivileged sections are not yet getting the full benefits of affirmative action envisaged by the Constitution. Comment.
Linkage: The article explicitly states that “any argument against government control of temple affairs would be striking at the root of social justice”. This question directly addresses “social justice” and the upliftment of “underprivileged sections,” which is the core argument of the article “social justice model” enabled by the regulation of temple funds. |
Mentor’s Comment: A political controversy in Tamil Nadu emerged over using temple funds to build colleges. The debate highlights a unique social justice model rooted in colonial-era laws, notably the Tamil Nadu Hindu Religious and Charitable Endowments Act, 1959, which legally permits such use of surplus funds. The issue reflects ongoing tensions between secular governance, social reform, and religious traditions.
Today’s editorial analyses the Issues related to temple funds like to build colleges. This topic is important for GS Paper I (Indian Society) and GS Paper II (Social Justice) in the UPSC mains exam.
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Let’s learn!
Why in the News?
A political controversy recently erupted in Tamil Nadu over the use of temple funds for building colleges.
What is the origin and evolution of state control over temples in Tamil Nadu?
- Colonial Intervention and Legal Frameworks: The British colonial government began regulating temples through laws such as the Madras Regulation VII of 1817 and the Religious Endowments Act, 1863. These aimed at curbing mismanagement and ensuring proper use of temple revenues, though actual control was minimal.
- Madras Hindu Religious and Charitable Endowments (HRCE) Act, 1927 & 1951: Post-independence, the Madras HRCE Act, 1951 granted the state direct control over temple administration. It replaced hereditary trustees with government-appointed officers, shifting from oversight to active state involvement in managing temple affairs.
- Dravidian Politics and Reformist Push: The Self-Respect Movement and the rise of Dravidian parties (e.g., DMK) advocated for rationalism and secular administration of temples. This reinforced the idea of temples as public institutions, furthering state oversight in their functioning.
Why is using temple funds for education legally and socially justified?
- Legal Provision under State Law: The Tamil Nadu Hindu Religious and Charitable Endowments (HR&CE) Act, 1959 allows the use of temple surplus funds for public purposes like education, healthcare, and social welfare, provided the core religious functions are not affected. Eg: The government used temple funds to construct colleges in Tiruvannamalai and Krishnagiri, serving backward districts.
- Social Justice and Inclusive Development: Tamil Nadu follows a Dravidian model that sees temples as public institutions capable of promoting equality, education, and empowerment, especially for marginalized communities. Eg: Building a college with temple funds in a remote area helps first-generation learners, aligning with constitutional goals of equity and social upliftment.
- Historical and Cultural Precedent: In the pre-colonial and colonial era, temples often served as centres of learning and charity. Using their resources for education today revives that tradition in a modern, secular context. Eg: In the 19th century, temple lands supported gurukuls and feeding centres, a legacy extended now through modern institutions.
How did the Self-Respect Movement shape temple governance?
- Challenged Brahminical Control: The movement, led by Periyar E.V. Ramasamy, questioned hereditary priesthood and the dominance of Brahmins in temple administration, pushing for non-Brahmin inclusion in both ritual and managerial roles.
- State Intervention in Temple Administration: It laid the ideological foundation for government regulation of temples through legislations like the HR&CE Act, bringing temples under state control to ensure transparency, social equity, and public accountability.
- Promotion of Secular and Social Justice Values: The movement emphasized that temple wealth should serve the public good, such as education, healthcare, and social welfare, especially for the oppressed castes, transforming temples into instruments of social reform.
What are the constitutional and legal bases for state intervention in religious institutions in India?
- Article 25(2)(a) – Social Welfare and Reform: The Constitution permits the state to regulate or restrict any economic, financial, political, or secular activity associated with religion to promote social welfare and reform.
- Article 26 – Regulates While Protecting Rights: While religious denominations have rights to manage their own affairs, the state can impose reasonable restrictions in the interest of public order, morality, and health.
- Judicial Precedents and Statutory Laws: Courts have upheld state control over temples (e.g., in Shirur Mutt case) distinguishing between religious practices and secular administration. Laws like the Hindu Religious and Charitable Endowments (HR&CE) Act legally enable such oversight.
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Should religious institutions be allowed to function autonomously without state control?
-
- Protection of Religious Freedom: Article 26 of the Indian Constitution grants religious denominations the right to manage their own affairs. Autonomy respects the pluralistic ethos of India and avoids state overreach in spiritual matters.
-
- Cultural and Traditional Integrity: Many religious institutions have centuries-old customs and management systems. Autonom y helps preserve these indigenous practices without interference from changing political or administrative interests.
-
- Accountability and Transparency: Without state oversight, there is a higher risk of financial mismanagement, corruption, or exploitation of devotees. State regulation ensures proper audit and governance of temple funds and assets.
- Public Interest and Welfare: Religious institutions often hold significant wealth and influence. State control can direct surplus resources towards social welfare, education, and infrastructure, promoting inclusive development beyond the religious community.
Way forward:
- Balanced Autonomy with Regulation: Implement a co-governance model where religious institutions retain spiritual autonomy, while the state ensures financial transparency, protection of heritage, and equitable use of public funds.
- Strengthen Legal Frameworks: Update existing laws to clearly define the limits of state intervention, ensure community representation in temple boards, and establish robust grievance redressal mechanisms.
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Why in the News?
India is in the spotlight as recent UNCTAD data reveals a significant decline in net FDI inflows, falling to a 15-year low in FY24, even though gross inflows remain strong.
What are the key reasons behind the global decline in FDI flows, particularly to EMDEs?
- Geopolitical Instability: Rising geopolitical tensions such as the Russia-Ukraine war, Middle East conflicts, and US-China rivalries have weakened investor confidence, especially in Emerging Markets and Developing Economies (EMDEs) due to increased risk perception. Eg: After the Ukraine war, many European investors pulled out from Eastern European nations due to security concerns.
- Protectionist Policies: Countries have adopted more protectionist measures, including tighter FDI regulations, screening laws, and withdrawal from bilateral investment treaties (BITs), limiting foreign investor access. Eg: India terminated several Bilateral Investment Treaties post-2016, including with the Netherlands and Germany, leading to investor uncertainty.
- Supply Chain Realignment: Due to disruptions from the COVID-19 pandemic and rising geopolitical tensions, companies are shifting towards nearshoring and friend-shoring, bypassing many EMDEs. Eg: Several U.S. firms moved manufacturing from China to Mexico or Vietnam rather than to India or African countries.
Why has India experienced a sharp fall in net FDI despite rising gross inflows?
- High Repatriation of Earnings: While gross FDI inflows have increased, foreign investors are repatriating more profits, dividends, and disinvestments, leading to a decline in net FDI. Eg: In FY24, gross inflows were around $71 billion, but outflows (disinvestment/repatriation) rose sharply, reducing net FDI to $10.6 billion.
- Increased Disinvestment by Foreign Investors: Foreign companies have sold off stakes or exited Indian ventures due to regulatory uncertainties or global consolidation strategies. Eg: Vodafone’s reduction in stake in Vodafone Idea and exits by foreign private equity firms.
- Shift in Investment Strategy: There is a growing trend toward private equity and venture capital, which often involves short-term investments and quicker exits compared to traditional FDI. Eg: Start-up funding peaked in 2021–22 but many investors exited via IPOs or mergers within 2–3 years.
How can trade agreements and FTAs boost India’s FDI inflows and global integration?
- Market Access and Investor Confidence: Trade agreements and FTAs offer preferential market access, reduce tariff and non-tariff barriers, and provide a stable regulatory environment, encouraging foreign investors. Eg: The India-UAE CEPA (2022) led to a 34% rise in bilateral trade and boosted UAE investments in sectors like logistics and infrastructure.
- Integration into Global Value Chains (GVCs): FTAs help India plug into regional and global supply chains, making it a more attractive hub for FDI in manufacturing and exports. Eg: The India-ASEAN FTA improved electronics and automobile component exports, drawing FDI from Japan and South Korea into India.
- Legal and Dispute Resolution Frameworks: Comprehensive FTAs often include investment protection clauses and dispute resolution mechanisms, which reduce investor risk and boost inflows. Eg: India’s negotiation of Investment Protection Agreements (IPAs) with the EU has raised interest among European investors in clean energy and pharma.
Why is state-level reform crucial in India’s strategy to enhance FDI inflows?
- Ease of Doing Business at Ground Level: State-level reforms simplify land acquisition, labour regulations, and approval processes, making local environments more investor-friendly. Eg: Andhra Pradesh ranked top in the Business Reforms Action Plan (BRAP) 2020 for streamlining industrial approvals and digitizing services.
- Sector-Specific Policy Innovation: States can tailor sectoral incentives, infrastructure, and skill policies to attract targeted FDI in areas like textiles, electronics, or renewable energy. Eg: Tamil Nadu’s Electric Vehicle Policy attracted investments from Ola Electric and Hyundai in the EV sector.
- Healthy Inter-State Competition: Reform-oriented states create competitive pressure, encouraging others to improve investment climates, creating a national uplift in FDI appeal. Eg: Gujarat’s proactive approach in renewable energy prompted states like Rajasthan to fast-track their solar park approvals.
Way forward:
- Institutionalize Competitive Federalism: Strengthen the ranking framework for states based on FDI-related reforms (like BRAP), and link a portion of central incentives or grants to reform performance.
- Build State-Capacity for Investor Facilitation: Enhance training for state-level bureaucrats, establish single-window clearance systems, and promote public-private dialogue platforms to address investor concerns proactively.
Mains PYQ:
[UPSC 2014] Though 100 percent FDI is already allowed in non news media like a trade publication and general entertainment channel, the Government is mulling over the proposal for in creased FDI in news media for quite some time. What difference would an increase in FDI make? Critically evaluate the pros and cons.
Linkage: Evaluating the “pros and cons” necessitates an understanding of the challenges and opportunities associated with foreign investment inflows, reflecting a part of India’s FDI challenge in attracting and managing capital effectively. This question directly related to the implications of increasing FDI in a specific sector.
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Why in the News?
The U.S. has designated The Resistance Front (TRF), which claimed responsibility for the Pahalgam terror attack (April 2025), as a Foreign Terrorist Organization (FTO) and Specially Designated Global Terrorist.
What is the impact of the U.S. designating TRF as an FTO on global counterterrorism?
- Legitimizes India’s concerns: The U.S. acknowledgment of TRF’s role in the Pahalgam terror attackstrengthens the global consensus on cross-border terror threats.
- Links to Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT): The U.S. designation of TRF as a front/proxy of LeT exposes the continued existence of banned groups under new names.
- Strengthens international action: The move could help India push for sanctions against TRF at the UN’s 1267 Sanctions Committee, boosting transnational legal cooperation.
Why is Pakistan’s claim about LeT being defunct questionable?
- TRF’s Linkage with LeT: The U.S. designation of The Resistance Front (TRF) as a “front and proxy” for Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) proves that LeT continues to operate under new aliases, despite Pakistan’s claims of dismantling the group. Eg: TRF claimed responsibility for the 2025 Pahalgam attack, showing LeT’s continued operational role.
- Continued Terror Activities: Despite LeT’s inclusion in the U.S. Foreign Terrorist Organization (FTO) list since 2001, it has repeatedly executed attacks in India, reflecting its persistent capabilities. Eg: The 2008 Mumbai attacks and later cross-border infiltrations have been linked to LeT-trained cadres.
- International Endorsement Missing: Pakistan’s claim lacks credible global validation. Instead, it has been seen shielding TRF at the UN Security Council (UNSC), undermining its own narrative. Eg: TRF’s name was excluded from the UNSC resolution on the Pahalgam attack, reportedly due to Pakistani lobbying.
How does the U.S. response post-Pahalgam reveal contradictions in its policy?
- Mixed messaging: While designating TRF is a positive step, claims by the Trump administration about mediating a ceasefire and nuclear de-escalation dilute India’s counter-terror narrative.
- Diplomatic inconsistency: Praise for Pakistan’s military chief shortly after India clarified its stance reflects a lack of consistent pressure on Pakistan to curb terrorism.
- Missed opportunity at UNSC: The U.S. initially allowed TRF to be left out of the UNSC resolution, showing conflicting priorities between diplomacy and counterterrorism.
What blocks India’s effort to sanction the TRF at the UNSC?
- Veto Power Politics: The UN Security Council’s 1267 Committee requires unanimous consent among P-5 members for sanctions. Some permanent members, especially China and the U.S., have previously withheld support or yielded to Pakistan’s pressure, blocking India’s proposals. Eg: TRF’s name was omitted from the UNSC resolution on the 2025 Pahalgam attack.
- Pakistan’s Diplomatic Shielding: Pakistan continues to lobby against designations of terror outfits like TRF, masking them as defunct or rebranded groups, and frames them as indigenous resistance, making it harder for India to gain international consensus.
How should India strengthen its anti-terror diplomacy? (Way forward)
- Build Strategic Alliances and International Pressure: India should deepen counter-terrorism cooperation with key countries like the U.S., France, and the UK, while mobilizing regional blocs (e.g., QUAD, BRICS) to collectively push for sanctioning terror groups at global forums like the UNSC 1267 Committee.
- Pursue Legal and Diplomatic Action Proactively: India must file strong dossiers with evidence linking terror fronts like TRF to banned outfits like LeT and pursue timely extraditions of wanted terrorists through bilateral treaties and Interpol. Eg: The extradition request for Tahawwur Hussain Rana reflects India’s resolve to hold perpetrators accountable.
Mains PYQ:
[UPSC 2024] Terrorism has become a significant threat to global peace and security’. Evaluate the effectiveness of the United Nations Security Council’s Counter-Terrorism Committee (CTC) and its associated bodies in addressing and mitigating this threat at the international level.
Linkage: The article explicitly mentions India’s hope that the U.S. designation of TRF will facilitate its designation at the UNSC under the 1267 Committee for sanctions, directly aligning with the question’s focus on international counter-terrorism mechanisms. This question directly pertains to the global challenge of terrorism and the role of international bodies like the UN Security Council.
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Why in the News?
Gujarat has launched India’s first Tribal Genome Sequencing Project to map tribal genetic data, contributing to the national Genome India Project (GIP).
About the Gujarat Tribal Genome Project:
- Launch & Duration: Announced in Gujarat’s 2025–26 budget; spans 5 years under Gujarat Biotechnology Research Centre (GBRC).
- Target Population: Focuses on genome sequencing of tribal communities forming ~15% of Gujarat’s population (~1 crore).
- Objective: Addresses under-representation in Genome India Project (GIP), which had only ~100 tribal samples from Gujarat.
- Sample Size: Involves 4,158 individuals, including 378 trio families, to create a 2,000-sample reference genome panel.
- Data Collection: Includes blood, stool, genealogical, physiological, and lifestyle information.
Key Features:
- Precision Medicine Applications
-
- Early Detection: Enables screening for sickle cell anaemia, G6PD deficiency, BRCA-linked cancers.
- Gene-Trait Mapping: Explores genetic links to traits like agility and archery.
- Genomic Sampling Protocol
-
- Filtering: Uses SNP genotyping to remove closely related samples.
- Sequencing: Conducts Whole Genome Sequencing (WGS) on 2,000 diverse samples via Illumina NovaSeq 6000.
- Data Security: Employs double encryption for privacy and anonymity.
About the Genome India Project (GIP):
- Launch: Initiated in January 2020 by the Department of Biotechnology (DBT).
- Structure: Multi-institutional consortium involving top Indian research bodies.
- Objectives
- Diversity Mapping: Decode genetic variation across Indian population.
- Reference Panel: Build Single Nucleotide Polymorphism (SNP) -based haplotype database for Indian genomes.
- Biobank Creation: Establish DNA reserves for research and therapy development.
- Key Achievements
- Sequencing Scale: 10,074 genomes sequenced from 99 ethnic groups.
- Data Storage: Securely stored at Indian Biological Data Centre (IBDC), Faridabad.
- Insights: Revealed rare traits aiding affordable diagnostics and predictive tools.
- Significance
- Global Impact: Offers India-specific insights to global genomics research.
- Healthcare Value: Enables evidence-based, genetically informed policy and diagnosis.
| [UPSC 2017] With reference to agriculture in India, how can the technique of ‘genome sequencing’, often seen in the news, be used in the immediate future?
1. Genome sequencing can be used to identify genetic markers for disease resistance and drought tolerance in various crop plants
2. This technique helps in reducing the time required to develop new varieties of crop plants
3. It can be used to decipher the host-pathogen relationships in crops
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
Options: (a) 1 only (b) 2 and 3 only (c) 1 and 3 only (d) 1, 2 and 3 |
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Why in the News?
In a breakthrough, scientists have developed BioEmu—an AI tool that predicts the full range of protein shapes, offering faster and scalable insights into protein dynamics.
What is BioEmu?
- Overview: It is a deep learning tool that predicts the equilibrium ensemble of a protein — meaning all the different shapes a protein can naturally take.
- It works like diffusion models, starting with random/noisy inputs and learning to rebuild protein shapes.
- Training: It was trained on-
- AlphaFold structures (millions of predicted proteins)
- Molecular dynamics (MD) simulation data (200 ms)
- 500,000 mutant sequences from lab experiments
- Speed: Once trained, BioEmu can quickly create thousands of 3D protein structures on a single GPU in just minutes to hours.
Key Features of BioEmu:
- Flexibility Capture: Shows how proteins change shape, fold/unfold, or form hidden binding pockets.
- Accuracy:
- Detects 83% of large and 70–81% of small shape changes.
- Predicts open/closed forms of enzymes like adenylate kinase.
- Mutation Analysis: Helps see how mutations affect protein structure and stability.
- Fast & Scalable: Much faster than traditional MD simulations; works on thousands of proteins using less computing power.
- Snapshots Only: Gives static 3D shapes, not full motion timelines.
- Limitations: Can’t handle membrane proteins, drug molecules, or multi-chain complexes.
Why is BioEmu Important?
- Improves Protein Modelling: Adds to what AlphaFold does by showing how proteins move, not just what they look like.
- Helps Drug Discovery: Finds hidden drug binding sites — speeding up the search for new medicines.
- More Accessible: Works on basic hardware, making advanced protein modelling available to more researchers.
- Combines with Other Tools: Can be used with molecular dynamics for deeper study.
- Future of Research: Encourages students and scientists to learn a mix of AI, biology, and physics.
| [UPSC 2020] Which of the following statements are correct regarding the general difference between plant and animal cells?
1. Plant cells have cellulose cell walls whilst animal cells do not.
2. Plant cells do not have plasma membrane unlike animal cells which do.
3. Mature plant cell has one large vacuole vacuoles.
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
Options: (a) 1 and 2 only, (b) 2 and 3 only, (c) 1 and 3 only * (d) 1, 2 and 3 |
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Why in the News?
India recently participated in the 88th Codex Executive Committee (CCEXEC88) in Rome (14–18 July 2025), earning praise for leading global millet standards.
About the Codex Alimentarius Commission (CAC):
- Established: In 1963 by the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) and the World Health Organization (WHO).
- Headquarters: Located in Rome, Italy.
- Membership:
- 189 members: 188 countries + the European Union.
- Open to all FAO and WHO members state and associate members.
- Objectives:
- Protect consumer health by ensuring food safety.
- Promote fair practices in international food trade.
- Harmonize food standards to reduce trade disputes.
- Key Functions:
- Develops global standards on:
- Food safety and hygiene
- Food additives, contaminants
- Residues of veterinary drugs and pesticides
- Labelling and import/export rules
- Sets Maximum Residue Limits (MRLs) and general/horizontal standards.
- Supports developing countries in enhancing food safety systems.
- Structure:
- Executive Committee: Streamlines the Commission’s work.
- Subsidiary Bodies:
- General Subject Committees: Address additives, contaminants, hygiene, etc.
- Commodity Committees: Develop product-specific standards.
- Regional Coordinating Committees: Harmonize regional standards.
- Task Forces: Address short-term, emerging issues.
- Codex Alimentarius (Food Code):
- A collection of international food standards, guidelines, and codes of practice.
- Though voluntary, they are widely adopted, especially in international trade.
- Relevance to WTO:
- Codex standards are reference points under the WTO SPS Agreement for resolving trade-related food safety disputes.
India and Codex Alimentarius Commission:
- Member Since: 1964.
- Active Participation:
- India is an elected member of the Executive Committee (CCEXEC).
- Participates in standard-setting across various food sectors.
- Recent Contributions:
- Chaired the development of whole millet grain standards, co-chaired with Mali, Nigeria, and Senegal.
- Led new work on fresh dates (approved for CAC48).
- Will co-chair future standards for fresh turmeric and broccoli.
- Strategic Role at CCEXEC88 (Rome, July 2025):
- Proposed SMART Key Performance Indicators for the Codex Strategic Plan 2026–2031.
- Shared its capacity-building programs for neighbouring countries (Bhutan, Nepal, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Timor Leste), praised by FAO.
- Capacity Building & Mentorship:
- Promoted use of the Codex Trust Fund (CTF) by less active member countries.
- Shared success stories of mentorship programmes with Bhutan and Nepal.
- Special Role:
- Chairs the Codex Committee on Spices and Culinary Herbs (CCSCH) since 2014.
- Aligns domestic FSSAI standards with Codex to support export competitiveness.
Millets and India’s Leadership in Millets Promotion:
- Millets = Shree Anna: Renamed in the Union Budget 2023-24, emphasizing their nutritional, economic, and environmental value.
- Types of Millets:
- Major: Jowar (Sorghum), Bajra (Pearl Millet), Ragi (Finger Millet)
- Minor: Foxtail, Little, Kodo, Barnyard, Proso millets
- Key Traits:
- Drought-resistant, short duration crops
- Nutrient-rich: High in fiber, iron, calcium, gluten-free
- Climate-smart and low-input, suitable for dryland farming
- India’s Global Push:
- Government Initiatives:
- National Millet Mission (2007) to boost production and processing.
- Shree Anna Abhiyan: Focus on millet-based product innovation and marketing.
- Integration into Public Distribution System (PDS), midday meals, and armed forces’ diets.
| [UPSC 2010] As regards the use of international food safety standards as reference point for the dispute settlements, which one of the following does WTO collaborate with?
Options: (a) Codex Alimentarius Commission * (b) International Federation of Standards Users (c) International Organization for Standardization (d) World Standards Cooperation |
https://www.pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=2146080
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Why in the News?
Observed every year on July 20, the International Moon Day marks the historic first human landing on the Moon by the Apollo 11 mission in 1969.
About International Moon Day:
- Date & Purpose: Observed annually on July 20 to mark the Apollo 11 Moon landing in 1969.
- UN Recognition: Declared by the UN General Assembly in 2021 on the recommendation of COPUOS.
- First Observance: Officially celebrated for the first time on July 20, 2022.
- Activities: Includes sky-gazing, science outreach, and student competitions to promote space awareness.
- Date Controversy: While the lunar module landed on July 20, Neil Armstrong stepped onto the Moon at 2:56 UTC on July 21—yet July 20 remains the official date.
Significance:
- Historic Milestone: Celebrates Apollo 11 and humanity’s first step on the Moon by Neil Armstrong and Buzz Aldrin.
- Peaceful Space Use: Promotes the Moon as a shared heritage and fosters international cooperation in outer space.
- Sustainability Focus: Encourages responsible and eco-friendly exploration of lunar resources.
- Global Unity: Reflects the UN’s vision of peaceful space collaboration under themes like “One Moon, One Vision, One Future”.
| [UPSC 2009] India has recently landed its Moon Impact Probe on the Moon. Among the following countries, which one landed such probe on the Moon earlier?
Options: (a) Australia (b) Canada (c) China* (d) Japan |
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Why in the News?
Indian scientists from INST Mohali, IIT-Dharwad, and IIT-Kharagpur have developed a low-cost, reusable water filter that removes toxic industrial dyes using a process called piezo-photocatalysis.
About the Light-Induced Water Filter:
- Material Used: Built using 3D-printed polylactic acid (PLA) sheets (a biodegradable plastic); Sheets coated with bismuth ferrite (BFO) nanoparticles.
- Working: It works in two ways. Together, this is called piezo-photocatalysis.
- Photocatalysis: Uses sunlight to break dye molecules.
- Piezoelectric effect: Uses vibrations (ultrasound) to work even in the dark.
- Reusable: Can be used 5 times with only 3% loss in performance.
- Lab tests showed:
- 99% Congo Red removal
- 74% Methylene Blue removal (in 90 minutes)
Significance:
- Eco-Friendly Solution: Removes harmful dyes without harmful chemicals or electricity.
- Cost-Effective: Cheaper and safer than ozone or chemical-intensive treatments.
- Green Energy Use: Operates using sunlight and mechanical vibrations—no external power needed.
- Policy Alignment: Supports Namami Gange, Jal Nigam, and Aatmanirbhar Bharat missions.
- Scalability: Ideal for deployment near textile treatment plants as a sustainable technology.
| [UPSC 2023] With reference to the role of biofilters in the Recirculating Aquaculture System, consider the following statements:
1. Biofilters provide waste treatment by removing uneaten fish feed
2.Biofilters convert ammonia present in fish waste to nitrate
3.Biofilters increase phosphorus as nutrient for fish in water
How many of the statements given above are correct?
Options: (a) Only one (b) Only two* (c) All three (d) None |
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PYQ Relevance:
[UPSC 2015] Though there have been several different estimates of poverty in India, all indicate reduction in poverty levels over time. Do you agree? Critically examine with reference to urban and rural poverty indicators.
Linkage: The article highlights that the World Bank’s report, “India Poverty and Equity Brief: April 2025,” claims India has “almost eradicated extreme poverty” and “significantly reduced consumption inequality since 2011-12”. This directly supports the premise in the PYQ about a reduction in poverty levels. |
Mentor’s Comment: The World Bank’s April 2025 report highlights a decline in extreme poverty in India, supported by new HCES datarevealing insights into consumption inequality. The launch of the PMDDKY aims to reform agriculture through district-level planning, despite concerns over falling public investment in agriculture. Emphasis on inclusive participation and localised implementation is crucial for sustainable growth.
Today’s editorial analyses the World Bank’s report “India Poverty and Equity Brief: April 2025”. This topic is important for GS Paper I (Indian Society) and GS Paper II (Social Justice) in the UPSC mains exam.
_
Let’s learn!
Why in the News?
Recently, the release of the World Bank’s report “India Poverty and Equity Brief: April 2025”, which made significant claims about the reduction in poverty and inequality in India.
What are the key findings of the World Bank’s April 2025 report on poverty in India?
- Extreme Poverty Has Nearly Been Eliminated: India has made substantial progress in poverty reduction over the past decade. Eg: About 27 crore people were lifted out of extreme poverty between 2011 and 2023, based on the International Poverty Line of $2.15/day (2017 PPP).
- Consumption Inequality Has Declined: The gap between the rich and poor in consumption patterns has reduced significantly.
- India Among Least Unequal Countries (by Consumption): In terms of consumption distribution, India now ranks among the top four least unequal countries globally. Eg: Both rural and urban households reported increased and more balanced access to milk, eggs, fruits, and vegetables, showing better consumption equity.
How has the HCES data helped understand consumption inequality?
The Household Consumption Expenditure Survey (HCES) 2022–23 data has provided deep insights into consumption inequality in India.
- Decline in Consumption Inequality: HCES showed a reduction in the consumption gap between the richest and the poorest households. Eg: The Gini coefficient for consumption dropped to 28.2 in rural areas and 31.9 in urban areas, indicating more equitable spending.
- Improved Nutritional Access Across Income Groups: Data showed that low-income households are consuming more nutritious food than before. Eg: Compared to 2011–12, rural poor households now consume more milk, eggs, fruits, and vegetables, narrowing the dietary gap.
- Urban-Rural Gap Has Narrowed: Consumption growth in rural India outpaced urban areas, helping to reduce regional inequality. Eg: The monthly per capita consumption rose by over 164% in rural and 146% in urban households (in nominal terms).
- Shift Towards Non-Food Expenditure: Rising non-food spending like education, transport, and health among lower-income groups suggests improving quality of life. Eg: In rural areas, non-food items made up 50.3% of total spending, indicating broader access to services.
- Policy Targeting Becomes Easier: The disaggregated data helps target welfare schemes better at both the state and district level. Eg: States like Odisha and Chhattisgarh, which showed rising consumption among poor households, can now be used as models for nutrition and cash transfer schemes.
Why is distinguishing between income and consumption inequality important?
- Households Smooth Consumption Despite Income Fluctuations: People often use savings, credit, or social networks to maintain consumption when incomes fall temporarily. Eg: A daily wage worker in Uttar Pradesh may lose work during the monsoon, but still manages basic consumption (food, rent) by borrowing from local moneylenders or using savings.
- Public Transfers Reduce Consumption Inequality: Government subsidies and welfare schemes help the poor consume more than their income alone would allow. Eg: A family in Odisha earning low wages may still access subsidised food under the Public Distribution System (PDS) and free school meals, narrowing consumption inequality even if income remains low.
- Informal Support Influences Consumption: Land, gold, livestock, and informal social support can enhance consumption even when income is unstable. Eg: In Maharashtra, a small farmer with seasonal income can sell stored grain or gold jewellery to fund household expenses during lean months—sustaining consumption better than someone with the same income but no assets.
What are the steps taken by the government?
- Expansion of Direct Benefit Transfers (DBT): The government has expanded cash transfer schemes like PM-KISAN, PM-Garib Kalyan Yojana, and Ujjwala 2.0 to ensure income support and reduce consumption inequality. Eg: As of 2024, over 11 crore farmers received ₹6,000 annually under PM-KISAN through DBT.
- Strengthening Food Security SystemsThrough the National Food Security Act (NFSA) and One Nation One Ration Card, subsidised food grains are provided to nearly 80 crore beneficiaries, helping smoothen consumption shocks. Eg: NFSA covers 75% of rural and 50% of urban population, ensuring minimum nutrition.
- Investment in Social Infrastructure and Welfare: Increased spending on education, health, rural housing (PMAY-G), and employment (MGNREGA) to reduce long-term structural inequality. Eg: In FY 2024-25, the budget for MGNREGA was over ₹86,000 crore, supporting rural livelihoods and stabilising consumption during crises.
Way forward:
- Enhance Targeting Through Data-Driven Welfare Delivery: Leverage HCES and SECC data to better identify vulnerable households and customize welfare delivery, especially in nutrition, health, and education. Eg: Use Aadhaar-linked data and digital platforms like PM Gati Shakti to streamline benefit distribution and plug leakages.
- Promote Employment-Led Growth in Rural and Urban Areas: Focus on labour-intensive sectors like agro-processing, textiles, and construction, while supporting MSMEs and skilling initiatives to boost income equality and domestic consumption. Eg: Scale up schemes like PM Vishwakarma and Skill India Mission to create sustainable livelihoods.
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Why in the News?
The Prime Minister Dhan-Dhaanya Krishi Yojana (PMDDKY) was recently approved by the Union Cabinet as a major reform initiative in the agriculture sector. It aims to converge 36 existing schemes across 11 departments to address regional disparities in agricultural productivity.
What are the aims of PMDDKY (Prime Minister Dhan-Dhaanya Krishi Yojana)?
- Address productivity disparities: The scheme aims to reduce inter-State and intra-State disparities in agricultural productivity.
- Improve productivity & self-reliance: Focus on higher agricultural productivity, value addition, local livelihood creation, and increased domestic production to ensure self-sufficiency.
- Holistic development: Enhance outcomes in agriculture and allied sectors through targeted intervention and convergence of schemes.
- Private participation: Encourage local public-private partnerships for enhanced implementation and innovation.
Why is scheme convergence under PMDDKY needed?
- Eliminates Fragmentation of Efforts: Earlier, agricultural schemes like PM-KISAN, PMFBY, and Soil Health Card Scheme operated in silos. Eg: A farmer receiving income support under PM-KISAN might not be covered under insurance if PMFBY was poorly implemented in that region. Convergence ensures coordinated benefits.
- Targets Low Productivity Districts: PMDDKY identifies 100 low-productivity districts using criteria like cropping intensity, credit flow, and yield gaps. Eg: A district with only 70% of national average yield can be provided tailored interventions by combining schemes like RKVY and Micro-Irrigation Fund.
- Improves Resource Efficiency: Unified schemes allow for better fund utilisation, avoiding duplication of services or spending. Eg: Instead of running separate capacity-building programs under different departments, single training programs can be run using pooled funds from both Extension Services and Digital Agriculture Initiatives.
- Ensures Uniform Implementation Standards: PMDDKY seeks national uniformity while allowing local customization. Eg: While standards for soil health management may be set centrally, implementation can be adapted to local conditions using district-specific plans.
- Compensates for Declining Budget Share: Public investment in agriculture is falling (from 3.53% in 2021-22 to 2.51% in 2025-26 of the Central Plan outlay). Eg: Convergence helps make the most of limited resources by integrating multiple schemes under a single implementation umbrella.
How do ‘District Plans’ aid agricultural reform?
- Localized Problem Solving: District Plans allow for the identification of region-specific challenges such as water scarcity, pest outbreaks, or poor seed quality. Eg: In Latur district (Maharashtra), which faces frequent droughts, the district plan prioritized micro-irrigation and watershed development, leading to improved water-use efficiency.
- Customised Crop Diversification: District-level planning helps align cropping patterns with agro-climatic conditions and market demand, reducing monoculture dependency. Eg: In Koraput district (Odisha), known for tribal farming, the plan introduced millet promotion and value chain linkages, increasing income and nutritional security.
- Efficient Use of Resources and Schemes: Integration of multiple schemes under district plans ensures better fund allocation, resource convergence, and monitoring. Eg: In Barabanki district (Uttar Pradesh), convergence of Soil Health Card, PM-KUSUM, and FPO promotion led to more sustainable and solar-powered farming practices.
What challenges may hinder PMDDKY?
- Administrative Coordination Across Departments: With 36 schemes under 11 departments converging, bureaucratic silos and lack of inter-departmental coordination can delay execution. Eg: In Jharkhand, similar convergence under NRLM and agriculture failed initially due to poor communication between the Rural Development and Agriculture departments.
- Data Gaps and Poor Baseline Assessment: District-level planning requires granular, updated data on land use, cropping patterns, and farmer needs — often missing or outdated. Eg: In Dantewada (Chhattisgarh), poor digital records led to misallocation of subsidies under earlier agri-reform efforts.
- Weak Local Institutions: PACS (Primary Agriculture Cooperative Societies) and local self-governments may lack the capacity to implement and monitor complex plans. Eg: In Banda district (U.P.), PACS struggled to handle seed distribution due to lack of trained staff and digital infrastructure.
- Limited Private Sector Engagement in Remote Areas: Private partners may hesitate to invest in low-productivity districts due to poor infrastructure or lack of assured returns. Eg: In Kiphire (Nagaland), agri-businesses withdrew from a millet-processing initiative due to transport and power issues.
- Farmer Awareness and Participation: Without sustained IEC (Information, Education, Communication) campaigns, farmers may not understand how to benefit from the converged schemes. Eg: In Barmer (Rajasthan), uptake of soil health and credit-linked schemes remained low due to lack of farmer outreach in vernacular languages.
Way forward:
- Ensure Adequate and Sustained Funding: Increase the budgetary allocation for agriculture to reverse the current decline (only 2.51% of Central Plan outlay in 2023-24). Sufficient and stable funding will support better implementation of integrated District Plans.
- Leverage Technology and Real-Time Monitoring: Implement digital dashboards for tracking the 117 indicators under PMDDKY and promote data-driven decision-making. This will help improve accountability, efficiency, and timely course corrections.
Mains PYQ:
[UPSC 2016] Considering the vulnerability of Indian agriculture to vagaries of nature, discuss the need for crop insurance and bring out the salient features of the Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana (PMFBY).
Linkage: The article explicitly states that the PMDDKY will subsume existing Central schemes like the Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana (PMFBY). Therefore, a question about PMFBY is directly relevant to understanding a key component of this new “one umbrella scheme” approach.
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Why in the News?
The issue of pilot mental health has come into focus following the Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau’s preliminary report on the Air India Boeing 787 incident in Ahmedabad on June 12, 2025.
What are the main mental health issues affecting pilots and flight safety?
- Chronic Stress and Fatigue: Long working hours, night shifts, and frequent time zone changes disrupt sleep and increase fatigue, impairing concentration and reaction time. Eg: A 2020 study by the European Cockpit Association found that over 60% of pilots reported fatigue-related performance degradation during flights.
- Sleep Deprivation (“Sleep to Order”): Pilots often have to sleep on demand in unfamiliar settings, leading to poor-quality rest and mental exhaustion. Eg: The crash of Colgan Air Flight 3407 (2009) was partly attributed to fatigue from irregular sleep patterns.
- Depression and Suicidal Ideation: Isolation, stress, and lack of support can lead to depression, which often remains hidden due to stigma. Eg: The Germanwings Flight 9525 (2015) crash, where the co-pilot deliberately downed the plane, highlighted undiagnosed depression.
- Financial and Career Pressure: Burdens like debt from pilot training and job insecurity can lead to anxiety and emotional distress. Eg: During the COVID-19 pandemic, mass layoffs and pay cuts caused increased psychological issues among airline staff globally.
Why is mental health still taboo in aviation?
- Fear of Disclosure and Stigma: Pilots avoid seeking help fearing license suspension or job loss, which worsens untreated conditions. Eg: A Harvard study (2016) found that 56% of pilots with depression symptoms had not sought treatment due to career fears.
Who regulates airlines in India?
- DGCA (Directorate General of Civil Aviation): Primary regulator of civil aviation in India. Oversees air safety, airworthiness, licensing, operations, and regulation of airlines.
- Ministry of Civil Aviation: Responsible for overall policy formulation, promotion of civil aviation, and coordination with other ministries and international bodies.
- Airports Authority of India (AAI): Manages airport infrastructure, air navigation services, and ensures airspace safety.
- BCAS (Bureau of Civil Aviation Security): Regulates and ensures aviation security standards at airports and airlines.
What are the steps taken by the Indian government?
DGCA Mental Health Guidelines (2021): The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) issued formal guidelines requiring airlines to implement Peer Support Programmes (PSPs) and conduct confidential mental health assessments. Eg: Pilots can confidentially report stress or anxiety and receive support without fear of job loss.
What global practices can India adopt for pilot mental health? (Way forward)
- Peer Support Programs (PSPs): Establish confidential peer-led counselling services to encourage early intervention. Eg: Germany’s Lufthansa runs a Peer Support Program that offers confidential mental health assistance to pilots.
- Non-punitive Medical Disclosure Policies: Allow pilots to self-report mental health issues without fear of losing their license, ensuring safe reintegrationafter treatment. Eg: The U.S. FAA’s HIMS program supports pilots with substance or mental health conditions to return to flying duties safely.
- Mandatory Mental Health Training & Awareness: Introduce regular mental health education, anti-stigma campaigns, and stress management workshops for flight crew. Eg: Australia’s CASA mandates mental health modules in pilot training and encourages a wellness culture in aviation.
Mains PYQ:
[UPSC 2022] The increase in life expectancy in the country has led to newer health challenges in the community. What are those challenges and what steps need to be taken to meet them.
Linkage: This question directly addresses “health challenges in the community” and “steps needed to meet them,” which aligns perfectly with the detailed discussion in the article “Pilot Mental Health: Addressing a Taboo Topic” regarding the often-overlooked and taboo subject of pilot mental health.
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Why in the News?
The completion of Ethiopia’s Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD) has reignited tensions over Nile water rights, with Egypt and Sudan fearing reduced water flows.
About Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD):
- Overview: Gravity dam on the Blue Nile near Ethiopia–Sudan border.
- Construction Timeline: Under construction since 2011, led by Ethiopian Electric Power Corporation.
- Capacity: Set to become Africa’s largest hydropower plant with 6.45 GW output.
- Reservoir Size: Holds 74 billion cubic metres; filling may take 5–15 years.
- Key Features: 145 m tall dam, 16 turbines, and a supporting saddle dam.
- Purpose: Aims to power Ethiopia (65% population lacks electricity) and export surplus to neighbouring countries.
- Disputes Around GERD:
- Egypt’s Concern: Fears reduced water flow; Relies 90% on Nile; demands a binding filling agreement.
- Sudan’s Worry: Concerns over flood risks and water regulation.
- Ethiopia’s Stand: Asserts sovereign rights; began filling without consensus.
- Stalled Talks: Tripartite negotiations have failed; Egypt warns of possible conflict.
Back2Basics: Nile River
- Overview: North-flowing, longest river in Africa at ~6,650 km.
- Drainage Basin: Covers 11 countries—Tanzania, Uganda, Rwanda, Burundi, DRC, Kenya, Ethiopia, Eritrea, South Sudan, Sudan, and Egypt.
- Main Tributaries:
- White Nile: Recognized as the headstream, its most remote source is the Kagera River in Burundi, flowing through Rwanda into Lake Victoria. It officially begins at Jinja, Uganda, where it exits Lake Victoria.
- Blue Nile: Originates from Lake Tana in Ethiopia and merges with the White Nile at Khartoum, Sudan. Supplies over 80% of total Nile flow by the time it reaches Egypt.
- Lifeline Status: Vital for Egypt and Sudan’s drinking water, irrigation, and energy needs.
|
| [UPSC 2008] Ogaden region has been a source of conflict between which countries?
Options: (a) Morocco and Algeria (b) Nigeria and Cameroon (c) Angola and Zambia (d) Ethiopia and Somalia* |
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Why in the News?
Indian Navy commissioned INS Nistar, the country’s first indigenously designed and constructed Diving Support Vessel (DSV).
![[pib] INS Nistar Diving Support Vessel](https://d18x2uyjeekruj.cloudfront.net/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/nistar.jpg)
About INS Nistar:
- Project Origin: First of two Diving Support Vessels (DSVs) ordered by the Navy in 2018.
- Developer: Built by Hindustan Shipyard Ltd with input from 120 Indian MSMEs.
- Commissioning: Inducted at Naval Dockyard, Visakhapatnam.
- Legacy Name: Named after the Soviet-origin INS Nistar (1971–1989).
- Indigenization: Over 80% indigenous content, in line with Aatmanirbhar Bharat.
- Sister Ship: INS Nipun, launched in 2022, will join soon.
Key Features:
- Rescue Depth: Supports diving and submarine rescue operations up to 300 metres.
- Rescue Equipment: Equipped with ROVs, Hyperbaric Lifeboats, and Diving Chambers.
- DSRV Role: Functions as mothership for Deep Submergence Rescue Vehicles.
- Size: 120 metres long with a displacement of ~10,500 tonnes.
- Endurance: Can stay at sea for over 60 days.
- Utility Gear: Fitted with a 15-tonne subsea crane and helipad facilities.
- Medical Support: Includes OT, ICU, hospital beds, and hyperbaric treatment units.
Significance for India:
- Submarine Rescue: Provides independent submarine rescue capability.
- Operational Autonomy: Ends reliance on leased rescue platforms.
- Strategic Status: Places India among 12 countries with full submarine rescue capability.
- Regional Role: Strengthens India’s position as Net Security Provider in the Indian Ocean.
| [UPSC 2016] Which one of the following is the best description of ‘INS Astradharini’, that was in the news recently?
Options: (a) Amphibious warfare ship (b) Nuclear-powered submarine (c) Torpedo launch and recovery vessel* (d) Nuclear-powered aircraft carrier |
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Why in the News?
Recently a volcano erupted in south-west Iceland, continuing a pattern of recurring geological activity on the Reykjanes Peninsula.
About the Reykjanes Peninsula:
- Location: Situated in southwest Iceland along the Mid-Atlantic Ridge where tectonic plates diverge.
- Volcanic Reawakening: Dormant for centuries until 2021; now sees recurring eruptions.
- Eruption Type: Known for fissure eruptions—lava flows from cracks, not a central crater.
- Key Sites: Includes Grindavik (evacuated), Blue Lagoon spa, and Svartsengi power plant.
- Volcanic Importance: Part of Iceland’s 30+ active volcanic zones.
Key Features:
- Eruption Style: Produces steady lava flows with minimal ash output.
- Flight Safety: Air traffic remains unaffected due to lack of stratospheric ash.
- Evacuation Impact: Grindavik largely abandoned after 2023 lava threat.
- Long-Term Activity: Eruptions may persist for decades or longer.
- Iceland Snapshot: Population ~400,000; similar in size to Kentucky.
- Tourism Appeal: Attracts visitors like other volcanic hotspots—Mexico, Indonesia, Sicily, and New Zealand.
| [UPSC 2014] Consider the following geological phenomena:
1. Development of a fault 2. Movement along a fault
3. Impact produced by a volcanic eruption 4. Folding of rocks
Which of the above cause earthquakes?
Options: (a) 1, 2 and 3 (b) 2 and 4 (c) 1, 3 and 4 (d) 1, 2, 3 and 4* |
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