Why in the News?
Most western border districts, except in Gujarat, had little or no growth in exports and saw slow poverty reduction. Now, recent tensions and shelling between India and Pakistan are hurting the economy in these 22 districts.
What causes slower poverty reduction in border districts?
- Geopolitical Tensions and Hostile Neighbours: Constant threats such as cross-border shelling along the LoC disrupt livelihoods, infrastructure, and public services. Eg: In Jammu & Kashmir, border districts face frequent disruptions due to tensions with Pakistan, limiting economic stability and job opportunities.
- Limited Economic and Industrial Activity: Border districts often lack a strong industrial base or service sector, leading to low income-generation and underemployment. Eg: In Rajasthan and Punjab, several border districts showed slower poverty reduction than State averages due to stagnant economic growth.
- Inadequate Infrastructure: Poor roads, communication networks, and market access hinder economic integration and development. Eg: Eastern States like Arunachal Pradesh and Nagaland face challenges due to remote terrain and limited connectivity, contributing to persistent poverty.
- Declining Development Fund: Post-pandemic, central funding under schemes like the Border Area Development Programme (BADP) has declined sharply. Eg: After FY20, both western and eastern border areas experienced reduced support, slowing poverty reduction efforts.
- Landlocked and Isolated Geography: Many border districts, especially in the Northeast, are landlocked and rely on external transport hubs, limiting local trade and economic activity. Eg: In Assam, 75% of border districts had a slower decline in poverty than the State average between 2015–16 and 2019–21.
Why are exports stagnant in most border districts except Gujarat?
- Lack of Industrial and Export Ecosystem: Most border districts lack industrial clusters, export-processing zones, and supply chain infrastructure, which hampers export activity. Eg: Border districts in Punjab, Rajasthan, and Jammu & Kashmir contribute only 0.3% to India’s total exports, showing minimal export potential.
- Geopolitical and Security Constraints: Tensions with neighboring countries and border insecurities restrict cross-border trade and deter investment in export-oriented industries. Eg: Frequent cross-border shelling along the LoC in J&K and Rajasthan affects trade operations and discourages private sector involvement.
- Gujarat’s Strategic Advantage and Policy Support: Gujarat benefits from a coastal location, developed infrastructure, and proactive industrial policies, enabling strong export growth. Eg: Border districts in Gujarat increased their export share from 1.9% in FY22 to 3% in FY24, in contrast to stagnation elsewhere.
Which border districts performed better economically?
- Gujarat is the only western border State where all border districts saw a faster decline in poverty than the State average.
- Eg: export share from border districts rose from 1.9% (FY22) to 3% (FY24) — indicating successful economic activity.
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Why did the government’s support to border areas decline?
- Reallocation of Resources Post-Pandemic: The COVID-19 pandemic shifted national priorities toward healthcare, urban welfare, and fiscal recovery, resulting in reduced focus on border-specific programmes. Eg: Post FY20, schemes like the Border Area Development Programme (BADP) faced budget cuts as funds were redirected to pandemic-related needs.
- Security-Centric Approach Over Development: In sensitive regions, the government adopted a more security-focused strategy, often at the cost of developmental spending in border districts. Eg: In J&K and Punjab, heightened defence and surveillance measures took precedence, sidelining economic initiatives and local development schemes.
- Administrative and Logistical Challenges: Border areas, especially in the Northeast, face issues like difficult terrain, poor connectivity, and limited administrative reach, deterring consistent support. Eg: In Nagaland and Arunachal Pradesh, implementation hurdles led to underutilization of allocated funds, reducing the impact of central schemes.
Way forward:
- Targeted Development & Infrastructure Boost: Prioritise region-specific infrastructure (roads, logistics hubs, digital connectivity) and promote border-based industrial clusters to generate employment and improve trade potential.
- Revive and Expand BADP with Integrated Planning: Strengthen the Border Area Development Programme (BADP) with post-pandemic funding revival, and ensure convergence with state schemes for holistic socio-economic upliftment of border districts.
Mains PYQ:
[UPSC 2024] Examine the conflicting issues and security challenges along the border. Also give out the development being undertaken in these areas under the Border Area Development Programme (BADP) and Border Infrastructure and Management (BIM) Scheme.
Linkage: The security problems along the border, such as India-Pakistan tensions and cross-border shelling, as seen in the “India’s Border Districts”. It also explores how development programmes address these issues, directly linking security challenges with economic and development concerns in border regions. It clearly connects border tensions with the economic struggles in these areas.
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Why in the News?
A recent study titled ‘Poverty Decline in India after 2011–12: Bigger Picture Evidence’ shows that poverty in India fell from 37% in 2004-05 to 22% in 2011-12. However, poverty declined by only an additional 18% until 2022-23, and officials have not released any poverty estimates after 2011-12.
What are the three methods used to estimate post-2011 poverty in India?
- Alternative NSSO Surveys: Using different socio-economic surveys like the Usual Monthly Per Capita Consumption Expenditure (UMPCE) from NSSO rounds after 2011-12, despite comparability issues with earlier surveys. Eg: Estimates based on UMPCE suggest poverty between 26-30% in 2019-20.
- Private Final Consumption Expenditure (PFCE) Scaling: Scaling consumption data from the 2011-12 Household Consumption Expenditure Survey using the growth rate of PFCE from National Accounts Statistics (NAS) to estimate consumption trends. Eg: Used by economist Surjit Bhalla and colleagues in 2022.
- Survey-to-Survey Imputation: Filling data gaps by linking related surveys (e.g., consumption surveys with employment surveys) through imputation models, often at the State level for better accuracy. Eg: The recent study titled ‘Poverty Decline in India after 2011–12: Bigger Picture Evidence’ study using NSSO Employment-Unemployment Surveys with Consumer Expenditure Surveys to estimate poverty decline to about 18% in 2022-23.
Note: Surjit Bhalla is an Indian economist, author, and columnist who served as Executive Director for India at the International Monetary Fund. |
How much has poverty declined post-2011–12, and how does it compare with the earlier period?
- Sharp slowdown: Poverty fell from 37% (2004–05) to 22% (2011–12), a 15-point drop, but only to 18% by 2022–23, a mere 4-point reduction in over a decade.
- Absolute poverty numbers: Number of poor declined from 250 million to 225 million in 10 years — a decline of only 10%, compared to a much faster fall earlier.
- GDP correlation: GDP growth slowed from 6.9% (2004–12) to 5.7% (2012–23), consistent with slower poverty reduction.
Why has the poverty reduction slowed since 2011-2012?
- Slower GDP Growth: Average GDP growth declined from 6.9% (2004-05 to 2011-12) to 5.7% (2011-12 to 2022-23), correlating with slower poverty reduction.
- Declining Real Wage Growth: Growth in rural wages slowed down significantly — from 4.13% annually before 2011-12 to 2.3% after 2011-12.
- Rising Agricultural Workforce with Lower Productivity: After a decline in agricultural workers till 2017-18, 68 million workers joined agriculture post-2017-18, leading to lower agricultural productivity and wages, which hampers poverty reduction.
How do the Poverty trends vary across Indian States?
- Significant Poverty Reduction: Some states have shown marked improvement in reducing poverty levels after 2011-12. Eg: Uttar Pradesh has notably decreased its poverty rate during this period.
- Slow Progress: Historically poor states continue to struggle with slow poverty reduction due to persistent socio-economic challenges. Eg: Jharkhand and Bihar have experienced much slower declines in poverty rates.
- Stagnation: Several large and economically important states have seen poverty reduction stagnate, with little change over the years. Eg: Maharashtra and Andhra Pradesh show almost no improvement in poverty reduction post-2011-12.
What are the steps taken by the Indian Government?
- Implementation of Social Welfare Schemes: The government has launched various targeted welfare programs to support the poor and vulnerable groups. Eg: Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana for affordable housing.
- Focus on Employment Generation: Programs aimed at creating jobs, especially in rural areas, to increase income and reduce poverty. Eg: Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA).
- Financial Inclusion Initiatives: Efforts to increase access to banking and financial services for the poor. Eg: Jan Dhan Yojana, which promotes opening of bank accounts for the unbanked.
- Agricultural Support and Reforms: Policies to improve farmers’ incomes and agricultural productivity to support rural livelihoods. Eg: PM-Kisan Samman Nidhi, providing direct income support to farmers.
- Health and Education Programs: Investments in healthcare and education to improve human capital and break the cycle of poverty. Eg: Ayushman Bharat health insurance scheme for poor families.
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Way forward:
- Rural Wage & Productivity Growth: Boost rural wages and agricultural productivity by implementing reforms, improving access to technology, and providing skill development to increase income and reduce poverty sustainably.
- Data Accuracy & Monitoring: Improve data collection and real-time monitoring of poverty indicators to ensure precise measurement, enabling better-targeted policies and effective poverty alleviation programs.
Mains PYQ:
[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: Estimates consistently show a reduction in poverty over time rather than the underlying surveys or methodologies used to produce them, answering this question effectively would require knowledge that various estimates exist, often derived from different data sources or approaches.
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Why in the News?
A new ETH Zurich study warns that under the Shared Socioeconomic Pathway (SSP) 5-8.5 scenario, warming could make cyclones more intense and hit unusual regions with greater damage.
What are Shared Socioeconomic Pathways (SSPs)?
- Definition: SSPs are 5 global scenarios that show how changes in society, economy, and technology might influence climate adaptation and mitigation.
- Purpose: They complement Representative Concentration Pathways (RCPs) by adding socioeconomic context to climate models.
- Development: Created in the late 2000s, published in 2016, and used in the IPCC 6th Assessment Report and CMIP6 models.
- Function: SSPs assume no new climate policies, helping scientists explore how global trends affect emissions and climate action.
- The Five Pathways:
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- SSP1: Sustainable and equitable world
- SSP2: Continuation of current trends
- SSP3: Regional rivalry with high population growth
- SSP4: Unequal world with high disparities
- SSP5: Fossil-fuel-based rapid economic growth
- Usage: SSPs are used with RCPs to explore how different futures could affect the 1.5°C or 2°C warming targets.
- Significance: They help policymakers assess how societal choices impact climate risks, emissions, and the feasibility of global goals.
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About SSP5-8.5 and Cyclone Risks:
- Scenario Summary: SSP5 shows rapid economic growth fuelled by fossil fuels.
- Radiative Forcing: SSP5-8.5 implies 8.5 W/m² of energy, compared to about 2.7 W/m² today.
- Climate Target Gap: To limit warming below 2°C, forcing must stay around 2.6 W/m².
- Cyclone Projections: Using the CLIMADA (climate adaptation) AI model, scientists studied past cyclone patterns and projected risks from 2015–2050.
- Ecoregion Types:
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- Resilient: Often affected, but recover quickly
- Dependent: Moderately impacted and adaptive
- Vulnerable: Rarely hit but slow to recover
- Findings:
- Time between severe cyclones in resilient areas may drop from 19 to 12 years.
- East Asia, Central America, and the Caribbean will face stronger, more frequent cyclones.
- Madagascar, Oceania, and the Philippines will face unprecedented cyclone activity.
Impact on Mangroves and Coastal Ecosystems:
- Mangrove Risk: By 2100, up to 56% of global mangroves could be at high to severe risk.
- Most Affected Region: Southeast Asia, with 52–78% of mangroves at risk.
- Other Scenario Impact (SSP3-7.0): Even under less severe warming, 97–98% of protective mangroves in Southeast Asia could still face critical threats.
- Environmental Concern: These losses would severely weaken coastal protection, biodiversity, and carbon storage.
| [UPSC 2020] Consider the following statements:
1. Jet streams occur in the Northern Hemisphere only. 2. Only some cyclones develop an eye. 3. The temperature inside the eye of a cyclone is nearly 10°C lesser than that of the surroundings.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
Options: (a) 1 only (b) 2 and 3 only (c) 2 only* (d) 1 and 3 only |
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Why in the News?
At the 78th World Health Assembly held in Geneva, the World Health Organisation (WHO) adopted a new Pandemic Agreement that aims to make the global response to future pandemics more equitable and effective.
About the WHO Pandemic Agreement:
- Adoption: It was unanimously adopted at the 78th World Health Assembly in Geneva after 3 years of negotiation since the COVID-19 pandemic.
- Legal Basis: It was adopted under Article 19 of the WHO Constitution, making it only the second such legally binding agreement after the WHO Framework Convention on Tobacco Control (2003).
- Primary Goal: To ensure fair and timely access to vaccines, medicines, and diagnostic tools during future pandemics.
- Stakeholders: It promotes collaboration among countries, WHO, pharmaceutical firms, civil society, and other stakeholders.
- Next Steps: It will come into force once ratified by at least 60 countries; the final annex is expected by May 2026.
- Irritant: The US has not joined, raising concerns about the agreement’s global effectiveness.
Key Highlights of the Agreement:
- Pathogen Access and Benefit Sharing (PABS): A new system will ensure quick virus sample sharing with companies, who must give 20% of vaccines and medicines to WHO—10% as donations and 10% at affordable prices.
- Global Supply Chain and Logistics Network (GSCL): A WHO-managed network will ensure emergency access to critical supplies during pandemics.
- Coordinating Financial Mechanism: A funding system will support countries in pandemic preparedness and response.
- Sustainable Local Production: Countries are encouraged to build vaccine and medicine production capacity to ensure rapid and equal access.
- Technology and Knowledge Transfer: Supports technology sharing with developing nations using licensing, financing, and regulatory tools, coordinated via WHO-managed hubs.
- Pandemic Prevention and Surveillance: Countries must improve early detection, routine vaccinations, and address lab safety, antimicrobial resistance, and zoonotic threats.
- Respect for Sovereignty: The WHO will not enforce national policies like lockdowns, vaccine mandates, or travel bans; countries retain full control over responses.
| [UPSC 2022] In the context of vaccines manufactured to prevent COVID-19 pandemic, consider the following statements:
1. The Serum Institute of India produced COVID-19 vaccine named Covishield using mRNA platform.
2. Sputnik V vaccine is manufactured using vector-based platform.
3. COVAXIN is an inactivated pathogen-based vaccine.
Which of the statements given above are correct?
Options: (a) 1 and 2 only (b) 2 and 3 only* (c) 1 and 3 only (d) 1, 2 and 3 |
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Why in the News?
Scientists have discovered that a massive solar storm hit Earth around 12,350 BC, making it the most powerful solar event ever detected.
What are Solar Particle Storms?
- About: A solar storm is a disturbance caused by solar flares or coronal mass ejections that release charged particles into space.
- Solar Particle Storm: It is a type of solar storm where high-energy particles travel toward Earth, producing cosmogenic isotopes like radiocarbon.
- Detection: These isotope spikes are recorded in tree rings and are known as Miyake events, which act as cosmic timestamps.
- Impact: Though rare, solar particle storms can severely affect satellites, communication systems, and power grids.
- Historical Events: Major solar particle storms were identified in AD 994, 663 BC, 5259 BC, and 7176 BC.
- Carrington Event (1859): This was a major solar storm, but not a particle storm—it resulted from a different solar mechanism.
How was the ancient storm detected?
- Methodology: A solar storm from 12,350 BC was discovered using tree-ring data from the French Alps.
- Event Strength: This storm was over 500 times stronger than the 2005 solar storm, the largest in the satellite era.
- What are its implications?
- Significance: This is the first known extreme solar event before the Holocene, predating the last 12,000 years of stable climate.
- Modern Relevance: The discovery highlights the risks of future extreme solar activity on Satellite infrastructure and Space Application.
- Significance: Miyake events improve the precision of archaeological dating, helping better understand ancient human history.
| [UPSC 2022] If a major solar storm (solar flare) reaches the Earth, which of the following are the possible effects on the Earth?
1. GPS and navigation systems could fail.
2. Tsunamis could occur at equatorial regions.
3. Power grids could be damaged.
4. Intense auroras could occur over much of the Earth.
5. Forest fires could take place over much of the planet.
6. Orbits of the satellites could be disturbed.
7. Shortwave radio communication of the aircraft flying over polar regions could be interrupted.
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, 3, 4, 6 and 7*
Tap to know more about the answer. |
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Why in the News?
In a major move to fight cyber fraud and financial crime, the Department of Telecommunications (DoT) has launched the Financial Fraud Risk Indicator (FRI) as a part of the Digital Intelligence Platform (DIP).
Back2Basics: Digital Intelligence Platform (DIP)
- DIP is developed by the Department of Telecommunications (DoT) as a secure, integrated platform for real-time intelligence sharing.
- Stakeholders Involved: It connects Telecom Service Providers (TSPs), law enforcement agencies (LEAs), banks, financial institutions, social media platforms, and identity document issuers.
- Functionality: The platform contains information on telecom resource misuse and supports case tracking and coordinated action.
- Sanchar Saathi Integration: DIP acts as a backend system for citizen requests submitted through the Sanchar Saathi portal.
- Access Control: DIP is available only to authorized stakeholders via secure connections and is NOT accessible to public.
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What is the Financial Fraud Risk Indicator (FRI)?
- Purpose: FRI is a risk-based tool that flags mobile numbers as Medium, High, or Very High risk for financial fraud.
- Data Sources: It pulls inputs from the National Cybercrime Reporting Portal (NCRP), DoT’s Chakshu Platform, and banking institutions.
- Beneficiaries: Helps banks, NBFCs, and UPI service providers implement added security for high-risk numbers.
- How It Works:
- The Digital Intelligence Unit (DIU) shares a Mobile Number Revocation List (MNRL) with reasons like cybercrime, failed verification, or excess usage.
- The tool performs multi-dimensional analysis and assigns a fraud risk level.
- Risk status is shared in real-time via DIP, enabling early action before fraud occurs.
Case Study: PhonePe’s use of FRI System
- PhonePe was one of the first adopters of the FRI system.
- It uses FRI to:
- Block transactions linked to Very High-risk numbers.
- Display alerts using the PhonePe Protect feature.
- For Medium-risk numbers, PhonePe is working on showing proactive user warnings before transactions.
- The tool has proven highly accurate in identifying numbers involved in cyber fraud.
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| [UPSC 2021] Which one of the following effects of the creation of black money in India has been the main cause of worry to the Government of India?
Options: (a) Diversion of resources to the purchase of real estate and investment in luxury housing (b) Investment in unproductive activities and purchase of precious stones, jewelry, gold, etc. (c) Large donations to political parties and the growth of regionalism (d) Loss of revenue to the State Exchequer due to tax evasion* |
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PYQ Relevance:
[UPSC 2021] Examine the role of ‘Gig Economy’ in the process of empowerment of women in India.
Linkage: While the PYQ focuses on empowerment and women within the gig economy, it aligns with the broader theme of identity and status challenges faced by workers in non-traditional/precarious employment structures, a challenge explicitly highlighted for SBWs and then linked to gig workers in the article. |
Mentor’s Comment: The central government employs millions of regular and contract workers, including around 60 million in schemes like ICDS, NRHM, and mid-day meals. These workers—such as Anganwadi workers, helpers, ASHAs, and mid-day meal staff—support children, mothers, and nutrition. They connect communities with public health and help improve school enrollment and overall health.
Today’s editorial talks about the problems faced by Scheme-Based Workers (SBWs). This content is useful for GS Paper I (Women’s Issues) and GS Paper II (Social Justice).
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Let’s learn!
Why in the News?
The recent developments surrounding Scheme-Based Workers (SBWs)—particularly Anganwadi workers, ASHAs, and MDM workers—have reignited the debate on labour identity, social security, and worker rights in India.
Who are scheme-based workers (SBWs)?
- Workers employed under various government social welfare schemes but not formally recognized as government employees. Around 60 million workers across government schemes. Eg: Anganwadi Workers (AWWs), Anganwadi Helpers (AWHs), Accredited Social Health Activists (ASHAs) and Mid-Day Meal Workers (MDMWs).
- ICDS (since 1975), National Rural Health Mission (NRHM), and Mid-Day Meal Scheme.
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What roles do they perform?
- Childcare and Nutrition Services: SBWs play a vital role in early childhood care by ensuring nutritional support, immunization, and preschool education. Eg: Anganwadi Workers (AWWs) under the ICDS scheme provide nutrition and basic health services to children and lactating mothers.
- Public Health Outreach: They serve as a crucial link between the public health system and rural communities, improving health awareness and access. Eg: ASHAs under the National Rural Health Mission (NRHM) assist in maternal care, vaccination drives, and promote institutional deliveries.
- Educational and Nutritional Support in Schools: They help enhance school enrollment and retention by providing mid-day meals, which also address child malnutrition. Eg: Mid-Day Meal Workers (MDMWs) prepare and distribute meals in schools under the Mid-Day Meal Scheme.
What challenges do SBWs face in gaining formal recognition and benefits?
- Lack of Worker Status: SBWs are often classified as “volunteers” or “honorary workers” rather than formal employees, denying them recognition as government workers. Eg: The Supreme Court in State of Karnataka vs Ameerbi (2006) ruled that Anganwadi workers are not state employees as they don’t hold statutory posts.
- Absence of Minimum Wages: Most SBWs receive honorariums instead of wages, which are far below minimum wage standards. Eg: Anganwadi workers and helpers across states earn as low as ₹4,500–₹9,000 per month, without alignment to state minimum wage norms.
- No Social Security Benefits: SBWs are denied access to pensions, provident fund, maternity benefits, and health insurance. Eg: Despite working in public health, ASHAs are not covered under schemes like EPFO or ESI.
- Policy Delay and Avoidance: Governments often cite financial burden or the need for long-term planning to delay regularisation. Eg: In 2016, the Labour Minister told Parliament that there’s no fixed timeline to implement ILC recommendations for SBWs.
- Suppression of Collective Action: SBWs’ strikes are often met with state repression or legal barriers. Eg: Maharashtra invoked the Essential Services Maintenance Act (ESMA) in 2017 to curb Anganwadi workers’ right to strike.
Why is the government reluctant to regularise SBWs?
- Financial Burden: Regularising SBWs would significantly increase the government’s salary and welfare expenditure, making it fiscally unsustainable. Eg: The central government employs over 60 lakh SBWs, and converting them to regular employees would involve massive budgetary allocations for wages and benefits.
- Policy Ambiguity: Successive governments delay decisions by citing the need for long-term policy formulation without committing to a timeline. Eg: In 2016, the Labour Minister told the Rajya Sabha that implementing Indian Labour Conference (ILC) recommendations requires indefinite planning.
- Privatisation Push: The government aims to reduce its role in welfare delivery by promoting public-private partnerships, weakening the case for regularisation. Eg: There have been attempts to privatise the Integrated Child Development Services (ICDS), directly affecting the employment security of Anganwadi workers.
How have trade unions and courts supported SBWs’ demands?
- Union Mobilisation: Major trade unions have organised SBWs to demand minimum wages, worker status, and social security through strikes and negotiations. Eg: In March 2025, Anganwadi workers in Kerala ended a 13-day indefinite strike organised by unions like AITUC, BMS, and CITU demanding regularisation and fair pay.
- Judicial Recognition: Courts have gradually recognised some labour rights of SBWs, even when earlier rulings were unfavourable. Eg: In Maniben Maganbhai Bhariya vs District Development Officer (2022), the Supreme Court ruled that Anganwadi workers are eligible for gratuity under the Payment of Gratuity Act.
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What are the policy implications of granting SBWs formal employee status?
- Fiscal Burden: Recognising SBWs as formal employees would significantly increase the government’s expenditure on salaries, pensions, and social security. Eg: The central government is concerned about cost implications due to the growing number of SBWs (nearly 6 million), especially as population-linked schemes expand.
- Policy Reorientation: Granting formal status would require new frameworks for recruitment, training, service conditions, and grievance redressal. Eg: The Gujarat High Court in 2024 directed the State and Centre to create a joint policy to regularise Anganwadi workers as Class III and IV employees.
- Precedent for Other Informal Workers: Regularising SBWs could set a precedent for other informal or gig workers demanding similar recognition and protections. Eg: Like SBWs, gig workers (e.g., delivery partners) are also fighting for worker status and social security rights in courts and labour forums.
Way forward:
- Enact Clear Policies: Governments should promptly create and implement policies to grant SBWs formal worker status with fair wages and social security benefits.
- Strengthen Monitoring: Improve enforcement by regional bodies to ensure timely wage revisions, labour rights protection, and prevent exploitation of SBWs.
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Why in the News?
India has taken a sharp turn from its traditionally cooperative trade approach by recently imposing restrictions on Bangladeshi readymade garments and other goods.
Why did India impose trade restrictions on Bangladesh?
- Bangladesh move to China: India imposed trade restrictions to express displeasure with Bangladesh’s interim government led by Mohammed Yunus, which has moved closer to China and Pakistan, straining India-Bangladesh relations. Eg: Yunus inviting Chinese access to India’s northeast during his China visit triggered India’s concerns.
- Political statement against the North East: India blocked access to its Northeast markets for Bangladesh’s key garment exports in response to recent political comments that called Northeast India landlocked and claimed Bangladesh is its gateway to the sea.
- Signaling Disapproval of Political Moves: India seeks to signal its objection to the interim government’s ban on the Awami League and its deviation from democratic norms promised to the international community.
What did Yunus say about India’s northeast during his China visit?
- Described India’s northeast as landlocked: Yunus publicly referred to the northeastern region of India as lacking direct access to the sea, highlighting its geographical constraints. Eg: He emphasized that the region is dependent on access through neighboring countries like Bangladesh.
- Invited China to access the region via Bangladesh: He suggested that China could use Bangladesh as a transit route to reach India’s northeast, implicitly offering strategic passage. Eg: During his March 2025 China visit, he proposed trade and connectivity links that would allow China to reach the northeast.
- Undermined India’s regional security concerns: By involving China in a sensitive area, Yunus ignored India’s strategic sensitivities and long-standing opposition to Chinese presence near its borders. Eg: His comments were seen as aligning with China’s Belt and Road ambitions in South Asia, alarming Indian policymakers.
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How could the trade move affect India’s strategic interests?
- May worsen anti-India sentiment in Bangladesh: The restrictions could be seen as punitive and fuel nationalist or anti-India narratives, especially among radical groups. Eg: Elements opposing India’s influence may use the trade ban to rally public anger and portray India as interfering in domestic affairs.
- Could destabilize India’s northeast region: Heightened tensions and instability in Bangladesh may spill over, leading to cross-border security issues in India’s sensitive northeastern states. Eg: Increased radical activity or refugee influx due to unrest in Bangladesh can strain local governance and security in Assam and Tripura.
- Limits diplomatic space for constructive engagement: Economic restrictions reduce India’s leverage to influence political developments in Bangladesh through dialogue and soft diplomacy. Eg: Trade ties often help maintain dialogue even during political tensions — restricting them weakens India’s long-term strategic hold.
Which key political stakeholders in Bangladesh should India engage?
- Awami League (AL): Despite being currently banned by the interim government, the Awami League, led by Sheikh Hasina, has been India’s most trusted ally and played a key role in maintaining bilateral stability and counterterrorism cooperation. Eg: India and the Awami League worked closely on cross-border security and infrastructure projects like the Akhaura-Agartala rail link.
- Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP): As a major opposition party, the BNP represents a significant voter base. India should maintain open lines of communication to understand its stance on regional issues and democratic reforms.
- Civil society and democratic reform advocates: Engaging with non-party actors such as human rights groups, independent media, and student movements can strengthen India’s image as a supporter of democracy and people-to-people ties.
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Why is the delay in Bangladesh’s elections a significant concern for India?
- Regional stability and security risks: Prolonged political uncertainty in Bangladesh may lead to unrest, radicalisation, and law and order issues, which can spill over into India’s northeast, impacting border security. Eg: A destabilised Bangladesh could lead to increased cross-border infiltration or refugee inflows into Assam and Tripura.
- Strained diplomatic and strategic relations: The delay weakens India’s ability to engage with a legitimate and stable government, affecting long-term strategic cooperation, trade, and connectivity projects. Eg: Uncertainty may halt progress on initiatives like the India-Bangladesh power grid or transit routes through Bangladesh.
Way forward:
- Engage All Political Stakeholders: India should maintain dialogue with all major political actors in Bangladesh — including the Awami League, BNP, and civil society — to encourage democratic transition and ensure long-term regional stability.
- Balance Strategic Interests with Economic Diplomacy: India must ease trade restrictions while using diplomatic channels to address security concerns, preventing alienation and preserving influence in Bangladesh and the Northeast region.
Mains PYQ:
[UPSC 2013] The protests in Shahbag Square in Dhaka in Bangladesh reveal a fundamental split in society between the nationalists and Islamic forces. What is its significance for India?
Linkage: The current trade-related tensions between India and Bangladesh are a result of deteriorating political relations which have spilled over into economic ties.
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Why in the News?
Recently, the Supreme Court struck down two orders from the Environment Ministry that had allowed industries to operate even after breaking environmental rules.
What did the Supreme Court strike down as illegal?
- Notifications allowing industries to bypass prior environmental clearance: The Court struck down two Union Environment Ministry notifications that permitted industrial units to set up or expand operations without prior government approval, violating the core principle of the Environment Impact Assessment (EIA) Notification, 2006. Eg: Industries were allowed to operate or change manufacturing practices without the mandatory prior environmental clearance.
- Regularisation of violations through executive orders without parliamentary approval: The notifications enabled projects violating environmental laws to seek regularisation by paying fines, issued through executive orders instead of amending the Environment Protection Act (EIA), 2006 via Parliament. Eg: The 2017 “one-time” window and 2021 standard operating procedure allowed violative industries to avoid penalties by applying for clearance retrospectively.
Why did the Centre allow industries to bypass prior clearance?
- One-time window for regularisation: In 2017, the Centre provided a “one-time” six-month window for industries without proper environmental clearances to apply retroactively.
- Avoid disruption of economic activities: The Centre wanted to prevent the demolition of functioning plants that contribute to the economy and employment, as shutting them down abruptly could be disruptive.
- Legal precedent for balanced approach: The government cited court rulings supporting a “balanced” approach in cases of violations, emphasizing regularisation over punitive action when feasible.
- Heavy fines as deterrent: The 2021 standard operating procedure imposed heavy fines on violative projects applying for clearance, intending to discourage violations while still allowing formalisation.
- Procedural challenges with previous attempts: Earlier attempts by the UPA government (2012-13) to regularise such projects were struck down by courts on procedural grounds, prompting the Centre to try executive orders as a workaround. Eg: The Jharkhand High Court and National Green Tribunal nullified prior regularisation efforts due to procedural flaws.
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Who is impacted by the Court’s verdict?
- Industries regularised under 2017 and 2021 orders remain unaffected: Companies that used the one-time window or the standard operating procedure to regularise violations before the verdict will not face penalties due to the Court’s ruling.
- Future industrial projects must strictly follow prior clearance: The verdict reaffirms that all new or expanding projects must obtain mandatory prior environmental clearance, impacting industries planning to start or modify operations.
- Regional environmental boards are under scrutiny: The ruling highlights the failure of local enforcement agencies to prevent illegal operations, signaling the need for better monitoring and compliance at the regional level. Eg: State pollution control boards will face greater pressure to enforce environmental laws rigorously.
Way forward:
- Strengthen enforcement: Empower and equip regional pollution control boards to rigorously monitor and ensure strict compliance with environmental clearance norms.
- Streamline clearance process: Simplify and expedite the prior environmental clearance procedure to balance industrial growth with environmental protection, reducing incentives for violations.
Mains PYQ:
[UPSC 2023] The most significant achievement of modern law in India in the constitutionalization of environmental problems by the Supreme Court. Discuss this statement with the help of relevant case laws.
Linkage: The “constitutionalization of environmental problems by the Supreme Court,” which refers to how the judiciary, through interpretation (often linking environmental protection to fundamental rights like the Right to Life under Article 21), has played a significant role in shaping environmental law and policy in India.
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Why in the News?
The Shirui Lily Festival has commenced in Manipur after a two-year gap caused by the ongoing conflict in the state.
About Shirui Lily Festival
- Organiser: The festival is conducted by the Department of Tourism, Government of Manipur.
- Launch: It was first held in 2017 and is now one of Manipur’s two major tourism festivals (the other being the Sangai Festival).
- Origin: Named after the Shirui Lily (Lilium mackliniae), the State Flower of Manipur.
- Location: The event is held in Ukhrul district, home to the Tangkhul Naga community.
- Purpose: It aims to raise awareness about the Shirui Lily and promote eco-tourism in the hill regions of Ukhrul.
- Key Activities: The festival includes cultural performances, music concerts, a beauty pageant, a cooking competition, and a trash collection marathon.
About the Shirui Lily Flower:
- Habitat: The Shirui Lily grows only in the upper reaches of the Shirui Hill range in Ukhrul district, at an altitude of 2,673 metres.
- Local Name: It is locally known as ‘Kashong Timrawon’, named after a mythical hill guardian.
- Discovery: British botanist Frank Kingdon-Ward identified it in 1946 and named it Lilium mackliniae after his wife Jean Macklin.
- Conservation Status: Classified as Endangered by the IUCN. (It is not listed by CITES or Wildlife Protection Act, 1972. Shirui National Park is named after it.
- Threats: The flower faces threats from climate change, human encroachment, resource exploitation, and invasion by wild dwarf bamboo.
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| [UPSC 2018] Consider the following pairs:
Tradition– State
1. Chapchar Kut festival — Mizoram
2. Khongjom Parba ballad — Manipur
3. Thong-To dance — Sikkim
Which of the pairs given above is/are correct?
Options: (a) 1 only (b) 1 and 2* (c) 3 only (d) 2 and 3 |
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Why in the News?
On May 20, 2025, the Department of Consumer Affairs celebrated World Metrology Day, marking the 150th anniversary of the signing of the Metre Convention in Paris on May 20, 1875.
About the Metre Convention:
- Inception: Also called the Treaty of the Metre, it was signed in Paris on May 20, 1875, to establish a global system of standardised measurements.
- 17 Founding Members: Argentina, Austria-Hungary, Belgium, Brazil, Denmark, France, Germany, Italy, Peru, Portugal, Russia, Spain, Sweden and Norway, Switzerland, Ottoman Empire (Turkiye), USA, and Venezuela.
- Institutions Created: The treaty established the International Bureau of Weights and Measures (BIPM), and two governing bodies—CGPM (General Conference on Weights and Measures) and CIPM (International Committee for Weights and Measures).
- Early Prototypes: It created international prototypes of the metre and kilogram, stored at the BIPM; member countries received national copies for comparison.
- Expansion in 1921: The Convention was extended to cover all physical quantities, forming the basis for the International System of Units (SI).
- Global Reach: As of October 2024, there are 64 member states in the Convention.
- Collaboration: International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), Institute for Reference Materials and Measurements (IRMM), World Meteorological Organization (WMO), European Space Agency (ESA) participate in the CIPM Mutual Recognition Arrangement (MRA).
India and the Convention:
- Membership: India joined the Metre Convention in 1957 after passing the Standards of Weights and Measures Act, 1956.
- Participation Benefits: India gained the ability to participate in BIPM work, align with global systems, and ensure international recognition of its standards.
- Recent Milestone: India is now the 13th country authorized to issue OIML (International Organisation of Legal Metrology) Certificates.
| [UPSC 2007] Consider the following statements:
1. The series of the International Paper Sizes is based on A0 size whose area is 0.5 m² (approximately).
2. The area of A4 size paper is 1/8th of that of the A0 size paper.
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?
Jayant Narlikar, renowned Indian astrophysicist and Padma Vibhushan awardee, who co-developed the Hoyle–Narlikar Theory to refine Einstein’s Theory of Relativity, passed away in Pune at the age of 87.
About Jayant Narlikar and His Contributions:
- Early Life: Born in 1938 in Kolhapur, Maharashtra, and pursued a PhD at Cambridge University under Fred Hoyle.
- Scientific Influence: Hoyle had earlier developed the steady-state theory with Bondi and Gold and coined the term “Big Bang” sarcastically in 1948.
- Narlikar’s Belief: He argued that the universe always looks the same, as new matter fills the gaps created by expansion.
- Critique of Big Bang: He believed the Big Bang theory includes unproven assumptions, especially about the sudden origin of all matter and energy.
- Enduring Work: Despite steady-state theory’s decline, Narlikar’s contributions remain respected for their scientific depth and originality.
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What Is the Hoyle–Narlikar Theory?
Fred Hoyle and Jayant Narlikar developed a theory to answer one of the most basic questions: Why do things have mass, and how are they connected to the rest of the universe?
- Based on Mach’s Principle: They believed your mass isn’t just something you have on your own. Instead, it depends on your connection to everything else in the universe. That means even faraway stars and galaxies play a role in what you weigh.
- Inertia Explained: In simple terms, when you feel resistance while trying to move (inertia), it’s because of the gravitational pull of all the matter in the universe acting on you at once.
- Mass is Relative: Earth, the Sun, or even you don’t have a fixed mass. That mass is influenced by everything else that exists out there, no matter how far away it is.
- C-field and Steady-State Model
- New Idea – C-Field: They introduced the “creation field”, which creates new matter in space.
- Universe Without a Start: Their steady-state theory says the universe has no beginning or end, is always expanding, and keeps its density constant.
- Against the Big Bang: They believed the Big Bang couldn’t explain everything we see today.
- Hydrogen Creation: They said hydrogen atoms form in space to fill in the gaps as the universe grows.
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- CMB Discovery (1965): Scientists found cosmic microwave background radiation, strong proof of the Big Bang.
- Other Evidence: Later discoveries like young, chaotic galaxies and studies by Hawking and Penrose supported the Big Bang.
- Current View: The Big Bang theory became more accepted, but Hoyle and Narlikar’s ideas are still respected for their scientific value.
| [UPSC 2018] Consider the following phenomena:
1. Light is affected by gravity.
2. The Universe is constantly expanding.
3. Matter warps its surrounding space-time.
Which of the above is/are the prediction/predictions of Albert Einstein’s General Theory of Relativity, often discussed in media?
Options: (a) 1 and 2 only (b) 3 only (c) 1 and 3 only (d) 1, 2 and 3* |
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Why in the News?
The RBI has released revised draft guidelines for investments made by Regulated Entities (REs) in Alternative Investment Funds (AIFs) to ensure better regulatory oversight, prevent misuse of funds, and align with the rules already set by SEBI.
What are Alternative Investment Funds (AIFs)?
- Definition: They are unique investment vehicles that are privately pooled and invested in alternative asset classes such as venture capital, private equity, hedge funds, commodities, real estate, and derivatives.
- Regulation: They are governed by SEBI under the SEBI (Alternative Investment Funds) Regulations, 2012.
- Working: It can be formed as a trust, company, Limited Liability Partnership (LLP), or any other SEBI-permitted structure.
- Legal Structure: They can be set up as trusts, companies, Limited Liability Partnership (LLP), or other legally permitted forms.
- Investor Base:
- AIFs are meant for High Net-Worth Individuals (HNIs) and institutional investors, NOT small retail investors.
- Resident Indians, NRIs, and foreign nationals can invest.
- Minimum Investment Requirement:
- The minimum investment size is ₹1 crore (SEBI, May 2024), except for accredited investors as defined by SEBI.
- For employees or directors of the AIF or its manager, the minimum investment is ₹25 lakh.
- An AIF must have a minimum corpus of ₹20 crore (₹10 crore for Angel Funds).
Types of AIFs:
- Category I: These funds invest in early-stage unlisted companies in the form of equity or debt (venture capital). These alternative asset funds can also invest in infrastructure-based projects or social ventures.
- Category II: These types of funds invest in equity or debt of unlisted companies that are in the mid or late stage of growth and are known as private equity or pre-IPO, respectively.
- Category III: This category of funds invests in the shares of listed companies. These alternative strategy funds can be for any period, long only or a combination of long and short.
| [UPSC 2014] What does Venture Capital mean?
Options: (a) A short-term capital provided to industries. (b) A long-term start-up capital provided to new entrepreneurs* (c) Funds provided to industries at times of incurring losses. (d) Funds provided for replacement and renovation of industries. |
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Why in the News?
India is likely to become the world’s largest potato producer, overtaking China, by 2050, according to experts from the International Potato Center (CIP) based in Peru.
Back2Basics: International Potato Center (CIP)
- The CIP is a research-for-development organisation founded in 1971, focused on improving potato, sweet potato, and Andean root and tuber crops.
- Headquartered in Lima, Peru, CIP operates in over 20 countries across Africa, Asia, and Latin America.
- It maintains the world’s largest Potato Gene Bank, safeguarding biodiversity for future use in research and breeding.
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Potato Cultivation in India:
- About: Potato (Solanum tuberosum) is known as the “King of Vegetables” and is India’s fourth most important food crop after rice, wheat, and maize.
- Origin: Introduced to India by Portuguese traders in the 17th century.
- Geographic Spread: Grown in 23 states, but 85% of production comes from the Indo-Gangetic plains in North India.
- Top Producing States:
- Uttar Pradesh: ~30% of total output
- West Bengal: ~23.5%
- Bihar: ~17%
- Other contributors: Punjab, Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh
- Climate Needs: Potato is a cool-season crop.
- Ideal growth temp: 24°C
- Ideal tuber formation temp: 20°C
- Soil Requirements: Prefers well-drained, fertile soils with moisture retention.
- Planting Seasons:
- Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand: Spring (Jan–Feb), Summer (May)
- Punjab, Haryana, UP, Bihar, Bengal: Main crop in October
- MP, Maharashtra, Karnataka: Both kharif and rabi seasons
- Seed Management: Use disease-free, sprouted seeds (30–50g);
- Popular varieties: Kufri Jyoti, Kufri Bahar, Kufri Pukhraj, and Kufri Chandramukhi.
- Fertilization & Irrigation: Apply balanced nutrients, especially phosphorus and potassium; drip irrigation is recommended.
- Harvesting: Ready in 90–120 days, harvested manually or mechanically.
Global Comparison and Future Outlook:
- Global Rank: India is the second-largest producer after China.
- Production Volume: Over 50 million tonnes/year currently; projected to reach 100 million tonnes by 2050 (CIP experts).
- Growth Drivers: Expansion is due to large cultivation area, strong domestic demand, and government support.
- Tuber Crop Potential: Promoting crops like sweet potato can improve nutrition, livelihoods, and climate resilience.
Policy measure for Potato Farmers: Operation Greens
- It is a scheme launched by the GoI in 2018, modelled after Operation Flood, with the aim to stabilize the supply and prices of Tomato, Onion, and Potato (TOP) crops.
- The scheme is implemented by the Ministry of Food Processing Industries (MoFPI) and was initially allocated a budget of ₹500 crore.
- Objectives:
- Stabilize the supply and prices of potatoes (along with tomato and onion) to protect both farmers and consumers from extreme price fluctuations.
- Reduce post-harvest losses of potatoes by improving storage, processing, and logistics infrastructure
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| [UPSC 2014] In India, cluster bean (Guar) is traditionally used as a vegetable or animal feed, but recently the cultivation of this has assumed significance.
Which one of the following statements is correct in this context?
Options: (a) The oil extracted from seeds is used in the manufacture of biodegradable plastics. (b) The gum made from its seeds is used in the extraction of shale gas.* (c) The leaf extract of this plant has the properties of antihistamines. (d) It is a source of high quality biodiesel. |
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PYQ Relevance:
[UPSC 2013] ‘The expansion and strengthening of NATO and a stronger US-Europe strategic partnership works well in India.’ What is your opinion about this statement? Give reasons and examples to support your answer.
Linkage: Turkiye is a NATO member, and its foreign policy decisions (like supporting Pakistan or Azerbaijan) are influenced by its position within such alliances, which in turn affects India’s relationships and interests in the region. |
Mentor’s Comment: India, Turkey, and Azerbaijan entered into diplomatic tensions after Turkey and Azerbaijan openly supported Pakistan following the Pahalgam massacre. This support sparked a sharp rise in regional political conflicts and strong public reactions. Social media anger quickly escalated, prompting top Indian institutions to pause agreements and causing many travelers to cancel trips to Turkey and Azerbaijan, as reported by travel websites.
Today’s editorial explains the diplomatic tensions between India, Turkey, and Azerbaijan and their implications. This topic will be included in GS Paper I (Unity in Society) and GS Paper II (International Relations).
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Let’s learn!
Why in the News?
Data shows that even if India officially bans trade with Azerbaijan and Turkey, it is likely to experience minimal losses due to limited economic dependence on these countries.
What triggered the boycott of Turkiye and Azerbaijan in India?
- Support for Pakistan: Turkiye and Azerbaijan backed Pakistan following India’s military confrontation after the Pahalgam massacre, which angered many Indians.
- Social media-driven calls for boycott: The support sparked calls on social media to boycott both countries, leading to a surge in travel cancellations. Eg: Sharp spike in cancellations of tour bookings to Turkiye and Azerbaijan reported by travel platforms.
- Institutional actions: Indian institutions suspended ties, and trader associations resolved to boycott trade and commercial ties with these countries. Eg: IIT Bombay and IIT Roorkee suspended MoUs with Turkish universities.
Why do Azerbaijan and Turkey oppose India?
- Support for Pakistan in the Kashmir conflict: Historically, Turkiye has aligned with Pakistan on the Kashmir issue, opposing India’s sovereignty over the region. Eg: Turkiye’s consistent diplomatic backing of Pakistan’s claims on Kashmir since the partition of India in 1947.
- Azerbaijan’s conflict with Armenia: India has historically supplied arms and support to Armenia, Azerbaijan’s adversary in the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict, creating tensions with Azerbaijan. Eg: India’s provision of surface-to-air missile systems to Armenia, opposing Azerbaijan’s territorial claims.
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How have arms trade relations evolved between Turkiye and Pakistan?
- Long-term arms exports since the 1990s: Turkiye has been supplying arms to Pakistan continuously for over three decades. Eg: SIPRI data shows arms exports from Turkiye to Pakistan starting in the 1990s.
- Major focus on artillery systems: A significant part of the trade involves artillery like naval guns, howitzers, self-propelled guns, and multiple rocket launchers. Eg: Pakistan has received multiple rocket launchers and howitzers from Turkiye.
- Supply of armored vehicles: Turkiye exports tanks, armored cars, and personnel carriers to Pakistan’s military. Eg: Delivery of armored vehicles strengthens Pakistan’s ground forces.
- Mutual strategic and political support: Arms trade is supported by reciprocal backing in geopolitical issues such as Kashmir and Cyprus. Eg: Turkiye supports Pakistan on Kashmir; Pakistan supports Turkiye on Cyprus disputes.
- Strengthened ties during regional conflicts: The relationship deepened as Turkiye provided diplomatic and military backing to Pakistan in various geopolitical standoffs. Eg: Turkiye’s vocal support for Pakistan during Kashmir-related tensions.
Who stands to lose more economically if trade is banned?
- India’s low dependency on crude oil: The combined share of crude oil imports from these two countries is less than 1% of India’s total crude imports. Eg: Charts show less than 1% crude import share over the past six years.
- Azerbaijan’s significant reliance on India: India was Azerbaijan’s third largest destination for crude oil exports in 2023. Eg: Azerbaijan could face a bigger impact if India bans trade.
- Limited trade volume in machinery: Turkiye accounts for only about 1% of India’s total imports in machinery, including nuclear reactors and boilers. Eg: India relies more on countries like China and Germany for such equipment.
- India’s diversified import sources: India’s major imports come from several other countries, making it less vulnerable to a ban on trade with Turkiye and Azerbaijan. Eg: China and Germany are larger suppliers of machinery than Turkiye.
- Greater economic impact likely on Azerbaijan: Azerbaijan stands to lose more from India’s trade ban because India is a major crude oil buyer for them. Eg: India being the third largest market for Azerbaijan’s crude oil exports highlights this dependence.
Where has there been a notable rise in Indian tourism and student migration recently?
Indian tourism
- Significant increase in Indian tourists to Turkey: In 2024, about 330,000 Indian tourists visited Turkey, marking a 20.7% increase from the previous year. This growth was due to better air connectivity and Turkey’s appeal as a budget-friendly European destination.
- Rapid growth of Indian tourists in Azerbaijan: Indian tourist arrivals in Azerbaijan jumped from around 60,700 in 2022 to over 243,000 in 2024, fueled by affordability and rich cultural heritage.
Student migration
- Increase in Indian students in Turkey: Indian student numbers in Turkey have grown from less than 100 in 2017 to several hundreds by 2024, attracted by diverse programs and competitive costs.
- Rising Indian student in Azerbaijan: The number of Indian students in Azerbaijan also increased significantly, supported by institutions like Türkiye-Azerbaijan University established in 2024.
Note: This 2024 data is from before Operation Sindoor. The real effects on tourism and student migration will be seen later because it takes time for such events to show their impact. |
Way forward:
- Promote diplomatic dialogue: India should engage in sustained diplomatic efforts with Turkiye and Azerbaijan to address mutual concerns and reduce geopolitical tensions.
- Expand people-to-people and economic ties: Enhancing cultural exchanges, trade, and educational cooperation can build trust and diversify relations beyond political differences.
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Why in the News?
The release of the Panchayat Advancement Index (PAI) Baseline Report 2022–23 in April 2025 marks a major milestone in India’s grassroots governance and data-driven policymaking.
Why does it mark a major milestone?
- Empowers Local Decision-Making: PAI presents complex data in an understandable way for Gram Panchayat leaders, enabling them to identify gaps and take targeted actions. Eg: A sarpanch can use PAI scores to improve health or education outcomes in their village.
- Links Data to Outcomes: It moves beyond raw data by connecting indicators to actual development results, helping stakeholders focus on measurable progress. Eg: PAI scores reveal if a Panchayat is truly “healthy,” guiding specific interventions to improve wellbeing.
What is the Panchayat Advancement Index (PAI)?
PAI is a composite index using 435 local indicators (331 mandatory, 104 optional) and 566 data points across nine themes of Localized SDGs (LSDGs).
Why is it significant?
- Scale: Covers over 2.16 lakh gram panchayats; data from 11,000+ GPs excluded for non-validation.
- Participatory & Understandable: Designed for grassroots actors—sarpanchs, ward members—enabling self-assessment and goal-setting.
- States’ Response: While 25 States/UTs provided almost complete data, Uttar Pradesh reported only 40% GPs, raising concerns about governance bottlenecks.
- Outcome-Oriented: Data is now tied directly to outcomes—e.g., identifying gaps in a GP’s health indicators helps drive targeted intervention.
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What are the main limitations in evidence-based decision-making?
- Delayed and Inaccessible Data: Lack of timely and accessible data hinders informed planning and policy formulation. Eg: The delay in conducting the Census and not releasing its data restricts effective resource allocation in sectors like health, education, and welfare schemes.
- Poor Data Usability and Visualization: Data made available is often in complex formats, making it difficult for citizens and policymakers to interpret and act upon. Eg: On data.gov.in, datasets are vast but lack adequate visualization tools, overwhelming even trained researchers.
- Top-Down Data Flow: Data is often generated at the grassroots but is primarily used by officials at the state or national level, not by local decision-makers. Eg: Gram Panchayat data is collected but rarely used by local elected representatives due to lack of access or interpretation tools.
Who are the stakeholders expected to benefit from the PAI?
- Gram Panchayat Representatives: Sarpanches and ward members can understand their Panchayat’s performance and take action to improve local governance.
- State and District Level Officials: Block Development Officers and District Collectors can use PAI data to plan and monitor development programs more effectively.
- Elected Legislators: Members of Parliament (MPs) and Members of Legislative Assemblies (MLAs) can identify local gaps and use funds from MPLADS/MLALADS accordingly.
- Line Departments and Frontline Workers: Departments like health, education, and rural development can coordinate efforts better using specific PAI indicators.
- Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) and Academia: NGOs and Unnat Bharat Abhiyan institutions can support Panchayats by interpreting data and suggesting local interventions.
- Citizens and Local Communities: Residents can be made aware of their Panchayat’s status and engage in participatory planning and accountability.
How can they contribute to achieving the LSDGs (Localisation of Sustainable Development Goals)?
- Targeted Planning and Implementation: Stakeholders can use PAI data to identify local gaps and implement focused interventions aligned with LSDGs. Eg: A Panchayat noticing low scores in sanitation can prioritize toilet construction and awareness drives under Swachh Bharat Abhiyan.
- Resource Optimization and Fund Allocation: Elected representatives and officials can direct funds more effectively to areas needing urgent attention. Eg: An MLA can use MLALAD funds to improve access to clean drinking water in a low-scoring GP on the “Safe Drinking Water” indicator.
- Community Mobilization and Accountability: Civil society and academic institutions can raise awareness and ensure community involvement in achieving development goals. Eg: An NGO working with local residents can organize meetings to explain their PAI score and co-develop action plans to improve education or health indicators.
Where does data submission fall short, and why is it concerning?
- Incomplete data: Undermines the reliability of the Panchayat Advancement Index (PAI). Eg: Without full data from Uttar Pradesh, true development gaps remain hidden.
- Policy gaps: Poor data coverage leads to misinformed decisions, leaving underperforming areas unaddressed. Eg: GPs excluded from PAI may not receive adequate funds or interventions.
- Inequality: Skewed data causes unequal resource allocation and widens regional disparities. Eg: States with full data submissions benefit more from schemes aligned with LSDGs.
What are the steps taken by the Indian government?
- National Data Sharing and Accessibility Policy (NDSAP), 2012: The government made non-sensitive data publicly available in open, accessible formats to promote transparency. Eg: Data is shared through portals like https://data.gov.in.
- Panchayat Advancement Index (PAI): A composite index was developed to analyze and present data from over 2.16 lakh Gram Panchayats to help local leaders understand and act on development goals. Eg: PAI links data to outcomes like health, enabling targeted interventions at the grassroots.
- Use of Technology and Portals: The government created online platforms like the PAI portal (www.pai.gov.in) for easy access and report generation by officials and representatives. Eg: MPs and MLAs can generate constituency-wise reports to plan specific development actions.
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Way forward:
- Improve Data Accessibility and Visualization: Develop user-friendly dashboards and visualization tools to make data easily understandable for all stakeholders, including elected representatives and citizens.
- Strengthen Data Validation and Coverage: Ensure complete and accurate data submission from all states and Gram Panchayats through rigorous validation and support mechanisms.
Mains PYQ:
[UPSC 2022] “To what extent, in your opinion, has the decentralisation of power in India changed the governance landscape at the grassroots ?
Linkage: The governance landscape at the grassroots and the impact of decentralization. Evaluating this impact necessitates a detailed understanding of the local reality and changes brought about by devolving power – precisely what “getting the micropicture” seeks to achieve.
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Why in the News?
In May 2025, Saudi Arabia led OPEC+ to reverse previous production cuts, sparking a full-fledged oil price war—a new form of global conflict fought aggressively over barrels of crude oil rather than through military aggression.
What is OPEC+?
OPEC+ is a group consisting of the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) plus several non-OPEC oil-producing countries that coordinate their oil production policies to manage global oil supply and influence prices.
Key points about OPEC+:
- OPEC: A cartel of 13 major oil-exporting countries, including Saudi Arabia, Iraq, Iran, UAE, Nigeria, and others.
- The “+”: Includes major non-OPEC producers like Russia, Mexico, Kazakhstan, Oman, and others.
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What led OPEC+ to increase oil production in May 2025?
- Ineffectiveness of previous cuts: Despite voluntary output cuts of 2.2 million barrels per day (bpd) by eight members in 2023 (including a collective cut of 5 million bpd earlier), oil prices kept declining.
- Oversupply & competition: New producers (e.g., Brazil, Guyana, shale oil players) increased their market share, reducing OPEC+’s control.
- Saudi frustration: Overproduction by OPEC+ members like Kazakhstan, Iraq, UAE, and Nigeria undermined collective output discipline.
- Market flooding strategy: To discipline overproducers and regain market share, Saudi Arabia led a reversal in strategy, increasing output (411,000 bpd) starting June 2025.
- Preemptive move: Anticipating return of major sanctioned producers (Iran, Venezuela, Russia), OPEC+ may be frontloading production before supply increases further.
Why is Saudi Arabia called a “swing producer”?
- Large spare production capacity: It can increase or decrease output swiftly to influence global oil prices.
- Stabilizing role: Prefers stable and moderately high prices to ensure consistent oil revenue.
- Historical precedence: Has previously launched price wars (1985–86, 1998, 2014–16, 2020) to discipline the market and punish overproducers.
- Current context: Took the largest voluntary cut (3 million bpd) in 2024, but shifted to increasing output as a strategic move to reassert influence.
Who are the key oil producers under U.S. sanctions?
- Russia: Sanctioned due to the Ukraine conflict and other geopolitical reasons.
- Iran: Sanctioned for its nuclear program and regional activities.
- Venezuela: Sanctioned for political repression and economic mismanagement.
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How does the oil price war affect India’s economy?
- Lower Import Bill and Fiscal Savings: Falling oil prices reduce India’s import costs significantly. Eg: In 2024–25, India spent $137 billion on crude imports. A $1 drop in global oil prices can save India roughly $1.5 billion annually.
- Reduced Export Earnings from Petroleum Products: India exports refined petroleum products, a top export item. Lower crude prices reduce global demand and margins for these exports. Eg: Refinery margins decline, affecting companies like Reliance Industries and Indian Oil Corporation, and reducing foreign exchange earnings.
- Negative Impact on Gulf Economies and Remittances: Gulf countries face revenue drops, leading to reduced infrastructure spending and job losses for Indian expatriates. Eg: Over 9 million Indians work in the Gulf, sending home more than $50 billion in remittances annually. Job losses or salary cuts can hurt India’s balance of payments.
- Lower Tax Revenues from Oil Sector: As oil prices drop, the government earns less in excise duties, royalties, and other taxes from oil and gas sales. Eg: The petroleum sector contributes significantly to India’s tax base—lower prices reduce collections, affecting fiscal planning and public spending.
- Strained Bilateral Economic Ties with Oil Exporters: Economic decline in oil-exporting countries (like Saudi Arabia, UAE, and Nigeria) affects India’s project exports, bilateral trade, and inbound investments. Eg: Indian companies working on infrastructure projects in Gulf countries may face payment delays or cancellations due to budgetary constraints in host nations.
Way forward:
- Diversify Energy Sources and Boost Renewables: Reduce dependency on crude oil imports by accelerating adoption of renewable energy, energy efficiency, and alternative fuels like hydrogen and biofuels to enhance energy security.
- Strengthen Economic Resilience and Diplomatic Engagement: Build strategic petroleum reserves, improve fiscal buffers, and deepen diplomatic ties with diverse energy suppliers to better manage supply shocks and geopolitical risks.
Mains PYQ:
[UPSC 2013] It is said the India has substantial reserves of shale oil and gas, which can feed the needs of country for quarter century. However, tapping of the resources doesn’t appear to be high on the agenda. Discuss critically the availability and issues involved.
Linkage: It focuses on the potential of unconventional sources like shale oil/gas within India, which could impact its energy security and reduce dependence on imports influenced by global price tensions.
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Why in the News?
The Overseas Citizenship of India (OCI) status of a notable British-Indian academic has been cancelled due to involvement in anti-India activities.
About Overseas Citizenship of India (OCI):
- Launch: Introduced in August 2005 to give Persons of Indian Origin (PIOs) a long-term connection to India.
- Eligibility: Open to those who were citizens of India on/after January 26, 1950, or eligible for Indian citizenship on that date.
- Nature: OCI is not full citizenship but offers lifelong visa and residency benefits.
- Benefits: Includes a multiple-entry, lifelong visa and exemption from police registration.
- Administered by: Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA).
- Global Numbers (2023): Over 45 lakh OCI holders from 129 countries — top sources include the USA (16.8 lakh), UK (9.34 lakh), Australia (4.94 lakh), and Canada (4.18 lakh).
Who are the Persons of Indian Origin (PIOs)?
- The PIO category was abolished in 2015 and merged with the OCI category. However, existing PIO cards are valid till December 31, 2023.
- PIO referred to a:
- Foreign citizen (except a national of Pakistan, Afghanistan Bangladesh, China, Iran, Bhutan, Sri Lanka and Nepal) who at any time held an Indian passport, or
- Who or either of their parents/ grandparents/great grandparents was born and permanently resided in India as defined in Government of India Act, 1935, or
- Who is a spouse of a citizen of India or a PIO.
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Rules, Amendments & Privileges:
- 2021 Rule Change: Special permission required for visiting restricted areas, conducting research, journalism, or religious work.
- FEMA Status: Treated as foreign nationals under the Foreign Exchange Management Act (2003).
- Earlier Privileges:
- 2005: Life-long visa, no FRRO (Foreigners Registration Office) registration
- 2007: Parity with NRIs for adoption, domestic airfare
- 2009: Parity for monument entry and access to regulated professions
Limitations and Ineligibility:
- Not Eligible:
- Individuals with parents/grandparents from Pakistan or Bangladesh
- Foreign military personnel, active or retired
- Spouse Clause: Foreign spouse eligible if legally married for at least two years.
- No Political Rights: OCI holders cannot vote, contest elections, hold constitutional posts (President, Vice President, or Supreme Court/High Court Judge), or work in Indian government services.
| [UPSC 2021] Consider the following statements:
1.There is only one citizenship and one domicile.
2.A citizen by birth only can become the Head of State.
3.A foreigner, once granted citizenship, cannot be deprived of it under any circumstances.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
Options: (a) 1 only * (b) 2 only (c) 1 and 3 (d) 2 and 3 |
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Why in the News?
The Global Report on Food Crises (GRFC) 2025 has revealed that more than 295 million people in 53 countries and territories faced acute hunger in 2024.
About the Global Report on Food Crises (GRFC):
- Publication: The GRFC has been published every year since 2016 by the Global Network Against Food Crises (GNAFC).
- Supporting Organisations: It is backed by the Food Security Information Network (FSIN) and includes input from UN agencies, the EU, and various NGOs.
- Purpose: Provides a consensus-based analysis of acute food insecurity and malnutrition worldwide.
Key Highlights from GRFC 2025:
- Scope: The 2025 report covers 65 countries, with complete data for 53. India was not included in the analysis.
- Global Hunger Level: In 2024, 295 million people faced acute food insecurity, up 13.7 million from 2023 — the sixth consecutive year of rising hunger.
- Severity: 23% of the analysed population experienced food insecurity, remaining above 20% for five years.
- Catastrophic Hunger: A record 1.9 million people were in Integrated Food Security Phase Classification (IPC) Phase 5—catastrophic levels of hunger.
| [UPSC 2023] Which of the following countries has been suffering from decades of civil strife and food shortages and was in the news in the recent past for its very severe famine?
Options: (a) Angola (b) Costa Rica (c) Ecuador (d) Somalia * |
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Why in the News?
As of February 2025, the Indian Coast Guard (ICG) protected a record 6.98 lakh Olive Ridley turtles during their mass nesting at the Rushikulya river mouth in Odisha.
About Operation Olivia:
- Launch: Operation Olivia is an annual conservation mission by the Indian Coast Guard, started in the early 1980s.
- Main Objective: It aims to protect Olive Ridley turtles during their nesting season, from November to May.
- Primary Locations: The operation focuses on Odisha’s coast, especially Gahirmatha Beach, Devi River mouth, and Rushikulya River mouth.
- Turtle Nesting Scale: Over 8 lakh turtles arrive annually at these sites to nest.
- Surveillance Efforts: The Coast Guard has conducted more than 5,387 surface patrols and 1,768 aerial missions.
- Community Engagement: Fishermen are encouraged to use Turtle Excluder Devices (TEDs) that allow turtles to escape fishing nets.
About Olive Ridley Turtles:
- Appearance: Named for their olive-green shell, or carapace.
- Diet: They are Omnivores, though feeding mainly on jellyfish, crustaceans, and molluscs.
- Nesting Behaviour: Known for Arribada, a phenomenon where thousands of females come ashore simultaneously to lay eggs.
- Habitat Range: Found in warm waters of the Pacific, Atlantic, and Indian Oceans.
- Major Nesting Sites in India:
- Gahirmatha Marine Sanctuary, Odisha (largest site)
- Devi River mouth (discovered in 1981)
- Rushikulya River mouth (discovered in 1994)
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- IUCN Red List: Listed as Vulnerable.
- CITES: Included in Appendix I, banning international trade.
- Wildlife Protection Act, 1972: Listed under Schedule I, offering the highest legal protection in India.
| [UPSC 2002] The sea coast of which one of the following states has become famous as a nesting place for the giant Olive Ridley turtles from South America?
Options: (a) Goa (b) Gujarat (c) Odisha* (d) Tamil Nadu |
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