Why in the News?
On May 6, India and the UK signed an important Free Trade Agreement (FTA), which was called a historic achievement by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The FTA creates new opportunities for the textile sector, which now needs to match global styles and standards
What are the key benefits of the India-UK Free Trade Agreement (FTA)?
| Benefit |
Description |
Eg |
| 1. Enhanced Market Access |
India gains zero-duty access to UK markets for industrial and agricultural goods; UK exporters get reduced tariffs in India. |
Indian processed foods earlier faced 10–12% tariffs — now duty-free in the UK. Tariffs on British whiskey reduced from 150% to 40% over 10 years. |
| 2. Boost to Key Domestic Sectors |
Labour-intensive Indian sectors like textiles, apparel, toys, and footwear benefit; UK gains in automobiles and spirits. |
Indian apparel now gets zero-tariff access to UK.
Tariffs on British cars slashed from 100% to 10%. |
| 3. Job Creation & Economic Growth |
Trade expansion leads to employment generation and investment in both countries. |
India’s textile sector, employing 45+ million people, can boost jobs through increased exports. |
| 4. Diversification of Trade Partners |
India reduces dependency on US/EU; UK diversifies beyond EU post-Brexit. |
India currently holds just 1.8% share in UK imports — FTA targets major increase. |
| 5. Foundation for Future FTAs |
Sets a model for India’s trade negotiations with other major economies like the EU and US. |
Learnings from tariff cuts and ESG compliance can aid future deals with EU/US. |
How can India improve its Textiles and Apparel sector to capitalize on the FTA with the UK?
- Strengthen the Value Chain and Infrastructure: India must address its fragmented and geographically dispersed T&A value chain. Fast-tracking the operationalization of PM MITRA parks can create integrated textile hubs, reduce logistics costs, and improve delivery timelines. Eg: Bangladesh delivers apparel orders in 50 days compared to India’s 63 days — a more integrated value chain can help India match or exceed this efficiency.
- Promote Manmade Fibre (MMF) Production: India needs to resolve the inverted GST structure and ease quality norms to boost MMF-based products, which dominate global demand for technical textiles, athleisure, and activewear. Eg: MMF garments are taxed higher at the input stage than at the finished product level, making Indian exports less competitive globally.
- Focus on Compliance, Design, and Market Relevance: Indian exporters must align with global fashion trends and strengthen ESG (Environmental, Social, Governance) compliance, especially in anticipation of EU and UK sustainability regulations. Eg: The EU’s Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence Directive (CSDDD) will require traceable, ethical supply chains by 2029 — Indian exporters must prepare accordingly.
Why is the operationalisation of PM MITRA parks important for India’s textile industry?
- Integrated Value Chain and Reduced Costs: PM MITRA parks aim to bring together the entire textile value chain — from spinning, weaving, processing to garmenting — in one location, reducing logistics costs, delays, and inefficiencies. Eg: Currently, cotton is grown in Gujarat, yarn spun in Tamil Nadu, and garments stitched elsewhere, leading to high costs and long lead times. An integrated park would streamline this process.
- Boost Export Competitiveness: These parks can help scale up production, attract investment, and improve quality standards for global markets like the UK, where India now enjoys zero-duty access under the FTA. Eg: By focusing PM MITRA parks in export-oriented regions like Navsari (Gujarat) and Virudhunagar (Tamil Nadu), India can cater more efficiently to UK and EU demand.
Where does India lag behind in terms of manmade fibre (MMF) production compared to global competitors?
- Inverted GST Duty Structure: The GST on raw materials (like MMF yarn at 12%) is higher than on finished products (5%), leading to increased production costs and reduced global competitiveness. Eg: Indian MMF garments are costlier compared to those from Vietnam or Bangladesh, where tax structures are more balanced.
- Restrictive Quality Norms and Compliance Issues: Outdated or complex quality standards limit innovation and access to high-performance MMF products demanded in global markets. Eg: Indian firms struggle to meet the quality requirements for technical textiles used in athleisure and activewear segments.
- Lack of Investment in High-End Functional Fabrics: India has limited capacity for producing value-added MMF fabrics such as moisture-wicking, stretchable or anti-bacterial textiles, unlike China or South Korea. Eg: While China leads in exporting performance-based textiles, India still focuses on basic polyester products.
Way forward:
- Reform Tax Structure & Boost Incentives: Rationalize the GST structure to eliminate the inverted duty issue and offer production-linked incentives (PLI) for MMF textiles to enhance global competitiveness.
- Invest in R&D and Modern Manufacturing: Encourage investment in high-performance MMF fabric production, innovation, and compliance infrastructure to meet international standards in technical textiles and sustainability.
Mains PYQ:
[UPSC 2017] Account for the failure of the manufacturing sector in achieving the goal of labor-intensive exports. Suggest measures for more labor-intensive rather than capital – intensive exports.
Linkage: Textiles and Apparel (T&A) sector as a labour-intensive sector that employs over 45 million people and can benefit significantly from the FTA by gaining access to high-end markets. This question directly asks about promoting labour-intensive exports, aligning perfectly with the potential benefits highlighted for the T&A sector through the FTA.
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Why in the News?
On May 9, 2025, the Supreme Court of India canceled the Delhi High Court’s order that had asked the Wikimedia Foundation to remove a page from its Wikipedia website. This decision is important for several reasons.
What was the Supreme Court’s reason for overturning the High Court’s order on Wikipedia?
- Protection of Free Speech and Public Debate: The Supreme Court emphasized that important legal and public issues must be open to public discussion, even if they are under judicial consideration (sub judice). Eg: Wikipedia users commenting critically on a judge’s order were exercising free speech, not committing contempt — the Court said the High Court “overreacted” by viewing it as contempt.
- Right to Know is a Fundamental Right: The Court reaffirmed that the right to know is part of the fundamental rights under Articles 19(1)(a) (freedom of speech) and 21 (right to life and personal liberty). Eg: Wikipedia entries serve public interest by disseminating information — taking down pages affects people’s access to knowledge.
- Wikimedia is a Neutral Intermediary: The Foundation does not create or control content but provides the platform, which is maintained by users under community guidelines.Eg: Since Wikimedia only hosts content and does not produce it, the responsibility lies with users — the High Court erred by targeting the platform instead of applying proper intermediary liability norms under the IT Act.
Why is the right to know protected under Articles 19(1)(a) and 21?
- Linked to Freedom of Speech and Expression (Article 19(1)(a)): Freedom of speech includes both the right to express and the right to receive information. Without access to information, freedom of expression is incomplete. Eg: Journalists rely on access to court documents, government records, or public statements to report news and foster transparency.
- Essential for a Life with Dignity (Article 21): The right to life includes the right to live with dignity, which requires access to truthful and relevant information that affects one’s wellbeing and rights. Eg: A patient has the right to know about the risks of a medical procedure; a citizen has the right to know about environmental hazards in their locality.
How does Wikimedia qualify as an intermediary under IT law?
- Provides Platform Without Editing User Content: Wikimedia only offers the technical infrastructure for Wikipedia — it does not create or edit the content published by users. Eg: If a Wikipedia page contains inaccurate information, it is user-generated. Wikimedia itself does not write or verify the content.
- Acts Within Safe Harbour Protections (Section 79, IT Act): As an intermediary, Wikimedia is protected from liability for third-party content as long as it doesn’t initiate or modify the transmission and follows due diligence. Eg: If defamatory content appears on Wikipedia, Wikimedia is not legally responsible unless it fails to act on legitimate removal requests.
- Operates Under Community Guidelines, Not Control: Wikipedia’s content is governed by community-led guidelines and editors, not by Wikimedia itself. This decentralized structure supports its status as a neutral intermediary. Eg: Disputes over article edits are resolved through user discussion forums, not by Wikimedia’s direct intervention.
Where did the High Court overstep in interpreting adverse comments as contempt?
- Misconstrued Online Criticism as Judicial Contempt: The High Court treated user discussions and critical comments on Wikipedia as contempt of court, despite them being expressions of public opinion. Eg: A user forum questioning the logic of the High Court’s interim order was taken as contempt, even though it reflected public debate — a protected form of speech.
- Failed to Recognize the Role of Open Debate in Democracy: By ordering content removal based on adverse comments, the Court ignored the constitutional protection of open criticism, especially on matters of public interest. Eg: The take-down order was based on perceived insult to the judiciary, but the Supreme Court clarified that public discussion, even when a case is sub judice, is vital to democratic accountability.
When should courts uphold free speech in online platform cases?
- When Public Debate Involves Matters of Legal or Democratic Importance: Courts should protect speech that contributes to informed public discourse, even if the topic is sub judice, as long as it doesn’t obstruct justice. Eg: In the Wikipedia case, users debated a High Court order — the Supreme Court ruled this was legitimate discussion, not contempt.
- When the Platform Functions as a Neutral Intermediary: If an online platform merely provides infrastructure without controlling content, courts should focus on protecting users’ freedom of expression rather than penalizing the platform. Eg: Wikimedia does not write or edit articles but hosts user content — thus, courts should defend user rights unless unlawful content is proven.
Way forward:
- Strengthen Intermediary Guidelines: Clearer regulations are needed to distinguish between platforms acting as neutral hosts and those responsible for content, ensuring they are not unduly penalized for user-generated content.
- Promote Balanced Public Discourse: Courts should encourage open debate on matters of public interest, ensuring that free speech is upheld while preventing actions that could obstruct justice or harm reputations.
Mains PYQ:
[UPSC 2024] Right to privacy is intrinsic to life and personal liberty and is inherently protected under Article 21 of the Constitution. Explain. In this reference discuss the law relating to D.N.A. testing of a child in the womb to establish its paternity.
Linkage: Article 21, one of the fundamental rights the Supreme Court linked to the “right to know” in the Wikimedia case. It discusses the expanding scope of rights under Article 21, similar to how the right to know is being interpreted.
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Why in the News?
India and Pakistan agreed to cease all firing and military actions following precision strikes by India under Operation Sindoor as a Self-Defence against the Pahalgam massacre that killed 26 civilians.
About Right to Self-Defence under UN Charter:
- The United Nations Charter generally prohibits the use of force under Article 2(4).
- Article 51 provides an exception, permitting the use of force in self-defence if an armed attack occurs against a Member State.
- The International Court of Justice (ICJ) in Nicaragua v. U.S. (1986) interpreted “armed attack” as the gravest form of the use of force.
- The right of self-defence is subject to two key conditions:
-
- Necessity: The force must be essential to respond to an armed attack.
- Proportionality: The response must not exceed what is required to repel the attack.
- Under Article 51, states must immediately notify the UN Security Council (UNSC) of any action taken in self-defence.
- In India’s case, the May 7, 2025 missile strikes were described as a “measured response” to the Pahalgam massacre, implying invocation of Article 51, though not explicitly stated.
- India’s May 8 briefing to 13 of 15 UNSC members was likely in fulfilment of this reporting obligation.
‘Unwilling or Unable’ Doctrine:
- This is an emerging principle in international law, particularly after 9/11.
- It allows a state to use self-defensive force against non-state actors operating from another state’s territory if that state is:
- Unwilling or
- Unable to stop the threat.
- It was prominently invoked by the US:
- In 2011 (killing of Osama bin Laden in Pakistan).
- In 2014 (airstrikes on ISIS in Syria).
- However, it is criticised by countries like Russia, China, and Mexico for undermining state sovereignty and the UN system.
India’s Stance:
- India’s position is unclear but evolving. At a UNSC Arria Formula meeting in Feb 2021, India listed 3 conditions:
- The non-state actor has repeatedly attacked the state.
- The host state is unwilling to neutralize the threat.
- The host state actively supports or sponsors the non-state actor.
- Legal scholars note it is uncertain if these conditions are cumulative or independent.
- In response to the Pahalgam attack, India accused Pakistan of inaction and labelled it a safe haven for terrorists.
- This suggests implicit reliance on the “unwilling or unable” doctrine, though it is not codified in customary international law.
| [UPSC 2005] Consider the following statements:
1. The Charter of the United Nations Organization was adopted at Geneva, Switzerland in June, 1945;
2. India was admitted to the United Nations Organization in the year 1945;
3. The Trusteeship Council of the United Nations Organization was established to manage the affairs of territories detached from Japan and Italy after WWII.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
Options: (a) 1, 2 and 3 (b) 2 only* (c) 1 and 3 (d) 3 only |
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Why in the News?
According to the Sample Registration System (SRS) Report 2021, Kerala, Maharashtra, and Tamil Nadu have successfully achieved the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) related to Maternal Mortality Rate (MMR), Under-Five Mortality Rate (U5MR), and Neonatal Mortality Rate (NMR).
About SDGs (related to MMR, U5MR, NMR):
- Under SDG 3, the goals focus on ensuring healthy lives and promoting well-being for all.
- Target 3.1 aims to reduce MMR to below 70 per 100,000 live births by 2030, with no country exceeding 140.
- Target 3.2 sets the goal to reduce U5MR to 25 or fewer per 1,000 live births and NMR to 12 or fewer per 1,000 live births.
Key Highlights of the Report:
- States meeting MMR target (≤70):
- Kerala (20), Maharashtra (38), Tamil Nadu (49), plus Telangana, Andhra Pradesh, Jharkhand, Gujarat, and Karnataka.
- States/UTs meeting U5MR target (≤25):
- Includes Kerala (8), Tamil Nadu (14), Delhi, Maharashtra, J&K, West Bengal, Karnataka, Punjab, Telangana, Himachal Pradesh, Andhra Pradesh, and Gujarat.
- States/UTs meeting NMR target (≤12):
- Includes Kerala (4), Tamil Nadu (9), Delhi, Maharashtra, J&K, and Himachal Pradesh.
- National improvements:
- MMR dropped from 130 (2014–16) to 93 (2019–21).
- U5MR declined from 45 (2014) to 31 (2021).
- NMR dropped from 26 (2014) to 19 (2021).
- IMR declined from 39 (2014) to 27 (2021).
- Sex Ratio at Birth improved from 899 to 913 (2014–2021).
- Total Fertility Rate reached replacement level of 2.0 in 2021.
- Compared globally (1990–2023), India achieved an 86% reduction in MMR (vs 48% globally), 78% in U5MR (vs 61%), 70% in NMR (vs 54%), and 71% in IMR (vs 58%).
| [UPSC 2023] Consider the following statements in relation to Janani Suraksha Yojna:
1. It is safe motherhood intervention of the State Health Departments.
2. Its objective is to reduce maternal and neonatal mortality among poor pregnant women.
3. It aims to promote institutional delivery among poor pregnant women.
4. Its objective includes providing public health facilities to sick infants up to one year of age.
How many of the statements given above are correct?
Options: (a) Only one (b) Only two* (c) Only three (d) All four |
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Why in the News?
A new study by Columbia University, suggests that the universe may have an alternate mechanism for producing gold — not just in neutron star collisions, as previously believed, but also in magnetar flares.
What are Magnetars?
- Magnetars are a rare type of neutron star with immensely strong magnetic fields, among the most powerful in the universe.
- They are formed when a massive star collapses during a supernova, leaving a highly dense stellar core.
- Due to magnetic instability, magnetars sometimes release intense flares of X-rays and gamma rays.
- These flares can be millions of times stronger than typical solar flares.
- A magnetar’s magnetic field is estimated to be about a thousand times stronger than that of ordinary neutron stars.
|
r-Process in a Magnetar Flare:
- The r-process (rapid neutron-capture process) forms heavy elements like gold, platinum, and uranium by rapidly attaching neutrons to atomic nuclei.
- It was earlier believed to occur mainly in neutron star mergers.
- In a 2024 study, scientists analysed a 2004 magnetar flare followed by delayed gamma-ray emissions, recorded by NASA’s Compton Gamma Ray Observatory.
- The radiation patterns matched those of radioactive decay from r-process elements, suggesting neutron-rich nuclei were produced.
- Around 1.9 septillion kilograms of matter was ejected at near-light speeds, marking the first direct evidence of r-process nucleosynthesis in a magnetar flare.
Implications for Gold Formation:
- The study shows that magnetar flares may also produce gold and other heavy elements, not just neutron star collisions.
- This implies such elements could have formed earlier in the universe than previously believed.
- The findings broaden our understanding of the origins of chemical elements in space.
- It confirms that multiple astrophysical events contribute to the formation of heavy elements.
- It also offers a new perspective on cosmic gamma-ray bursts and ancient stellar compositions.
| [UPSC 2012] Consider the following is/are cited by the scientists as evidence/evidences for the continued expansion of the universe?
1. Detection of microwaves in space
2. Observation of redshift phenomenon in space
3. Movement of asteroids in space
4. Occurrence of supernova explosions in space
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?
Chinese researchers has developed a first-of-its-kind rice pangenome by integrating genetic data from 144 wild and cultivated rice varieties from Asia (similar to the Human Genome Project).
About the Rice Pangenome:
- A pangenome includes both the core genes shared by all members of a species and the unique genes found in specific varieties, offering a complete view of genetic diversity.
- The rice pangenome was built using data from 144 wild and cultivated rice varieties across Asia, making it the first comprehensive genomic resource for rice.
- Researchers led the project from the Chinese Academy of Sciences to explore rice evolution and domestication.
- Researchers used PacBio HiFi sequencing and advanced computational tools to detect variations, uncovering 3.87 billion base pairs of genetic material previously missing from the standard rice genome.
Key Findings:
- The study identified 69,531 genes, including 28,907 core genes common to all varieties and 13,728 genes unique to wild rice.
- About 20% of all genes were exclusive to wild rice, offering potential for trait improvement in cultivated varieties.
- The study confirmed that all Asian cultivated rice (Oryza sativa L.) originated from Or-IIIa, a subgroup of Oryza rufipogon.
- Japonica rice was first domesticated in China, while indica rice arose later via hybridization as japonica spread across Asia.
- Wild-specific genes were linked to environmental adaptation, phenotypic flexibility, and regenerative traits, offering insights for future crop resilience.
- Bridging the genetic gap between wild and cultivated rice could lead to climate-resilient and high-yield varieties.
India’s Contribution:
- Rice is India’s staple food and the main monsoon crop, grown from June to September.
- In 2024–25, India produced a record 220 million tonnes of rice over 51,000 hectares, with an average yield of 4.2 tonnes per hectare.
- The Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) has developed two genome-edited rice varieties — Samba Mahsuri and MTU 1010 — known for higher yields and drought resistance; these are currently under testing.
| [UPSC 2001] Assertion (A): Scientists can cut apart and paste together DNA molecules at will, regardless of the source of the molecules. Reason (R): DNA fragments can be manipulated using restriction endonucleases and DNA ligases.
Options: (a) Both A and R are individually true and R is the correct explanation of A * (b) Both A and R are individually true but R is NOT a correct explanation of A (c) A is true but R is false (d) A is fasle but R is true |
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Why in the News?
The Supreme Court notified civic officials of allegedly violating its 1996 directive in the M.C. Mehta vs Union of India case (1996) by approving a private housing project in Delhi’s ecologically sensitive Morphological Ridge area.
About Delhi Morphological Ridge:
- The Delhi Ridge is the northern extension of the ancient Aravalli Range, stretching approximately 35 km from Tughlaqabad to Wazirabad, along the Yamuna River.
- It is composed mainly of quartzite rock, is over 1.5 billion years old, and significantly older than the Himalayas.
- It functions as Delhi’s green lungs, aiding in carbon sequestration, temperature regulation, and air pollution reduction.
- It acts as a natural barrier against desert winds from Rajasthan and supports rich biodiversity, making Delhi one of the world’s most bird-rich capitals.
- It is divided into four zones: Northern Ridge, Central Ridge, South-Central Ridge, and Southern Ridge.
- Key conservation areas include the Northern Ridge Biodiversity Park and the Asola Bhatti Wildlife Sanctuary.
Land Use Regulation in the Ridge:
- Although the area shares ecological features with the Delhi Ridge, it is NOT officially notified as forest land, but it enjoys judicial protection.
- A 1966 directive prohibits any NON-forest use or encroachment without court approval.
- Any change in land use must be cleared by the Ridge Management Board (RMB) and the Supreme Court-appointed Central Empowered Committee (CEC).
- The area is mapped using data from the Delhi Forest Department and the 2006 Seismic Zonation Map.
- Formal notification as a Reserved Forest under the Indian Forest Act, 1927, is pending due to the absence of ground-truthing.
- In revenue records, it is often marked as “gair mumkin pahad”, meaning uncultivable rocky hill.
- The terrain is ecologically fragile, with shallow soil and rocky outcrops, making it unsuitable for construction.
| [UPSC 2001] The approximate age of the Aravalli range is-
Options: (a) 370 million years (b) 470 million years (c) 570 million years (d) 670 million years |
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Why in the News?
The BrahMos supersonic cruise missile has garnered global attention as it was reportedly used for the first time in a combat scenario during Operation Sindoor.
About the BrahMos Missile:
- BrahMos is a supersonic cruise missile jointly developed by India and Russia through BrahMos Aerospace.
- The name is derived from the Brahmaputra River (India) and the Moskva River (Russia).
- It is one of the world’s fastest cruise missiles, reaching speeds up to Mach 3.
- It was first successfully tested on June 12, 2001, from Chandipur, Odisha.
- It is a ‘fire and forget’ missile, requiring no further guidance after launch.
- It can be launched from land, sea, air, and submarine platforms.
- It has been inducted into the Indian Navy (2005), Army (2007), and Air Force (2017).
- Key Features:
- Classified as a stand-off weapon, it can be launched from a safe distance, avoiding enemy defences.
- The original range was 290 km, now extended to 350–400 km, with future variants targeting 800 km and hypersonic speeds (Mach 5).
- It offers high accuracy, extended seeker range, and 9 times more kinetic energy than subsonic missiles.
- It operates in all weather conditions, day or night, and strikes both land and sea targets with precision.
Anatomy of the BrahMos Missile:
- BrahMos is a two-stage missile with advanced propulsion and stealth capabilities.
- The first stage is a solid-propellant booster that accelerates the missile to supersonic speed.
- The second stage uses a liquid-fuelled ramjet engine to sustain high-speed cruise up to Mach 3.
- The ramjet is an air-breathing engine that combines liquid fuel with incoming air for efficient thrust.
- It features stealth technologies, such as low radar cross-section and special materials.
- The missile can cruise at up to 15 km altitude and descend to 10 metres in the terminal phase for pinpoint accuracy.
- It supports multiple launch platforms, including mobile launchers, naval ships, Sukhoi-30 MKI aircraft, and submarines.
Key Weapons and Systems used by India in Operation SINDOOR:
| Type |
Name |
Features & Role in Operation SINDOOR |
| Air-Launched Missile |
SCALP (Storm Shadow) |
Long-range missile launched from Rafale jets; used for deep strikes on terror camps with minimal collateral damage. |
| Precision-Guided Bomb |
HAMMER |
Modular weapon with 15–70 km range; delivered from aircraft to hit mid-range targets with high accuracy. |
| Surface-to-Air Missile |
Akash |
Indigenous system that can engage multiple aerial targets simultaneously; intercepted enemy drones and missiles. |
| Air Defence System |
SAMAR |
Rapid-response missile system for low-flying threats like UAVs and drones; bolstered India’s layered air defence. |
| Anti-Drone System |
D-4 (Detect, Deter, Destroy) |
Uses radar, jammers, and laser weapons to disable or destroy hostile drones and UCAVs. |
| Loitering Munition |
SkyStriker |
Kamikaze drone that hovers over targets before striking; used for precision attacks on enemy assets. |
| Satellite Systems |
Cartosat, RISAT, EOS Series |
Provided real-time surveillance and intelligence for target tracking and mission planning. |
| Navigation System |
NavIC |
India’s satellite-based navigation system; enabled sub-metre precision for missile and drone targeting. |
| Anti-Aircraft Gun |
Upgraded L-70 (Bofors) |
Equipped with radar and auto-tracking; used to shoot down low-flying drones in conflict zones. |
|
| [UPSC 2023] Consider the following statements:
1. Ballistic missiles are jet-propelled at subsonic speeds throughout their fights, while cruise missiles are rocket-powered only in the initial phase of flight.
2. Agni-V is a medium-range supersonic cruise missile, while BrahMos is a solid-fuelled intercontinental ballistic missile.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
Options: (a) 1 only (b) 2 only (c) Both 1 and 2 (d) Neither 1 nor 2 |
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Why in the News?
A species of wild banana, Musa indandamanensis, endemic to the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, has set a world record with an infructescence (fruit bunch axis) measuring 4.2 metres — the longest ever recorded among banana species globally.
About the Musa indandamanensis:
- Musa indandamanensis is a wild banana species that is endemic to the Andaman and Nicobar Islands.
- It was first discovered in 2012 near the Krishna Nala reserve forest in Little Andaman and officially described in 2014.
- The species was later rediscovered in Campbell Bay, located in the Nicobar Islands.
- The discovery was led by Dr. Lal Ji Singh, Head of the Botanical Survey of India’s Andaman and Nicobar Regional Centre.
- Due to its limited natural range and habitat vulnerability, it is listed as Critically Endangered by IUCN.
Notable Features:
- The species holds the world record for the longest banana infructescence, measuring 4.2 metres.
- The plant typically reaches a height of about 11 metres, with stem girth varying by location: under 100 cm in Little Andaman and around 110 cm in Campbell Bay.
- It bears golden yellow to orange fruits, which ripen into a golden-orange pulp containing many irregular-shaped seeds.
- The plant thrives in moist tropical forests, typically near waterfalls and streams.
- It is considered a valuable genetic resource for developing drought-resistant, disease-tolerant, and high-yielding banana varieties.
- Specimens are showcased in botanical institutions such as the Indian Museum in Kolkata and the Andaman and Nicobar Regional Centre.
- For ex-situ conservation, saplings have been planted in botanical gardens in Howrah, Prayagraj, and Port Blair.
| [UPSC 2016] Recently, our scientists have discovered a new and distinct species of banana plant which attains a height of about 11 metres and has orange-coloured fruit pulp. In which part of India has it been discovered?
Options: (a) Andaman Islands* (b) Anaimalai Forests (c) Maikala Hills (d) Tropical rain forests of northeast |
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PYQ Relevance:
[UPSC 2024] Explain the role of millets for ensuring health and nutritional security in India.
Linkage: Nutrition-sensitive agriculture and promoting the cultivation of climate-resilient, biofortified crops, and enhancing crop diversity. Millets are a prime example of such crops that contribute to health and nutritional security, making this question highly relevant to the article’s proposed solutions for improving dietary quality and nutritional outcomes. |
Mentor’s Comment: The global food system is under pressure due to limited resources and climate change, while still needing to make food accessible and affordable. Even though India is a top producer of milk, fruits, vegetables, grains, and livestock, it still faces serious nutrition problems. These include both undernutrition and rising obesity, along with a lack of essential vitamins and minerals. Such issues put India’s future workforce and economic strength at risk. With a low rank of 105 out of 127 countries in the Global Hunger Index 2024, India’s food insecurity needs immediate attention.
Today’s editorial discusses the problem of malnutrition in India. This topic is useful for GS Paper 2 (which covers the role of the welfare state and government schemes to fight malnutrition) and GS Paper 3 (which looks at India’s food system).
_
Let’s learn!
Why in the News?
India’s fight against nutrition problems should lead to a change where nutrition is included as a key part of farming and economic planning.
What is the situation of India in malnutrition?
- Alarming Dual Burden of Malnutrition: NFHS-5 data highlights India’s pressing nutrition crisis — with high rates of stunting (35.5%), underweight (32.1%), wasting (19.3%) among children, and rising obesity in adults (24% women, 22.9% men), reflecting a dual burden of undernutrition and overnutrition that demands urgent policy attention.
- Hidden Hunger and Women’s Health: The prevalence of anaemia in 57% of women of reproductive age signals widespread micronutrient deficiencies, indicating that calorie sufficiency alone is not enough — interventions must ensure access to diverse, nutrient-rich foods.
|
What are the key causes of malnutrition in India despite being a major food producer?
- Inequitable Access: Despite high food production, millions cannot afford or access diverse and nutritious diets. Eg: As per FAO (2022), 55.6% of Indians are unable to afford a healthy diet, highlighting widespread economic and geographic disparities.
- Hidden Hunger (Micronutrient Deficiency): Diets often lack essential vitamins and minerals, affecting physical and cognitive development. Eg: 57% of Indian women of reproductive age are anaemic, despite surplus grain availability.
- Food System Inefficiencies: Overreliance on staples, poor storage, and inadequate supply chains limit access to nutrient-rich food. Eg: Focus on rice and wheat in PDS sidelines coarse grains and pulses, leading to reduced dietary diversity.
- Double Burden of Malnutrition: India faces both undernutrition in children and growing rates of overweight/obesity in adults. Eg: 35.5% of children under 5 are stunted, while 24% of women are overweight, showing nutrition imbalance.
- Climate Vulnerability: Extreme weather events and resource stress reduce crop yield and diversity, harming food security. Eg: Erratic monsoons and heatwaves reduce the productivity of small-scale farmers, limiting supply of fresh produce.
How can nutrition-sensitive agriculture contribute to addressing India’s food security issues?
- Crop Diversification: Promotes the cultivation of a variety of nutrient-rich crops to improve dietary diversity. Eg: Encouraging farmers to grow millets, pulses, and vegetables alongside cereals enhances household nutrition and resilience.
- Biofortification: Increases the nutritional content of staple crops to combat micronutrient deficiencies. Eg: Use of iron-rich pearl millet and zinc-enhanced wheat has shown success in improving child and maternal health.
- Climate-Resilient Crops: Supports food security under changing climate conditions by using crops that can withstand droughts and floods. Eg: Drought-tolerant varieties of sorghum and finger millet help ensure food supply in arid and semi-arid regions.
- Improved Post-Harvest Management: Reduces food loss and maintains nutrient quality through better storage and transportation. Eg: Solar dryers and community storage units help preserve perishable crops like fruits and vegetables in rural areas.
- Farmer-Nutrition Linkages: Connects local farmers with schools and public schemes to supply nutritious food, boosting rural incomes and food access. Eg: The Nutri-Garden model in schools sources biofortified grains and vegetables from nearby farms, improving child nutrition.
Who should play a key role in transforming India’s food systems for better nutrition and sustainability?
- Government: Must align agricultural, health, and economic policies with nutrition and sustainability goals. Eg: The government can enhance the Public Distribution System (PDS) by including nutrient-rich millets and local vegetables.
- Private Sector: Should innovate and invest in nutrition-focused food products, fortification, and sustainable practices. Eg: Food companies using clear nutrition labels and QR codes to promote awareness and adopting plant-based alternatives.
- Community and Civil Society: Essential in driving grassroots efforts, promoting awareness, and implementing local nutrition initiatives. Eg: Nutrition-Sensitive Community Planning (NSCP) empowers villages to improve diet through local food, water, and health solutions.
Where can community-led nutrition interventions like the Nutrition-Sensitive Community Planning (NSCP) model be most effective in India?
- Rural Areas with Poor Nutrition Indicators: Effective where malnutrition, stunting, and anaemia are high among children and women. Eg: In parts of Bihar and Madhya Pradesh, NSCP can address undernutrition by linking local farming to nutritious diets.
- Tribal and Remote Regions: Helps revive indigenous food systems and addresses deep-rooted nutrition gaps. Eg: In Odisha’s tribal districts, NSCP can promote traditional millets and forest foods as part of daily meals.
- Climate-Vulnerable Zones: Strengthens resilience through climate-adaptive farming and diversified diets. Eg: In Bundelkhand (UP-MP), NSCP can integrate drought-tolerant crops and water-saving practices.
- Regions with High Migration Rates: Targets nutritional needs of women and children left behind in migrant families. Eg: In eastern Uttar Pradesh, NSCP can ensure food security through community gardens and village nutrition hubs.
- Urban Slums and Peri-Urban Settlements: Addresses the dual burden of undernutrition and rising obesity in low-income households. Eg: In Delhi’s informal settlements, NSCP can promote rooftop kitchen gardens and access to local fresh food markets.
What are the steps taken by the Indian government?
- Universal Fortified Rice & Diversified Safety Nets: India has rolled out fortified rice (iron, folic acid + B12) across every food-security scheme—PDS, PM-GKAY, ICDS, Mid-Day Meal/PM POSHAN—to cut anaemia and hidden hunger.
- Mission Poshan 2.0 (Saksham Anganwadi + Nutrition Mission): Combines ICDS, Poshan Abhiyaan and allied schemes into one platform that uses real-time growth monitoring, fortified take-home rations and community “Poshan Maah” drives to reduce stunting, wasting and anaemia. Eg: Mission Poshan 2.0 uses a three-pronged strategy—convergence, technology and social behaviour change—through 1.4 million Anganwadis.
- Millet Promotion & Climate-Resilient Farming: The government declared 2023 the International Year of Millets, rebranded them as “Nutri-Cereals,” and launched programmes to expand climate-smart, nutrient-dense crops.
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Way forward:
- Enhance Multi-Stakeholder Collaboration: Strengthen coordination between government, private sector, and civil society to scale up nutrition-sensitive initiatives and ensure equitable access to nutritious food for all segments of society.
- Promote Sustainable and Climate-Resilient Agricultural Practices: Encourage the adoption of climate-smart farming techniques and crop diversification to ensure food security in the face of climate challenges while improving nutritional outcomes.
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Why in the News?
A 42-year-old woman in Kerala tested positive for the Nipah virus on May 8, marking the third case reported from Malappuram district in the past two years.
Why is studying the genetic evolution of Nipah in humans and bats important?
- Understanding Virulence and Transmission Potential: Genetic mutations can influence how severe the disease is and whether it can spread between humans. Eg: The 2018 outbreak in Kerala showed a high fatality rate (17 out of 18 cases), partly attributed to a variant with small but significant differences from the Bangladesh strain.
- Detecting New Strains and Preventing Outbreaks: Regular monitoring of genetic changes in the virus found in bats (natural hosts) helps identify emerging strains before they jump to humans. Eg: Repeated spillovers in Kerala suggest evolving viral dynamics in bat populations.
- Informing Vaccine and Diagnostic Development: Understanding the virus’s genetic structure enables the development of effective diagnostic tools, therapies, and future vaccines. Eg: Without updated genomic data, public health responses may lag behind fast-evolving variants.
Why is it important to share the genetic sequences of the Nipah virus in public databases without delay?
- Enables Global Scientific Collaboration and Rapid Response: Sharing genetic sequences in public databases allows scientists worldwide to study the virus, track mutations, and develop diagnostic tools, treatments, or vaccines more efficiently. Eg: Rapid sharing of SARS-CoV-2 sequences in 2020 helped in the swift development of COVID-19 vaccines.
- Monitors Viral Evolution and Assesses Public Health Risk: Timely sequence sharing helps detect genetic changes that may enhance the virus’s transmissibility or virulence, allowing health authorities to prepare accordingly. Eg: Genetic analysis of the 2018 Nipah strain in Kerala showed variation from the Bangladesh strain, helping researchers understand its unique impact.
How did the 2018/2023 outbreaks differ from the recent case in symptoms and transmission?
| Aspect |
2018/2023 Outbreaks |
2024 Case |
| Clinical Presentation Type |
Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome (ARDS) |
Relatively milder, with fewer complications |
| Disease Severity |
More severe, with multisystem involvement |
Relatively milder, with fewer complications |
| Human-to-Human Transmission |
Yes, leading to outbreaks |
No human-to-human transmission observed yet |
| Viral Load and Spread Potential |
High viral load in throat swabs, indicating spread |
Lower viral load in AES patients, reducing spread |
| Outcome and Fatality |
High fatality rate (17 deaths from 18 cases in 2018) |
No deaths reported, with early detection and isolation |
What are the steps taken by the Indian Government?
- Rapid Response and Surveillance Systems: The government deploys central teams including epidemiologists and virologists for outbreak investigation and containment. Eg: In the 2023 Kerala outbreak, a Central team was sent immediately to assist the State with contact tracing and containment measures.
- Strengthening Laboratory Diagnostics and Research: The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) and National Institute of Virology (NIV), Pune, have developed diagnostic kits and conduct genomic sequencing of the virus. Eg: NIV Pune confirmed the Nipah virus infection in the May 2024 case and also conducted genome analysis during previous outbreaks.
- Public Health Awareness and Isolation Protocols: Health departments issue guidelines on infection control, isolation of suspected cases, and public advisories to avoid contact with bats and consume only washed fruits. Eg: During the 2018 and 2023 outbreaks, Kerala implemented isolation wards, restricted public gatherings, and sensitised healthcare workers and the public.
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Way forward:
- Establish Permanent Nipah Surveillance Units in High-Risk Areas: Set up dedicated monitoring and response units in regions like Kerala for continuous bat sampling, genomic sequencing, and early detection.
- Promote Transparent Data Sharing and Regional Collaboration: Ensure timely release of viral genomic data in public databases and collaborate with neighbouring countries for joint research and response planning.
Mains PYQ:
[UPSC 2024] In a crucial domain like the public healthcare system, the Indian State should play a vital role to contain the adverse impact of marketisation of the system. Suggest some measures through which the State can enhance the reach of public healthcare at the grassroots level.
Linkage: The importance of timely detection and isolation of Nipah cases and mentions different clinical presentations (AES and ARDS), implying the need for diagnostic and clinical management capacity. A robust public healthcare system, particularly at the grassroots level, is essential for effective surveillance, early detection, diagnosis, isolation, and management of infectious disease outbreaks like Nipah, making this question highly relevant.
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Why in the News?
Millions of informal workers in Indian cities are still suffering the most because Heat Action Plans are poorly designed.
What are the key gaps in current Heat Action Plans for informal workers?
- Lack of Specific Focus on Informal Workers: Most Heat Action Plans do not explicitly identify or address the unique needs of informal workers. Eg: NDMA’s 2019 heatwave guidelines mention “outdoor workers” broadly, without specific measures for vendors, construction workers, or waste pickers.
- Absence of Occupational Safety Protocols: There are no provisions for safe working hours, rest breaks, hydration, or emergency response for heat stress. Eg: State-level HAPs often do not mandate rest periods or shaded areas for those working under the sun, unlike Odisha which mandates halts in outdoor work during peak heat hours.
- Short-term and Crisis-oriented Planning: Most HAPs are activated only during summer months and lack long-term strategies to tackle recurring heatwaves. Eg: City-level HAPs like those in Delhi focus on public awareness during heat alerts but don’t invest in permanent cooling infrastructure.
- Inadequate Coordination Between Departments: Ministries and departments (Labour, Urban Affairs, Health) work in silos, leading to disjointed efforts. Eg: Urban development plans rarely consult labour departments, leaving out worker welfare components like cooling shelters at work sites.
- No Budgetary Provision or Worker Participation: Most HAPs are underfunded and formulated without involving worker collectives or unions. Eg: Unlike Ahmedabad’s more inclusive model that adjusted work hours and created shaded rest areas, many cities fail to allocate funds or consult informal worker groups.
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Why are informal workers most vulnerable to heatwaves?
- Prolonged Exposure to Outdoor Heat: Informal workers often work in open, unshaded environments without protective infrastructure. Eg: Street vendors and construction workers spend long hours on roads or open sites under direct sunlight, increasing the risk of heatstroke and dehydration.
- Lack of Social and Health Protection: Most informal workers are not covered under formal health insurance or welfare schemes. Eg: Waste pickers or rickshaw pullers facing heat exhaustion rarely get access to medical care or income support during extreme weather conditions.
- No Control Over Work Conditions: Informal work lacks regulated hours, rest breaks, or heat safety norms. Eg: Gig workers or daily wage labourers often continue working during peak heat hours to avoid income loss, further risking their health.
Who should be included in drafting worker-focused HAPs?
- Informal Worker Collectives and Unions: These groups bring first-hand knowledge of occupational challenges and practical needs. Eg: Street vendor associations can guide the placement of shaded stalls or cooling zones in high-traffic market areas.
- Local Civil Society and NGOs: They have ground-level experience working with vulnerable communities and can ensure inclusive planning. Eg: NGOs working with waste pickers can help identify priority locations for hydration points and rest shelters.
- Urban Local Bodies and Municipal Officials: City planners and officials must coordinate resources and integrate worker needs into official frameworks. Eg: Municipal corporations can designate public spaces like bus depots or community halls as cooling centers for workers.
Where should cooling zones be set up for maximum worker benefit?
- High-Density Work Areas: Install cooling zones where informal workers are concentrated and exposed to heat. Eg: Labour chowks, construction sites, and industrial zones where daily wage workers gather and work outdoors.
- Public Transport Hubs and Markets: Busy areas with long waiting times or heavy footfall offer strategic relief points. Eg: Bus stations, metro exits, and wholesale markets where street vendors and rickshaw pullers operate.
- Slum Clusters and Informal Settlements: Set up community cooling centres where workers live in poorly ventilated, heat-trapping environments. Eg: Urban slums lacking trees or open spaces, where indoor heat stress is high during nights and afternoons.
How can cities integrate heat resilience into governance and planning? (Way forward)
- Embed Heat-Safety Norms in Urban Planning Frameworks: Include heat adaptation measures in master plans, building bye-laws, and zoning regulations. Eg: Mandating cool roofs, passive ventilation, and shaded pathways in all new public infrastructure projects.
- Retrofit Informal Workspaces for Thermal Comfort: Upgrade existing markets, labour hubs, and waste collection zones with heat-resilient designs. Eg: Installing reflective roofing, shade nets, and drinking water stations in street vendor zones.
- Establish Interdepartmental Coordination and Accountability: Create dedicated roles (like a heat officer) and inter-ministerial task forces for climate and labour. Eg: A city-level heat officer coordinating between health, labour, and urban departments to ensure timely responses during heatwaves.
Mains PYQ:
[UPSC 2013] Bring out the causes for the formation of heat islands in the urban habitat of the world.
Linkage: It is time to protect India’s workers from the heat” discusses the growing crisis of extreme heat in Indian cities and its severe impact on urban informal workers.
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Why in the News?
The 3 Jansuraksha Schemes— Pradhan Mantri Jeevan Jyoti Bima Yojana (PMJJBY), Pradhan Mantri Suraksha Bima Yojana (PMSBY) and Atal Pension Yojana (APY) launched by PM Modi on May 9, 2015, have completed 10 years of providing social security coverage to citizens.
About the Jansuraksha Schemes:
|
Pradhan Mantri Jeevan Jyoti Bima Yojana (PMJJBY) |
Pradhan Mantri Suraksha Bima Yojana (PMSBY) |
Atal Pension Yojana (APY) |
| Type |
Accidental Insurance |
Life Insurance |
Pension Scheme |
| Eligibility Age |
18 to 70 years |
18 to 50 years |
18 to 40 years (non-taxpayers) |
| Premium |
₹20 per annum |
₹436 per annum |
Varies by age and pension amount |
| Coverage/Benefit |
₹2 lakh (death/total disability), ₹1 lakh (partial) |
₹2 lakh (death due to any cause) |
₹1,000–₹5,000 monthly pension after age 60 |
| Policy Term |
1 year (June 1 – May 31), renewable |
1 year (June 1 – May 31), renewable |
Contribution till age 60; pension begins post-60 |
Premiums Payment
|
Auto-Debit: Yes (from bank/post office account) |
Auto-Debit: Yes (from bank/post office account) |
Auto-Debit: Yes (monthly/quarterly/half-yearly options) |
| Administered By |
Public Sector General Insurance Companies (PSGICs) and other insurers in partnership with participating banks or post offices |
Life Insurance Corporation of India (LIC) and other participating life insurers, through tie-ups with banks or post offices |
Pension Fund Regulatory and Development Authority (PFRDA), implemented through banks and post offices |
| Achievements (as of 2025) |
51.06 crore enrolments; ₹3,121.02 crore paid for 1,57,155 claims; 23.87 crore female and 17.12 crore PMJDY enrolments |
23.63 crore enrolments; ₹18,397.92 crore paid for 9,19,896 claims; 10.66 crore female and 7.08 crore PMJDY enrolments |
7.66 crore enrolments; ~47% are women subscribers |
| [UPSC 2016] Regarding ‘Atal Pension Yojana’, which of the following statements is/are correct?
1. It is a minimum guaranteed pension scheme mainly targeted at unorganized sector workers.
2. Only one member of a family can join the scheme.
3. Same amount of pension is guaranteed for the spouse for life after subscriber’s death.
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?
The Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT), under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, has announced the expansion of the Credit Guarantee Scheme for Startups (CGSS).
About Credit Guarantee Scheme for Startups (CGSS):
- The CGSS was launched on October 6, 2022, as part of the Startup India Action Plan.
- The scheme is designed to provide collateral-free credit to eligible startups through recognized financial institutions.
- It offers credit guarantee cover for loans extended by Scheduled Commercial Banks, All India Financial Institutions (AIFIs), Non-Banking Financial Companies (NBFCs), and SEBI-registered Alternative Investment Funds (AIFs).
- The guaranteed coverage is available in 2 formats:
-
- Transaction-based (for individual borrowers) and
- Umbrella-based (for Venture Debt Funds).
- The scheme helps startups access funding through instruments such as working capital, term loans, and venture debt.
- The DPIIT is responsible for the oversight and implementation of the scheme.
- The scheme is operated by the National Credit Guarantee Trustee Company Limited (NCGTC).
- A Management Committee (MC) and a Risk Evaluation Committee (REC) have been constituted to supervise and review the operations of the scheme.
- It aligns with the objective of encouraging innovation, supporting early-stage entrepreneurship, and driving economic self-reliance.
Key Changes in the Expanded CGSS:
- Guarantee ceiling increased from ₹10 crore to ₹20 crore per borrower.
- Guarantee cover enhanced to:
- 85% for loans up to ₹10 crore.
- 75% for loans exceeding ₹10 crore.
- Annual Guarantee Fee (AGF) reduced from 2% to 1% p.a. for startups in 27 Champion Sectors.
- The Champion Sectors are identified under the ‘Make in India’ initiative to strengthen domestic manufacturing and services.
| [UPSC 2023] Consider the following statements with reference to India:
1. According to the ‘Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises Development (MSMED) Act, 2006’, the ‘medium enterprises’ are those with investments in plant and machinery between Rs. 15 crore and Rs. 25 crore.
2. All bank loans to the Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises qualify under the priority sector.
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?
India participated in the 20th session of the United Nations Forum on Forests (UNFF20) held at the UN Headquarters, New York, reaffirming its commitment to the United Nations Strategic Plan for Forests (UNSPF) 2017–2030.
About United Nations Forum on Forests (UNFF):
- UNFF was established in 2000 by the UN Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC).
- It aims to promote sustainable forest management and global forest policy coordination.
- It holds annual sessions at UN Headquarters:
- Technical discussions in odd years
- Policy-level dialogues in even years
- It has universal membership — includes all UN Member States and relevant forest-related agencies.
- India is a founding member and plays an active role in shaping forest policies.
- The UN Strategic Plan for Forests (UNSPF) is the guiding framework for achieving global forest goals by 2030.
- The 19th UNFF Declaration secured high-level political commitment for forest conservation.
Key Highlights of UNFF20:
- India reaffirmed its commitment to Voluntary National Contributions (VNCs) under the UNSPF (2017–2030).
- It reported an increase in forest and tree cover to 25.17% of its geographical area.
- National efforts included the Aravalli Green Wall, a 7.86% rise in mangrove cover, 1.55 lakh hectares afforested under the Green India Mission, and 1.4 billion seedlings planted under the Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam campaign.
- India invited countries to join the International Big Cat Alliance (IBCA) for big cat conservation.
- It urged support for outcomes of the Country-Led Initiative (CLI) on forest fire management held in Dehradun (2023).
- In a high-level panel, India presented findings on carbon sequestration, water services, biodiversity, and tools like System of Environmental Economic Accounting (SEEA) and Millennium Ecosystem Assessment (MEA).
- It stressed the need to mainstream ecosystem valuation in forest policy.
| [UPSC 2021] With reference to the ‘New York Declaration on Forests’, which of the following statements are correct?
1. It was first endorsed at the United Nations Climate Summit in 2014.
2. It endorses a global timeline to end the loss of forests.
3. It is a legally binding international declaration.
4. It is endorsed by governments, big companies, and indigenous communities.
5. India was one of the signatories at its inception.
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
Options: (a) 1, 2, and 4* (b) 1, 3, and 5 (c) 3 and 4 (d) 2 and 5 |
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Why in the News?
The Competition Commission of India (CCI) has introduced new Cost Regulations 2025 to check if companies are selling below cost to unfairly drive out competitors.
About Competition Commission of India (CCI):
- The CCI was established on 14 October 2003 and became fully operational in May 2009.
- It aims to eliminate anti-competitive practices, prevent abuse of dominant positions, and promote fair competition.
- It was formed under the Competition Act, 2002, later amended in 2007, replacing the Monopolies and Restrictive Trade Practices Act, 1969 based on Raghavan Committee recommendations.
- The headquarters is located in Kidwai Nagar (East), New Delhi, and the Commission includes 1 Chairperson and up to 6 Members, all appointed by the Central Government.
- Members must have at least 15 years of experience in areas such as law, economics, business, finance, or public administration.
- Jurisdiction of CCI:
- It is a quasi-judicial statutory body under the Ministry of Corporate Affairs.
- It has the authority to initiate cases suo motu or respond to public/institutional complaints, and can impose penalties for violations.
- Its jurisdiction spans all sectors across India, and it is empowered to frame its own regulations under the Act.
New Cost Definitions under Cost Regulations, 2025:
- Under the Cost Regulations 2025, Average Variable Cost (AVC) is used to measure cost, calculated by dividing total variable costs by total output.
- Variable cost excludes fixed costs and overheads and varies with production.
- Although a sector-specific approach was considered, the CCI adopted a case-by-case evaluation after stakeholder feedback.
- The new framework is sector-agnostic, allowing flexibility for diverse industries, including the digital economy, and supports better adaptation to market dynamics.
| [UPSC 2020] With reference to Trade-Related Investment Measures (TRIMS), which of the following statements is/are correct?
1. Quantitative restrictions on imports by foreign investors are prohibited. 2. They apply to investment measures related to trade in both goods and services. 3. They are not concerned with the regulation of foreign investment.
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
Options: (a) 1 and 2 only (b) 2 only (c) 1 and 3 only* (d) 1, 2 and 3 |
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PYQ Relevance:
[UPSC 2021] “There arose a serious challenge to the Democratic State System between the two World Wars.” Evaluate the statement.
Linkage: The period “between the two World Wars”, providing a broader historical context related to World War II which is the focus of Article. It prompts discussion on the challenges to democratic systems during this era. |
Mentor’s Comment: Eighty years ago, on May 8, 1945, the Second World War officially ended in Europe when Nazi Germany surrendered to the Allied forces in Reims and Berlin. This day is celebrated as Victory in Europe (VE) Day, but in India, it often goes unnoticed, as the years of the war (1939-1945) are mainly remembered as the final phase of the struggle for independence. It is important to remember that Indians never ignored their duties to the world, whether in war or peace, as shown by the lives of two lesser-known Indians.
Today’s editorial examines the contributions of lesser-known Indian heroes like Kolachala Sitaramaiah and Idris Hasan Latif during World War II. This content will be useful for GS Paper I (World History) and GS Paper II (International Relations).
_
Let’s learn!
Why in the News?
On May 9th, Victory in Europe Day is also a time to honor the brilliance of scientists like Kolachala Sitaramaiah and the courage of soldiers like Idris Hasan Latif during World War II.
Who was Kolachala Sitaramaiah?
- Kolachala Sitaramaiah (July 15, 1899 – September 29, 1977) was a renowned chemist and is often referred to as the “Father of Chemotology,” the field dedicated to the study of lubricants and combustible materials in technology.
- Born in Uyyuru, Andhra Pradesh, he pursued advanced studies abroad, where he made substantial contributions to the understanding of lubricants, particularly their role in machinery and the development of motor oils.
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What contributions did he make during the Second World War?
- Fuel Innovation for Soviet Tanks: He developed kerosene-based fuels and specialized lubricants that significantly enhanced the performance and maneuverability of Soviet tanks in sub-zero battlefield conditions. Eg: These innovations were critical during the Battle of Kursk (1943), where Soviet T-34 tanks outperformed Nazi Panzer and Tiger tanks.
- Scientific Expertise Redirected to War Effort: Although he volunteered for frontline combat, Soviet authorities recognized his intellectual value and redirected him to research, stating his brain was a weapon, not a target. Eg: His work helped overcome early mechanical failures in Soviet tanks, crucial to halting the Nazi ground offensive.
- Foundation for Future Scientific Fields: His wartime research laid the groundwork for chemmotology (tribochemistry) — the study of chemical changes from mechanical energy — and later contributed to plasma research important for nuclear fusion. Eg: His observations of incendiary weapons inspired deeper scientific inquiry into the fourth state of matter — plasma.
What were the challenges faced by Indian pilots like Idris Latif during their missions in the Second World War?
- Inferior Aircraft and Equipment: Indian pilots were initially assigned outdated biplanes, putting them at a disadvantage in combat situations. Eg: Idris Latif flew patrols along the North West Frontier in old aircraft while British pilots used advanced models.
- Dangerous Combat Environments: They flew missions in extremely hostile conditions, including thick jungles, poor visibility, and constant threat of enemy fire. Eg: In Burma, Idris flew the Hawker Hurricane against Japanese Zero fighters, often from muddy, short landing strips.
- Health Hazards and Illness: Pilots endured unhygienic, disease-prone environments, which led to severe illnesses. Eg: Idris Latif fell gravely ill in the humid, mosquito-infested jungles of Burma but refused to abandon his squadron.
- Lack of Recognition and Discrimination: Despite their service, Indian pilots often faced racial bias and were under-acknowledged by the colonial British authorities. Eg: Idris and others had to prove themselves repeatedly before being entrusted with frontline roles in Europe.
- Emotional and Moral Dilemmas: Indian soldiers and pilots had to reconcile serving a colonial power while also yearning for India’s independence. Eg: Despite these conflicts, Idris remained committed to fighting fascism and later chose to stay in independent India post-Partition.
When did Idris Hasan Latif become the Chief of the Indian Air Force?
- Appointment as Air Chief Marshal: Idris Hasan Latif became the 10th Chief of the Indian Air Force in 1978, marking a significant moment in IAF history. He was the first Muslim to hold the top position in the Indian Air Force.
- Recognized for Wartime Service and Leadership: His distinguished service during the Second World War and later roles earned him this high command. His performance in combat and leadership roles post-independence showcased his capabilities.
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How did he contribute to strengthening India-France defence relations?
- Role as India’s Ambassador to France (1985–1988): After retiring as Air Chief Marshal, he was appointed Ambassador to France, a key position for defence diplomacy. Eg: His presence in Paris helped facilitate high-level strategic discussions on defence cooperation.
- Leveraging Wartime Bonds: His personal connection to World War II and Normandy fostered shared respect and trust with French counterparts. Eg: He visited Normandy during his tenure, recalling his war contributions, which resonated deeply with French officials.
- Military-to-Military Cooperation: He actively promoted exchanges between Indian and French armed forces and encouraged joint training initiatives.
- Laying Groundwork for Future Defence Deals: His tenure helped build the foundation of trust that later enabled critical defence procurements. Eg: The Rafale fighter jet deal, though signed much later, benefited from the diplomatic groundwork laid during his ambassadorship.
- Promoting Indigenous Capability through Collaboration: He supported technology transfers and joint development possibilities with France. Eg: His diplomatic efforts aligned with India’s interest in acquiring not just equipment but also technical know-how.
What is the evolution of the Indian Air Force (IAF)?
- Formation and Early Years (1932–1947): The IAF was established in 1932 as an auxiliary force under British rule, participating in World War II with limited autonomy. Eg: Indian pilots flew biplanes in the Burma campaign during WWII.
- Post-Independence Expansion (1947–1960s): After 1947, the IAF was reorganized as an independent force, expanding its fleet and training infrastructure. Eg: IAF played a crucial role in the 1947–48 Kashmir conflict using Dakotas to airlift troops.
- Modernisation after Wars (1970s–1990s): Following wars with Pakistan and China, India focused on acquiring advanced aircraft and building indigenous capability. Eg: Introduction of MiG-21s, Miraj 2000 and establishment of HAL’s fighter production line.
- Technology Integration and Strategic Reach (2000s): The IAF integrated AWACS, aerial refuellers, precision-guided munitions, and enhanced air defence systems. Eg: Induction of Sukhoi Su-30 MKI significantly improved long-range strike capability.
- Next-Gen Air Power and Global Partnerships (2010s–Present): IAF has adopted network-centric warfare, multirole fighters, and AI-based systems, while deepening global defence ties. Eg: Procurement of Rafale jets from France and participation in multilateral exercises like Red Flag and Garuda.
What is the role of France in the Indian Air Force?
- Strategic Defence Partner Since Early Years: France has been a consistent defence partner for India, supplying key aircraft and technology since the 1950s. Eg: France provided Ouragan (Toofani) jets in the 1950s, among IAF’s first jet fighters.
- Supplier of Multirole Combat Aircraft: French aircraft have strengthened IAF’s strike capabilities through advanced multirole platforms. Eg: The Dassault Mirage 2000, inducted in 1985, played a decisive role in the Kargil War (1999).
- Rafale Fighter Jet Deal: The acquisition of 36 Rafale jets enhanced India’s air dominance with advanced avionics, weaponry, and capabilities. Eg: Rafale jets were inducted starting in 2020 under a government-to-government deal with France.
- Technology Transfer and Maintenance Support: France has supported India through tech transfer, joint production, and robust maintenance infrastructure. Eg: Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) maintained and upgraded Mirage 2000s with French collaboration.
- Joint Exercises and Defence Diplomacy: India and France regularly conduct joint air exercises that enhance IAF’s tactical exposure and interoperability. Eg: The Garuda series of exercises improve coordination between French and Indian air forces.
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Way forward:
- Deepen Strategic Collaboration in Emerging Technologies: India and France should jointly invest in cutting-edge aerospace technologies such as AI-based combat systems, stealth UAVs, and hypersonic platforms to future-proof IAF capabilities.
- Expand Joint Training and Indo-French Defence Industrial Base: Encourage co-development and co-production of next-generation aircraft and defence systems under Make in India, while scaling up joint military exercises like Garuda for enhanced operational synergy.
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Why in the News?
India and the United Kingdom have signed a landmark Free Trade Agreement (FTA), under which 99% of Indian exports to the U.K. will have no import duties, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and U.K. Prime Minister Keir Starmer announced on Tuesday.
What are the key benefits for India under the Free Trade Agreement (FTA) with the United Kingdom?
- Zero-Duty Access for 99% of Indian Exports: This significantly enhances India’s export competitiveness in the U.K. market. Eg: Indian gems and jewellery, apparel, and engineering goods will enter the U.K. without customs duties, making them more attractive to British buyers.
- Social Security Relief for Indian Workers in the U.K: Indian professionals and their employers will be exempt from social security contributions for up to 3 years. Eg: Indian IT professionals on temporary assignments in the U.K. will take home higher net salaries, encouraging Indian firms to send more workers abroad.
- Boost to Services Trade and Investment Flows: The FTA facilitates easier movement of professionals and investors, promoting service sector growth and foreign direct investment (FDI). Eg: Indian consultancy firms or startups may find it easier to operate or invest in the U.K., supporting India’s goal of becoming a services export hub.
Who are the major Indian stakeholders expressing optimism about the FTA with the U.K., and why?
- Engineering Goods Sector: Expects a significant boost in exports due to reduced or zero tariffs. Eg: The Engineering Export Promotion Council (EEPC) projects engineering exports to the U.K. to nearly double to $7.55 billion by 2029-30.
- Apparel and Textile Industry: Gains price competitiveness in the U.K. market through zero-duty access. Eg: Indian garments become more competitive against Bangladeshi or Vietnamese exports, enhancing market share in Europe.
- Gems and Jewellery Sector: Welcomes duty-free access for high-value products, boosting profitability. Eg: Indian jewellers can export gold and diamond jewellery to the U.K. with lower cost structures.
- Information Technology (IT) and Professional Services: Benefits from easier mobility and recognition of qualifications for professionals. Eg: Indian IT firms can deploy professionals to the U.K. more efficiently, with less visa friction.
- Indian Employers of Workers in the U.K: Gain from exemption from social security contributions for Indian workers temporarily in the U.K. Eg: Firms hiring Indian talent in the U.K. will save on mandatory contributions for 3 years, reducing costs and encouraging cross-border placements.
Why are Indian farmer organisations opposing the India-U.K. FTA?
- Threat from Imported Agricultural Products: Reduced tariffs on U.K. agri-exports like lamb, salmon, and dairy products may hurt Indian farmers. Eg: Cheaper U.K. lamb and salmon could enter the Indian market, undercutting local producers who already operate on thin margins.
- Concerns Over Low-Income, Low-Margin Conditions: Indian farmers fear intensified competition could worsen their already precarious economic situation. Eg: Many Indian farmers rely on traditional and small-scale farming, which cannot compete with heavily subsidised U.K. agriculture.
- Lack of Protective Mechanisms: The FTA lacks clear safeguards to protect Indian farmers from market shocks due to sudden import surges. Eg: No countervailing duties or quotas have been announced to cushion farmers from a flood of imported agri-goods.
How could the India-U.K. FTA influence future trade agreements with the European Union and the United States?
- Establishing a Negotiation Template: The India-U.K. FTA may serve as a reference framework for structuring future trade deals. Eg: If India agrees to liberalise tariffs on 85% of imports from the U.K., similar expectations may arise in talks with the EU and U.S..
- Precedent for Sensitive Sector Concessions: Concessions on agricultural and alcohol imports set a precedent for market access in sensitive sectors. Eg: The cut in whiskey and gin tariffs for the U.K. may lead to similar demands from U.S. bourbon producers or EU wine exporters.
- Pressure on Domestic Manufacturing and Policy: As India lowers duties and opens its markets, pressure may grow on its industrial and trade policy in upcoming FTAs. Eg: With less than 2% share in global exports, India’s manufacturing sector could be exposed if future FTAs follow the U.K. model without strong support policies.
Way forward:
- Safeguard Vulnerable Sectors: Introduce protective clauses such as trigger safeguards, quotas, or phased liberalisation to shield Indian farmers and MSMEs from import surges. Eg: Gradual tariff cuts with review mechanisms for sensitive agri-products.
- Strengthen Domestic Competitiveness: Enhance manufacturing capacity, R&D incentives, and export infrastructure to fully capitalise on new market access. Eg: Support engineering and textile sectors with technology upgradation and logistics hubs.
Mains PYQ:
[UPSC 2024] The West is fostering India as an alternative to reduce dependence on China’s supply chain and as a strategic ally to counter China’s political and economic dominance.’ Explain this statement with examples.
Linkage: The India-UK FTA, and its potential use as a template for agreements with the EU and the US mentioned in article, can be viewed within the broader context of strengthening India’s economic and strategic ties with Western countries. This PYQ explores the reasons behind such partnerships, which provides a geopolitical backdrop to India’s trade negotiations with the UK and other Western nations.
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Why in the News?
Tensions between the two countries increased as Pakistan launched missiles and drones early Thursday to target 15 Indian military sites. In response, India hit air defence radars in Pakistan, neutralizing one in Lahore.
What are the three main operations that constitute an effective air defence system?
- Detection: The first step involves identifying incoming threats like aircraft, drones, or missiles using radars or satellites. Eg: India’s Rohini Radar can detect multiple aerial targets and is part of the Akash Air Defence System.
- Tracking: Once a threat is detected, it must be tracked continuously using radar, infrared, or laser-based sensors to determine its speed, altitude, and trajectory. Eg: The S-400 Triumf uses advanced tracking radars to simultaneously monitor and engage multiple targets.
- Interception: After detection and tracking, the threat is neutralized using fighter aircraft, surface-to-air missiles, or anti-aircraft artillery. Eg: India’s Akash missile system intercepts enemy aircraft or missiles at medium ranges.
Why is the suppression of enemy air defence systems (SEAD) crucial for establishing air superiority?
- Enables Safe Aerial Operations: Neutralising enemy air defences allows friendly aircraft to operate freely without the constant threat of being shot down. Eg: During the 1991 Gulf War, the U.S. first targeted Iraqi SAM sites to ensure air superiority.
- Supports Ground Forces: Air superiority ensures effective air cover for ground troops, enabling safer movement, airstrikes, and supply drops. Eg: NATO SEAD missions in Kosovo helped protect allied ground forces from Serbian air defences.
- Disrupts Enemy Command and Control: Destroying radar and communication nodes weakens the enemy’s ability to coordinate defences. Eg: Israeli SEAD missions against Syrian defences in 1982 crippled Syria’s radar and SAM systems early in the conflict.
Which types of weapons are commonly used by nations to intercept and neutralise aerial threats?
- Fighter Aircraft (Interceptors): Fast and agile aircraft used to engage enemy fighters and bombers in air-to-air combat. Eg: India’s Dassault Rafale jets can intercept and neutralise enemy aircraft using beyond-visual-range missiles.
- Surface-to-Air Missiles (SAMs): Ground- or ship-based missiles that target aircraft, helicopters, or incoming missiles. Eg: The S-400 system can engage threats up to 400 km away with high precision.
- Anti-Aircraft Artillery (AAA): High-rate-of-fire guns used as a last line of defence, particularly against low-flying targets.Eg: The L70 Bofors gun is used by India for low-altitude air defence.
How do electronic warfare (EW) systems contribute to air defence without directly engaging enemy aircraft or missiles?
- Radar Jamming: EW systems emit signals that interfere with enemy radar, making it difficult to detect or lock on to targets. Eg: The U.S. Navy’s EA-18G Growler jams enemy radar to protect allied aircraft.
- Deception (Decoys): They send false signals to mislead enemy sensors, creating phantom targets or hiding real ones. Eg: DRDO’s “Samudrika” decoy system confuses enemy missile guidance.
- Communication Disruption: EW tools disrupt enemy communication networks, limiting their coordination and response. Eg: Tactical jammers can cut off enemy ground-to-air communications during attacks.
- Disabling Precision Weapons: EW can block or misguide the guidance systems of smart bombs and missiles. Eg: GPS jammers can prevent guided missiles from striking their intended targets.
- Protection of Own Assets: EW defends friendly aircraft and installations by masking their electromagnetic signature. Eg: Su-30MKI fighters are equipped with EW suites to evade missile lock-ons.
Where can surface-to-air missiles (SAMs) be launched from?
- Land-Based Platforms: SAMs are commonly deployed on fixed launchers or mobile vehicles for ground defence. Eg: India’s Akash missile system is mounted on trucks for mobility and rapid deployment.
- Naval Warships: SAMs are launched from warships to protect against aerial and missile threats at sea. Eg: The Barak-8 missile is deployed on Indian Navy destroyers like INS Kolkata.
- Sub-surface or Strategic Facilities: Some strategic SAM systems are integrated into hardened, underground bunkers or launch silos for protection. Eg: S-400 systems are often placed in secure, semi-permanent launch sites for long-range interception.
What are the different classes of SAMs used by India?
- Long-Range SAMs: These systems are designed to engage high-altitude and long-range targets, including ballistic missiles and aircraft. Eg: The S-400 Triumf system, which has a range of up to 400 km, is a long-range SAM used by India to intercept aircraft and missiles.
- Medium-Range SAMs: These systems are mobile and effective in engaging threats at intermediate ranges, typically between 50-100 km. Eg: The Akash missile system, developed by DRDO, is a medium-range SAM designed to protect tactical areas.
- Short-Range SAMs (MANPADS): These are portable, man-carried systems used to defend against low-flying targets such as helicopters or drones. Eg: The Igla MANPAD, which is used by Indian forces for short-range air defence, can target low-flying aircraft and drones.
Conclusion: India’s air defence system integrates advanced radar, tracking, and interception capabilities through various SAMs, including long, medium, and short-range systems, ensuring comprehensive protection against aerial threats across diverse platforms.
Mains PYQ:
[UPSC 2021] How is S-400 air defence missile system different from any other system presently available in the world?
Linkage: Air defence systems are vital in modern warfare for controlling the skies and protecting against enemy air strikes, including missiles. Understanding how air defence systems generally work (detection, tracking, interception methods) is essential context for discussing the features and differences of a specific system like the S-400 missile system mentioned in the question.
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Why in the News?
Donald Trump plans to announce that the US will officially refer to the Persian Gulf as the “Arabian Gulf” or “Gulf of Arabia”, aligning with the preferences of Arab nations.
About Persian Gulf
- The Persian Gulf is a marginal sea of the Indian Ocean, located in Western Asia.
- It is connected to the Arabian Sea through the Strait of Hormuz, a critical maritime chokepoint for global oil shipments.
- The gulf spans an area of approximately 251,000 km².
- Its average depth is around 50 meters, with a maximum depth of about 90 meters.
- The total coastline is roughly 5,117 km, with Iran possessing the longest share (~1,536 km).
- The gulf is bordered by:
- North: Iran
- Southwest: Saudi Arabia, Qatar, UAE
- Northwest: Iraq, Kuwait, Bahrain
- Key islands:
- Qeshm Island (Iran) — the largest island in the Persian Gulf (~1,491 km²), nearly 2.5 times the size of Bahrain.
- Bahrain — a sovereign archipelago state with over 50 islands, and home to a major US naval base.
- It is recognized officially by the International Hydrographic Organisation (IHO) as the “Persian Gulf”.
| [UPSC 2024] Consider the following statements:
Statement-I: Sumed pipeline is a strategic route for Persian Gulf oil and natural gas shipments to Europe.
Statement-II: Sumed pipeline connects the Red Sea with the Mediterranean Sea.
Which one of the following is correct in respect of the above statements?
Options: (a) Both Statement-I and Statement-II are correct and Statement-II explains Statement-I* (b) Both Statement-I and Statement-II are correct, but Statement-II does not explain Statement-I (c) Statement-I is correct, but Statement-II is incorrect (d) Statement-I is incorrect, but Statement-II is correct |
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