Archives: News

Foreign Policy Watch: India-United States

[13th June 2025] The Hindu Op-ed: Trump’s tariffs and a U.S.-India trade agreement

op-ed snap | International Relations | Mains Paper 2: Bilateral, Regional and Global Groupings and agreements involving India

PYQ Relevance:

[UPSC 2019] What introduces friction into the ties between India and the United States is that Washington is still unable to find for India a position in its global strategy, which would satisfy India’s National self-esteem and ambitions” Explain with suitable examples.

Linkage: The article points out several trade and economic tensions between the U.S. and India. These include disagreements over the actual size of the U.S. trade deficit with India, the increase of tariffs on steel and aluminium imports from 25% and 10% to 50%, which also affects India, and warnings of possible tariffs on Apple products if they are made in India.

Mentor’s Comment: In a major decision, five small U.S. businesses won a legal case against former President Donald Trump’s wide-ranging tariffs in the U.S. Court of International Trade. On May 28, 2025, the court ruled that the tariffs—ranging from 10% to 135% and affecting over 100 countries—were unconstitutional and illegal. This ruling matters globally, especially for countries like India, now facing increased 50% tariffs on steel and aluminium.

Today’s editorial focuses on the US Courts’ decision on tariffs, a key issue relevant to GS Paper II (International Relations) in the UPSC syllabus.

Let’s learn!

Why in the News?

Recently, on May 28, 2025, a U.S. court ruled that the tariffs, ranging from 10% to 135% and applied to over 100 countries, were against the Constitution and not legal.

What was the legal challenge to Trump’s tariffs?

Unlawful Executive Overreach: Five small U.S. businesses challenged Trump’s tariffs at the U.S. Court of International Trade (CIT), arguing that the President exceeded legal authority by imposing tariffs without Congressional approval. Eg: Firms dealing in wines, bicycles, and fishing equipment claimed economic harm.
Violation of Separation of Powers: The lawsuit argued that the President’s sweeping tariffs bypassed legislative and judicial checks, undermining the constitutional framework. Eg: The court noted that trade rules must involve Congress, not unilateral executive orders.
Misuse of National Emergency Powers: The court ruled that invoking a “national emergency” does not justify rewriting international tariff agreements. Eg: The CIT stated that such powers cannot be used to override trade commitments under WTO rules.

Why did the court reject the “national emergency” claim?

Lack of Legal Basis: The court ruled that there was no statutory authority for the President to impose retaliatory global tariffs under a vague “national emergency.” Eg: Tariffs up to 135% were applied without Congressional sanction.
Overreach of Executive Powers: The court stated that invoking national emergency powers cannot allow the President to override trade laws and international commitments. Eg: It held that such use disrupts the constitutional separation of powers.
Absence of Real Emergency: The court found no credible evidence of an immediate or actual threat that would justify emergency trade measures. Eg: The cited trade deficit was not a sudden crisis but a long-standing economic condition.
Distortion of Trade Deficit Data: The administration failed to account for services and arms trade while citing trade deficits as justification. Eg: U.S. cited a $44.4 billion deficit with India, while it actually runs a $35–40 billion surplus when services are included.
Violation of International Obligations: The court emphasized that the tariffs contradicted U.S. commitments under WTO agreements and eroded global trade norms. Eg: The U.S. applied tariffs even to uninhabited territories like the Heard and McDonald Islands, showcasing arbitrariness.

How did the U.S. justify tariffs on India after WTO talks?

National Security Pretext: The U.S. continued to claim national security grounds for the imposition of tariffs, even after WTO rulings against it. Eg: Despite WTO panels rejecting the justification in 2022, the U.S. raised steel and aluminium tariffs to 50% on India.
Strategic Trade Leverage: The U.S. argued that enhanced tariffs served as negotiation tools to pressure trade partners into deals. Eg: The U.S. claimed the tariffs on India helped gain leverage in talks to finalize a bilateral trade agreement.
Mutually Agreed Solution Bypass: Though India and the U.S. reached a “mutually agreed solution” at the WTO in 2023, the U.S. still extended new tariffs on India. Eg: The 50% tariffs imposed in 2025 contradicted the earlier settlement, undermining trust in WTO dispute resolution.

Which issues must India address in a U.S. trade deal?

Removal of Additional Tariffs: India must ensure that the U.S. removes punitive tariffs on Indian exports like steel and aluminium, currently raised to 50%. Eg: The continuation of high tariffs impacts India’s manufacturing sector and export competitiveness.
Digital Services Tax Clarity: India should seek guarantees that its digital services taxes will not face retaliation from the U.S. Eg: U.S. firms operating in India’s tech sector may be affected unless taxation issues are resolved amicably.
Protection from Remittance Tax: India needs to negotiate exemption from the proposed 3.5% tax on remittances under the Trump One Big Beautiful Bill (OBBB). Eg: This would impact millions of Indian diaspora workers sending money back home.
H-1B Visa Concerns: India must address growing restrictions and backlash against H-1B visas, which are vital for its IT and service industry. Eg: Tech companies rely heavily on H-1B visas for skilled Indian professionals working in the U.S.
Cross-Border Services and Data Flows: India must ensure smooth cross-border delivery of services, including clear data flow regulations and digital trade provisions. Eg: This is critical for India’s BPO and fintech industries, which depend on uninterrupted digital transactions.

Way Forward:

Pursue Balanced Trade Negotiations:
India should negotiate a comprehensive trade deal that protects its strategic sectors, ensures reciprocity, and strengthens economic resilience without compromising on national interests.
Strengthen WTO and Multilateral Engagements:
India must continue to uphold and reform the WTO-based trade framework, using it as a platform to address disputes, promote fair trade practices, and build coalitions with like-minded nations.

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Urban Transformation – Smart Cities, AMRUT, etc.

Urbanisation and the challenge of ideal transit solutions

Explained | Enviro & Biodiversity | Mains Paper 3: Infrastructure: Energy, Ports, Roads, Airports, Railways Etc.

Why in the News?

India’s path to becoming a “Viksit Bharat” by 2047 relies on transforming its urban areas, as over 60% of the population is expected to live in cities by the 2060s.

What are the main challenges India faces in achieving efficient urban mobility?

Insufficient Public Transport Coverage: Only 37% of urban residents have easy access to public transport, compared to over 50% in countries like Brazil and China. Eg: Many Tier-2 cities still lack proper metro or bus services.
Shortage of Urban Buses: India needs about 2,00,000 urban buses, but currently has only 35,000 (including e-buses). Eg: Overcrowded buses in Delhi and Bengaluru during peak hours show the supply-demand gap.
Poor Last-Mile Connectivity: Even when metros are available, the cost and difficulty of reaching homes or offices from stations reduce usage. Eg: Metro commuters in Mumbai often rely on expensive auto-rickshaws for last-mile travel.
High Cost and Low Returns from Metro Projects: Metros are expensive and slow to build, with lower-than-expected ridership, making cost recovery hard. Eg: Many phases of the Jaipur Metro remain underutilized due to low footfall.
Limited Government Subsidies and Private Investment: Unlike developed nations, India cannot afford large recurring subsidies, and private investment is low due to uncertain returns. Eg: E-bus projects in Pune face delays due to funding and maintenance challenges.

Why is the current investment in metro and e-bus infrastructure falling short?

High Cost and Low Ridership: Metro projects involve huge capital and operational costs, but often fail to attract enough passengers to recover expenses. Eg: The Lucknow Metro struggles with low ridership despite high investment.
Fare Sensitivity and Last-Mile Issues: People are price-sensitive, and poor last-mile connectivity discourages use of metros and e-buses. Eg: In Hyderabad, a small hike in metro fares led to a drop in daily commuters.
Unsustainable Operational Models: E-buses have high replacement and maintenance costs, making them financially unviable in the long run. Eg: Many cities like Nagpur face challenges maintaining their e-bus fleets without subsidies.

How do trams compare to e-buses in terms of long-term cost-effectiveness?

Higher Long-Term Profitability: Trams show about 45% profitability over their typical 70-year life cycle, making them more financially sustainable. Eg: European cities like Vienna continue to expand tram networks due to long-term cost benefits.
Lower Operational and Replacement Costs: Trams require less frequent replacements and have lower running costs compared to e-buses, which face high battery and maintenance expenses. Eg: Kolkata’s tram system, though outdated, still operates at a lower cost than many new e-bus services.
Better Scalability and Climate Alignment: Trams are more scalable in dense cities and better aligned with climate goals due to zero tailpipe emissions and use of electricity from clean sources. Eg: The planned Kochi tram project is being promoted as a sustainable alternative to road-based transport.

Which schemes support urban transport in the Budget 2024?

PM e-Bus Sewa – Payment Security Mechanism: Aims to deploy and ensure reliable operations of 10,000 urban buses, including electric ones. Eg: Cities like Ahmedabad are using this to expand their bus fleet and improve service reliability.
PM e-Drive Scheme (PM Electric Drive Revolution in Innovative Vehicle Enhancement): Supports procurement of 14,000 e-buses, 1,10,000 e-rickshaws, as well as e-trucks and e-ambulances. Eg: New Delhi is using funds to order e-ambulances and expand its e-rickshaw fleet under this initiative.

Way forward:

Integrated Multi-Modal Transport Planning: Develop seamless connectivity between metro, buses, e-rickshaws, trams, and non-motorised transport (NMT) to reduce last-mile gaps and improve user convenience.
Prioritise Cost-Effective and Sustainable Modes: Encourage trams and trolleybuses in high-density corridors through life-cycle cost analysis, while ensuring targeted subsidies for low-income commuters and investment in green fuels like bio-CNG and hydrogen.

Mains PYQ:

[UPSC 2019] How is efficient and affordable urban mass transport key to the rapid economic development of India?

Linkage: The article talks about different types of public transport like buses, metros, trams, and trolleybuses, and how important it is to choose options that are affordable and effective. It stresses the need for a strong and efficient public transport system to deal with the growing challenges of travel in cities. As more people move to cities, the article says urban areas will play a key role in driving India’s economic growth, making good public transport even more important.

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Foreign Policy Watch: India-Bangladesh

Is Bangladesh slipping into authoritarianism?

Explained | International Relations | Mains Paper 2: India & Its Neighborhood – Relations

Why in the News?

Bangladesh is seeing major political change as interim leader Dr. Muhammad Yunus delays elections to April 2026 and proposes the “July Proclamation” to reform or replace the 1972 Constitution.

Why is the ‘July Proclamation’ seen as a threat to Bangladesh’s democratic foundations?

Lacks Democratic Legitimacy: It is being pushed by an unelected interim regime without a popular mandate or proper parliamentary debate. Eg: Prof. Yunus’ government is not elected, yet is trying to undertake constitutional reforms meant for a legislature.
Distorts Historical Legacy: The move seeks to marginalize the legacy of Sheikh Mujibur Rahman and diminish the significance of December (Victory Day) and August (Mujib’s assassination), promoting July as a new political start. Eg: The July Proclamation downplays Bangladesh’s founding narrative to suit a new political agenda.

What are the risks of an unelected interim government pursuing constitutional reforms?

Lack of Legitimacy and Public Mandate: An interim government is not elected by the people and lacks the constitutional authority to undertake major reforms meant for a parliament or constituent assembly. Eg: In Bangladesh, Prof. Yunus’ government is implementing reforms without elections, violating democratic norms.
Potential for Power Consolidation: Such reforms can be used to prolong the tenure of the interim regime, sideline opposition, and weaken checks and balances, paving the way for authoritarian rule. Eg: The banning of the Awami League and the extension of election dates to 2026 raise concerns of power entrenchment.
Political Instability and Polarisation: Constitutional changes without bipartisan consensus can lead to unrest, legitimacy crises, and deep political divisions. Eg: The BNP, though opposed to the Awami League, is uncomfortable with the July Proclamation, showing a lack of political unity.

How could the proposed humanitarian corridor affect regional security?

Violation of Sovereignty and Military Tensions: A demilitarised humanitarian corridor, especially if monitored by international forces, may be seen as a breach of national sovereignty by host countries.
Eg: The Bangladesh Army chief objected to international enforcement in the Rakhine region, fearing it would undermine Bangladesh’s sovereignty.
Risk of Weapon Smuggling and Armed Group Access: Without effective monitoring mechanisms, such corridors could be exploited by international armed groups to smuggle weapons and infiltrate conflict zones. Eg: Concerns exist that the proposed corridor into Myanmar’s Rakhine province may be misused by armed groups, threatening both Myanmar and Indian border security.
Uncertain Aid Distribution and Escalation of Conflicts: There’s no guarantee that humanitarian aid will reach only the intended civilian population (like Rohingya) and not be diverted to militant factions, escalating regional conflicts. Eg: India fears that lack of clarity over corridor enforcement could worsen militancy in the Northeast and Indo-Myanmar border areas.

Note: The humanitarian corridor to Myanmar’s Rakhine province is a proposed initiative — not yet implemented — and it was publicly supported by Professor Muhammad Yunus, the Chief Adviser to the interim government of Bangladesh, in a speech on June 7, 2025.

Why does the sidelining of major parties like BNP and Awami League raise democratic concerns?

Undermining of Political Representation: Exclusion of major political parties weakens democratic legitimacy and narrows the space for public representation and opposition. Eg: The ban on the Awami League and the marginalisation of the BNP prevents millions of citizens from having their voices heard in the political process.
Emergence of Proxy or Unrepresentative Forces: The vacuum created by sidelining mainstream parties can be filled by unaccountable or extremist groups, increasing political instability. Eg: The rise of the National Citizens Party (NCP), referred to as the ‘King’s Party’ by the BNP, raises fears of state-sponsored political manipulation.

Way forward:

Inclusive Political Dialogue and Election Roadmap: The interim government must initiate an inclusive dialogue involving all major political parties, including the BNP and Awami League, to build consensus on constitutional reforms and ensure free and fair elections.
Limit Powers of the Interim Government: Clearly define and restrict the mandate of the interim government to conduct elections only, avoiding any major constitutional or policy decisions that should be left to an elected Parliament.

Mains PYQ:

[UPSC 2013] Critically examine the compulsions which prompted India to play a decisive roles in the emergence of Bangladesh.

Linkage: Understanding India’s historical role is crucial for comprehending the current political landscape in Bangladesh, especially as the interim government seems to want to ensure “that the legacy of 1971.

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Innovations in Sciences, IT, Computers, Robotics and Nanotechnology

Science behind right AC Temperature

Prelims Only | Science Tech | Mains Paper 3: Awareness in various sc and tech fields

Why in the News?

The Union Ministry of Power is considering a policy to restrict the temperature range of new air conditioners (ACs) in India to between 20°C and 28°C.

Important Facts and Keywords related to ACs:

Efficiency Ratings: ACs have ratings like SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio) or EER (Energy Efficiency Ratio). A higher rating means the AC uses less power to cool the same space.
Inverter Technology: Some ACs use inverter compressors, which adjust speed instead of turning on and off repeatedly. This saves energy and keeps the room temperature more stable.
Humidity Control: ACs also help by removing moisture from the air. This keeps humidity around 40–60%, which feels more comfortable and prevents mold.
Cooling Capacity: ACs are measured in tons. A “ton” of cooling comes from the amount of heat needed to melt 1 ton (~2,000 pounds) of ice in 24 hours.

How do Air Conditioners Work?

Basic Idea: Air conditioners (ACs) work like a heat-moving machine. They take heat from inside your room and push it outside, making the room cooler. They do this using a special fluid called a refrigerant, and a system called the vapour-compression cycle.
Main Parts and What They Do:
- Evaporator: This part is inside your room. The refrigerant, which is very cold here, absorbs heat from the indoor air and turns into a gas. It also removes moisture, so your room feels less humid.
- Compressor: This is outside the house. It squeezes the refrigerant gas, making it very hot (about 90°C) and high-pressure. This part uses the most electricity in the AC.
- Condenser: The hot gas then flows through the condenser coil outside. It releases heat into the outdoor air and turns back into a liquid.
- Expansion Valve: This part lowers the pressure of the liquid refrigerant, making it cold again before it goes back to the evaporator to repeat the cycle.
Refrigerant: The refrigerant is a specially designed gas that changes state easily at low temperatures and pressures, making it ideal for absorbing and releasing heat rapidly. Modern refrigerants like R-32 or R-410A are more energy-efficient and environmentally safer than older ones like CFCs and HCFCs.

Why limit AC Temperature settings?

Energy Efficiency Data: According to the Bureau of Energy Efficiency (BEE), setting an AC to 24°C instead of a lower setting can save 6% electricity per 1°C increase.
National Impact: If adopted widely, this temperature setting could help India save 20 billion units of electricity annually.
Health Risks at Low Temperatures: Temperatures below 18°C are linked to hypertension, asthma, and respiratory infections, especially among children, the elderly, and people with weakened thermoregulation.
Evidence from Global Studies: Research in Japan, the UK, and New Zealand shows that slightly warmer indoor settings lead to better respiratory and cardiovascular health.
WHO Recommendation: The World Health Organization advises 18°C as the minimum safe indoor temperature in temperate climates.
Thermal Comfort Standards: Guidelines like ASHRAE-55 and ISO 7730 suggest optimal indoor temperatures between 20°C and 24°C for lightly clothed people, with adjustments based on local climate and culture.

Global Cooling Trends and the Need for Regulation:

Global AC Usage Growth: As of 2022, there were an estimated 2 billion air conditioners in use worldwide, with residential units tripling since 2000, especially in India and China.
Access Gap in Asia-Pacific: Despite this growth, 43% of the Asia-Pacific population still lacks access to adequate cooling solutions.
Environmental Impact: Air conditioning significantly increases electricity use and carbon emissions, especially in countries with fossil fuel-dependent grids.
India’s AC Load Projection: By 2030, India’s total connected AC load is expected to reach 200 gigawatts, requiring urgent demand management strategies.
Consumer Awareness Tools: Initiatives like default settings at 24°C and energy labelling empower consumers to make informed energy-efficient choices.
Benefits of Regulation: A regulated temperature range can help lower energy consumption, reduce peak power demand, and support public health.

[UPSC 2003] Consider the following statements:

1. Steam at 100°C and boiling water at 100°C contain the same amount of heat.

2. Latent heat of fusion of ice is equal to the latent heat of vaporization of water.

3. In an air-conditioner, heat is extracted from the room-air at the evaporator coils and is rejected out at the condenser coils.

Which of these statements is/are correct?

Options: (a) 1 and 2 (b) 2 and 3 (c) Only 2 (d) Only 3*

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Wildlife Conservation Efforts

AviList 2025: World’s First Unified Global Bird Checklist

Prelims Only | Enviro & Biodiversity | Mains Paper 3: Conservation, Environmental Pollution & Degradation, Eia

Why in the News?

The Working Group on Avian Checklists has released AviList, the world’s first unified global bird checklist to standardize bird classification and support global research and conservation.

What is AviList?

Overview: AviList is the first unified global checklist of bird species, officially launched on June 12, 2025.
Who developed it: It was developed by the Working Group on Avian Checklists, with representatives from BirdLife International, the Cornell Lab of Ornithology, the International Ornithologists’ Union, the American Ornithologists’ Society, and Avibase.
Purpose: The checklist aims to eliminate confusion caused by conflicting taxonomies and to improve global coordination in bird research and conservation.
Standalone feature: AviList replaces separate resources like the IOC World Bird List and the Clements Checklist with a single, consensus-based taxonomy.
Accessibility: It is freely available at www.avilist.org and will be updated annually to reflect the latest scientific consensus.
Target Users: AviList supports ornithologists, birdwatchers, conservationists, researchers, and policymakers globally.

Key Features of AviList:

Standardized Taxonomy: Combines inputs from global and regional checklists to ensure taxonomic consistency.
Comprehensive Coverage: Lists 11,131 species, 19,879 subspecies, 2,376 genera, 252 families, and 46 orders.
Consensus-Driven Process: Taxonomic decisions are made through structured milestone assessments and expert committee voting.
Transparency in Changes: Provides clear justifications for taxonomic updates, especially those involving disputed species.
Living Document: Designed to evolve continuously with new scientific discoveries and updates.
Conservation Impact: Helps improve biodiversity assessments and conservation planning by clarifying species boundaries.

[UPSC 2015] With reference to an organization known as ‘BirdLife International’, consider the following statements:

1. It is a Global Partnership of Conservation Organizations.

2.The concept of ‘biodiversity hotspots’ originated from this organization.

3. It identifies the sites known/referred to as ‘Important Bird and Biodiversity Areas’.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

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

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Indian Army Updates

Exercise KHAAN QUEST

Prelims Only | Security Issues | Mains Paper 3: Various Security Forces, Agencies & Their Mandates

Why in the News?

The Indian Army has deployed it’s contingent to participate in Exercise KHAAN QUEST 2025, a major multinational peacekeeping exercise being held in Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia.

Concurrently, India is also set to conduct Exercise SHAKTI 2025 with France.

About Exercise KHAAN QUEST, 2025:

Overview: It is a multinational peacekeeping military exercise being held in Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia from June 14 to 28, 2025.
Origins: The exercise was initiated in 2003 as a bilateral drill between the United States and Mongolian Armed Forces and became a multinational event in 2006.
Indian Participation: India has sent a 40-member contingent, primarily from the Kumaon Regiment, along with personnel from other arms and services, including one woman officer and two women soldiers.
Focus: The exercise trains troops for Peacekeeping Missions under Chapter VII of the UN Charter, which deals with action regarding threats to peace and acts of aggression.
Key Training Drills: Participating forces will engage in checkpoint establishment, cordon and search operations, civilian evacuation from conflict zones, counter-IED tactics, and combat casualty care.
Objectives: The main goal is to build interoperability, promote joint planning, and strengthen tactical coordination among different participating nations.

About Exercise SHAKTI, 2025:

Overview: It is a bilateral military drill between India and France, scheduled to take place at La Cavalerie, France, from June 18 to July 1, 2025.
Exercise Series: This marks the 8th edition of the biennial joint exercise, reflecting a strong and ongoing defence partnership between the two nations.
Objectives: The drill focuses on enhancing the joint capability to conduct multi-domain operations, especially in sub-conventional warfare scenarios.
Core Training Areas: It includes sessions on tactical coordination, joint operational planning, and counter-terrorism techniques.
Goals: To deepen military cooperation, foster mutual trust, and build interoperability and camaraderie between the Indian and French armed forces.

[UPSC 2024] Which of the following statements about ‘Exercise Mitra Shakti-2023’ are correct?

1. This was a joint military exercise between India and Bangladesh.

2. It commenced in Aundh (Pune).

3. Joint response during counter-terrorism operations was a goal of this operation.

4. Indian Air Force was a part of this exercise.

Select the answer using the code given below:

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

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Women empowerment issues – Jobs,Reservation and education

India slips to 131st position in Global Gender Gap Index, 2025

IOCR | Indian Society | Mains Paper 1: Role Of Women & Women Organization

Why in the News?

India has been ranked 131 out of 148 countries in the World Economic Forum’s (WEF) Global Gender Gap Report 2025, falling two places from last year’s rank of 129.

India slips to 131st position in Global Gender Gap Index, 2025

About the Global Gender Gap Index:

Overview: It is released annually by the World Economic Forum (WEF) and has been published since 2006.
Scope of Measurement: It evaluates gender parity across 4 key dimensions:
1. Economic Participation and Opportunity,
2. Educational Attainment,
3. Health and Survival, and
4. Political Empowerment.
Scoring Method: The index uses a 0–1 scale, where 1 represents full gender parity.
2025 Edition Coverage: The 19th edition of the index covers 148 countries, making it a global benchmark for tracking gender gaps.

Key Highlights of the 2025 Report:

India’s Performance: It is ranked 131 out of 148 countries, falling two spots from its 2024 rank of 129.
Overall Score: India’s overall gender parity score is 64.1%, placing it among the lowest-ranked in South Asia.
Economic Participation: India improved in this category, with the score rising to 40.7%, and estimated earned income parity increasing from 28.6% to 29.9%.
Labour Force Participation: India’s rate remains at 45.9%, its highest recorded level.
Educational Attainment: The country scored 97.1%, with gains in female literacy and tertiary education enrolment.
Health and Survival: This category showed marginal improvement due to a better sex ratio at birth and higher healthy life expectancy.
Political Empowerment: India declined in this area, with women in Parliament dropping from 14.7% to 13.8%, and women ministers decreasing from 6.5% to 5.6%.

Global Trends and Significance:

Regional Rankings: The highest rank is held by Bangladesh in South Asia at 24, followed by Bhutan (119), Nepal (125), Sri Lanka (130), Maldives (138), and Pakistan (148).
Global Parity Score: The overall global gender gap has narrowed to 68.8%, marking the best progress since the COVID-19 pandemic.
Timeline for Equality: At the current pace, it will take 123 years to achieve full gender parity worldwide.
Top Performers: Top-rank is retained by Iceland for the 16th consecutive year, followed by Finland, Norway, the United Kingdom, and New Zealand.
Leadership Gap: Although women make up 41.2% of the global workforce, they occupy only 28.8% of leadership roles.

Back2Basics: World Economic Forum (WEF)

The WEF is an international non-profit organization founded in 1971 by Klaus Schwab in Geneva, Switzerland.
It fosters public-private cooperation to tackle global issues through dialogue, partnerships, and research.
WEF is widely known for its annual Davos summit, which brings together world leaders from politics, business, and academia.
Major reports published include the Global Competitiveness Report, Global Risks Report, Global Social Mobility Report, Energy Transition Index, and Travel & Tourism Development Index.
These reports provide critical data and policy insights on issues like inequality, climate change, innovation, and economic recovery.
WEF is largely funded by its partner corporations, offering a platform to shape global agendas across sectors.

[UPSC 2017] Which of the following gives ‘Global Gender Gap Index’ ranking to the countries of the world?

Options: (a) World Economic Forum* (b) UN Human Rights Council (c) UN Women (d) World Health Organization

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Child Rights – POSCO, Child Labour Laws, NAPC, etc.

[12th June 2025] The Hindu Op-ed: Recounting Velpur’s story in ending child labour

op-ed snap | Social Justice | Mains Paper 2: Laws, Institutions & Bodies Constituted For The Vulnerable Sections

PYQ Relevance:

[UPSC 2016] Examine the main provisions of the National Child Policy and throw light on the status of its implementation.

Linkage: Child labour is a significant issue affecting children, robbing them of their basic rights and hindering their full development potential. It is addressed through various welfare schemes, laws, and policies aimed at protecting and improving the lives of children.

Mentor’s Comment: June 12 is observed as the World Day Against Child Labour, led by the International Labour Organisation to raise awareness about the ongoing problem of child labour. This year, attention is not only on the alarming number—160 million children still working, but also on an inspiring success story from India: Velpur Mandal in Telangana. Once known for widespread child labour, Velpur has remained child labour-free for over 20 years. Its achievement, driven by strong community participation, shows how local efforts can bring lasting change and serve as a model for tackling child labour through policy and grassroots action.

Today’s editorial focuses on the problem of child labour in India, a key issue relevant to GS Paper II (Social Justice) in the UPSC syllabus.

Let’s learn!

Why in the News?

Every year on June 12, the World Day Against Child Labour (WDACL) is observed, led by the International Labour Organization (ILO), to raise awareness about the problem of child labour.

What are the major global challenges in eliminating child labour?

Poverty and Economic Vulnerability: Families in low-income regions rely on children’s income to meet basic needs, making child labour a survival strategy Eg: In sub-Saharan Africa, children are often sent to work in farms or in markets to support their households facing extreme poverty
Lack of Access to Quality Education: Poor schooling infrastructure, long travel distances, and hidden costs deter school attendance, pushing children into work Eg: In rural Afghanistan, many children work as street vendors or in workshops instead of attending school due to poor accessibility
Weak Law Enforcement and Informal Economy: Despite legal frameworks, enforcement is weak in informal sectors where most child labour occurs. Eg: In Latin American countries, children continue working in agriculture and street vending despite legal prohibitions.
Cultural and Social Acceptance: In some societies, child labour is normalized as part of tradition or family livelihood, especially in unregulated home-based industries Eg: In India, children are commonly employed in beedi-rolling or carpet weaving under the guise of family trade training
Conflict, Displacement, and Emergencies: Armed conflict, refugee crises, and natural disasters disrupt schooling and increase reliance on child labour for survival. Eg: In Syria, displaced children are often seen working in agriculture or shops due to the breakdown of education and protection systems.

What are the major national-level challenges in eliminating child labour?

Poverty and Household Debt: Economic hardship compels families to send children to work instead of school, especially in informal and unorganised sectors. Eg: In Bihar and Uttar Pradesh, children are employed in brick kilns and agriculture to supplement family income or repay local debts.
Gaps in Implementation of Laws and Schemes: Despite strong legal provisions, poor monitoring, corruption, and lack of coordination among departments weaken enforcement. Eg: In Jharkhand, children continue to work in mica mines, despite bans and presence of the Child Labour (Prohibition and Regulation) Act.
Lack of Awareness and Social Acceptance: In many rural and tribal areas, parents are unaware of the long-term value of education and accept child labour as normal. Eg: In Andhra Pradesh’s beedi-making units, child labour is seen as a family tradition and not a violation of child rights.

Case study of Velpur mandal:

Who led the anti-child labour campaign in Velpur?

The campaign was led by the then District Collector of Nizamabad along with committed local officials.

How did it achieve child labour-free status?

Community-Led Campaign and Awareness Drive: A 100-day campaign was launched in 2001 involving local officials, sarpanchs, teachers, caste elders, and civil societyto identify and enroll every child into school. Eg: In Velpur Mandal (Telangana), all 8,057 children aged 5–15 were enrolled in schools, and the mandal was declared child labour-free by October 2, 2001.
Debt Waiver and Social Accountability by Employers: Former child employers publicly waived ₹35 lakh worth of family debts and provided school supplies, freeing children from bonded labour. Eg: Employers in Velpur villages forgave loans where children were used as repayment guarantees, helping families send their children to school.
Institutional Support and Bridge Schooling through NCLP: Children withdrawn from labour were sent to bridge schools under the National Child Labour Project (NCLP) to ease their transition into formal education. Eg: Children from beedi units and farms were given remedial education and then enrolled into regular schools with full retention ensured by community monitoring.

What is the status of the National Child Policy?

Outdated Framework (Policy of 2013): The National Policy for Children, 2013 is the current guiding document, but it lacks clear mechanisms for implementation, monitoring, and budgetary commitments. Eg: Though it recognizes rights to survival, development, protection, and participation, it does not specifically address child labour rehabilitation pathways
Lack of Integration with Recent Laws and SDG Goals: The policy has not been aligned with new laws like the Child Labour (Prohibition and Regulation) Amendment Act, 2016 or with SDG Target 8.7. Eg: India aims to eliminate child labour by 2025 under SDG 8.7, but the national child policy does not provide an updated roadmap or action plan for this
Delayed Formulation of a Revised Policy: The government had initiated a process to draft a new National Child Policy in 2020, but no final version has been released or implemented so far. Eg: The Ministry of Women and Child Development (MWCD) conducted consultations for an updated policy, but no final policy document has been notified as of mid-2025

What are the steps taken by the Indian Government?

Strengthening Legal Framework: The Child Labour (Prohibition and Regulation) Amendment Act, 2016 prohibits employment of children below 14 years and restricts adolescents (14–18 years) from hazardous occupations. Eg: This amendment led to the identification and rescue of thousands of children from beedi-making and fireworks units in states like Tamil Nadu and Telangana.
National Child Labour Project (NCLP): Launched in 1988, this centrally sponsored scheme focuses on identifying, rescuing, and rehabilitating child labourersthrough special training centres. Eg: Under NCLP, bridge schools in Velpur (Telangana) helped transition former child workers into regular schools, contributing to its child labour-free status.
Integration with Education and Welfare Schemes: Programs like Right to Education Act (2009), Mid-Day Meal Scheme, and Samagra Shiksha aim to improve school access and retention among vulnerable children.Eg: In Bihar and Odisha, these schemes have improved school attendance, reducing dropout-driven child labour in agriculture and domestic work.

Way forward:

Community-Driven Monitoring and Social Mobilisation: Empower panchayats, school management committees, and civil society to track school dropouts and ensure local accountability through awareness campaigns and social pressure mechanisms.
Policy Update and Stronger Rehabilitation Framework: Finalize and implement a revised National Child Policy aligned with SDG 8.7, and strengthen rehabilitation measureslike skill development, financial support, and psychosocial care for rescued children.

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Foreign Policy Watch: India-Canada

Bad blood India and Canada must use every opportunity to reset ties

Explained | International Relations | Mains Paper 2: Bilateral, Regional and Global Groupings and agreements involving India

Why in the News?

Prime Minister’s upcoming visit to Kananaskis (Canada), Alberta, for the G-7 outreach summit is an important chance for India and Canada to improve their diplomatic relations.

What led to the deterioration of India-Canada relations since 2023?

Assassination Allegations: Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau publicly alleged that Indian government agents were involved in the assassination of Khalistani activist Hardeep Singh Nijjar on Canadian soil, without providing conclusive evidence.
Diplomatic Fallout: In response to the allegations, both countries reduced their diplomatic staff to one-third, significantly weakening diplomatic engagement and services.
Suspension of Key Agreements: Canada suspended negotiations for a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) with India, while India temporarily stopped issuing visas to Canadian citizens, citing security threats to Indian diplomats.
Naming of Senior Indian Official: The Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) reportedly named Home Minister Amit Shah in the conspiracy, further escalating tensions and hardening positions on both sides.
Historical and Diaspora-linked Frictions: The long-standing Khalistan issue and alleged Khalistani extremism in Canada aggravated India’s concerns, especially given the large Indian diaspora and the perceived lack of action by Canadian authorities.

Why is PM Modi’s visit to the G-7 summit in Canada significant for bilateral ties?

Signals a Diplomatic Reset: Inviting Modi marks a deliberate attempt by Canada to reopen diplomatic channels after relations plummeted following the 2023 Nijjar incident. Eg: Prime Minister Carney’s invitation—despite ongoing tensions—was described as coming at the last-minute, yet with careful back-channel diplomacy to avoid embarrassment.
Re-emphasizes India’s Global Economic Role: Carney stressed that India is the world’s 5th-largest economy and central to global supply chains. Including India in G-7 discussions underscores its economic and geopolitical relevance. Eg: Carney asserted that India’s presence was essential to dialogues on energy security, critical minerals, AI, and infrastructure.
Creates a Platform for Sensitive Law Enforcement Dialogue: The G-7 summit provides a high-level platform to initiate the planned law enforcement dialogue, a key mechanism to address the Nijjar case and broader security-related concerns.

Who are the key stakeholders involved in the India-Canada diplomatic reset?

Prime Minister of India: Represents India at the G-7 and the potential diplomatic outreach.
Prime Minister Mark Carney: Initiator of the summit invite; key to Canada’s effort to normalize ties.
Law enforcement agencies: Both sides agreed to a “law enforcement dialogue” to address allegations and threats.
Diaspora communities: The 1.86 million-strong Indian community in Canada serves as a bridge between the two nations.
Trade and diplomatic negotiators: Officials working behind the scenes to restore dialogue on trade and diplomacy.

How can justice be pursued while maintaining diplomatic respect?

Facilitate Law Enforcement Dialogue Through Official Channels: Both countries should engage in structured and confidential legal cooperation to address allegations without public confrontation. Eg: Canada and India have agreed to a “law enforcement dialogue” where sensitive issues like the Nijjar caseand threats to Indian diplomats can be discussed respectfully.
Avoid Public Accusations Before Due Process: Governments must refrain from making unverified public allegations that escalate tensions and damage bilateral trust. Eg: Canada’s public statement in 2023 about Indian involvement in Nijjar’s death, without conclusive evidence, led to a sharp diplomatic fallout.
Restore Diplomatic Presence to Normal Levels: Reinstating high commissioners and full diplomatic staff enables better communication and prevents misunderstandings during sensitive investigations. Eg: Both countries had reduced their mission strength by two-thirds; restoring these positions is key to pursuing justice without compromising diplomacy.

How can both countries rebuild trust and restart cooperation? (Way forward)

Resume Diplomatic Engagement and Dialogue Mechanisms: Reinstating high commissioners and activating official dialogues like law enforcement and trade talks will help normalize relations. Eg: The proposed law enforcement dialogue and discussions on restoring trade negotiations signal mutual willingness to rebuild ties.
Prioritize People-to-People and Economic Links: Focusing on shared interests such as the Indian diaspora, education, and investment cooperation can help overcome political setbacks. Eg: With 1.86 million people of Indian origin in Canada and strong business partnerships, both nations can leverage these ties for renewed cooperation.

Mains PYQ:

[UPSC 2023] Indian diaspora has scaled new heights in the West. Describe its economic and political benefits for India.

Linkage: A Diplomatic Reset at the G-7″ explicitly states that India and Canada are “inextricably bound by their people” and that “over 1.86 million [people of Indian origin] are settled in Canada, but remain connected to India”. Canada is a significant Western country where the Indian diaspora has a strong presence. Therefore, discussing the economic and political benefits for India from its diaspora in the West would directly involve the Canada-India context, including how this diaspora can play a role in improving strained bilateral ties.

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Economic Indicators and Various Reports On It- GDP, FD, EODB, WIR etc

Why govts revise GDP base year and methodology, why the proposed 2026 revision matters for India’s global standing

Explained | Economics | Mains Paper 3: Indian Economy

Why in the News?

India will update the base year for calculating GDP to 2022–23, and the new data is expected by February 2026. This change, confirmed by Saurabh Garg from the Ministry of Statistics, is an important step to improve the accuracy and trust in India’s economic data both in the country and around the world.

Why is the base year for GDP being revised to 2022-23?

To Reflect Structural Changes in the Economy: India’s economy has shifted significantly from agriculture to services and digital sectors. Revising the base year captures these structural shifts more accurately. Eg: The rise of digital platforms, fintech, and gig economy post-2015 needs to be incorporated into GDP estimates.
To Incorporate Improved and Updated Data Sources: New datasets such as the Periodic Labour Force Survey (PLFS) and administrative records like MCA-21 provide more comprehensive and timely data for accurate GDP computation. Eg: PLFS helps capture employment trends better than the older Employment-Unemployment surveys.
To Ensure Compatibility with International Standards and Better Inflation Adjustment
Regular base year revisions align with UN and IMF guidelines and help in more precise estimation of real GDPby adjusting for price changes. Eg: Without a revision, outdated price structures (like 2011-12) may overstate or understate real growthdue to inflation distortions.

What challenges delayed the previous GDP base year revision in 2017-18?

Data Quality Concerns in Key Surveys: The government raised concerns about the credibility of the Consumer Expenditure Survey (CES) and Periodic Labour Force Survey (PLFS) conducted in 2017-18. Eg: CES showed a decline in consumer spending, suggesting rising poverty — a politically sensitive finding that was never officially released.
Economic Disruptions during the Reference Year: Major policy shocks such as demonetisation (2016) and the introduction of Goods and Services Tax (GST) in 2017 led to economic volatility, making 2017-18 an unsuitable “normal” year for baseline calculations. Eg: GDP growth fell from 8.3% in 2016-17 to below 4% by 2019-20, reflecting prolonged economic slowdown post these disruptions.
Delayed Acceptance and Use of Survey Results: While the PLFS findings were eventually accepted after the 2019 elections, the CES was rejected, causing a gap in key inputs required for GDP revision. Eg: Without reliable consumption and employment data, the GDP estimation would lack accuracy, forcing the government to drop 2017-18 as the base year.

Which other economic indicators are also undergoing base year revisions?

Index of Industrial Production (IIP): Base year to be revised to 2022-23.
Consumer Price Index (CPI): Base year to be revised to 2023-24.
National Accounts (GDP): Base year to be revised to 2022-23, effective February 27, 2026.

How does base year revision affect the credibility of India’s economic data globally?

Improves Accuracy and International Comparability: A timely base year revision ensures that GDP estimates reflect current economic structures, making India’s data more credible and aligned with international standards (like those of IMF and UN). Eg: Including digital economy or renewable energy sectors helps match the metrics used by other G20 nations.
Builds Investor Confidence: Transparent and methodologically sound revisions enhance global investor trust, which is crucial for foreign direct investment (FDI) and sovereign credit ratings. Eg: A credible GDP estimate influences decisions by agencies like Moody’s or Fitch, and reassures multinational corporations evaluating India’s market.
Reduces Skepticism from Global Analysts: Past controversies—like the 2015 revision which some experts claimed overstated growth—have raised doubts on India’s data integrity. A robust 2022-23 revision can restore credibility. Eg: Even former Chief Economic Advisor Arvind Subramanian questioned past data quality; accurate revisions now can counteract such reputational damage.

Way forward:

Institutionalise Regular Data Revisions: Establish a fixed 5-year cycle for revising base years of GDP and other macroeconomic indicators, in line with National Statistical Commission recommendations, to ensure timeliness, consistency, and credibility.
Enhance Data Transparency and Accessibility: Improve the quality, frequency, and public availability of key datasets like Consumer Expenditure Survey (CES), PLFS, and Census, to build trust among researchers, investors, and global institutions.

Mains PYQ:

[UPSC 2021] What are the main features of the estimation of India’s Gross Domestic Product(GDP) before the year 2015 and after the year 2015.

Linkage: The changes in GDP estimation around the 2015 revision, which is a prime example of the process of revising the base year and methodology. The “India’s GDP: Revising the Economic Base” source provides extensive details on this very topic, explaining the rationale and significance of such revisions, including the upcoming 2026 revision and its importance for India’s global standing.

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