Rashtrapati Bhavan’s revamped “At Home” reception for the 75th Indian Republic now includes a box of GI Tagged handcrafted items from Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Karnataka, Telangana, and Andhra Pradesh along with the invitation card.
About the GI Tagged products crafted for the Invittees
The curated box features a variety of handcrafted items with Geographical Indication (GI) tags and sourced from the One District One Product (ODOP) initiative:
Bamboo Weave Box: Decorated with Kalamkari paintings crafted by Nimmalakunta artisans from Andhra Pradesh.
Ikat-Pochampalli Cover: Reusable even after dismantling the box.
Mysore Ganjifa Fridge Magnet: Inspired by the intricate art seen in traditional Ganjifa playing cards.
Kanjeevaram Silk Pouch: Handcrafted in Tamil Nadu.
Etikopakka Dolls: Male and female wooden dolls from Andhra Pradesh.
Screwpine Leaf Bookmark: Woven by artisans from Kerala.
What is the One District One Product (ODOP)?
ODOP initiative is a flagship scheme designed to foster balanced regional development, enhance local economic potential, and promote employment generation by focusing on a unique product from each district.
Originally launched by the Uttar Pradesh Government in January 2018, it was later adopted nationwide by the Central Government.
It is managed by the Ministry of Food Processing Industries and coordinated with the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) under the Districts as Export Hubs initiative.
It is centrally sponsored, with funding shared between the Central and State Governments in a 60:40 ratio.
Indonesia has officially joined BRICS (Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa) as a full member. This move was unanimously approved during the 2023 BRICS Summit in Johannesburg and announced by Brazil, which holds the presidency of BRICS in 2025.
What is BRICS?
BRICS represents a coalition of nations committed to fostering economic growth, development cooperation, and global governance reform.
BRICS focuses on collaboration across 3 key pillars:
Political and Security Cooperation: Ensuring peace, global stability, and governance reform.
Economic and Financial Cooperation: Promoting trade, investment, and economic resilience.
Cultural and People-to-People Cooperation: Enhancing mutual understanding and societal linkages.
Present Members of BRICS
Original Members: Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa.
Recent Additions: Indonesia, Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, and the UAE.
Evolution of BRICS:
2001: The term “BRIC” was coined by Jim O’Neill, an economist at Goldman Sachs, in a report highlighting Brazil, Russia, India, and China as fast-growing economies.
2006: BRIC leaders held their first meeting during the G8 Outreach Summit in St. Petersburg, Russia.
2009: The first BRIC Summit was held in Yekaterinburg, Russia, to formalize the grouping.
2010: South Africa joined, transforming BRIC into BRICS.
2014 Fortaleza Declaration: The establishment of the New Development Bank (NDB) and Contingent Reserve Arrangement (CRA) marked significant steps toward financial collaboration.
Recent Expansion: In 2023 Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, and the UAE joined, reflecting BRICS’ expanding influence in the Global South.
2025: Indonesia officially joins.
Significance of BRICS:
Economic Growth: Acts as a significant driver of global economic growth, contributing 24% of global GDP and over 16% of global trade.
Multipolar World Advocacy: Promotes a multipolar world order, challenging Western dominance in global governance.
South-South Cooperation: Strengthens collaboration among developing nations, addressing shared issues like poverty and climate change.
Alternative Financial Systems: Explores mechanisms like the New Development Bank (NDB) and Contingent Reserve Arrangement (CRA) to reduce reliance on Western financial institutions and the US dollar.
Challenges Faced by BRICS:
Diverging Interests: Members have differing priorities, such as India-China tensions and varying stances on global issues.
Economic Disparities: Wide differences in economic size and capacity, with China dominating BRICS GDP.
Institutional Weakness: Absence of a formal structure and binding agreements limits the bloc’s effectiveness.
Geopolitical Pressures: External challenges like Western sanctions on Russia and US-China tensions test BRICS’ cohesion and neutrality.
PYQ:
[2014] With reference to a grouping of countries known as BRICS, consider the following statements:
1. The First Summit of BRICS was held in Rio de Janeiro in 2009.
2. South Africa was the last to join the BRICS grouping.
Which of the statements given above is / are correct?
Prime Minister has inaugurated the 18th Pravasi Bharatiya Divas convention. The theme for this year was the “Diaspora’s contribution to a Viksit Bharat”.
About Pravasi Bharatiya Divas (PBD)
Pravasi Bharatiya Divas is the flagship event organized by the Ministry of External Affairs to honor the achievements and contributions of Indians living abroad.
This celebration is held every two years on January 9, marking the day in 1915 when Mahatma Gandhi, regarded as the greatest Pravasi, returned to India from South Africa to lead the country’s freedom movement.
Since 2015, the event has been held biennially, with theme-based conferences organized during the intervening years.
The location of the convention changes to showcase the progress and diversity of different regions in India.
Who are the Girmitiyas?
The Girmitiyas were indentured laborers from British India who were transported during the 19th and early 20th centuries to work on plantations in various countries.
The term “Girmitiyas” originates from the Indian pronunciation of the English word “agreement”, referencing the contracts they signed.
The Girmitiyas were sent to places such as Fiji, Mauritius, Seychelles, Reunion, South Africa, Trinidad and Tobago, British Guiana (now Guyana), Suriname, Malaysia, and Kenya.
These laborers were bound by contracts, called Girmits (agreements), which required them to work for a single employer at a fixed wage for a period of 3 to 5 years.
Contributions of the Indian Diaspora
Economic Contributions: In 2024, India received $129.1 billion in remittances, accounting for 14.3% of global remittances. This inflow has been a vital source of economic support.
Professional Contributions: Over 73% of Indian-Americans are employed in high-skill sectors such as STEMM, business, law, and academia. The diaspora acts as a bridge between India and global markets, facilitating skill transfer, trade, and foreign direct investment.
Cultural and Soft Power: The Indian diaspora serves as cultural ambassadors, promoting traditions such as Bollywood, Yoga, and festivals like Diwali.
Global Presence: The Indian diaspora is spread across the globe, with 31.3 million people residing in countries such as the United States, UAE, Malaysia, and Saudi Arabia.
PYQ:
[2020] ‘Indian diaspora has a decisive role to play in the politics and economy of America and European Countries’. Comment with examples.
[2017] The Indian Diaspora has an important role to play in South East Asian countries economy and society. Appraise the role of Indian Diaspora in South-East Asia in this context.
Q) Does the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016 ensure effective mechanisms for empowerment and inclusion of the intended beneficiaries in the society? Discuss (UPSC CSE 2017) Q)The Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016 remains only a legal document without intense sensitisation of government functionaries and citizens regarding disability. Comment. (UPSC CSE 2022)
Mentor’s Comment: UPSC mains have always focused on Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016 (2022), and ‘Morals of Welfare State’ in (2021).
PwDs (Persons with Disabilities) face stigma, discrimination, and neglect, due to prejudice and socio-psychological and cultural reasons, despite the Constitutional guarantee of equality of all citizens. Only about 35.29% of children with disabilities have access to schools, and approximately 55% of disabled individuals in India are illiterate, which severely limits their employment opportunities and social participation.
Today’s editorial emphasizes the urgent need for accessibility rules that are grounded in fundamental principles. This content can be used for representing a framework that is not only comprehensive but also clear and actionable, ensuring that all individuals, regardless of their abilities, can access services and environments effectively.
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Let’s learn!
Why in the News?
The Supreme Court, in the case of Rajive Raturi v. Union of India (2024), ruled that Rule 15 of the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (RPwD) Rules, 2017, violates the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016.
The Court found that Rule 15 was written in a discretionary manner, contrasting with the mandatory language of relevant sections in the Act, which obligate the government to ensure accessibility.
Significance of the Present Ruling:
• The present Rajive Raturi v. Union of India (2024) ruling is crucial as Rule 15 underpins various accessibility guidelines from different ministries, such as housing and transportation. • By declaring Rule 15 ultra vires, the Court effectively nullified the statutory authority of the existing guidelines and mandated the government to establish minimum mandatory accessibility requirements within three months. Rule 15 of the Act states that the appropriate government shall designate one or more authorities to mobilize the community and create social awareness to support persons with disabilities in the exercise of their legal capacity. • The judgment highlights a significant oversight in how accessibility guidelines have been developed without a unified framework, calling for a shift towards principle-based rules that ensure comprehensive and inclusive access for all individuals.
What are the provisions under the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016?
• The Act aims to ensure that all PwDs can lead their lives with dignity, without discrimination and with equal opportunities. • It was enacted to give effect to the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (UNCRPD) of 2007, to which India is a signatory. The key provisions of the Act are as follows: • PwD refers to a person with long term physical, mental, intellectual or sensory impairment which, in interaction with barriers, hinders his full and effective participation in society equally with others. • It recognises 21 types of disabilities including acid attack victims, intellectual disability, mental illness, etc. • State governments are responsible for ensuring PwDs enjoy the right to equality, life with dignity and respect. It ensures their protection from abuse, cruelty, inhuman treatment, violence and exploitation, etc. Other rights include the right to home and family, reproductive right, accessibility in voting, the right to own or inherit property. • It refers to a person with at least 40% of a specified disability, whether defined in measurable terms or not as certified by the relevant authority. • If a PwD cannot make legally binding decisions even with support, a limited guardian may be appointed. The District Court or designated authority may also grant total support to the person if needed. • The Act mandates the government to formulate necessary programmes to safeguard the rights of PwDs for an adequate standard of living to enable them to live independently or in the community.
How is the idea of Accessibility pursued?
Accessibility is recognized as a fundamental right under the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities. It establishes standardized accessibility measures that must be integrated from the outset in various environments.
Reasonable accommodation, on the other hand, acts as a facilitator of equality by addressing specific challenges faced by individuals in particular contexts. It tailors solutions to meet unique needs, ensuring that all individuals can participate fully.
Both concepts are interdependent; accessibility lays the groundwork, while reasonable accommodation provides necessary adjustments for those who still encounter barriers.
The notion of accessibility is dynamic, evolving with technological advancements such as Artificial Intelligence and the Internet of Things. This evolution necessitates continuous updates to digital accessibility tools to enhance inclusivity.
The Rajive Raturi case emphasized that existing guidelines often set long-term goals without immediate minimum standards. A phased approach is needed, where accessibility thresholds are gradually raised over time, similar to Canada’s roadmap for achieving full accessibility by 2040.
What are the barriers to Accessibility?
Definition: The RPwD Act defines barriers broadly, including both tangible (infrastructure) and intangible (attitudinal) obstacles. Recognizing attitudinal barriers is crucial for fostering a more inclusive society.
As societal understanding of disability evolves, so too must the parameters for accessibility. This includes acknowledging that disability can arise from various situations beyond permanent impairments, such as temporary injuries or age-related challenges.
Universal Design Principles: The concept of universal design has expanded to encompass not just PwDs but all vulnerable groups, including women, children, and the elderly. This shift reflects a broader understanding that disability is not merely an individual limitation but often a result of environmental factors.
What is the significance of compliance with Social Audit under the RPwD Act?
Section 48 of the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (RPwD) Act, 2016 mandates that both Central and State governments conduct regular social audits of all general schemes and programs to ensure they meet the needs of persons with disabilities (PwDs).
• Accountability: Social audits help identify bottlenecks in the delivery of services, assess the effectiveness of assistance technologies provided to PwDs, and adapt to their changing needs. • Service Improvement: By evaluating existing schemes, social audits can lead to better device provision and more effective support systems for individuals with disabilities.
What are the challenges in Implementation?
Lack of Standardized Guidelines: Currently, there are no clear guidelines under the RPwD Rules regarding the scope and methodology for conducting social audits. This absence leads to inconsistencies between the Centre and States, a lack of awareness among stakeholders, and insufficient training for auditors.
For instance, a sporting complex has multiple guidelines for accessibility from the Ministry of Urban Affairs and Housing, Sports, Transport, and others.
Need for Clarity: Establishing clear operational guidelines for social audits is essential to effectively identify evolving disability-related challenges and implement targeted interventions.
Way Forward: There is a need for a principled approach to accessibility that transcends mere compliance with regulations. By ensuring that accessibility rules are clear, inclusive, and well-enforced, society can move towards a more equitable environment where everyone has the opportunity to participate fully.
This structured approach will not only benefit individuals with disabilities but will also enhance user experience for all members of society.
Recently six people lost their lives in a stampede in Tirupati while waiting to collect tokens for Lord Venkateswara’s darshan.
Why do stampedes take place?
Stampedes are chaotic and uncontrolled movements of large crowds, often triggered by panic or an urgent rush to move in a confined or crowded space.
Venues that exceed their safe capacity can lead to dangerously crowded conditions. When too many people gather in a confined space, the risk of a stampede increases significantly.
Inadequate planning and lack of effective crowd control measures, such as clear exits and designated waiting areas, can exacerbate the situation. Poor organisation often leads to confusion and panic among attendees.
Narrow pathways, obstacles, and poorly designed event spaces can create bottlenecks during emergencies. These barriers make it difficult for people to move freely and can trap crowds, increasing the risk of crush injuries.
How does human psychology lead to stampedes?
Panic Response: Panic can spread rapidly through crowds, causing individuals to act irrationally. When one person begins to push forward out of fear or urgency, it creates a domino effect where others follow without understanding the situation.
External Triggers: Events such as loud noises, sudden movements, or perceived threats (like a fire or an emergency) can trigger panic responses in crowds, leading to stampedes.
Psychological Factors: Theories of collective behaviour suggest that in large groups, individuals may act against their own interests when panic sets in.
For instance, the desire to escape a perceived danger can override cooperative behaviour, leading to chaotic pushing and shoving.
How does the physical organisation of spaces contribute to stampedes?
Narrow Exits and Blocked Pathways: Limited exits and narrow pathways can create bottlenecks during emergencies, making it difficult for individuals to evacuate quickly.
When a crowd is forced to funnel through a small area which leads to panic and chaos, increasing the likelihood of a stampede as people rush to escape.
Poorly Designed Crowd Flow: Spaces that do not effectively manage crowd flow can exacerbate congestion.
Suppose different groups of people converge at the same point without clear guidance or separation that can lead to confusion and a surge of movement, triggering stampede conditions. Effective crowd management strategies are essential to ensure smooth movement.
Inadequate Lighting and Visibility: Insufficient lighting can disorient attendees and hinder their ability to navigate the space safely. In low-light conditions, individuals may struggle to see exits or understand the crowd dynamics, leading to increased panic and disorder during critical moments, which can precipitate a stampede.
How to better prevent stampedes, or at least, mitigate their risks? (Way forward)
Effective Crowd Management: Limit crowd size through pre-registration, schedule staggered entries, and organise queues with barriers and clear signage. Use real-time monitoring tools like CCTV and AI-based systems to manage crowd density.
Improved Infrastructure and Emergency Readiness: Design venues with wide pathways, multiple exits, and clear evacuation routes. Provide on-site medical facilities and train staff in crowd control, first aid, and emergency response.
Public Awareness and Technology Use: Educate attendees on safety protocols, and use digital tools like online ticketing and mobile alerts to prevent physical queues and guide the crowd calmly during emergencies.
In the 2024 case of Tejender Pal Singh v. State of Rajasthan, the Rajasthan High Court warned that Section 152 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) should not be misused to suppress valid criticism or peaceful dissent.
What are the key differences between Section 152 of the BNS and Section 124A of the IPC?
Terminology and Scope:
Section 124A (IPC) specifically criminalizes acts that bring hatred or contempt towards the government, termed as sedition. It focuses on inciting disaffection against the government.
Section 152 (BNS) criminalizes acts that endanger the sovereignty, unity, and integrity of India, including inciting rebellion or promoting separatism. While it does not explicitly use the term “sedition,” it covers similar ground with broader language.
Penalties:
Section 124A prescribes a punishment of life imprisonment or a minimum of three years in prison, along with a possible fine.
Section 152 increases the potential penalty to life imprisonment or up to seven years, along with a mandatory fine, making it potentially more stringent.
Intent Requirement:
Section 124A requires proof of intent to incite disaffection.
Section 152 lowers this threshold by allowing prosecution if a person “knowingly” shares information that could incite rebellion or separatism, regardless of malicious intent.
How does Section 152 impact freedom of speech and legitimate dissent?
Chilling Effect: The vagueness of what constitutes an act endangering sovereignty can lead to a chilling effect on free speech. Individuals may self-censor to avoid potential legal repercussions for expressing dissenting opinions or criticism of the government.
Potential for Abuse: The broad language and lack of clear definitions in Section 152 allow for expansive interpretation by enforcement authorities. This can result in legitimate expressions of dissent being criminalized under the guise of national security.
Judicial Oversight: The Rajasthan High Court emphasized that Section 152 should not be used as a tool to suppress dissent but rather as a protective measure for national security. It called for careful application and judicial oversight to ensure that legitimate criticism is not equated with sedition.
What are the legal and constitutional implications of enforcing Section 152?
Constitutional Rights: Enforcing Section 152 raises concerns regarding violations of Articles 14 (Right to Equality) and 19 (Freedom of Speech) of the Indian Constitution. The vague definitions may lead to arbitrary enforcement, undermining individual rights and freedoms.
Judicial Precedents: The judiciary has historically favoured a consequentialist approach in interpreting laws related to free speech. Previous rulings have established that there must be a direct causal link between speech and its impact for it to constitute an offence. This precedent should guide the interpretation and enforcement of Section 152.
Need for Guidelines: There is an urgent need for the Supreme Court to establish clear guidelines regarding the application of Section 152, similar to those created in past cases. This would help delineate acceptable boundaries for criticism while protecting national interests without infringing on civil liberties.
Way forward:
Establish Clear Guidelines: The Supreme Court should set precise guidelines for applying Section 152 to ensure a balance between protecting national security and safeguarding freedom of speech, as done in past landmark cases.
Promote Judicial Oversight: Enforcement authorities should be required to demonstrate a direct and significant link between the speech and its impact, with courts actively monitoring cases to prevent misuse of the law against legitimate dissent.
Mains PYQ:
Q What do understand by the concept “freedom of speech and expression”? Does it cover hate speech also? Why do films in India stand on a slightly different plane from other forms of expression? Discuss. (UPSC IAS/2014)
Recently, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar said that there are many challenges in giving dual citizenship to Indians living abroad. He mentioned that the Overseas Citizenship of India program is a step towards addressing this need and added that the discussion about dual citizenship is still ongoing.
What are the arguments for and against dual citizenship in India?
Arguments Against Dual Citizenship:
Divided Loyalties: Critics argue that dual citizenship would lead to divided loyalties, undermining national integrity. Political rights granted to dual citizens could create conflicts of allegiance between India and another country, which is seen as dangerous for India’s sovereignty.
Legal Restrictions: The Indian Constitution mandates that acquiring citizenship in another country results in the automatic loss of Indian citizenship. This legal framework does not support dual citizenship, making it a complex issue to address.
Historical Context: The Citizenship Amendment Act of 2019 reflects a cautious approach to citizenship rights, emphasizing the need for complete loyalty to India and limiting the scope of citizenship to those who relinquish foreign nationality.
Arguments For Dual Citizenship:
Global Integration: Proponents believe that allowing dual citizenship could strengthen ties between India and its diaspora, fostering economic and cultural exchanges in an increasingly globalized world.
Economic Contributions: There is a belief that dual citizenship could attract foreign investment and encourage Indian expatriates to contribute more significantly to India’s economy without the fear of losing their original nationality.
How does India’s stance on dual citizenship compare with other democracies?
India’s Position on Dual Citizenship: According to Article 9 of the Indian Constitution, any Indian citizen who voluntarily acquires citizenship of another country ceases to be an Indian citizen. This is reinforced by the Citizenship Act of 1955, which outlines that Indian citizenship is singular and does not accommodate dual nationality.
Comparison with Other Democracies
United States: The U.S. has no restrictions on dual citizenship. Citizens can hold multiple nationalities without losing their U.S. citizenship. This reflects a more permissive approach towards allegiance and nationality.
Canada: Canada also allows dual citizenship and recognizes the right of its citizens to hold multiple nationalities. This policy facilitates a diverse and multicultural society.
Australia: Similar to Canada, Australia permits dual nationality and extends full consular assistance to its citizens regardless of their other nationalities.
Germany: Germany has specific regulations regarding dual citizenship, generally requiring individuals to choose one nationality unless they are EU citizens or meet certain conditions. This reflects a more nuanced approach than India’s outright prohibition.
What are the current legal frameworks?
Overseas Citizenship of India (OCI): Introduced in 2005, OCI allows persons of Indian origin from certain countries to reside in India without a visa and grants them some rights akin to those of Non-Resident Indians (NRIs). However, OCIs do not have voting rights or the ability to hold constitutional offices.
Eligibility: The OCI scheme is available primarily to individuals who were citizens of India or eligible for Indian citizenship at the time of the Constitution’s commencement, excluding those from Pakistan and Bangladesh. It is contingent upon the individual’s home country allowing some form of dual citizenship.
What are the challenges?
Political Loyalty Concerns: There is a prevalent fear that granting dual citizenship would lead to divided loyalties among citizens, particularly regarding political rights.
Public Sentiment and Political Will: There is significant public resistance against dual citizenship due to concerns about national security and sovereignty.
Complexity of Implementation: Implementing a dual citizenship framework would require substantial legal changes and could complicate India’s existing immigration and nationality laws. The challenge lies in balancing the interests of the diaspora with the need to maintain a cohesive national identity.
Way forward:
Gradual Legal Reforms: India could consider a phased approach to dual citizenship by first allowing it for specific categories such as diaspora members who maintain close economic or cultural ties with India, while ensuring that political rights remain exclusive to Indian citizens only.
Enhanced OCI Benefits: India could expand the rights of Overseas Citizens of India (OCI) holders, granting them more privileges such as the right to vote or hold certain offices, without granting full dual citizenship.
Mains PYQ:
Q ‘Indian diaspora has a decisive role to play in the politics and economy of America and European Countries’. Comment with examples. (UPSC IAS/2020)
According to the World Economic Forum’s (WEF) Future of Jobs Report 2025, global macro trends, including technological advancements, demographic shifts, and the green transition, will create 170 million new jobs by 2030.
About the Future of Jobs Report, 2025
It is based on insights gathered from over 1,000 leading global companies, collectively representing 14 million workers across 22 industry sectors and 55 economies worldwide.
It provides critical insights into emerging and declining job roles, skills trends, and the overall impact of global changes on the labour market.
What are the key findings of the report?
The report projects 170 million new jobs globally by 2030, with a net increase of 78 million jobs after accounting for 92 million displaced roles.
Fast-growing roles include AI and machine learning specialists, big data experts, FinTech engineers, and farmworkers, driven by technological advancements and the green transition.
Clerical jobs like data entry clerks and cashiers are declining due to automation.
Employers anticipate 39% of skills will change by 2030, with growing demand for AI proficiency, creative thinking, and resilience.
Businesses are focusing on reskilling, with 85% investing in upskilling programs.
Collaboration among governments, academia, and industries is vital to bridge the skills gap and align with future job demands.
About World Economic Forum (WEF):
The WEF is an international NGO for Public-Private Cooperation.
It was established in January 1971 by German engineer and economist Klaus Schwab.
Important reports published by WEF include: Global Competitiveness Report, Global Risks Report, Global Gender Gap Report, Global Social Mobility Report, Energy Transition Index, and Travel & Tourism Competitiveness Report, among others.
PYQ:
[2019] The Global Competitiveness Report is published by the:
(a) International Monetary Fund
(b) United Nations Conference on Trade and Development
