PYQ Relevance:
[UPSC 2016] Present an account of the Indus Water Treaty and examine its ecological, economic and political implications in the context of changing bilateral relations.
Linkage: India’s action regarding the IWT due to strained bilateral relations stemming from terrorism and outlines potential economic impacts on Pakistan and political/diplomatic implications for India. |
Mentor’s Comment: In response to the terrorist attack by The Resistance Front that killed 26 tourists in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, India’s Cabinet Committee on Security decided to suspend the Indus Waters Treaty (IWT) of 1960 immediately. This suspension will remain in place until Pakistan completely stops supporting cross-border terrorism. The decision essentially means ending the water treaty, which was signed in 1960, but there is no clause in the treaty that allows for it to be cancelled unilaterally.
Today’s editorial looks at the recent halt of the Indus Waters Treaty (IWT) after a terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir. This topic is useful for GS Paper II (International Relations).
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Let’s learn!
Why in the News?
India may defend its decision to suspend the Indus Waters Treaty, but this could affect its relationships with neighbouring countries.
Why did India suspend the Indus Waters Treaty?
- Response to Cross-Border Terrorism: India suspended the IWT as a strong retaliatory measure after The Resistance Front, a Pakistan-backed terrorist group, killed 26 tourists in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir. Eg: The Cabinet Committee on Security declared the suspension until Pakistan “credibly and irrevocably abjures its support for cross-border terrorism.”
- Strategic Leverage Against Pakistan: India views the IWT as a tool of strategic pressure, given that Pakistan’s agriculture and hydropower heavily rely on water from the Indus, Jhelum, and Chenab rivers. Eg: By suspending water-sharing obligations and planning to increase storage and diversion, India aims to weaken Pakistan’s water security.
What legal challenges arise from this suspension under international law?
- Lack of Exit Clause in the IWT: The IWT does not have a provision for unilateral termination or suspension by either party. Article XII (4) specifies that the treaty shall continue unless a duly ratified treaty for termination is concluded. Eg: India’s suspension of the treaty violates this provision, as there is no formal exit mechanism within the IWT itself.
- Vienna Convention on the Law of Treaties (VCLT) Challenges: India’s use of VCLT provisions, particularly Article 62 on treaty modification or termination due to a fundamental change in circumstances, is problematic. India is not a party to the VCLT, and Pakistan has signed but not ratified it, making its application complex. Eg: Using VCLT to justify the suspension may face legal challenges since it doesn’t apply directly in the context of the IWT.
- Violation of International Legal Norms: Unilateral suspension of the IWT without mutual consent may be viewed as a violation of customary international law, which favors the continuation of treaties unless both parties agree to their termination. Eg: Legal experts argue that India’s actions undermine the principle of pacta sunt servanda (agreements must be kept), which is a core tenet of international law.
- Possible Retaliation and Legal Action by Pakistan: Pakistan has legal recourse to challenge India’s suspension, including bringing the issue to international forums such as the ICJ, UN Security Council, or the Permanent Court of Arbitration. Eg: Pakistan could argue that India’s suspension violates the VCLT or raises a dispute regarding the treaty’s interpretation, seeking a legal ruling on the matter.
How could the move impact water disputes within Pakistan?
- Intensification of Inter-Provincial Water Conflicts: Pakistan’s provinces, particularly Punjab and Sindh, already face longstanding water disputes. India’s suspension of the IWT could exacerbate these internal conflicts, especially as the western rivers are critical to both agriculture and hydroelectric power in Pakistan. Eg: Punjab and Sindh have previously clashed over water allocations, and a reduction in water flow from India could heighten tensions, particularly over the allocation of Indus river waters.
- Increased Political Instability: A reduction in the water flow from India could lead to widespread agricultural damage and water shortages, particularly in Punjab, which is the country’s agricultural heartland. This could spark public protests and political instability within Pakistan. Eg: The ongoing disputes over projects like the Cholistan Canal between provinces may intensify if Pakistan faces reduced water availability, leading to political pressures on the federal government to resolve these disputes.
Which infrastructure projects support India’s water strategy?
- Hydroelectric Projects: Projects like Kishanganga Hydroelectric Project and Ratle Dam utilize water from the western rivers for power generation, in line with India’s share under the Indus Waters Treaty.
- Run-of-the-River Dams: Baglihar Dam and Salal Dam regulate river flows for electricity generation, without significant water storage, supporting India’s strategy to manage water resources.
- Irrigation and Flood Control: Infrastructure like the Srinagar flood control project and irrigation systems in Jammu and Kashmir helps manage water for agricultural use and regional stability.
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What are the regional diplomatic consequences of India’s decision?
- Strained Relations with Pakistan: Suspending the Indus Waters Treaty (IWT) may worsen India-Pakistan relations, particularly over water access, potentially leading to diplomatic protests. Eg: Pakistan could raise the issue at international platforms like the UN or the International Court of Justice.
- Impact on India-China Relations: China, as an upper riparian of India’s rivers, may use India’s suspension to justify withholding hydro data on rivers like the Brahmaputra. Eg: During the 2017 Doklam crisis, China did not share hydro data with India but did with Bangladesh.
- Influence on India-Bangladesh Ties: India’s suspension could affect the renewal of the Ganga Water Treaty with Bangladesh in 2026. Eg: Bangladesh could be concerned about water-sharing agreements, given the geopolitical tensions.
Way forward:
- Engage in Diplomatic Dialogue: India should initiate diplomatic discussions with Pakistan, China, and Bangladesh to mitigate tensions and seek mutually beneficial water-sharing agreements, ensuring regional stability.
- Strengthen Water Infrastructure: India must invest in enhancing its water storage and management infrastructure to maximize its treaty entitlements and reduce reliance on fluctuating water flows.
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Why in the News?
On May 1, as people around the world celebrate Labour Day to respect workers and their rights, the lives of millions of bonded labourers in India show a sad and harsh reality.
What are the key factors contributing to bonded labour in India?
- Economic Vulnerability: Poor financial conditions force individuals to take loans or advances from employers or agents, trapping them in bonded labour. Eg: A family in Andhra Pradesh takes an advance of ₹2,000 to work at a brick kiln, leading them into a cycle of forced labour.
- Social Discrimination and Exclusion: Marginalized communities, including lower-caste and ethnic minorities, are more likely to be exploited and trapped in bonded labour due to societal inequalities. Eg: A tribal family from Madhya Pradesh faces exploitation in a sugarcane farm in Karnataka, where they are denied fair wages and basic rights.
- Lack of Education and Awareness: Illiteracy and lack of access to information prevent workers from understanding their rights, making them vulnerable to exploitation. Eg: Migrant workers in India often unknowingly agree to exploitative terms, not realizing they have legal protections, as seen with many labourers working in informal sectors without contracts.
Why has the government’s target of eradicating bonded labour by 2030 been deemed overly optimistic?
- Low Rescue and Rehabilitation Rates: Despite a target of freeing 1.84 crore bonded labourers, only 12,760 were rescued between 2016 and 2021. Eg: To meet the 2030 goal, around 11 lakh people must be rescued every year since 2021, but actual rescues remain far below this mark.
- Lack of Effective Implementation: Government plans and policies exist on paper, but enforcement at the ground level is weak due to administrative apathy and corruption. Eg: Mukesh Adivasi was trafficked and brutalised despite bonded labour being abolished in 1975, showing poor implementation.
- Underestimation of the Scale and Complexity: The issue of bonded and forced labour is deeply rooted in economic, social, and cultural structures, making it hard to resolve with short-term policies. Eg: Millions of unorganised migrant workers face bonded-like conditions across industries, beyond the government’s current rescue capacity.
How does the lack of unionisation among unorganised workers affect their conditions and bargaining power?
- No Collective Bargaining Power: Without unions, unorganised workers cannot negotiate better wages, safety standards, or working hours. Eg: Migrant workers like Mukesh were forced to work 14–16 hours daily without fair compensation or the right to protest.
- Increased Vulnerability to Exploitation: The absence of union support leaves workers exposed to abuse, wage theft, and arbitrary dismissal. Eg: Thenmozhi’s family faced verbal abuse, beatings, and confinement in a brick kiln with no platform to seek redress.
- Lack of Legal Awareness and Representation: Unorganised workers often remain unaware of their rights and have no representation to access justice or government schemes. Eg: Many bonded labourers accept exploitative terms due to illiteracy and isolation, with no union to guide or support them.
What was Dr. B.R. Ambedkar’s contribution to workers’ rights?
- Advocated for Legal Recognition of Trade Unions and Collective Bargaining: Dr. Ambedkar strongly supported the formation of trade unions and the workers’ right to strike, believing these were essential for industrial democracy. Eg: As Labour Member in the Viceroy’s Executive Council (1942–46), he introduced laws ensuring trade union recognition and promoted fair negotiations between workers and employers.
- Pioneered Labour Welfare Legislation: He played a key role in framing foundational labour laws related to working hours, minimum wages, and social security. Eg: The Indian Factories Act, 1948, limiting work hours and ensuring basic worker protections, reflected Ambedkar’s vision for humane working conditions.
How have recent Labour Codes undermined his legacy?
- Weakened Collective Bargaining Rights: The Industrial Relations Code, 2020, imposes stricter conditions for strikes and allows employers to hire contract workers more freely, diluting workers’ ability to unionise and negotiate. Eg: A strike now requires a 60-day notice in all sectors, undermining spontaneous worker movements.
- Erosion of Job Security: The new codes ease the norms for hiring and firing workers in establishments with up to 300 employees, without government approval, reducing job stability. Eg: Earlier, firms with over 100 workers needed government permission for retrenchment; this threshold has now tripled.
- Dilution of Social Security Coverage: The Social Security Code, 2020, merges multiple welfare laws but leaves vast sections of informal workers outside its effective coverage due to unclear implementation mechanisms. Eg: Gig and platform workers are included in name, but lack defined contributions and benefits, weakening the universal welfare vision Ambedkar championed.
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Way forward:
- Strengthen Enforcement and Rehabilitation: Ensure strict implementation of anti-bonded labour laws with timely rescue, rehabilitation, and compensation for victims.
- Empower Workers through Unionisation and Awareness: Promote unionisation among informal workers and spread legal awareness to build collective bargaining power and prevent exploitation.
Mains PYQ:
[UPSC 2018] Despite implementation of various programmes for eradication of poverty by the government in India, poverty is still existing.’ Explain by giving reasons.
Linkage: Bonded labour is a manifestation of extreme poverty and the failure of poverty alleviation programmes to reach the most vulnerable, forcing them into debt bondage.
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Why in the News?
Even before Donald Trump’s time in office, there were clear signs that the world was becoming more uncertain in many areas. This was a warning of trouble in different parts of the world, and leaders in government, business, and strategy had already started getting ready for tougher times.
What are the main global disruptions contributing to geopolitical and economic instability?
- Leader-led Disruption and Geopolitical Tensions: Authoritarian leaders such as Xi Jinping, Vladimir Putin, and Donald Trump are reshaping global politics. Eg: Russia’s invasion of Ukraine and U.S. trade wars under Trump have strained international alliances.
- Rise of Protectionism and Trade Wars: Economic nationalism and tariff barriers have disrupted global trade. Eg: Trump’s tariff war with China reduced U.S. GDP growth and disrupted global supply chains.
- Technological Disruption and Cyber Threats: Rapid tech changes and cyber warfare are causing instability in national security and job markets. Eg: Growing reliance on disruptive technologies without governance frameworks leads to digital vulnerabilities.
- Regional Conflicts and Expanding Military Influence: Conflicts in West Asia, increasing military presence, and border tensions are destabilizing regions. Eg: Israel’s offensive in Gaza, tensions in Syria, and China’s naval expansion in the Indian Ocean.
- Resurgence of Terrorism and Non-State Actors: Groups like ISIS are re-emerging in Africa and South Asia, causing fresh security challenges. Eg: Recent terror attacks in Kashmir and IS activity in Mozambique and Congo signal renewed threats.
Why is the United States, once a model of democratic stability, now perceived as a deeply divided nation?
- Deepening Political Polarization: Internal divisions between conservative and liberal ideologies have intensified, weakening national unity. Eg: Sharp divide over Trump’s policies and Capitol Hill riots in January 2021 reflect erosion of democratic consensus.
- Transactional Foreign Policy Approach: U.S. foreign relations have become self-serving, leading to fractured alliances. Eg: Trump’s tariff wars and criticism of NATO allies strained transatlantic relations.
- Targeting of Educational and Immigration Systems: Policies against foreign students and elite institutions hurt America’s soft power and economy. Eg: Restrictions on student visas under Trump threatened $40 billion in economic contribution.
- Economic Protectionism and Declining Global Trade Role: Shift from free trade to protectionist policies reduced U.S. leadership in global economic governance. Eg: Imposition of tariffs led to decline in U.S. GDP growth and disrupted global supply chains.
How is China capitalising on the shifting geopolitical landscape in Asia?
- Expanding Influence through the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI): China is using infrastructure projects to create economic dependencies and increase political leverage across Asia. Eg: China’s investment in the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) strengthens its hold in South Asia and secures a vital trade route.
- Exploiting U.S. Retreat and Growing Global Uncertainty: As the U.S. retreats from global leadership, China has stepped in as a key player, especially in the Indo-Pacific. Eg: China’s leadership in the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP), the world’s largest free trade bloc, contrasts with U.S. absence under Trump.
- Enhancing Military and Naval Presence in Key Regions: China is expanding its military presence, particularly in maritime zones crucial for trade and regional security. Eg: China’s aggressive stance in the South China Sea, including artificial island building and military installations, asserts control over disputed waters.
- Strengthening Bilateral and Multilateral Ties with Neighboring Countries: China is forging strategic alliances with neighboring countries to offset U.S. influence and enhance regional dominance. Eg: China’s growing ties with Southeast Asian countries like Cambodia and Laos, as well as influence in Sri Lanka through infrastructure projects like the Hambantota Port.
- Leveraging the China-India Rivalry to Expand Influence: China is exploiting tensions between India and its neighbors to increase its regional influence. Eg: China’s increasing influence over Nepal, Sri Lanka, and Bangladesh, alongside tensions at the India-China border, shifts regional power dynamics in China’s favour
What implications could this have for India?
- Strategic Encirclement and Security Concerns: China’s increasing presence in India’s neighborhood (Pakistan, Nepal, Sri Lanka) creates strategic pressure and challenges India’s regional dominance.Eg: The development of the Hambantota Port in Sri Lanka under China’s BRI is seen as part of a “String of Pearls” strategy encircling India.
- Economic Competition and Trade Imbalance: China’s dominance in Asian trade frameworks like RCEP and its export power pose risks to Indian manufacturing and trade sovereignty. Eg: India opted out of RCEP over concerns that cheap Chinese imports would harm Indian MSMEs.
- Border Tensions and Military Confrontation: Persistent border disputes, particularly along the Line of Actual Control (LAC), escalate military spending and diplomatic tensions. Eg: The 2020 Galwan Valley clash led to casualties on both sides and worsened India-China relations..
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Way forward:
- Strengthen Strategic Partnerships: India should deepen ties with like-minded nations through forums like Quad and ASEAN to counterbalance China’s regional dominance. Eg: Enhanced defense and technology cooperation with Japan, Australia, and the U.S.
- Boost Domestic Capabilities and Connectivity: Accelerate infrastructure development, self-reliant manufacturing (Atmanirbhar Bharat), and regional connectivity with neighbors to reduce Chinese influence. Eg: Development of the Chabahar Port to bypass China-influenced trade routes.
Mains PYQ:
[UPSC 2021] The USA is facing an existential threat in the form of a China, that is much more challenging than the erstwhile Soviet Union.” Explain.
Linkage: Major shift in the global power balance and a challenge to the established international order (historically dominated by the US post-Cold War).
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Why in the News?
In a landmark move, the Cabinet Committee on Political Affairs (CCPA) has approved the inclusion of caste enumeration in the 2025 population census for the first time since India’s independence.
What is Caste Census?
- A caste census is the process of recording individuals’ caste identities during a national census.
- It aims to gather data on the distribution and socio-economic status of different caste groups, helping inform policies related to affirmative action, social justice, and welfare programs in India.
- Caste plays a significant role in the country’s social, economic, and political life.
- History of Caste Census:
- British India (1881–1931): Caste enumeration was part of the decennial census under British rule, used for administrative purposes.
- Post-Independence (1951): After independence, the Indian government, led by Jawaharlal Nehru, discontinued caste enumeration to promote national unity and avoid social divisions.
- 1961 Directive: States were allowed to collect their own data on Other Backward Classes (OBCs), leading to fragmented caste data collection at the state level.
- 1980 Mandal Commission: The commission recommended 27% reservation for OBCs in government jobs, fuelling the demand for caste-based data. The lack of national caste data made the implementation of such policies contentious.
- 2011 Socio-Economic Caste Census (SECC): The SECC collected caste data, but it was not officially integrated into the census, and its findings were not fully released, drawing criticism for lack of transparency and application.
Implications of Caste Census:
- Political: It can help improve representation for marginalized groups and ensure better-targeted welfare programs.
- Social: Unveils intersectional disparities, helping identify gaps in services like education, healthcare, and social protection.
- Policy: Aids in shaping reservation policies and resource allocation for poverty alleviation.
- Opposition and Concerns: Some worry it may reinforce caste-based divisions, particularly among upper-caste groups and certain political factions.
- Electoral and Governance: Accurate data influences electoral strategies, helping parties address community-specific needs.
- Legal and Administrative Impact: The 2025 caste enumeration raises issues regarding data collection, classification, and use, ensuring it is applied effectively without reinforcing caste-based disparities.
| [UPSC 2008] Amongst the following States, which one has the highest percentage of rural population (on the basis of the Census, 2001)?
Options: (a) Himachal Pradesh* (b) Bihar (c) Odisha (d) Uttar Pradesh |
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Why in the News?
The Union Government has reconstituted the National Security Advisory Board (NSAB), appointing Alok Joshi, former chief of the Research and Analysis Wing (RAW), as its new chairman.
About National Security Advisory Board (NSAB):
- The NSAB is a high-level advisory body to the National Security Council (NSC).
- It plays a crucial role in shaping national security policies and responses to both internal and external threats.
- Composition: The NSAB includes eminent individuals from sectors like the armed forces, IPS, IFS, academia, and civil society, selected for expertise in areas such as defense, foreign affairs, internal security, economic affairs, and science & technology.
- Key Functions:
- Provide expert analysis on long-term security issues to the NSC.
- Recommend solutions and policies on matters referred by the NSC.
- Contribute significantly to India’s Nuclear Doctrine, Strategic Defence Reviews, and other critical policy frameworks.
Back2Basics: National Security Council (NSC)
- The NSC is the apex body advising the Prime Minister on national security and foreign policy matters, coordinating the government’s efforts to ensure the nation’s security.
- It was established on 19 November 1998 by Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee.
- Members: National Security Advisor (NSA), Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), Ministers of Defence, External Affairs, Home, and Finance, Deputy NSA, Additional NSAs, and the Vice Chairman of NITI Aayog.
- Three-Tier Structure:
- Strategic Policy Group (SPG): Highest decision-making body.
- NSAB: Provides advisory support.
- NSCS: Implements NSC decisions.
- In July 2024, the NSCS was revamped to fill the Additional NSA post, delegating internal security management and threat analysis to enhance the NSA’s focus on broader challenges.
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| [UPSC 2023] Consider the following statements:
1. According to the Constitution of India, the Central Government has a duty to protect States from internal disturbances. 2. The Constitution of India exempts the States from providing legal counsel to person being held for preventive detention 3. According to the Prevention of Terrorism Act, 2002, confession of the accused before the police cannot be used as evidence.
How many of the above statements are correct?
Options: (a) Only one (b) Only two (c) All three (d) None |
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Why in the News?
New research suggests that understanding the “clumpiness” of matter, measured by Sigma-8 (S8) Tension, could unlock key insights into the universe’s structure and complexity.
What is S8?
- S8 is a measure used by scientists to understand the distribution of matter across the universe, indicating how “clumpy” or evenly spread out the matter (like galaxies, stars, and dark matter) is.
- High S8 tension means matter is clumped together in certain regions, while low S8 means it’s evenly distributed.
- Scientists use S8 to study matter, including dark matter, which is invisible but makes up most of the universe.
- The measurement of S8 helps explain how the universe fits together and has evolved since the Big Bang.
- Recently, conflicting measurements of S8 have caused confusion, raising questions about our understanding of the universe.
Implications for the ΛCDM Model:
- The ΛCDM model (Lambda Cold Dark Matter) is the standard model explaining the universe’s structure, suggesting it’s mainly composed of dark matter and dark energy.
- This model assumes that dark energy is causing the universe’s accelerating expansion.
- S8 discrepancies may challenge the ΛCDM model, indicating a potential gap in our understanding of dark energy or dark matter.
- Possible Implications:
- Revised Theories: Scientists may need to adjust their model of the universe due to conflicting S8 values.
- Re-thinking Dark Energy: If S8 measurements don’t align with predictions, dark energy might not behave as expected.
- New Discoveries: The S8 tension could suggest undiscovered forces or particles influencing matter behavior.
- Better Observations: Improved telescopes and surveys, like the Rubin Legacy Survey, may help clarify why S8 measurements conflict with predictions.
| [UPSC 2015] In the context of modern scientific research, consider the following statements about ‘IceCube’, a particle detector located at South Pole, which was recently in the news:
(1) It is he world’s largest neutrino detector, encompassing a cubic km of ice. (2) It is a powerful telescope to search for dark matter. (3) It is buried deep in the ice. 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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Why in the News?
On Earth Day, April 22, the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) launched the Accelerating Innovative Monitoring for Nature Restoration (AIM4NatuRe) Initiative aimed at accelerating nature restoration.
About the AIM4NatuRe Initiative:
- AIM4NatuRe is a global initiative launched by the FAO aimed at enhancing countries’ ability to monitor and report ecosystem restoration efforts.
- With £7 million (approximately USD 9.38 million) from the United Kingdom, the initiative will run from 2025 to 2028, focusing on restoring 30% of degraded ecosystems globally by 2030, in alignment with the Global Biodiversity Framework (GBF).
- Key aspects:
- Utilizes advanced technology and data frameworks for ecosystem restoration monitoring.
- Targets restoration across forests, wetlands, grasslands, marine ecosystems, and agricultural landscapes.
- Integrates Indigenous knowledge in restoration efforts.
- Develops tools like the Framework for Ecosystem Restoration Monitoring (FERM) and builds a unified global dataset for transparency.
Key Stakeholders:
- FAO: Leads the initiative, providing tools, data, and frameworks to support restoration.
- UK: Provides financial backing and focuses on helping countries achieve the 30×30 target.
- Indigenous Communities: Contribute traditional knowledge and participate in restoration efforts.
- World Resources Institute (WRI): Supports global restoration initiatives, including the Kham River Restoration Mission in India.
- Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD): Shapes the biodiversity framework for monitoring progress on 30% ecosystem restoration by 2030.
- World Bank: Provides funding and technical expertise for financing and implementing ecosystem restoration.
| [UPSC 2014] Consider the following international agreements:
1. The International Treaty on Plant Genetic Resources for Food and Agriculture. 2. The United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification. 3. The World Heritage Convention.
Which of the above has/have a bearing on the biodiversity?
Options: (a) 1 and 2 only (b) 3 only (c) 1 and 3 only (d) 1, 2 and 3 * |
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PYQ Relevance:
[UPSC 2023] The most significant achievement of modern law in India in the constitutionalization of environmental problems by the Supreme Court. Discuss this statement with the help of relevant case laws.
Linkage: The Supreme Court’s proactive role in integrating environmental concerns into constitutional law, aligns with the source’s assertion that environmental protection is a constitutional imperative aimed at safeguarding fundamental rights. |
Mentor’s Comment: A new study published in Nature says that India is the world’s biggest plastic polluter, releasing 9.3 million tonnes of plastic each year—about 20% of the global total. The study defines plastic emissions as plastic waste (like litter and burned plastic) that escapes from areas where it’s at least somewhat controlled and ends up in the open environment, where there’s no control at all.
Today’s editorial looks at plastic pollution in India and the actions taken by the Supreme Court to reduce it. This topic is useful for GS Paper 2 (Policy and governance) and GS Paper 3 (Environmental pollution).
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Why in the News?
A new study published in Nature says that India produces more plastic pollution than any other country in the world.
What does the Nature study reveal about India’s plastic pollution?
- India is the World’s Largest Plastic Polluter: According to the study, India releases 9.3 million tonnes (Mt) of plastic waste annually, accounting for about 20% of global plastic emissions. Eg: This includes both plastic debris and open burning, contributing heavily to land, air, and water pollution.
- Plastic Waste Emissions Include Mismanaged and Openly Burnt Waste: Plastic emissions are defined as plastic that moves from controlled (managed or mismanaged) systems to unmanaged, uncontained environments. Eg: Waste escaping from open dumpsites or burnt in open fields, common in peri-urban and rural India.
- Official Data Grossly Underestimates Real Waste Figures: India’s reported per capita plastic waste generation is 0.12 kg/day, but the study estimates it at 0.54 kg/day, suggesting severe underreporting. Eg: Rural waste and informal recycling activities are often excluded from government reports.
- Uncontrolled Dumpsites Far Outnumber Sanitary Landfills: The study found that unregulated dumpsites outnumber sanitary landfills by 10:1, highlighting a major infrastructure gap. Eg: Cities like Patna and Guwahati rely on open dumping due to lack of engineered landfills.
- Data Deficiency Hampers Effective Waste Management: Lack of reliable data, especially from rural areas and informal sectors, weakens national waste management planning. Eg: In the Indian Himalayan Region, poor data on plastic waste flow leads to accumulation in fragile ecosystems.
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Why is India’s plastic waste data seen as inaccurate?
- Exclusion of Rural Areas from Official Data: Government statistics largely reflect urban waste generation, ignoring plastic waste from vast rural regions. Eg: Villages disposing plastic in fields or burning it are not included in national data systems.
- Unaccounted Informal Recycling Sector: The informal sector plays a big role in plastic recycling but is not officially documented in waste audits. Eg: Ragpickers collecting and selling recyclables in Delhi or Mumbai don’t show up in municipal records.
- No Data on Open Burning of Waste: Open burning, a major source of plastic emissions, is not systematically tracked or included in national waste reports. Eg: In slums and small towns, plastic is often burnt in the open due to lack of collection facilities.
- Overreporting of Waste Collection Coverage: India claims a 95% collection rate, but this is likely overstated due to poor documentation and ground reality. Eg: Areas with irregular garbage pickup services are still marked as “covered” in official data.
- Lack of Transparent Data Methodology: There is no clarity on how data is collected, audited, or verified by municipal or state agencies. Eg: The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) reports don’t mention the sampling or survey methods used.
How can India improve its waste management system?
- Ensure Reliable and Inclusive Data Collection: Create a robust, transparent mechanism to collect data from both urban and rural areas, including informal sectors. Eg: Use mobile apps or digital platforms to track daily waste from panchayats and slums in states like Bihar or Odisha.
- Mandate Waste Audits and Public Methodologies: All data-gathering agencies must publish their methodologies and undergo third-party audits to ensure accuracy. Eg: Municipal bodies in Maharashtra could be required to disclose how they measure household waste generation.
- Link Local Bodies to Full Waste Processing Ecosystem: Every urban and rural local body should be mandatorily connected to Material Recovery Facilities (MRFs), recyclers, EPR kiosks, and landfills. Eg: Villages in Himachal Pradesh could be linked to nearby MRFs for segregating plastic and compostable waste.
- Implement and Monitor Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR): Producers, importers, and brand owners (PIBOs) must collect and manage plastic waste they generate, through designated kiosks. Eg: FMCG companies could set up EPR kiosks in towns across Tamil Nadu to collect multi-layered packaging.
- Leverage Technology and Geo-tag Infrastructure: Use India’s tech capability to geo-tag waste infrastructure, monitor waste flows, and plan better logistics. Eg: Using GIS-based dashboards to track landfill use and recycling rates in cities like Bengaluru and Jaipur.
What is the Vellore Tanneries Case?
- The Vellore Tanneries Case refers to a significant legal battle concerning the environmental pollution caused by the tannery industry in Vellore, Tamil Nadu, India. It is a landmark case due to its focus on the polluter pays principle and environmental justice.
Why did the Supreme Court act on the Vellore tanneries case?
- To Enforce Environmental Justice and Fundamental Rights: The Court recognized that pollution from tanneries violated citizens’ fundamental rights to clean air, water, and health, guaranteed under Article 21 of the Constitution. Eg: Villagers in Vellore affected by contaminated groundwater and health issues were denied their basic rights.
- To Ensure Accountability and Compliance: Government policies and earlier Court orders had been routinely ignored, so the Court issued a continuing mandamus to ensure time-bound compliance. Eg: The Court directed a committee to monitor clean-up and remediation in Vellore and submit reports within 4 months.
- To Uphold the “Polluter Pays Principle”: The Court ruled that polluters must bear the cost of damage to the environment and compensate affected communities. Eg: Tanneries discharging untreated effluents were made liable for both environmental restoration and community compensation.
- To Promote Sustainable Development through Remediation: The Court emphasized that restoring the damaged environment is a part of sustainable development, not an optional activity. Eg: Soil and water remediation programs in the affected leather clusters were ordered to be implemented.
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Way forward:
- Strengthen Data Collection and Transparency: Establish comprehensive waste data systems that include rural areas, informal sectors, and open burning, with clear methodologies and third-party audits to ensure accurate reporting.
- Implement Robust Waste Management Infrastructure: Connect local bodies to the full waste processing ecosystem, enforce Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) for plastic waste, and leverage technology to track and manage waste flows effectively.
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Why in the News?
India’s average Index of Industrial Production (IIP) for fiscal year 2025 has dropped to 4%, the lowest level in the past four years, showing a clear slowdown in industrial growth.
What are the main factors contributing to the slowdown in India’s Index of Industrial Production (IIP) in FY25?
- Global Economic Uncertainty: The global economic outlook remains uncertain, affecting India’s external trade and exports. This slowdown in global demand impacts industrial growth. Eg: India’s goods exports grew at a slower pace in FY25, which strains industrial output as global demand weakens.
- Lower Domestic Consumption Demand: Slower-than-expected growth in domestic consumption has affected industries that rely on the domestic market, such as consumer goods and durable products. Eg: Consumer non-durables showed a negative growth of -1.6% in FY25, reflecting weak demand despite a fall in retail inflation.
- Reduced Private Capital Expenditure (Capex): A decline in private sector investment (capital expenditure) impacts industrial growth, especially in infrastructure and manufacturing. Eg: The dip in capex lending rates, though lower, did not spark sufficient investment, reflecting cautious private sector sentiment in an uncertain economic environment.
- Decline in Key Industrial Sectors: Sectors like mining, manufacturing, and electricity witnessed slower growth in FY25 compared to FY24, contributing to the overall slowdown in industrial production. Eg: Mining’s growth plummeted from 7.5% in FY24 to 2.9% in FY25, and manufacturing also saw a decline, affecting overall industrial output.
- Weak Goods Exports: India’s goods exports, particularly in the MSME sector, showed limited growth due to strained trade relations, especially with major trading partners like the United States. Eg: The flat growth in FY25’s goods exports, especially from MSMEs, highlights the challenges faced by small businesses and the manufacturing sector in expanding their global market share.
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Why has rural consumption remained strained despite a drop in retail inflation?
- Lingering Effects of High Food Inflation: Although retail inflation dropped, the high food inflation experienced in the last fiscal year (October to December) continues to affect rural households, leaving them with reduced disposable income. Eg: In FY24, the spike in food prices, particularly for essential items like pulses and vegetables, strained rural budgets, and recovery from this shock has been slow.
- Reduced Farm Incomes: Despite lower retail inflation, farm incomes have been negatively impacted by factors like erratic weather, reduced crop yields, and rising input costs, which affects rural consumption. Eg: Poor monsoon and drought in some regions led to crop failures, reducing farmers’ incomes and limiting their purchasing power.
- Limited Impact of Inflation Reduction: While overall retail inflation decreased, the price drops were not significant enough in rural areas to translate into meaningful gains in consumption, especially for low-income families. Eg: The fall in vegetable prices towards the end of FY25 helped urban consumers, but rural households still struggled due to stagnant or low farm output and income.
- Structural Economic Challenges: Rural India still faces structural challenges like inadequate infrastructure, low wages, and high dependence on agriculture, which limits overall consumption despite lower inflation. Eg: Many rural households rely on agriculture, which remains vulnerable to climate change and market volatility, restricting their ability to consume more even when prices drop.
How has the performance of different industrial sectors (like mining, manufacturing, and electricity) changed in FY25 compared to FY24?
| Sector |
FY24 Growth (%) |
FY25 Growth (%) |
Conclusion with example |
| Mining |
7.5% |
2.9% |
Mining sector saw a significant decline. This slowdown could be due to reduced demand for raw materials and lower production in key mining areas. Eg: A dip in coal mining output due to lower power demand during certain months. |
| Manufacturing |
5.5% |
4% |
Manufacturing growth slowed down slightly, likely due to lower consumer demand and sluggish export growth. Eg: Lower production in sectors like automobiles and textiles, impacted by weaker global demand. |
| Electricity |
7% |
5.1% |
Electricity sector growth showed a slight decline, though power production still surged during peak summer months. Eg: Increased power generation in March (6.3%) due to seasonal demand, but overall growth reduced for the year. |
What steps can the government take to boost private investment and protect MSME jobs?
- Enhance Domestic Demand through Targeted Public Spending: The government can invest in rural infrastructure, housing, and public services to stimulate consumption, which in turn will encourage private sector production and investment. Eg: Increased spending under schemes like PM Awas Yojana or rural roads (PMGSY) can boost demand for cement, steel, and consumer goods produced by MSMEs.
- Strengthen Trade and Market Access for MSMEs: By finalizing beneficial trade agreements and easing export procedures, the government can open more markets for MSMEs. Eg: Concluding a bilateral trade deal with the US could reduce tariffs and give India’s 60 million MSMEs better access to one of the world’s largest markets.
- Expand Credit Support and Reduce Compliance Burden: Provide low-interest loans and simplify regulatory procedures to ease doing business for small enterprises. Eg: Extending the Emergency Credit Line Guarantee Scheme (ECLGS) and digitizing compliance through platforms like Udyam Assist can help micro-industries scale up with less red tape.
Way forward:
- Stimulate Demand and Investment: Boost domestic consumption through targeted rural and infrastructure spending while incentivizing private capital expenditure with tax benefits and interest subvention.
- Empower MSMEs for Global Competitiveness: Strengthen MSME access to credit, simplify compliance, and finalize trade deals to expand their global market footprint and protect employment.
Mains PYQ:
[UPSC 2024] What are the causes of persistent high food inflation in India? Comment on the effectiveness of the monetary policy of the RBI to control this type of inflation.
Linkage: High food prices, mentioned in the article, are putting pressure on rural spending and slowing down the economy.
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Why in the News?
There has been a decrease in mango harvests. Mangoes don’t taste as sweet as before. They are also getting more expensive. Mangoes are arriving in the market too early. Mango pickles aren’t lasting the whole year. The mango trees are flowering earlier than usual. These are some of the common concerns people have been talking about regarding mangoes in India recently.
What are the observed effects of rising temperatures on mango production and quality in India?
- Early Flowering and Fruiting: Rising temperatures cause mango trees to flower earlier than usual, disrupting natural growth cycles. Eg: Farmers report mangoes arriving too early in the market, affecting planned harvest timelines and market dynamics.
- Reduced Sweetness and Shelf Life: Heat stress can reduce sugar accumulation in fruits, making them less sweet, and also affect pickle shelf life. Eg: Anecdotal reports mention that mango pickles don’t last through the year and mangoes don’t taste as sweet.
- Fruit Drop and Uneven Ripening: High temperatures lead to premature fruit drop and uneven ripening, lowering fruit quality. Eg: In varieties like Alphonso, issues like spongy tissue disorder are increasingly observed.
- Sun Scalding and Physical Damage: Intense heat can cause sunburn-like damage on mango skins, reducing market value. Eg: Farmers note sun scalding of mangoes during heatwaves, making them less visually appealing.
- Disruption of Pollination and Budding Cycles: Extreme weather events (dry spells, heavy rains, hail) disrupt budding, pollination, and fruit setting. Eg: Farmers report fluctuating weather is altering the timing of flowering, which negatively impacts yield consistency.
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Why is there a contrast between anecdotal reports and official productivity data regarding mango yields?
- Regional Variations in Climate Impact: While official productivity data presents a national average, anecdotal reports come from specific regions that may have experienced harsher climate conditions. Eg: A farmer in Uttar Pradesh may experience fruit drop due to untimely rains, whereas other regions may report normal or high yields, balancing the national figures.
- Difference in Measuring Parameters: Official data focuses on total output in tonnes per hectare, whereas farmers often talk about quality—taste, sweetness, shelf life, or physical appearance. Eg: Mangoes may appear in large quantities, but may not taste sweet or store well, leading to dissatisfaction among consumers and producers alike.
- Time Lag in Reporting: Anecdotal reports are immediate and reflect real-time experiences during flowering or harvesting, while official data is compiled and released after the season. Eg: Farmers might report poor flowering due to early summer heat, but yield data may still show good figures after accounting for recovery measures.
- Improved Farming Practices Masking Stress: Advancements like drip irrigation, better grafting, and fertilizers may help maintain or even boost yields despite climate-related stress. Eg: A farmer using hybrid varieties may achieve good productivity even during erratic weather, skewing overall data upward.
- Sampling and Data Limitations: Official data often relies on sampling or estimates that may not fully capture smaller orchards or severely affected areas. Eg: Small-scale mango growers hit by hailstorms might not be reflected in state-level yield reports that depend on broad sampling zones.
What does research suggest about the resilience and adaptability of mango trees in the face of global warming?
- High Genetic Diversity Enables Adaptation: Mango trees exhibit significant genetic variation across different cultivars, which enhances their capacity to survive under changing climatic conditions. Eg: Varieties like Dasheri and Banganapalli show better resilience to heat stress compared to others like Alphonso.
- Physiological Mechanisms Support Stress Tolerance: Mango trees possess physiological traits—such as deep root systems and efficient water usage—that help them cope with drought and high temperatures. Eg: In regions like Telangana, mango trees withstand prolonged dry spells better than other fruit crops.
- Compatibility with Heat and Drought Conditions: Mangoes can thrive in tropical climates with long dry seasons, making them naturally suited to certain aspects of climate change. Eg: Research from Egypt and India shows mango cultivation persists even as rainfall becomes erratic.
- Potential for Climate-Resilient Breeding: The genetic resources available in mangoes make them a strong candidate for breeding programs to develop climate-resilient varieties. Eg: Scientists are working on cross-breeding varieties that combine drought tolerance with disease resistance.
- Long Lifespan and Adaptive Growth Patterns: As perennial trees, mango plants can adjust flowering and fruiting cycles over time in response to climatic shifts. Eg: In some regions, trees are now flowering earlier, and though it affects timing, it shows their capacity to adapt development stages.
What are the steps taken by the Indian government?
- Promotion of Climate-Resilient Agricultural Practices: The Indian government promotes the adoption of climate-smart agricultural practices through schemes like the National Mission on Sustainable Agriculture (NMSA). This includes water-efficient irrigation methods like drip irrigation and rainwater harvesting, which help mango farmers cope with erratic weather and water scarcity.
- Support for Agro-Weather Advisory and Early Warning Systems: The Indian government has implemented agro-weather advisory services through the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) and state-level agricultural departments.
- Research and Development for Climate-Resilient Varieties: The government supports research through agencies like the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) to develop heat-resistant and drought-tolerant mango varieties.
|
Way forward:
- Develop Climate-Resilient Mango Varieties: Focus on breeding heat-resistant and drought-tolerant mango varieties to ensure consistent yield and quality under changing climate conditions.
- Promote Climate-Smart Agricultural Practices: Expand the use of efficient irrigation systems, water conservation techniques, and post-harvest infrastructure to improve resilience and reduce losses.
Mains PYQ:
[UPSC 2023] Discuss the consequences of climate change on the food security in tropical countries.
Linkage: The anecdotal observations about mangoes to higher temperatures and climate change. Mangoes are a tropical crop, and changes in their productivity and characteristics due to rising temperatures are a direct consequence of climate change potentially impacting food security in tropical regions like India.
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Why in the News?
A recent study by the Max Planck Institute of Animal Behavior suggests that locusts do not behave like gas particles but instead make cognitive decisions based on their perception of nearby motion.
About Locust Swarms
- Locusts are large grasshoppers capable of forming massive swarms, consuming up to their body weight in food daily, and traveling 150 km/day with favourable winds.
- They are highly destructive, stripping crops and threatening food security. A single swarm can consume food equivalent to the daily needs of 35,000 people.
- In India, Locust Control and Research (LC&R) oversees locust management.
- The Locust Warning Organisation (LWO), established in 1939, monitors and controls locust activity in states like Rajasthan, Gujarat, Punjab, and Haryana.
- The 2019-2022 desert locust outbreak was one of the worst in decades, devastating India, Pakistan, and East Africa, destroying over 200,000 hectares of crops.
- Despite existing control measures, locust outbreaks remain difficult to manage due to their rapid breeding capabilities.
Key Highlights of New Research:
- Traditional models assumed locusts moved collectively by aligning with neighbours.
- However Max Planck Institute reveals that locusts make cognitive decisions based on visual cues.
- The study introduced a new mathematical model using neural ring attractor networks, showing that locusts decide on movement based on multiple visual cues, leading to coordinated swarms through decentralised decision-making.
- This understanding provides a more accurate model for predicting locust swarm behaviour, crucial for early intervention.
| [UPSC 2023] Which of the following organisms perform waggle dance for others of their kin to indicate the direction and the distance to a source of their food?
Options: (a) Butterflies (b) Dragonflies (c) Honeybees* (d) Wasps |
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Why in the News?
Padma Awards 2025 recognised 139 individuals for their exceptional contributions across various fields. Notable awardees include actor S. Ajith Kumar, singer Pankaj Udhas, and cricketer Ravichandran Ashwin.
About Padma Awards:
- The Padma Awards are among India’s most prestigious civilian honors, announced annually on Republic Day’s eve.
- These awards recognize outstanding achievements in various fields, particularly public service.
- The GoI introduced the Bharat Ratna and Padma Vibhushan in 1954, with the three classes (Pahela Varg, Dusra Varg, and Tisra Varg) renamed in 1955 as Padma Vibhushan, Padma Bhushan, and Padma Shri.
- The awards are not titles and cannot be used as prefixes or suffixes to names.
- The number of awards given annually is capped at 120 (excluding posthumous awards and awards to NRIs/foreigners/OCIs).
Award Categories:
- Padma Vibhushan: For ‘exceptional and distinguished service.’
- Padma Bhushan: For ‘distinguished service of a high order.’
- Padma Shri: For ‘distinguished service.’
Eligibility and Nomination:
- Nominations are reviewed by the Padma Awards Committee, formed annually by the Prime Minister, with final approval from the President.
- Eligibility Criteria:
- Open to all individuals, regardless of race, occupation, position, or gender.
- Government employees, except doctors and scientists, are generally ineligible.
- Awards are generally not given posthumously, with exceptions in extraordinary cases.
- A recipient can be considered for a higher category only after five years since their last Padma award.
| [UPSC 2021] Consider the following statements in respect of Bharat Ratna and Padma Awards:
1. Bharat Ratna and Padma Awards are titles under Article 18(1) of the Constitution of India.
2. Padma Awards, which were instituted in the year 1954, were suspended only once.
3. The number of Bharat Ratna Awards is restricted to a maximum of five in a particular year.
Which of the above statements are not correct?
Options: (a) 1 and 2 only (b) 2 and 3 only (c) 1 and 3 only (d) 1, 2, and 3* |
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Why in the News?
The Environment Ministry has released the Draft Greenhouse Gas Emissions Intensity (GEI) Target Rules, 2025, as part of the government’s efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions (GHGs) from energy-intensive sectors.
About Greenhouse Gases Emissions Intensity (GEI):
- GHGs trap heat in the Earth’s atmosphere, contributing to global warming.
- Major GHGs include carbon dioxide (CO2), methane (CH4), nitrous oxide (N2O), and synthetic fluorinated gases (CFCs, HCFCs).
- GEI measures the amount of GHGs emitted per unit of output (e.g., per tonne of product like cement or aluminium).
- It uses tCO2e (tonnes of CO2 equivalent) to account for the impact of all GHGs.
- Reducing GEI is vital to mitigate climate change, promoting the use of cleaner technologies in industries to lower environmental footprints.
Key Provisions of Draft GEI Target Rules, 2025:
- Target Setting for Industries: Specific emission intensity reduction targets are set for energy-intensive sectors like aluminium, cement, and pulp and paper, for the periods 2025-26 and 2026-27.
- Baseline Emissions & Gradual Reduction: Baseline GHG emissions for 2023-24 are established, with targets for gradual reduction over time.
- Carbon Credit Trading Scheme (CCTS): Industries meeting GEI targets will earn carbon credits that can be traded on India’s carbon market. Those failing to meet targets will need to buy credits or face penalties.
- Sector-Specific Applicability: Targets apply to 13 aluminium plants, 186 cement plants, 53 pulp and paper plants, and 30 chlor-alkali plants.
- Penalties & Incentives: Non-compliant industries must buy carbon credits or face penalties. The rules encourage clean technologies, like using biomass instead of coal in production.
- Alignment with Paris Agreement: The rules support India’s climate commitments, aiming for a 45% reduction in emissions intensity of GDP by 2030 compared to 2005 levels.
- Monitoring & Compliance: The Bureau of Energy Efficiency (BEE) will oversee the carbon credit market, ensuring compliance through regular progress reports from industries.
| [UPSC 2022] Climate Action Tracker’ which monitors the emission reduction pledges of different countries is a:
Options: (a) Database is created by coalition of research organisations* (b) Wing of “International Panel of Climate Change” (c) Committee under “United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change” (d) Agency promoted and financed by United Nations Environment Programme and World Bank |
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Why in the News?
In 2023-24, India’s listed companies spent Rs 17,967 crore on Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR), 16% higher than Rs 15,524 crore in 2022-23.
As per the PRIME Database report, this increase was due to an 18% rise in the companies’ net profits.
About Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) and Obligations Under It
- CSR is a self-regulating business model through which companies become socially accountable to themselves, stakeholders, and the public.
- It includes initiatives that assess and take responsibility for the company’s social and environmental impact.
- India is the first country to mandate CSR spending w.e.f. April 1, 2014, through Section 135 of the Companies Act, 2013.
- It provides a structured framework for CSR activities.
- CSR provisions apply to companies that, in the preceding financial year, have:
- Net worth ≥ ₹500 crore, or
- Turnover ≥ ₹1,000 crore, or
- Net profit ≥ ₹5 crore
- CSR Spending Obligation:
- Companies must spend at least 2% of their average net profits of the last 3 financial years on CSR.
- Newly incorporated companies should calculate it based on profits of previous years.
- Eligible CSR Activities:
-
- Eradicating hunger and poverty
- Promoting education, gender equality
- Combating diseases (e.g., HIV/AIDS)
- Environmental sustainability
- Contributions to relief funds (e.g., PM CARES, PM Relief Fund)
- Welfare of disadvantaged groups
- If CSR spend > ₹50 lakh, companies must constitute a CSR committee with at least three board members, one being independent.
| [UPSC 2024] Consider the following statements with reference to Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) rules in India:
1. CSR rules specify that expenditures that benefit the company directly or its employees will not be considered as CSR activities.
2. CSR rules do not specify minimum spending on CSR activities.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
Options: (a) 1 only* (b) 2 only (c) Both 1 and 2 (d) Neither 1 or 2 |
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PYQ Relevance:
[UPSC 2019] What are the continued challenges for women in India against time and space?
Linkage: The article details talk about the various challenges that contribute to women bearing a disproportionate burden, including socio-economic inequalities, health risks, and the burden of caregiving roles. |
Mentor’s Comment: In a risk society — where modernisation creates new, man-made dangers like pandemics or climate crises — women face deeper vulnerabilities due to caregiving burdens, poor health, insecure work, and limited access to aid or resources. This gendered risk is not incidental but structural.
This is relevant for GS Paper 1 (Indian Society) and themes like “Challenges for women across time and space”.
_
Let’s learn!
Why in the News?
The term ‘risk society’, coined by Ulrich Beck in his book Risk Society: Towards a New Modernity, refers to a shift from an industrial society to a society where uncertainty and dangers, caused by technology and environmental changes, play a larger role in shaping our lives.
Why are women more vulnerable to the consequences of risks in a risk society, especially in developing countries?
- Unequal Access to Resources: Women often have less access to land, credit, education, and technology compared to men. Eg: In rural areas of Africa and South Asia, women farmers typically control smaller plots and have less access to irrigation or improved seeds, making them more vulnerable to climate shocks like droughts.
- Caregiving Responsibilities Increase Exposure: Women are usually responsible for caregiving roles (childcare, eldercare, healthcare), exposing them more to environmental and health risks. Eg: During the COVID-19 pandemic, women healthcare workers (70% of health workforce globally) faced higher exposure to the virus.
- Greater Health Vulnerabilities: Due to physiological factors and social inequalities (like poor nutrition), women face higher health risks during environmental crises. Eg: In India, 57% of women suffer from anaemia (NFHS-5), making them more vulnerable during food shortages or health crises.
- Social and Cultural Norms Deepen Disadvantages: Gender norms often prioritize men’s needs over women’s during disasters, leading to unequal relief, recovery, and aid access. Eg: After natural disasters like the 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami, women had lower survival rates partly because cultural norms restricted their ability to swim or climb trees.
- Economic Insecurity Limits Resilience: Women are overrepresented in informal, low-wage, and insecure jobs, making it harder for them to recover from economic disruptions. Eg: During lockdowns in 2020, women in informal sectors (like domestic work or street vending) lost incomes faster and found it harder to regain employment.
How do manufactured risks differ from natural risks?
| Aspect |
Natural Risks |
Manufactured Risks |
| Origin of the Risks |
Arise from natural events or phenomena without human intervention. |
Result from human activities, often related to technological, industrial, or environmental actions |
|
Eg. Earthquakes, floods, storms |
Chernobyl nuclear disaster, pollution from industrial activities |
| Predictability and Control |
Typically unpredictable, though some can be forecasted with scientific tools. |
Often foreseeable and manageable through technologies or regulations. |
|
Eg. Earthquakes (hard to predict), hurricanes (can be forecasted) |
Air pollution (can be reduced through cleaner technologies) |
| Scope and Impact |
Often localized, though some (e.g., pandemics) can have widespread effects. |
Tend to have global implications, affecting large populations and interconnected systems. |
|
Eg. Flood in a specific region |
Climate change causing global consequences (e.g., rising sea levels, extreme weather) |
How did significant disasters like the Chernobyl nuclear accident and the COVID-19 pandemic reveal the vulnerabilities of an interconnected world?
- Global Spread of Consequences: Both disasters showed how localized events can have widespread, global implications due to the interconnectedness of modern society. Eg: The Chernobyl disaster in 1986 released radioactive material into the atmosphere, which was carried by wind and affected countries across Europe, highlighting how environmental risks can transcend national borders. Similarly, the COVID-19 pandemic, originating in China, spread rapidly across the globe, disrupting economies and health systems worldwide.
- Overwhelming Existing Systems: Both events overwhelmed existing infrastructures, revealing vulnerabilities in global systems that were ill-equipped to handle large-scale crises. Eg: In Chernobyl, the failure to control the nuclear fallout showed the inadequacies of disaster management and safety protocols, especially with complex technologies. The COVID-19 pandemic exposed weaknesses in healthcare systems, even in developed countries, as hospitals were overwhelmed with patients and unable to cope with the rapid spread of the virus.
- Amplification of Inequalities: Both disasters deepened existing inequalities, demonstrating how interconnected risks can exacerbate vulnerabilities for marginalized groups. Eg: Chernobyl disproportionately affected nearby populations, including poorer communities, who were more vulnerable to health impacts due to limited access to resources and healthcare. The COVID-19 pandemic similarly highlighted how marginalized groups, such as low-income workers and people in developing countries, suffered more from economic disruption and limited access to healthcare.
Who primarily bears the burden of managing risks in households, especially related to environmental and health hazards?
- Women as Primary Caregivers: In many societies, especially in developing countries, women are the primary caregivers and household managers, placing them at the forefront of managing health and environmental risks. Eg: Women often handle household chores such as cooking, cleaning, and caring for children or elderly family members, putting them at increased exposure to risks like air pollution from solid fuel use or water contamination.
- Gendered Roles in Resource Management: Women are frequently responsible for collecting water, gathering fuel, and managing food resources, making them more vulnerable to environmental hazards like water scarcity, pollution, and food insecurity. Eg: In rural areas, women often walk long distances to collect water, and if these water sources are contaminated, they face health risks directly, such as waterborne diseases.
- Economic and Social Vulnerabilities: Women’s economic position and access to resources are often limited, making it harder for them to recover from environmental or health-related disasters. Their roles as caregivers are frequently undervalued, and they often lack the financial independence or support to manage risks effectively. Eg: In the aftermath of climate-related disasters like floods or droughts, women, especially in rural or low-income households, may face greater difficulties in accessing relief or rebuilding their livelihoods, further exacerbating their vulnerability.
What are the steps taken by the Indian government?
- National Action Plan on Climate Change (NAPCC): Launched in 2008 to tackle climate change by promoting renewable energy and enhancing climate resilience (e.g., National Solar Mission).
- Swachh Bharat Abhiyan (Clean India Mission): Initiated in 2014 to improve sanitation and reduce health hazards through waste management and toilet construction.
- Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana (PMFBY): Launched in 2016 to provide crop insurance, protecting farmers from losses due to natural calamities.
|
Way forward:
- Strengthening Gender-Responsive Policies: Develop and implement policies that address the specific needs of women in disaster management, healthcare, and environmental sustainability to reduce vulnerabilities.
- Enhancing Access to Resources and Technology: Improve access to education, technology, and financial resources for women, particularly in rural areas, to enable them to better manage and mitigate risks.
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Why in the News?
The Deputy Speaker of the Lok Sabha is not just a symbolic position but an important role required by the Constitution.
What is the role of the Deputy Speaker under Article 93?
- Presiding Over the Lok Sabha in the Speaker’s Absence: The Deputy Speaker steps in to chair the sessions of the Lok Sabha when the Speaker is unavailable, ensuring that legislative proceedings continue smoothly. Eg: If the Speaker is unwell or on an official visit abroad, the Deputy Speaker takes over the chair to maintain the functioning of the House, as happened during various occasions when the Speaker had to travel.
- Ensuring Impartiality in Debates and Proceedings: The Deputy Speaker, like the Speaker, must remain impartial and ensure that debates are conducted fairly, without any bias towards any party or individual. Eg: During debates on sensitive issues such as the passing of a crucial bill, the Deputy Speaker ensures that all parties have an opportunity to speak and that the debate remains orderly, as seen in past sessions when contentious issues were discussed.
- Chairing Parliamentary Committees: The Deputy Speaker presides over important parliamentary committees, which play a crucial role in managing legislative work and business. Eg: The Deputy Speaker has chaired committees such as the Business Advisory Committee, where decisions are made regarding the scheduling of bills and other parliamentary matters, helping to streamline the legislative process.
Why is the continued vacancy of the post a constitutional concern?
- Violation of Constitutional Mandate (Article 93): The Constitution directs that the House shall elect a Deputy Speaker “as soon as may be”, implying urgency, not discretion. Eg: The 17th Lok Sabha (2019–2024) functioned its entire term without appointing a Deputy Speaker, disregarding this mandate.
- Absence of Institutional Safeguard in Emergencies: The Deputy Speaker acts as a constitutional backup in case the Speaker resigns, is removed, or is incapacitated. Eg: In 1956, when Speaker G.V. Mavalankar died, Deputy Speaker M.A. Ayyangar stepped in immediately to prevent disruption.
- Undermining Legislative Continuity and Stability: Without a Deputy Speaker, the House lacks redundancy in leadership, risking procedural breakdown during key sessions. Eg: If a crisis arises during budget discussions and the Speaker is absent, proceedings could face delays or legal challenges.
- Erosion of Democratic Norms and Bipartisanship: Traditionally, the post is offered to the Opposition to maintain balance, promote inclusivity, and uphold impartiality. Eg: Earlier Lok Sabhas saw the Deputy Speaker from the Opposition, fostering cooperative legislative functioning.
- Centralisation of Power and Partisan Control: Leaving the post vacant gives unchecked control to the ruling party through the Speaker alone, weakening internal checks. Eg: In the absence of a Deputy Speaker, all procedural authority remains concentrated in one office, reducing scope for dissent or moderation.
When and how did the Deputy Speaker’s position originate?
- Origin in Colonial Legislative Framework: The post of Deputy Speaker evolved from the position of Deputy President in the Central Legislative Assembly during British rule. Eg: Sachidanand Sinha became the first Deputy President (equivalent to Deputy Speaker) in 1921 under colonial administration.
- Continuity Through the Constituent Assembly (Legislative): Even before the Constitution was adopted in 1950, the Constituent Assembly retained the role of Deputy Speaker to maintain legislative function. Eg: The Assembly recognized the practical need for a second presiding officer during debates and discussions on the Constitution.
- Institutionalisation in Post-Independence India: The office was formally incorporated under Article 93 of the Constitution, emphasising its necessity in democratic governance. Eg: M.A. Ayyangar became the first elected Deputy Speaker of the Lok Sabha in 1952 and later served as acting Speaker after G.V. Mavalankar’s death.
How can reforms ensure timely appointment of the Deputy Speaker? (Way forward)
- Introducing a Fixed Timeline in the Constitution: Amend Article 93 to mandate election of the Deputy Speaker within a specific period (e.g., 60 days) after the first sitting of a new Lok Sabha. Eg: Similar to the time-bound requirement for forming a government after elections, a clear deadline would prevent indefinite delays.
- Statutory Mechanism Empowering the President: Create a law allowing the President to direct the House to elect a Deputy Speaker if the position remains vacant beyond the stipulated time. Eg: On the advice of the Prime Minister or Speaker, the President could initiate proceedings to avoid constitutional anomalies.
- Strengthening Parliamentary Conventions: Reinforce the long-standing practice of offering the Deputy Speaker’s post to the Opposition through formal House resolutions. Eg: Restoring this tradition would ensure bipartisan respect and encourage prompt consensus in electing the Deputy Speaker.
Mains PYQ:
[UPSC 2020] ‘Once a Speaker, Always a Speaker’! Do you think this practice should be adopted to impart objectivity to the office of the Speaker of Lok Sabha? What could be its implications for the robust functioning of parliamentary business in India?
Linkage: While focusing on the Speaker, the question is relevant because the Deputy Speaker’s role is intrinsically linked to the robust functioning of parliamentary business and the need for impartiality or objectivity within the presiding officers’ roles.
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Why in the News?
In India, although many people are worried about fake news and misinformation, they don’t mostly blame the government for it. Instead, many people are okay with the government having more control over the media, according to a recent survey by the Pew Research Centre.
What does the Pew survey reveal about misinformation and government control in India?
- High concern about fake news: 65% of Indian respondents said made-up news and information is a “very big problem,” placing India among the top 10 countries with the highest concern.
- Low emphasis on need for free media: Only 68% said it is very or somewhat important for the media to report news without government censorship, the second-lowest among 35 countries surveyed.
- Belief in media freedom: 80% of respondents believe that the Indian media is currently “somewhat” or “completely” free from state intervention, among the highest in the survey.
- Misinformation seen as non-governmental: Citizens largely attribute fake news to sources like social media and WhatsApp, rather than to state action or censorship.
Why is there a contradiction between concern for fake news and support for state control?
- Misinformation blamed on non-state actors: Many Indians see fake news as stemming from social media platforms like WhatsApp or Facebook, not from government channels. Eg: Viral misinformation during elections is often attributed to private forwards, not official news broadcasts.
- Trust in government regulation over systemic reforms: There is greater public belief that the state can control misinformation better than a free and independent press. Eg: Support for internet bans during riots or unrest, viewed as a way to stop rumors, even if it limits press freedom.
- Low awareness of press freedom deterioration: Despite India’s declining World Press Freedom Index ranking, most respondents think the media is already free. Eg: 80% of Indians believe media is free, while only 68% think freedom from state censorship is important.
How does India’s World Press Freedom Index ranking reflect on media freedom?
- Deteriorating Position Globally: India ranked 159 out of 180 countries in the 2024 World Press Freedom Index by Reporters Without Borders, reflecting a serious decline in media independence and journalist safety. Eg: India has consistently ranked below 100 since 2003, showing a long-term concern.
- Gap Between Perception and Reality: While 80% of Indians believe media is free, global rankings suggest significant censorship, legal pressure, and harassment of journalists. Eg: Arrests and raids on independent news portals contradict the public’s belief in press freedom.
- Impact of State Influence and Surveillance: The low ranking indicates increasing state influence, with reports of surveillance, restrictions on digital media, and pressure on newsrooms. Eg: Pegasus spyware allegations against journalists in India highlight these issues.
- Legal and Political Threats to Journalists: India’s ranking reflects how stringent laws (like UAPA and sedition) are used against journalists, creating a chilling effect on independent reporting. Eg: The arrest of journalist Siddique Kappan under UAPA demonstrates misuse of laws.
- Public Support for Control vs. Press Freedom Standards: Despite the low press freedom score, a large section of Indians supports state control over the media, showing a disconnect between democratic ideals and citizen expectations. Eg: Only 68% Indians see uncensored reporting as important—the second-lowest globally.
Where is the “press freedom gap” reversed according to the survey?
- India and Kenya Show Reversal: Unlike most countries, India and Kenya are the only two where more people believe the media is free than believe media freedom is important. Eg: In India, 80% say the media is free, but only 68% feel uncensored reporting is important.
- Contrary to Global Trend: In 33 out of 35 countries, the importance of media freedom is rated higher than the belief that it actually exists, but India and Kenya show the opposite. Eg: In Greece, a higher number want free media but few believe it actually exists, unlike India.
- High Confidence Despite Global Ranking: Even though India’s global press freedom ranking is poor (159/180), public confidence in existing media freedom remains oddly high. Eg: 80% Indians feel the media is free despite evidence of censorship and harassment.
- Low Awareness of Press Challenges: The reversed gap suggests a lack of public awareness about the extent of media control, censorship, or intimidation. Eg: Many Indians attribute misinformation to social media platforms rather than government control.
- Potential for Justifying State Control: Since many believe the media is already free, there is less pressure on governments to ensure genuine press freedom, and greater acceptance of censorship. Eg: High public tolerance allows laws and actions against journalists to go unchallenged.
Way forward:
- Enhance Media Literacy and Public Awareness: Launch nationwide campaigns to educate citizens about the role of a free press, the risks of censorship, and the importance of independent journalism. Eg: School curricula and public broadcasts can include modules on identifying misinformation and understanding media freedom.
- Strengthen Institutional Safeguards for Press Freedom: Enact legal and institutional reforms to protect journalists from harassment, ensure transparency in state actions, and promote accountability in media regulation. Eg: Independent media commissions and judicial safeguards against misuse of laws like UAPA.
Mains PYQ:
[UPSC 2014] What do you understand by the concept “freedom of speech and expression”? Does it cover hate speech also? Why do the films in India stand on a slightly different plane from other forms of expression? Discuss.
Linkage: “Freedom of speech and expression”, which is guaranteed by Article 19(1)(a) of the Indian Constitution and forms the fundamental basis for press freedom in India.
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Why in the News?
The Union Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare has come up with the guidelines for setting up of bio-input resource centres (BRC) under the National Mission on Natural Farming (NMNF).
What are Bio-Input Resource Centres (BRCs)?
- BRCs are part of the National Mission on Natural Farming (NMNF), aimed at promoting chemical-free and sustainable agriculture.
- BRCs will produce, store, and supply bio-inputs like Jeevamrit, Beejamrit, and Neemastra using local livestock by-products and plant-based materials.
- Key Functions:
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- Local Production: Ensures availability of bio-fertilizers and bio-pesticides, reducing dependency on synthetic inputs.
- Training: Provides training on bio-input preparation and natural farming techniques.
- Entrepreneurship: Promotes local entrepreneurship, empowering self-help groups (SHGs) and farmers.
- Affordability: Aims to make sustainable farming practices accessible to small and marginal farmers.
- Financial support of Rs 1 lakh per BRC are provided in two tranches of Rs 50,000, though experts raise concerns about its adequacy for infrastructure.
Back2Basics: National Mission on Natural Farming (NMNF):
- NMNF is a Centrally Sponsored Scheme was launched on November 2024 under the Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers’ Welfare, promoting chemical-free farming.
- Objectives:
- Focus on eco-friendly practices and organic methods.
- Reduce input costs by minimizing chemical usage.
- Restore soil health, promote biodiversity, and improve climate resilience.
- Implementation Strategy:
- Establish 15,000 clusters across Gram Panchayats.
- Train 1 crore farmers and implement practices on 7.5 lakh hectares.
- Establish 10,000 BRCs for bio-input accessibility.
- Deploy 30,000 Krishi Sakhis for mobilization.
- Financial Outlay: ₹2,481 crore until 2025-26.
| [UPSC 2021] How is permaculture farming different from conventional chemical farming?
1.Permaculture farming discourages monocultural practices, but in conventional chemical farming, monoculture practices are predominant. 2.Conventional chemical farming can cause an increase in soil salinity, but this phenomenon is not observed in permaculture farming. 3.Conventional chemical farming is easily possible in semi-arid regions, but permaculture farming is not so easily possible in such regions. 4.The practice of mulching is very important in permaculture farming but not necessarily so in conventional chemical farming.
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
Options: (a) 1 and 3 (b) 1, 2, and 4* (c) 4 only (d) 2 and 3 |
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Why in the News?
The National Mission for Clean Ganga (NMCG) has approved an annual master plan for the River Cities Alliance (RCA), aimed at scaling up sustainable urban river rejuvenation.
What is the River Cities Alliance (RCA)?
- The RCA launched in 2021, promotes sustainable urban river management across India.
- It is a joint initiative by the Ministry of Jal Shakti and the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs to integrate river-sensitive urban planning within cities.
- It aims to strengthen institutional capacities, foster collaboration, and support the creation of Urban River Management Plans (URMPs).
- As of 2025, 145 cities are part of the alliance, sharing best practices for river conservation.
- Key activities include promoting river-sensitive planning, peer-to-peer learning, and training for urban local bodies (ULBs).
About National Mission for Clean Ganga (NMCG):
- The NMCG is a flagship initiative to rejuvenate the Ganga River through pollution abatement, ecological restoration, and community involvement.
- Established in 2011, it implements the Namami Gange Program.
- It was launched with a ₹20,000 crore budget, covering over 288 projects.
- It focuses on pollution abatement and maintaining the ecological flow of the Ganga.
- It operates under a five-tier framework, including the National Ganga Council and state/district committees.
- Key Initiatives: Includes sewage treatment, riverfront development, real-time monitoring, and public awareness campaigns.
- It also addresses floods, droughts, and waterlogging in the Ganga basin.
| [UPSC 2021] Which of the following are the key features of ‘National Ganga River Basin Authority (NGRBA)?
1. River basin is the unit of planning and management.
2. It spearheads the river conservation efforts at the national level.
3. One of the Chief Ministers of the States through which the Ganga flows becomes the Chairman of NGRBA on rotation basis.
Select the correct answer using the code given below.
Options: (a) 1 and 2 only (b) 2 and 3 only* (c) 1 and 3 only (d) 1, 2 and 3 |
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Why in the News?
The recent Pahalgam terror attack has revived debates on India’s 1966 decision to surrender the Haji Pir Pass to Pakistan during Tashkent Agreement of 1966.
This move is compared to the Soviet Union’s 1954 transfer of Crimea, which created lasting security challenges.
About Haji Pir Pass:
- The Haji Pir Pass is located in the Pir Panjal Range of Jammu and Kashmir, at an altitude of 2,637 meters (8,652 feet).
- It connects Poonch in India to Rawalakot in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK).
- Historically, it was a vital route for connecting Jammu to the Kashmir Valley before 1947, making it an essential part of India’s transportation network.
- Post-partition, it became part of PoK and, during the 1965 Indo-Pak War, India recaptured it under Operation Bakshi.
- However, it was returned to Pakistan following the Tashkent Agreement in 1966, a decision criticized by many experts.
How Haji Pir Pass is a Chokepoint?
- Strategic Military Route: The pass provides Pakistan with the ability to control and monitor the Kashmir Valley from a high-altitude position, serving as a key route for military logistics and infiltration.
- Gateway for Infiltration: Historically, it has been used for militant infiltration into India, fuelling insurgency and instability in Kashmir.
- Shortened Military Access: Retaining the pass would have reduced the distance between Poonch and Uri from 282 km to 56 km, improving India’s military logistics and rapid deployment.
- Control over Key Terrain: Controlling the pass enables domination of the surrounding hills, limiting Pakistan’s ability to sustain military pressure and infiltration.
| [UPSC 2007] Which one of the following Himalayan passes was reopened around in the middle of the year 2006 to facilitate trade between India and China?
(a) Chang La (b) Jara La (c) Nathu La* (d) Shipki La |
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