Why in the News?
Invoking the Agreement on Safeguards (AoS), India has notified the WTO of its plan to impose $724 million in retaliatory tariffs on the U.S. for breaching trade commitments through unilateral auto import duties.
What is the Agreement on Safeguards (AoS)?
- Overview: It is a World Trade Organization (WTO) treaty that allows countries to apply temporary trade barriers—called safeguard measures—when a domestic industry is harmed by a surge in imports.
- Purpose in Practice: The agreement maintains global trade discipline, offering legal protection tools but with checks to avoid abuse.
- Conditions for Use: Safeguards can only be used when there is clear evidence of serious injury or threat to domestic producers due to increased imports.
- Rules-Based System: The agreement ensures safeguard actions are transparent, time-bound, and non-discriminatory, preventing misuse for permanent protectionism.
- Key Rules:
- Article 12.3: Before acting, a country must notify and consult with other WTO members who may be affected by the safeguard.
- Article 8: If consultation fails, the affected country can retaliate by suspending trade benefits equal to the loss it suffered.
- Ban on Informal Restrictions: AoS strictly prohibits voluntary export restraints or informal quotas that evade WTO rules, ensuring fairness.
India’s Use of the AoS – The 2025 U.S. Tariff Case:
- Trigger: The U.S. had imposed 25% tariffs on Indian-origin vehicles and parts in March 2025, which India claims are safeguard measures disguised as unilateral tariffs.
- Violation of Rules: India alleges that the U.S. did not follow Article 12.3 (mandatory consultations) and thus violated both AoS and GATT 1994 rules.
- Impact on Indian Exports: India estimates that $2.89 billion worth of exports have been affected and that the U.S. collected nearly $723.75 million in duties, matching India’s proposed retaliation.
- India’s Justification: India asserts that this move is legal under WTO rules, not protectionist, and aims to defend its export interests while continuing trade talks with the U.S.
India’s Changing Role in WTO Safeguard Policy:
- Early Strategy (1995–2010): India was initially cautious at the WTO, accepting tough terms under TRIPS, GATS, and AoA, and rarely used legal tools like retaliation, focusing more on diplomatic solutions.
- Recent Assertiveness (Post-2010): India now actively invokes WTO rules like AoS to protect its interests and has won key disputes—such as:
- The solar panel case against the U.S.
- Legal challenges to EU’s export restrictions on food.
- Global Leadership Role: India has taken the lead among developing countries to protect food security rights and push for fairer global trade terms, especially at Bali (2013) and Nairobi (2015) WTO summits.
Back2Basics:
TRIPS (Trade-Related Aspects of Intellectual Property Rights)
- WTO agreement (1995) setting minimum standards for IPR protection (patents, copyrights, etc.).
- Enforced 20-year patent protection; India amended its Patent Act in 2005 to comply.
- Allows compulsory licensing in emergencies (e.g., for medicines).
GATS (General Agreement on Trade in Services)
- WTO treaty covering international trade in services like IT, banking, and tourism.
- Operates through 4 Modes of Supply:
- Mode 1 – Cross-border supply (e.g., online consulting)
- Mode 2 – Consumption abroad (e.g., medical tourism)
- Mode 3 – Commercial presence (e.g., foreign bank branch in India)
- Mode 4 – Movement of natural persons (e.g., Indian professionals working overseas)
- India strongly supports Mode 4 for its skilled labour force.
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| [UPSC 2015] The terms ‘Agreement on Agriculture’, ‘Agreement on the application of Sanitary and Phytosanitary Measures’ and ‘Peace Clause’ appear in the news frequently in the context of the affairs of the:
Options: (a) Food and Agricultural Organization (b) United Nations Framework Conference on Climate Change (c) World Trade Organization* (d) United Nations Environment Programme |
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Why in the News?
Recently, CJI B.R. Gavai affirmed that the collegium system will ensure merit, transparency, and inclusive representation, and will not be swayed by external pressures.
What is the Collegium System?
- About: The Collegium System is the process by which judges are appointed and transferred in the Supreme Court and High Courts of India.
- Origin: It was developed by the Supreme Court itself and is not mentioned in the Constitution.
- Purpose: It aims to ensure judicial independence by minimizing the role of the executive in judicial appointments.
- Basis for Appointments:
- Supreme Court Judges: Under Article 124, the President appoints judges after consulting relevant judges from the Supreme Court and High Courts.
- High Court Judges: Under Article 217, appointments are made by the President after consulting the Chief Justice of India, Governor of the State, and Chief Justice of the High Court concerned.
- Structure of the Collegium:
- Supreme Court Collegium: It consists of 5 judges — the Chief Justice of India (CJI) and the four senior-most judges of the Supreme Court.
- High Court Collegium: It comprises the Chief Justice of the High Court and the two senior-most judges of that High Court.
Qualifications for SC Judges:
- Citizenship: Must be an Indian citizen.
- Judicial Experience: At least 5 years as a High Court judge or 10 years as an advocate in one or more High Courts.
- Alternative Route: Can also be a distinguished jurist, in the President’s opinion.
Qualifications for HC Judges:
- Experience: Must have held a judicial office for 10 years or practiced as an advocate for 10 years in a High Court.
- Bar Enrollment: Must be enrolled with the Bar Council of India.
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Evolution of the Collegium System:
- First Judges Case (1981): The Supreme Court ruled that the executive had primacy in appointments, and the CJI’s opinion was not binding.
- Second Judges Case (1993): The Court reinterpreted “consultation” to mean “concurrence”, giving primacy to the judiciary and formally creating the Collegium System.
- Third Judges Case (1998): On Presidential Reference, the Collegium was expanded to five members — the CJI + 4 senior-most judges.
How does it Work?
- Appointment of Chief Justice of India (CJI): The outgoing CJI recommends the next CJI, based on seniority. The Law Minister forwards it to the PM, who advises the President.
- Appointment of Other SC Judges: The CJI initiates the proposal after consulting Collegium members and the senior-most judge from the concerned High Court.
- Appointment of High Court Judges: Initiated by the High Court Chief Justice, approved by the High Court Collegium, and forwarded via the state government to the Union Law Ministry.
| [UPSC 2012] What is the provision to safeguard the autonomy of the Supreme Court of India?
1. While appointing the Supreme Court Judges, the President of India has to consult the Chief Justice of India.
2. The Supreme Court Judges can be removed by the Chief Justice of India only.
3. The salaries of the Judges are charged on the Consolidated Fund of India to which the legislature does not have to vote.
4. All appointments of officers and staff of the Supreme Court of India are made by the Government only after consulting the Chief Justice of India.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
Options: (a) 1 and 3 only * (b) 3 and 4 only (c) 4 only (d) 1, 2, 3 and 4 |
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Why in the News?
The Union Minister for Petroleum has revealed that India is on the brink of a Guyana-like oil discovery in the Andaman Sea
Do you know?
Guyana, now a major oil-producing nation, has seen 47% average real GDP growth since 2022, driven by offshore oil.
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About the Oil Exploration in Andaman Basin:
- Location & Scale: It lies in the southeastern Bay of Bengal and covers about 2.25 lakh sq. km, making it one of India’s largest underexplored offshore sedimentary basins.
- Geological Importance: It shares tectonic and structural similarities with nearby hydrocarbon-rich basins in North Sumatra (Indonesia) and Irrawaddy-Margui (Myanmar).
- Historical Restrictions: The area was long considered a ‘No-Go’ zone due to environmental and strategic reasons, preventing oil exploration until recently.
- Scientific Breakthrough: In 2020, Oil India Ltd launched the Deep Andaman Offshore Survey, which discovered mud volcanoes and Baratang formations — signs of hydrocarbon activity.
- Data Entry into National Records: The survey findings were added to the National Data Repository (NDR) in 2023, making crucial geological data available to investors.
- Rising Strategic Interest: The basin is now seen as vital for India’s energy security due to its deepwater potential and ability to cut down oil imports.
- Recent Collaborations: Companies like ONGC partnered with TotalEnergies (France) in 2023 to explore deepwater blocks in the basin.
Policy Shift that Enabled Exploration:
- Introduction of HELP: The Hydrocarbon Exploration and Licensing Policy (HELP) was introduced in 2016, replacing the older NELP system with a more industry-friendly framework.
- Licensing Reform: HELP provides a single license for all hydrocarbons — oil, gas, shale, and coal bed methane — removing the need for separate permits.
- Revenue Sharing System: Instead of auditing costs, the government now receives a fixed share of revenue, simplifying financial compliance and reducing disputes.
- OALP and Investor Flexibility: The Open Acreage Licensing Policy (OALP) allows companies to bid for exploration blocks of their own choosing throughout the year, encouraging customized investment.
- Use of Geological Data: The National Data Repository (NDR) helps companies make informed decisions using extensive geological and seismic information.
- Market Freedom: Under HELP, companies have the freedom to price and market their oil and gas, which boosts competitiveness and attracts private players.
- Royalty Incentives: A graded royalty system reduces rates for deepwater and ultra-deepwater blocks, offsetting high-risk exploration like in the Andaman.
| [UPSC 2006] Which one of the following companies is associated with the exploration and commercial production of oil in Barmer Sanchore basin of Rajasthan?
Options: (a) Cairn Energy * (b) Unocal Corporation (c) Reliance Energy Ventures (d) ONGC |
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Why in the News?
The Ministry of Communications has launched SAKSHAM-3000, a 25.6 Tbps indigenous switch-cum-router, to boost India’s data, cloud, and telecom infrastructure, marking a major leap in advanced networking technology.
What is SAKSHAM-3000?
- Overview: It is a high-speed switch-cum-router developed by the Centre for Development of Telematics (C-DOT) to strengthen India’s digital infrastructure.
- Indigenous Operating System: The device runs on CROS (C-DOT Router Operating System), enabling modular, scalable, and secure network operations.
- Next-Gen Capability: It is designed for ultra-fast data transmission, offering up to 25.6 Terabits per second (Tbps) throughput.
- Use Cases: It is suitable for data centres, 5G/6G networks, AI systems, and hyperscale computing clusters.
- Cloud and Telecom Ready: It supports cloud-native deployments, legacy protocols, and future network architectures simultaneously.
Technical Highlights and Capabilities:
- Massive Throughput: It supports 32 ports of 400G Ethernet and multiple speeds from 1G to 400G, delivering full 25.6 Tbps capacity.
- Wire-Speed Performance: Data packets are processed at line rate, ensuring real-time transmission with no bottlenecks.
- Time-Sensitive Applications: It includes support for Precision Time Protocol (PTP) and Synchronous Ethernet (Sync-E) to ensure accurate timing in industrial and telecom networks.
- Full Protocol Support: It is compatible with Layer-2 switching, IP routing, and Multi-Protocol Label Switching (MPLS) for broad network configurations.
- Traffic Management: Features like Weighted Round Robin (WRR) and Weighted Random Early Detection (WRED) improve traffic handling and reduce congestion.
- Energy Efficiency: It uses a power-optimized architecture, balancing high performance with low power consumption for sustainable data centre use.
- Flexible Licensing: Enterprises and telecom providers can customize licensing models for cost-effective scalability based on specific deployment needs.
| [UPSC 2016] With reference to ‘LiFi’, recently in the news, which of the following statements is/are correct?
1. It uses light as the medium for high-speed data transmission. 2. It is a wireless technology and is several times faster than ‘WiFi’.
Select the correct answer using the code given below.
Options: (a) 1 only (b) 2 only (c) Both 1 and 2* (d) Neither 1 nor 2 |
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Why in the News?
PM Narendra Modi, while speaking in Trinidad and Tobago, paid tribute to the Girmitiyas—19th-century indentured Indian labourers who helped shape Indo-Caribbean culture.
About Girmitiyas:
- Overview: The word “Girmitiya” comes from “agreement,” which was pronounced as “girmit” by Indian labourers who signed contracts to work abroad.
- Origin of the Labourers: Most Girmitiyas were recruited from eastern Uttar Pradesh and Bihar, especially from areas suffering poverty or famine.
- Language and Community: These workers primarily spoke Bhojpuri, Awadhi, or Hindi and came from agricultural castes and communities.
- Role of Recruitment Agents: Agents known as arkatis enticed labourers with promises of good wages while hiding the reality of harsh plantation conditions.
- Scale and Scope of Migration: Between 1834 and 1920, over 1.2 million Indians were sent to British colonies like Mauritius, Fiji, Trinidad & Tobago, Guyana, South Africa, and Suriname.
- Cultural Continuity Abroad: Despite minimal belongings, Girmitiyas preserved Indian languages, religious practices, and cultural expressions like Ramleela in the Caribbean.
Indentured Labour System: A New Form of Slavery:
- Post-Abolition Labour Need: After slavery ended in 1834, the British created the Indian Indentured Labour System to meet the demand for plantation workers.
- Contract Terms and Reality: Although the agreement lasted five years, labourers were often deceived, worked in poor conditions, and could not change employers.
- Criminalisation of Movement: If a labourer was found outside the plantation without documentation, they could be arrested for vagrancy.
- Punitive Wage Deductions: Tactics like the “double-cut” system—cutting two days’ pay for one day’s absence—made the system exploitative.
- Wage Withholding: Employers often withheld wages to delay repatriation and trap labourers in economic dependence.
- Gender Exploitation: Women were underrepresented, often brought for demographic balance, and suffered wage discrimination and sexual abuse, as documented by scholars like Kamala Kempadoo.
- Critique by Historians: While colonial rulers called it a “Great Experiment,” historian Hugh Tinker famously termed it “a new system of slavery” in his 1974 book.
Gandhiji’s Campaign Against Indenture:
- Early Opposition: Mahatma Gandhi opposed the system after witnessing its abuse during his legal work in South Africa.
- Malaviya’s Blocked Attempt: In 1917, Pandit Madan Mohan Malaviya tried to introduce a bill for abolition but was denied by the British colonial government.
- Protest Strategy: Gandhi launched an all-India movement, using the press, public meetings, and moral advocacy to gather support.
- Engagement with British: Gandhi met with Viceroy Lord Chelmsford and united national leaders in opposition to the practice.
- Finally, Abolition: The mounting public pressure led to the official abolition of indentured labour on July 31, 1917.
- Moral Significance: Gandhi later wrote in My Experiments with Truth that the victory represented India’s moral and spiritual awakening under nonviolent protest.
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| [UPSC 2019] With reference to the British colonial rule in India, consider the following statements:
1. Mahatma Gandhi was instrumental in the abolition of the system of ‘indentured labour’.
2. In Lord Chelmsford’s ‘War Conference’, Mahatma Gandhi did not support the resolution on recruiting Indians for World War.
3. Consequent to the breaking of the Salt Law by the Indian people, the INC was declared illegal by the colonial rulers.
Which of the statements given above are correct?
Options: (a) 1 and 2 only (b) 1 and 3 only* (c) 2 and 3 only (d) 1, 2 and 3 |
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Why in the News?
The Union Cabinet recently approved the National Sports Policy, 2025.
About the National Sports Policy, 2025:
- It is a comprehensive policy approved by the Union Cabinet to transform India into a leading sporting nation.
- It replaces the earlier 2001 policy and aligns with the vision of Viksit Bharat @2047 and the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020.
- The policy envisions India as a global sporting powerhouse and strengthens its bid to host international events, including the 2036 Olympic Games.
- It was developed through extensive consultations involving central ministries, NITI Aayog, state governments, national sports federations, athletes, and experts.
- The Khelo Bharat Niti 2025 serves as the operational framework for NSP 2025.
Key Features of the National Sports Policy, 2025
- Excellence on the Global Stage
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- Talent identification and athlete development from grassroots to elite level.
- Expansion of leagues, rural-urban infrastructure, and high-performance training.
- Adoption of sports science, medicine, and technology.
- Reforms in governance and functioning of National Sports Federations.
- Sports for Economic Development
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- Promotion of sports tourism and hosting of global events.
- Support for indigenous manufacturing, startups, and PPP investments.
- Encouragement of CSR in sports development.
- Sports for Social Development
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- Inclusive participation of women, tribals, PwDs, and marginalised groups.
- Revitalisation of traditional and indigenous games.
- Dual-career pathways and diaspora engagement.
- Sports as a People’s Movement
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- Nationwide campaigns for fitness and community participation.
- Launch of fitness indices and public access to sports infrastructure.
- Integration with Education (NEP 2020)
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- Sports embedded in school curricula.
- Training for educators and promotion of sports education.
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PYQ Relevance:
[UPSC 2024] Discuss India as a secular state and compare with the secular principles of the US Constitution.
Linkage: This question directly addresses India’s secular character. The article explicitly defines Indian secularism not as “mere religious neutrality but the positive assurance that the state will treat all religions equally, protect the rights of minorities, and ensure that no citizen suffers discrimination on the basis of faith”. |
Mentor’s Comment: The words (socialism and secularism) were added during the Emergency through the 42nd Constitutional Amendment (1976), but they are not just additions; they are core values that reflect the spirit of India’s freedom struggle and the vision of the Constitution’s framers.
Today’s editorial analyses the impact of the removal of socialism and secularism in the Indian Constitution. This topic is important for GS Paper II (Indian Polity) in the UPSC mains exam.
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Let’s learn!
Why in the News?
The recent statement by the right-wing leader advocating the removal of “socialism” and “secularism” from the Preamble of the Constitution has triggered widespread concern.
What is the role of socialism and secularism beyond the Preamble?
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Role of Socialism beyond the Preamble:
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- Embedded in Directive Principles: Articles like 38, 39, 41–43 guide the state to secure economic justice, reduce inequality, and promote welfare measures.
- Reflected in Fundamental Rights: Article 14 (equality before law) and Article 16 (equal opportunity in public employment) embody the socialist commitment to justice and dignity.
- Guides Judicial and Legislative Action: Courts and lawmakers have interpreted and enacted policies (like land reforms, reservation, public healthcare) in line with socialist philosophy to ensure inclusive growth.
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Role of Secularism beyond the Preamble:
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- Constitutional Protections for Religious Freedom: Articles 25–28 ensure freedom of religion, worship, and prohibit religious taxes or religious instruction in state-funded institutions.
- Equality and Non-Discrimination: Articles 15 and 29–30 ensure that no citizen is discriminated against based on religion and that minority cultural and educational rights are protected.
- Part of Basic Structure Doctrine: The Supreme Court has affirmed that secularism is inherent to the Constitution’s basic structure, safeguarding religious neutrality of the state in governance. Eg: In S.R. Bommai v. Union of India (1994), secularism was upheld as part of the basic structure.
Why is removing socialism and secularism seen as a threat to the basic structure?
- Undermines Constitutional Guarantees of Equality and Justice: Secularism ensures the equal treatment of all religions and protects minority rights, while socialism underpins the goal of economic equality and a welfare state. Their removal would weaken the guarantee of justice, liberty, and equality. Eg: Articles 14–16 (Right to Equality) and 25–30 (Freedom of Religion and Minority Rights) draw directly from secular and socialist ideals.
- Contradicts the Foundational Vision of the Constitution: The Objective Resolution, Constituent Assembly Debates, and freedom struggle clearly endorsed secular and socialist principles as integral to India’s identity. Removing them attempts to rewrite history and alter the spirit of the Constitution. Eg: Dr. B.R. Ambedkar’s final speech in the Constituent Assembly emphasized equality and fraternity—values rooted in socialism and secularism.
How do India’s freedom struggle and debates reflect these constitutional values?
- Freedom Struggle Emphasised Equality and Social Justice (Socialism): Leaders like MK Gandhi, Nehru, and Ambedkar envisioned an India free not only from colonial rule but also from poverty, caste oppression, and economic exploitation. These ideals laid the foundation for a socialist orientation in the Constitution, focusing on welfare, equitable distribution, and dignity for all.
- Constituent Assembly Debates Favoured Religious Pluralism and Inclusion (Secularism): The framers, influenced by India’s diverse social fabric, stressed a neutral state that treats all religions equally. Debates clearly show a consensus that religion should not influence state affairs, leading to the inclusion of secular provisions like Articles 25–28.
How has the Supreme Court upheld secularism under the basic structure doctrine?
- Kesavananda Bharati Case (1973): The Court held that Parliament cannot alter the “basic structure” of the Constitution. Though this case didn’t directly address secularism, it laid the foundation for later rulings protecting it as part of the core constitutional philosophy.
- S.R. Bommai Case (1994): The Court explicitly declared that secularism is part of the Constitution’s basic structure. It ruled that a state government can be dismissed if it acts against secular principles, reinforcing that the State must remain neutral and equidistant from all religions.
- Aruna Roy v. Union of India (2002): The Court upheld that secularism does not mean hostility to religion, but rather equal respect for all religions (Sarva Dharma Sambhava). It reaffirmed that religious pluralism and tolerance are integral to the Indian State’s identity.
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Way forward:
- Strengthen Constitutional Literacy and Civic Education: Promote widespread awareness about the values of socialism and secularism embedded in the Constitution through school curricula, public campaigns, and community programs. An informed citizenry is essential to defend constitutional principles against any attempts at dilution.
- Judicial and Legislative Vigilance: The judiciary must remain proactive in upholding secularism and social justice as part of the basic structure doctrine. Parliamentarians and civil society must oppose regressive amendments and uphold constitutional morality in lawmaking and governance.
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Why in the News?
The Election Commission of India (ECI) is currently carrying out a Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of the voter list in Bihar. This has caused political and social concerns because the ECI is focusing only on verifying “ordinary residents” and has given a very short deadline ending on July 31 for this process.
Why is the ECI’s voter roll revision in Bihar being criticised?
- Short timeframe: The ECI allocated just one month, till July 31, for the entire revision process, which is inadequate for comprehensive voter verification in a state like Bihar.
- Strict criteria: The emphasis on “ordinary residents” could ignore the legal protection for temporary absentees as outlined in the Representation of the People Act, 1950.
- Risk of wrongful deletions: Migrant workers might not be present for verification, leading to lakhs of wrongful deletions from electoral rolls.
What hurdles do migrant voters face in verification?
- Inaccessibility During Verification Window: Many migrant voters are unable to be physically present at their home constituencies during the short verification period, making it difficult to confirm their status. Eg: An estimated 20% of Bihar’s electorate is migrant; many may miss the July 31 deadline, risking exclusion.
- Lack of Clarity for Long-Term Migrants: There is ambiguity in addressing voters who have moved long-term but haven’t updated their registration to their new place of work.
How does the law define ‘ordinary residence’ for voters?
The Representation of the People Act, 1950 defines ‘ordinary residence’ as the place where a person normally lives and has the intention to return, even if they are temporarily absent.
Key Legal Provisions:
- Section 19 of the Act: A person shall be registered in the electoral roll of the constituency of their ordinary residence. Temporary absence does not disqualify a person from being considered ordinarily resident.
- Electoral Roll Manual Guidelines: Migrants temporarily away (for work, studies, etc.) are still eligible if they have the ability and intention to return. Removal from the roll requires proof of permanent relocation.
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What does Bihar’s gender turnout reveal about migration?
- Higher Female Voter Turnout: In the 2024 general election, more women voted than men in absolute numbers in Bihar. This indicates a gender skew in voter participation likely linked to male absenteeism due to migration.
- Male Migrant Absenteeism: Despite having more registered male voters, the male turnout was lower, suggesting many men were away for work and could not vote. It reflects the scale of male labour migration out of Bihar.
Do the same issues occur in other states?
- Jharkhand – Migration-linked Voter Drop: Like Bihar, Jharkhand has seen low male voter turnout due to seasonal and long-term migration for labour work.
- Uttar Pradesh – Exclusion Risk in Urban Centres: In urban areas of Uttar Pradesh, slum and migrant populations often lack proper identity or address documents, making voter verification difficult during intensive revision drives. This causes large-scale exclusions, especially among economically vulnerable groups.
What are the issues related to NRIs at the all-India level?
- Lack of Remote Voting Mechanism: Non-Resident Indians (NRIs) often face difficulty in exercising their voting rights due to the requirement of physical presence at their home constituency in India. Eg: An NRI working in the UAE must travel to India to vote, leading to low voter turnout among overseas citizens.
- Legal and Procedural Constraints: Though the Representation of the People (Amendment) Act, 2010 allowed NRIs to register, postal or online voting is still not widely available.
Eg: The Electronically Transmitted Postal Ballot System (ETPBS) has not yet been fully extended to overseas voters, limiting participation.
What are the case studies in the world?
- Mexico – Voting Rights for Migrants Abroad: Mexico allows its citizens living abroad to vote in national elections via postal ballots and electronic voting. This ensures inclusivity for a large number of migrant workers living in the United States and other countries.
- Philippines – Overseas Absentee Voting Act (2003): The Philippines enacted a law enabling overseas Filipinos to vote in presidential, senatorial, and party-list elections. It recognizes the political rights of migrant workers, encouraging participation despite physical absence.
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How can migrants get better electoral representation? (Way forward)
- Enable Registration at Place of Work: Long-term migrants should be allowed and encouraged to register as voters at their current place of residence. This ensures their political voice aligns with the region where they live and work, making representation more meaningful.
- Extend Verification and Enrollment Timelines: The Election Commission should provide a longer and flexible verification window, especially in high-migration states. This prevents wrongful exclusion and ensures migrants’ voting rights are protected even during temporary absence.
Mains PYQ:
[UPSC 2024] Examine the need for electoral reforms as suggested by various committees with particular reference to “one nation-one election” principle.
Linkage: The article focuses on the “Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls” conducted by the Election Commission of India (ECI) in Bihar, highlighting criticisms due to the enormity of the task, short duration, and strict verification criteria that could result in the “wrongful exclusion of lakhs of voters”
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Why in the News?
The U.S. recently carried out unprovoked attacks on three Iranian nuclear sites during a 12-day war with Iran. These actions, especially under a renewed Trump administration, have restarted discussions about U.S. imperialism and how it affects the global balance of power.
| Note: Imperialism is a policy or ideology by which a powerful country extends its control over weaker territories politically, economically, or militarily, often for strategic or resource-driven gains. |
Is U.S. imperialism a threat to the world?
U.S. imperialism is often viewed as a threat to global stability for the following reasons:
- Violation of International Law: The U.S. has engaged in unilateral military interventions without UN approval, undermining global legal norms. Eg: The 2003 invasion of Iraq was based on unverified claims of weapons of mass destruction and violated the UN Charter.
- Destabilization of Regions: U.S. actions often leave countries in prolonged conflict, weakening state institutions and increasing terrorism or refugee crises. Eg: U.S. interventions in Afghanistan and Libya led to power vacuums and regional instability.
- Erosion of Multilateralism: By acting outside global institutions, the U.S. encourages disregard for international cooperation, weakening collective decision-making. Eg: Withdrawal from the Paris Agreement (2017) under the Trump administration weakened global climate unity.
Why does the U.S. view China’s rise as a threat?
- Economic Rivalry: China’s rapid growth and its emergence as the world’s second-largest economy ($20 trillion GDP) challenge U.S. dominance in trade, infrastructure (e.g. Belt and Road Initiative), and manufacturing.
- Technological Competition: China’s progress in semiconductors, AI, and green technologies (e.g. leading in renewables and EVs) threatens U.S. supremacy in global innovation and strategic industries.
- Geopolitical Influence: China’s expanding presence in global institutions and alliances like BRICS and SCO counters U.S.-led systems. Its assertiveness in the South China Sea and strategic investments in Africa and Latin America reflect an alternative world order.
What challenges does bipolarity pose for rising powers like India?
- Reduced Strategic Autonomy: In a U.S.-China bipolar world, India may face pressure to align with one power bloc, limiting its independent foreign policy. Eg: India’s participation in Quad may strain ties with China-dominated SCO and BRICS.
- Limited Global Influence: Bipolarity can marginalize middle powers in global decision-making, making consensus harder. Eg: India’s efforts in climate negotiations may be overshadowed by U.S.-China disagreements.
- Geopolitical Vulnerability: Tensions between major powers can destabilize regional security, impacting India directly. Eg: Escalation in the Indo-Pacific due to U.S.-China rivalry increases India’s strategic risks.
Why is the Global South crucial amid failing multilateralism?
- Collective Voice Against Hegemony: As traditional multilateral institutions like the UN or WTO lose credibility, the Global South offers a platform for developing nations to assert their interests. Eg: BRICS expansion allows emerging economies to challenge Western dominance in global financial systems.
- Alternative Frameworks for Cooperation: The Global South promotes minilateralism and regional alliances to address shared challenges like debt, climate change, and trade inequities. Eg: India’s role in the International Solar Alliance (ISA) reflects South-South cooperation in climate governance.
- Safeguarding Sovereignty and Development Needs: It helps countries resist coercive trade or security alignments and focus on inclusive development models. Eg: G77 bloc resists WTO reforms that could harm public procurement protections vital to developing economies.
How can India balance strategic ties and Global South leadership? (Way forward)
- Pursue Strategic Autonomy: India must maintain an independent foreign policy despite partnerships like Quad. Eg: It joined the BRICS Bank while deepening ties with the U.S., showcasing multi-alignment.
- Take Principled Stands in Global Forums: India should speak out against violations of international law even by allies. Eg: India’s silence on U.S. strikes in Iran undermines its credibility as a Global South leader.
- Champion Collective South-South Agendas: India can lead in climate justice, debt relief, and trade equity for developing countries. Eg: Through initiatives like the International Solar Alliance and Voice of Global South Summit.
Mains PYQ:
[UPSC 2023] The expansion and strengthening of NATO and a stronger US-Europe strategic partnership works well in India.’ What is your opinion about this statement? Give reasons and examples to support your answer.
Linkage: The expansion of NATO and strengthening of the US-Europe strategic partnership represent key elements of U.S.-led alliances and its approach to global security. This directly relates to the U.S. acting as the “world’s sole superpower” engaged in “aggressive military behaviour” and violating the international order.
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Why in the News?
Jharkhand on observed ‘Hul’ Diwas to commemorate the rebellion’s 170th anniversary of Santhal Revolt which was held on June 30, 1855.
About the Santhal Revolt:
- Overview: The Santhal Hul (Revolt) began on June 30, 1855, in present-day Jharkhand, and is observed annually as Hul Diwas.
- The ‘Hul’: It means revolution, symbolising one of India’s earliest organized uprisings against British colonialism, even before the 1857 Revolt.
- Leaders Associated: It was led by Sidho, Kanho, Chand, Bhairav Murmu, and sisters Phulo and Jhano, and gathered support from 32 different tribal and non-tribal communities.
- Nature of the Revolt: The Santhal Hul was marked by tribal unity, guerrilla warfare, and was primarily an agrarian uprising, not driven by religion or elite politics.
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- Exploitation by Landlords: It opposed the British East India Company, the Zamindari system, and moneylenders who exploited tribal communities.
- Damin-i-Koh Policy: In 1832, the British created Damin-i-Koh in the Rajmahal Hills to resettle Santhals from Bengal and Jharkhand to clear forests and take up agriculture.
- Alienation: Santhals were subjected to land alienation, forced labor (like kamioti and harwahi), usurious debt traps, and Zamindari-court-police nexus oppression.
- Suppression measures: The British imposed Martial Law on November 10, 1855, and crushed the uprising by January 3, 1856, using modern firearms and war elephants; Sidho and Kanho were killed in action.
- Continued resistance: Even after its suppression, tribal uprisings continued during the 1857 Sepoy Mutiny in areas like Hazaribagh and Manbhum (now Dhanbad and Purulia).
Key Outcomes of the Revolt:
- Santhal Pargana Tenancy Act (1876): This law banned land transfers to non-Adivasis, allowed inheritance under tribal customs, and protected Santhal self-governance.
- Chhotanagpur Tenancy Act (1908): Inspired by later tribal movements, it restricted sale of tribal and Dalit land, and required Collector’s approval for land transfer within caste and locality.
- Impact on Tribal Identity: The revolt helped shape tribal consciousness, legal land safeguards, and anti-colonial resistance legacies.
- Modern Legacy: The Santhals are now India’s third-largest tribal group, living in Jharkhand, Bihar, Odisha, and West Bengal, and they use the ‘Ol Chiki’ script to preserve the Santhali language.
[UPSC 2018] After the Santhal Uprising subsided, what was/were the measure/measures taken by the colonial government?
- The territories called `Santhal Parganas’ were created.
- It became illegal for a Santhal to transfer land to a non-Santhal.
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
Options: (a) 1 only (b) 2 only (c) Both 1 and 2 (d) Neither 1 nor 2 |
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Why in the News?
In a major step toward digital adoption reform, Central Adoption Resource Authority (CARA) has confirmed that digitally certified adoption orders sent by e-mail are now legally valid under current rules.
Child Adoption in India: Legal Framework and Process
- Adoption in India is governed by multiple laws, depending on the religion and category of the child:
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- Hindu Adoption and Maintenance Act (HAMA), 1956: Applies to Hindus, Jains, Sikhs, and Buddhists.
- Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection of Children) Act, 2015: Applies to all religions and governs adoption of orphans, abandoned, and surrendered children.
- Guardians and Wards Act, 1890: Applies to Muslims, Christians, Jews, Parsis (allows guardianship, not full adoption).
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- Children declared legally free by a Child Welfare Committee (CWC).
- Children of relatives (uncle, aunt, or grandparent).
- Stepchildren surrendered by biological parents.
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- Indian citizens, NRIs, OCIs, and certain foreign nationals (under strict guidelines).
- Must be mentally, physically, and financially stable with no life-threatening conditions.
- Married couples: Stable relationship of at least two years; combined age ≤ 110 years.
- Single women can adopt any child; single men cannot adopt girls.
- Minimum age gap of 25 years between the adoptive parent and the child.
- Couples with three or more children are generally not eligible unless adopting children with special needs.
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- Online registration on CARA’s CARINGS portal; Submission of documents and Home Study Report.
- Counseling sessions by licensed agencies.
- Matching of child and parents; Acceptance and foster care phase.
- Legal adoption order issued by the District Magistrate (post-2021 amendment).
- Two-year follow-up by the adoption agency.
Role of Central Adoption Resource Authority (CARA):
- CARA is India’s statutory body under the Ministry of Women and Child Development, and functions as the central regulatory authority for all adoptions:
- Established in 1990, CARA became a statutory body in 2015 under Section 68 of the JJ Act.
- It is the only legally empowered authority for in-country and inter-country adoption of Indian children.
- India’s Hague Convention central authority, responsible for overseeing foreign adoptions (India ratified the convention in 2003).
Key Functions of CARA:
CARA plays a pivotal role in the adoption ecosystem through the following functions:
- Regulation and Oversight
- Monitors all adoptions—domestic and inter-country—through licensed agencies.
- Ensures adoptions are in compliance with laws and child rights standards.
- Platform and Technology: It operates the CARINGS portal (Child Adoption Resource Information and Guidance System) for:
- Registration of prospective adoptive parents.
- Tracking adoption progress.
- Referrals and matching children with parents.
- Inter-Agency Coordination: It coordinates with:
- State Adoption Resource Agencies (SARAs)
- District Child Protection Units (DCPUs)
- Specialised Adoption Agencies (SAAs)
- Authorized Foreign Adoption Agencies (AFAAs)
- Legal and Policy Role
- Issues No Objection Certificates (NOC) and Conformity Certificates for inter-country adoptions.
- Drafts and revises Adoption Regulations (latest version: 2022).
- Issues clarifications and advisories, e.g., recognition of digitally certified adoption orders.
- Promotion of In-country Adoptions
- Encourages domestic adoption over inter-country adoption, especially for orphans and abandoned children.
- Launches awareness campaigns to reduce illegal adoptions and child trafficking.
- Post-Adoption Monitoring
- Ensures the well-being of adopted children through follow-up reports for two years.
- Promotes integration of children into adoptive families through counseling and support.
- Policy Innovation and Reforms
- Oversees foster-to-adoption transitions (notably in Jammu & Kashmir).
- Expanding agency networks—245 new agencies added (2024–25).
- New modules for step-parent and relative adoptions.
| [UPSC 2016] Examine the main provisions of the National Child Policy and throw light on the status of its implementation. |
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Why in the News?
Researchers in Assam have discovered a new tree species, Garcinia kusumae, locally called thoikora, adding to the Garcinia genus in a notable botanical find.
About Garcinia kusumae:
- Species Identity: Garcinia kusumae is a newly discovered evergreen tree species that is endemic to Assam, India.
- Genus and Local Name: It belongs to the Garcinia genus, locally called thoikora in Assamese.
- Discovery: It was discovered in 2024 by Jatindra Sarma, during a field survey in Bamunbari, Baksa district.
- Botanical Traits: It is dioecious, grows up to 18 metres, flowers between February and April, and fruits between May and June.
- Distinct Features: It differs from similar species by having up to 15 staminate flowers per fascicle, fewer stamens, and blackish resinous berries.
- Ethnobotanical Uses: Its fruit is used in sherbet, fish curries, and for diabetes and dysentery remedies; the seed aril is eaten raw with condiments.
What is the Garcinia Genus?
- Taxonomy: Garcinia is the largest genus in the Clusiaceae family, comprising trees and shrubs.
- Geographical Spread: It is found in tropical regions of Africa, Southeast Asia, and Australasia, especially in rainforests.
- Notable Characteristics: The genus is known for floral diversity, medicinal value, and culinary applications.
- Presence in India: India hosts 33 species and 7 varieties of Garcinia, with Assam having 12 species and 3 varieties.
- Famous Species: Commonly known species include Garcinia indica (kokum), Garcinia cowa, and Garcinia mangostana (mangosteen).
- Utility and Significance: It is important for ethnobotanical uses, rural livelihoods, and climate-resilient forestry.
- Traditional Practices: Several species are used in traditional food, medicine, and rituals.
| [UPSC 2016] Recently, our scientists have discovered a new and distinct species of banana plant which attains a height of about 11 metres and has orange-coloured fruit pulp.
In which part of India has it been discovered?
Options: (a) Andaman Islands* (b) Anaimalai Forests (c) Maikala Hills (d) Tropical rain forests of northeast |
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Why in the News?
IISc Bengaluru has launched BHARAT (Biomarkers of Healthy Aging, Resilience, Adversity, and Transitions), a pioneering study exploring the biology, lifestyle, and environment behind Aging.
About the BHARAT Project:
- Scientific Launch: It is a nationwide research initiative by the Indian Institute of Science (IISc), Bengaluru.
- Primary Goal: It aims to build India’s first scientific baseline on how Indians age—biologically, environmentally, and socially.
- Project Leadership: The project is led by Professor DK Saini from IISc’s Department of Development Biology and Genetics.
- Addressing Global Gaps: It fills a major research void by offering Indian-specific data, unlike most global ageing studies based on Western populations.
- Redefining Normal: It will challenge international health standards (e.g., for cholesterol, vitamin D) that may misclassify Indian health parameters.
- Biological Age Focus: Instead of using chronological age, the project will study biomarkers of biological ageing for early disease risk detection.
Key Features of the Project:
- India-Centric Baseline: The database will offer reference biomarker cut-offs tailored to Indian genetics, diet, and lifestyle.
- Wide Biomarker Range: It will include genomic, metabolic, and environmental indicators to detect organ ageing and resilience early.
- AI-Driven Analysis: Machine learning tools will be used to find ageing patterns, simulate health interventions, and forecast risks.
- Holistic Ageing Model: The study will include nutrition, pollution, infections, and social factors that influence how Indians age.
- Equity for Global South: It corrects global biases that misdiagnose Indians as deficient by using locally validated health data.
- Healthspan Focus: The emphasis is on quality of life—living healthier for longer—rather than just extending life years.
| [UPSC 2024] Consider the following countries: 1. Italy 2. Japan 3. Nigeria 4. South Korea 5. South Africa
Which of the above countries are frequently mentioned in the media for their low birth rates, or ageing population or declining population?
Options: (a) 1,2 and 4 * (b) 1,3 and 5 (c) 2 and 4 only (d) 3 and 5 only |
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Why in the News?
Microplastics and endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs) are infiltrating the human body, affecting everything from reproduction to cancer risk, metabolism, and child development.
About Endocrine-Disrupting Chemicals:
- What They Are: Endocrine-Disrupting Chemicals interfere with the body’s hormone system, affecting growth, reproduction, mood, and metabolism.
- How They Work: They mimic or block natural hormones like estrogen, testosterone, thyroid hormones, and cortisol, leading to disrupted hormonal signals.
- Why They’re Dangerous: Even low-level exposure during pregnancy or puberty can cause lasting harm.
- How We’re Exposed: Through eating contaminated food, inhaling polluted air, or skin contact with certain plastics or cosmetics.
- Where They’re Found: In plastic bottles (Bisphenol A), toys and cosmetics (phthalates like Di(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate), food wrappers (Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances), and pesticides (dioxins, Polychlorinated Biphenyls).
- Hidden Harm: They act silently, with long-term effects such as fertility loss, hormonal disruption, or cancer.
Impact on Human Health:
- Reproductive Harm: Reduced sperm quality disrupted menstrual cycles, and increased miscarriage risk. Found in semen, placenta, and breast milk.
- Hormonal Disruption: Chemicals like Bisphenol A trigger early puberty, thyroid issues, and hormonal imbalances.
- Cancer Risk: Linked to cancers of the breast, uterus, testicles, and prostate. Several are labeled probable carcinogens by global health agencies.
- Metabolic Effects: Interfere with insulin, promote obesity and type 2 diabetes. PFAS chemicals are linked to liver and heart disease.
- Brain and Behavior: Associated with ADHD, learning issues, and lower IQ in children, especially when exposure happens early in life.
- Across Generations: May cause gene expression changes that affect health in future generations—even without direct exposure.
| [UPSC 2020] Why is there a great concern about the ‘microbeads’ that are released into environment?
Options: (a) They are considered harmful to marine ecosystems * (b) They are considered to cause skin cancer in children (c) They are small enough to be absorbed by crop plants in irrigated fields. (d) They are often found to be used as food adulterants. |
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PYQ Relevance:
[UPSC 2014] Some of the International funding agencies have special terms for economic participation stipulating a substantial component of the aid to be used for sourcing equipment from the leading countries. Discuss on merits of such terms and if, there exists a strong case not to accept such conditions in the Indian context.
Linkage: This question directly addresses the modalities and conditionalities of “international funding agencies” which are a core aspect of global development finance. This article highlights that the “rephasing global development finance” is necessary due to several factors, including the “shrinking ODA and debt crisis”, the profound decline in the “flow of global development finance”. |
Mentor’s Comment: India’s development cooperation with the Global South is undergoing a significant reorientation. After years of steadily expanding economic assistance, rising from $3 billion in 2010–11 to $7 billion in 2023–24, the government is signaling a major policy shift. The Finance Ministry has red-flagged the continued use of Lines of Credit (LoCs), which have historically been a key engagement tool under the Indian Development and Economic Assistance Scheme (IDEAS). With the global liquidity crisis, rising debt distress in developing nations, and a sharp decline in traditional Official Development Assistance (ODA) from major donors like the U.S. and U.K., India is now pushing for a more diversified model.
Today’s editorial analyses India’s development cooperation with the Global South. This topic is important for GS Paper II (International Relations) in the UPSC mains exam.
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Let’s learn!
Why in the News?
India’s development cooperation with the Global South has been steadily increasing over the years.
What are India’s modes of cooperation with the Global South?
- Capacity Building: Focuses on training, education, and skill development of human resources in partner countries. Eg: The Indian Technical and Economic Cooperation (ITEC) programme provides training to officials from over 160 countries in various sectors like IT, agriculture, and governance.
- Technology Transfer: Sharing India’s innovations, expertise, and cost-effective solutions with Global South nations. Eg: India has shared digital public infrastructure models like Aadhaar and UPI with countries in Africa and Southeast Asia.
- Market Access: Providing duty-free and preferential access to Indian markets for exports from developing nations. Eg: Under the Duty-Free Tariff Preference (DFTP) scheme, least developed countries (LDCs) benefit from reduced tariffs when exporting to India.
- Grants: Non-repayable financial assistance offered for key infrastructure or social sector projects. Eg: India provided grants for building parliament buildings in countries like Afghanistan and Mali.
- Concessional Finance (Lines of Credit – LoCs): India extends low-interest loans to partner countries for development projects under the IDEAS (Indian Development and Economic Assistance Scheme). Eg: India extended LoCs for railway projects in Africa (like in Mozambique and Senegal) and for solar energy projects under the International Solar Alliance (ISA).
| Note: IDEAS is a flagship initiative of the Government of India designed to promote development cooperation with partner countries, especially in the Global South, by extending Lines of Credit (LoCs) on concessional terms. |
Why is the relevance of Lines of Credit (LoCs) under IDEAS being reconsidered?
- Rising Sovereign Debt and Repayment Challenges: Many partner countries in the Global South are facing sovereign debt crises, reducing their capacity to repay concessional loans. Eg: During the G-20 summit, India raised concerns over the unsustainable debt levels in Africa and small island nations, signalling caution in issuing new LoCs.
- Strain on Indian Public Finances: India borrows from global capital markets and extends credit at concessional rates under IDEAS, absorbing the interest differential. With global liquidity tightening, this model has become fiscally burdensome. Eg: The Finance Ministry flagged the increasing fiscal burden of absorbing interest costs in the 2025–26 budget, suggesting a shift away from LoCs.
- Unpredictability in Global Capital Markets: Fluctuations in global interest rates and capital availability have made it difficult to maintain concessional lending under predictable terms. Eg: Due to the rising cost of borrowing post-COVID, India finds it less viable to sustain concessional credit lines compared to more flexible grant-based or Triangular Cooperation (TrC) models.
How has the decline in Official Development Assistance (ODA) impacted global development finance?
- Reduction in Available Funding for Development Projects: ODA has dropped significantly from $214 billion in 2023 to an expected $97 billion, a ~45% decline, leading to fewer resources for critical development programmes, especially in least developed countries (LDCs).
- Setback to Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs): The financing gap for SDGs has widened, rising from $2.5 trillion in 2015 to over $4 trillion in 2024. With limited ODA, progress toward achieving the 2030 Agenda remains off track, especially after COVID-19 and global shocks.
- Increased Vulnerability of Debt-Stressed Nations: The shrinking flow of concessional finance has made it harder for debt-ridden nations to access affordable funding, jeopardizing development progress and worsening existing economic vulnerabilities.
What is Triangular Cooperation (TrC)?
Triangular Cooperation (TrC) is a development model that brings together three key actors:
- A traditional donor from the Global North (e.g., Germany, Japan, USA)
- A pivotal country from the Global South with development experience (e.g., India, Brazil, Indonesia)
- A partner country, usually another developing or least developed country, which receives the support
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What is the role of Triangular Cooperation (TrC)?
- Bridges Global North and South: Triangular Cooperation brings together a traditional donor from the Global North, a pivotal country from the Global South (like India), and a partner country (often another developing nation). It creates inclusive platforms for shared learning, mutual respect, and context-specific solutions.
- Promotes Cost-Effective and Impactful Development: TrC enables the co-creation of development solutions that are tailored to local needs while combining technical expertise, financial resources, and implementation experience from all three partners. This leads to cost-effective and sustainable outcomes. Eg: India and Germany have implemented TrC projects in countries like Cameroon, Ghana, Malawi, and Peru.
- Expands India’s Development Diplomacy: TrC allows India to leverage partnerships with countries such as Germany, UK, EU, and Japan to implement projects in third countries, enhancing India’s role as a global development partner. It aligns with India’s vision of a Global Development Compact and was promoted during its G-20 presidency.
How can India leverage partnerships through TrC to enhance its development diplomacy? (Way forward)
- Strengthening Strategic Alliances and Global Presence: India can collaborate with traditional donors like Germany, Japan, the UK, and the EU to implement development projects in third countries, enhancing its image as a reliable global development partner and expanding its geopolitical influence.
- Promoting Scalable, Cost-Effective Solutions in the Global South: By combining India’s technical expertise with Northern financial resources, TrC enables context-specific, demand-driven projects in areas like energy, health, and education, aligning with India’s vision of a Global Development Compact.
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Why in the News?
A tragic pattern keeps repeating in Tamil Nadu’s firecracker industry, especially in Virudhunagar district, where frequent explosions continue to injure and kill workers. In the first half of 2025 alone, eight accidents have taken 26 lives—adding to a steady trend of 52 deaths in 2024 and 79 in 2023.
What causes repeated accidents in Tamil Nadu’s fireworks industry?
- Unsafe Handling of Chemicals: Accidents often result from friction during the mixing or filling of explosive chemicals, which easily ignite. Eg: In the 2025 Sattur explosion, preliminary reports blamed friction during chemical filling for the blast.
- Improper Storage of Inflammable Materials: Fireworks units store chemicals in unsafe conditions, often exposed to direct sunlight and heat, violating safety norms. Eg: Explosives Rules, 2008 prohibit storage under excessive heat, but violations continue in units across Virudhunagar.
- High Ambient Temperatures: The hot and dry climate of Virudhunagar, especially during summer, increases the likelihood of spontaneous ignition.
- Negligence by Manufacturers: Many factory owners ignore safety protocols to save time and cost, compromising worker safety.
- Inadequate Regulatory Oversight: Despite being licensed by PESO, regulatory inspections are infrequent or ineffective, allowing unsafe practices to persist.
What are the safety regulations in India?
- Explosives Rules, 2008 (under Explosives Act, 1884): Regulates licensing, safe storage, handling, and transport of explosives.
- Factories Act, 1948: Ensures worker safety through ventilation, PPE (Personal Protective Equipment), safety training, and health monitoring.
- Environment (Protection) Act, 1986: Mandates pollution control, hazardous waste management, and environmental safeguards.
- Disaster Management Act, 2005: Requires emergency response plans, mock drills, and local authority coordination.
- PESO Guidelines: Enforces safety standards in explosives units and conducts inspections for compliance.
- National Building Code (NBC), 2016: Prescribes fire safety, exits, alarms, and structural norms for industrial buildings.
- Indian Boilers Act, 1923: Ensures safe operation and periodic inspection of industrial boilers.
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Why is safety regulation ineffective despite existing laws?
- Weak Enforcement of Existing Laws: The Explosives Rules, 2008 mandate strict precautions, such as protecting explosives from sunlight and heat, but enforcement is lax. Eg: Despite clear rules, multiple units in Virudhunagar continue to store chemicals in open areas, leading to repeat accidents.
- Lack of Regular and Stringent Inspections: Regulatory bodies like PESO (Petroleum and Explosives Safety Organization) often fail to conduct timely and thorough inspections, enabling rule violations.
- Absence of Accountability and Deterrence: Post-accident investigations rarely result in penal action, and most factories resume operations without meaningful changes. Eg: After the Sattur explosion in 2025, investigations began, but no immediate enforcement action was reported to prevent recurrence.
How does worker vulnerability worsen firecracker factory risks?
- Social and Economic Marginalisation: Workers are often from poor, rural, and socially disadvantaged backgrounds, making them desperate for employment, even in unsafe conditions. Eg: In Virudhunagar, many labourers accept jobs in hazardous fireworks units despite known safety risks due to lack of alternative livelihood options.
- Lack of Awareness and Training: Vulnerable workers often have low literacy levels and receive little or no safety training, increasing the chance of mishandling chemicals or violating protocols. Eg: Many accidents occur during the manual mixing or filling of chemicals, which is often done by untrained workers.
- Weak Bargaining Power and Job Insecurity: These workers usually work in informal or unregistered setups, where they cannot demand better safety gear, facilities, or rights.
What role should the state play in enforcing safety norms? (Way forward)
- Strict Enforcement of Regulations: Ensure regular inspections and penalties for violations under laws like the Explosives Rules, 2008 and Factories Act, 1948.
- Collaboration with Industry for Safer Practices: Work with manufacturers to develop a culture of safety, just as cooperation helped eliminate child labourin the past.
- Support for Worker Protection and Welfare: Ensure social security, compensation, and rehabilitation for injured workers. Promote formal employment practices.
Mains PYQ:
[UPSC 2015] For achieving the desired objectives, it is necessary to ensure that the regulatory institutions remain independent and autonomous. Discuss in the light of the experiences in recent past.
Linkage: This question directly addresses the effectiveness of “regulatory institutions” and their ability to achieve their “desired objectives”. The article explicitly state that the fireworks industry in Tamil Nadu, particularly in Virudhunagar, experiences numerous fatal accidents annually, despite being governed by the Explosives Rules, 2008, and requiring licenses from the Petroleum and Explosives Safety Organization.
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Why in the News?
The custodial death of Ajith Kumar in Sivaganga district, Tamil Nadu, has once again sparked widespread anger across the country over police brutality and the lack of accountability in such cases.
| Note: Custodial death refers to the death of a person while in police or judicial custody, due to torture, negligence, or maltreatment by authorities.
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What are the key reasons behind recurring custodial deaths in India?
- Use of Excessive Force and Torture: Police personnel often resort to physical abuse during interrogations, leading to serious injuries or death. Eg: In 2023, Tamil Nadu reported multiple cases of custodial torture, including the Ambasamudram case, which involved the brutal beating of detainees with iron rods.
- Weak Legal Enforcement and Delayed Justice: Despite numerous inquiries, very few convictions are secured against police officers involved in custodial violence. Eg: Between 2017 and 2022, 123 police personnel were arrested and 79 were chargesheeted, yet zero convictions were recorded across India.
- Lack of Independent Oversight: Most investigations into custodial deaths are conducted internally with minimal external checks or judicial scrutiny. Eg: Only 345 magisterial/judicial inquiries were initiated between 2017 and 2022, despite over 11,000 custodial deaths reported during this period.
- Culture of Impunity within the Police Force: A persistent lack of accountability creates an environment where violations are repeated without fear of consequences. Eg: Out of 74 human rights violation cases filed against police between 2017 and 2022, only 3 convictions were secured.
How are Scheduled Castes disproportionately affected in detentions?
- Overrepresentation in Preventive Detentions: Scheduled Castes (SCs) are detained at a much higher rate than their population share, reflecting systemic bias. Eg: In Tamil Nadu (2022), SCs accounted for 38.5% of detainees under preventive laws, despite forming only 20% of the State’s population.
- Targeted Policing and Social Vulnerability: SC communities often face discriminatory policing, leading to higher instances of illegal detention and custodial violence, especially under vague or discretionary laws. Eg: Tamil Nadu had 2,129 detenues as of December 31, 2022 — nearly half of India’s total — with a large share from SC backgrounds.
What are the steps taken by the Indian Government?
- Judicial: Enforcement of Article 21 and DK Basu guidelines by the Supreme Court to prevent custodial torture.
- Legal Safeguards: According to CrPC Section 176(1A), judicial inquiry is mandated in custodial death cases.
- Institutional Oversight Mechanisms: Establishment of the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) and State Human Rights Commissions (SHRCs) to monitor, investigate, and recommend action on custodial violence.
- Police Reforms: Training under Modernisation of Police Forces (MPF) to promote human rights-oriented policing.
- Technological Measures: Implementation of CCTV in police stations, body cameras, and e-Sakshya app for real-time evidence collection.
What are the case studies?
- United Kingdom – Independent Oversight through IPCC: The UK established the Independent Police Complaints Commission (IPCC) (now IOPC) to investigate deaths and serious incidents involving the police. It ensures transparent investigations and addresses complaints against police misconduct.
- South Africa – Legal Accountability via Constitutional Court: In Bhe and Others v. Magistrate, Khayelitsha (2005), the South African Constitutional Court held the state responsible for custodial deaths. The judgment pushed for reforms in police behaviour and emphasized constitutional safeguards.
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How can reforms curb impunity in custodial violence cases? (Way forward)
- Establish Independent Investigation Mechanisms: Create autonomous bodies or empower judicial magistrates to investigate custodial deaths and torture cases, ensuring unbiased inquiry and reducing conflict of interest.
- Enact a Robust Anti-Torture Law: Pass a dedicated legislation aligned with the UN Convention Against Torture, clearly defining custodial violence, laying out punishments, and providing legal remedies to victims.
- Ensure Accountability and Transparency: Mandate the use of CCTV and body cameras in all custody areas; implement real-time digital monitoring like e-Sakshya. Need Fast-track trials and ensure strict action against guilty officers to create a strong deterrent.
Mains PYQ:
[UPSC 2021] Though the Human Rights Commissions have con tributed immensely to the protection of human rights in India, yet they have failed to assert themselves against the mighty and powerful. Analyzing their structural and practical limitations, sug gest remedial measures.
Linkage: The article talks about the clear pattern where “a significant number of custodial deaths take place, of which a considerable number of them are reported, a few of the policemen are arrested, and none of them are convicted. This question is highly pertinent to the issue of custodial deaths and the lack of police convictions.
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Why in the News?
Turning 90 on July 6, 2025, the 14th Dalai Lama gave his clearest message yet that the Dalai Lama lineage will continue, challenging China’s stance.
Who is the Dalai Lama?
- Spiritual Head: The Dalai Lama leads the Gelug (Yellow Hat) school, the most influential tradition in Tibetan Buddhism.
- Meaning: The title “Dalai Lama” means “Ocean of Wisdom”, first conferred in the 16th century by Mongol ruler Altan Khan.Role: He is considered the reincarnation of Avalokiteshvara, the Bodhisattva of Compassion, in human form.
Tenzin Gyatso: the 14th Dalai Lama:
- Early Life: The 14th Dalai Lama, Tenzin Gyatso, was born in 1935 in Taktser, Tibet, and enthroned in 1940 after recognition in 1939.
- Exile to India: Following China’s occupation of Tibet, he took asylum in India in 1959 and established the Tibetan Government-in-Exile in Dharamsala.
- Political Transition: In 2011, he relinquished political authority, handing it over to an elected leader of the Tibetan Parliament-in-Exile (TPiE) but retained his spiritual role.
- Global Peace Advocate: He received the 1989 Nobel Peace Prize for non-violent advocacy and is a prominent promoter of interfaith harmony and secular ethics.
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Key Notes on Tibetan Buddhism:
- Theology: Tibetan Buddhism blends Mahayana philosophy, Tantric (Vajrayana) rituals, and Bon traditions.
- Major Schools: It includes four schools—Nyingma, Kagyu, Sakya, and Gelug—with the Gelug school founded by Je Tsongkhapa in the 14th century.
- Reincarnation System: Leaders like the Panchen Lama and Karmapa are part of the Tulku system, believed to be reincarnated teachers.
- Textual Foundation: Core texts include the Kangyur (Buddha’s teachings) and Tengyur (commentaries by scholars).
- Meditation Traditions: Practices like Dzogchen and Mahamudra focus on realizing the true nature of mind.
- Institutional Legacy: Monasteries such as Drepung, Ganden, and Tashi Lhunpo are vital centers for learning and ritual.
- Global Influence: Tibetan Buddhism thrives across the Himalayas and is expanding globally, especially in Western countries.
| [UPSC 2018] With reference to Indian history, who among the following is a future Buddha, yet to come to save the world?
Options: (a) Avalokiteshvara (b) Lokesvara (c) Maitreya* (d) Padmapani |
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Why in the News?
With focus shifting to COP30, climate finance is in the spotlight as the Fourth International Financing for Development Conference (FfD4) works to finalise the New Collective Quantified Goal (NCQG) — a more ambitious target to replace the unmet $100 billion annual pledge.
About New Collective Quantified Goal (NCQG):
- Overview: It is a new global climate finance target under negotiation to replace the unmet $100 billion pledge made by developed countries in 2009.
- Basis: It is being framed through the Meeting of the Parties to the Paris Agreement (CMA).
- Minimum Starting Point: The goal will begin at a minimum of $100 billion per year, with future revisions based on real needs of developing nations.
- Areas to be Covered: NCQG supports mitigation, adaptation, and resilience, with an explicit focus on the needs of developing countries.
How it differs from earlier Pledge?
- From Political to Need-Based: The earlier $100 billion was a political promise, while NCQG is a data-driven, needs-based goal.
- Backed by National Priorities: Funding estimates will use developing countries’ own assessments and climate plans.
- Greater Transparency and Trust: NCQG seeks to rebuild trust by addressing the trust deficit from past failures and improving accountability.
True Scale of Climate Finance Needs:
- Requirement: As per UNFCCC (2021), developing countries may need $6 trillion/year by 2030 to meet their climate goals.
- Global Energy Transition Costs: A low-carbon global transition could need $4–6 trillion annually until 2050.
- Renewable Energy Goals: Tripling renewables by 2030, agreed at COP28, may cost $30 trillion (IRENA).
- India’s Stand: India has proposed an NCQG of $1 trillion/year, with a focus on grants and concessional finance, avoiding debt-heavy solutions.
| [UPSC 2024] Which one of the following launched the ‘Nature Solutions Finance Hub for Asia and the Pacific’?
Options: (a) The Asian Development Bank (ADB) (b) The Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB) (c) The New Development Bank (NDB) (d) The International Bank for Reconstruction and Development (IBRD) |
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Why in the News?
The Tamil Nadu government, with World Bank support, has launched a ₹50 crore restoration project for the sinking Kariyachalli Island.
About Kariyachalli Island:
- Overview: Kariyachalli Island is one of the 21 uninhabited islands in the Gulf of Mannar Marine National Park.
- Geographic Location: It lies 4 km south of Sippikulam and 20 km northeast of Thoothukudi, between Rameswaram and Thoothukudi.
- Made of Reef Sediments: The island is a low-lying landform made of reef debris, sand dunes, spits, and sandy plains.
- Biodiversity Hotspot: Located in India’s coral reef zone, it supports 4,300+ marine species, including 132 coral types and the endangered dugong.
- Ecological Importance: It has seagrass beds and coral reefs that provide food and shelter for marine life.
- Natural Coastal Shield: Kariyachalli acts as a barrier against cyclones and tsunamis, helping protect the Tamil Nadu coast.
- Historical Significance: It played a role in mitigating the 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami impact.
Why is it sinking?
- Rapid Land Loss: The island has shrunk by over 70%, from 20.85 ha in 1969 to under 6 ha in 2024.
- High Tide Erosion: At high tide, only 3.14 ha remains, per an IIT Madras (2025) study.
- Wave and Sediment Pressure: Wave action, sediment loss, and lack of natural shoreline defense are accelerating erosion.
- Climate Change Impact: Rising sea levels and coral bleaching have weakened the island’s natural protection.
- Seagrass Depletion: Loss of seagrass beds has reduced the island’s ability to hold sediments and resist erosion.
- Extreme Weather Events: Frequent cyclones and storms are making the island more vulnerable.
- Future Risk: If the current trend continues, Kariyachalli may vanish by 2036.
| [UPSC 2023] Which one of the following is the best example of repeated falls in sea level, giving rise to present-day extensive marshland?
Options: (a) Bhitarkanika Mangroves (b) Marakkanam Salt Pans (c) Naupada Swamp (d) Rann of Kutch* |
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