Why in the News?
A recent study conducted in Kolkata shows that the toxicity value of PM2.5 experiences a sudden jump when the pollution level reaches around 70 µg/m³.
About PM2.5
- PM2.5 refers to fine particulate matter with a diameter of 2.5 micrometers or smaller.
- It is a major air pollutant linked to respiratory and cardiovascular diseases. Long-term exposure increases the risk of lung cancer, heart disease, asthma, and other health issues.
- Major sources include vehicle exhaust, industrial emissions, construction dust, biomass burning, and solid waste burning, contributing to both outdoor and indoor pollution.
- WHO recommends that the annual average PM2.5 concentration should NOT exceed 5 µg/m³, and the 24-hour average should not exceed 15 µg/m³ for more than 3-4 days per year.
PM2.5 on Govt. Focus: National Clean Air Program (NCAP)
- Launched in 2019 by the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC), the NCAP aims to reduce particulate matter by 40% by 2026 compared to 2017 levels.
- It targets 131 non-attainment cities across India, focusing on improving air quality and addressing sources of pollution.
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About the Notified Toxicity Standard for PM2.5
- A new toxicity standard for PM2.5 in Kolkata sets the critical threshold at 70 µg/m³.
- Below this level, toxicity remains stable, but it sharply increases once the concentration exceeds 70 µg/m³.
- It emphasizes reducing pollution sources, particularly biomass and solid waste burning, which contribute significantly to high PM2.5 levels and increased toxicity in Kolkata.
- Policy Recommendation: To reduce health risks, air quality control measures should aim to keep PM2.5 levels below 70 µg/m³.
| [UPSC 2022] In the context of WHO Air Quality Guidelines, consider the following statements:
1. The 24-hour mean of PM2.5 should not exceed 15 µg/m3 and annual mean of PM2.5 should not exceed 5 µg/m3.
2. In a year, the highest levels of ozone pollution occur during the periods of inclement weather.
3. PM10 can penetrate the lung barrier and enter the bloodstream.
4. Excessive ozone in the air can trigger asthma.
Which of the statements given above are correct?
(a) 1, 3 and 4 (b) 1 and 4 only (c) 2, 3 and 4 (d) 1 and 2 only |
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PYQ Relevance:
[UPSC 2017] Critically examine the Supreme Court’s judgement on ‘The National Judicial Appointments Commission Act, 2014’ concerning the appointment of judges of higher judiciary in India.
Linkage: The integrity of the appointment process is a key mechanism to prevent the entry of potentially corrupt individuals into the judiciary. Debates around judicial appointments often touch upon the need for transparency and meritocracy to safeguard against various forms of impropriety, including corruption. |
Mentor’s Comment: The current system to deal with corruption in the judiciary includes in-house inquiries, impeachment, and oversight by the Supreme Court and High Courts. However, it is often slow, and secretive, and rarely results in strict action. Lack of transparency and political influence can weaken its impact, making it less effective in ensuring full accountability of judges.
Today’s editorial talks about problems in making judges more accountable. It highlights gaps in how judicial misconduct is handled and why better checks are needed. This topic is useful for UPSC GS Paper 2 (governance, transparency) and GS Paper 4 (ethics, integrity in public life).
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Let’s learn!
Why in the News?
Last month, a large amount of unaccounted cash was reportedly found at the official home of former Delhi High Court judge Justice Yashwant Varma. In response, Chief Justice of India, Sanjiv Khanna, started an internal inquiry into the matter.
What are the limitations of the impeachment process in ensuring judicial accountability?
- High Threshold for Removal: The impeachment process requires a two-thirds majority in both Houses of Parliament and an absolute majority of total membership. This makes it extremely difficult to impeach a judge even in cases of credible misconduct. Eg: No judge of the Supreme Court or High Court has ever been successfully impeached in independent India, despite allegations — such as in the case of Justice V. Ramaswami (1993), whose impeachment failed due to political abstentions.
- Over-Reliance on Political Consensus: The process is politically driven, requiring broad support across parties, which may not be feasible in a fragmented or polarized Parliament. Political considerations often override judicial integrity in decision-making.
- Delayed and Ineffective as a Deterrent: The process is slow, opaque, and reactive, initiated only after significant public outcry or media coverage. It fails to act as a timely or effective deterrent, allowing misconduct to go unchecked. Eg: Justice Nirmal Yadav of the Punjab and Haryana High Court was acquitted nearly 15 years after a corruption inquiry, despite early evidence.
Why is there a demand to institutionalise transparency in judicial inquiries?
- Prevents Perception of Shielding Judges: Transparency helps counter the belief that the judiciary protects its own members in misconduct cases. Eg: In the Justice Yashwant Varma case, the Supreme Court proactively released CCTV footage showing recovery of unaccounted cash to pre-empt accusations of cover-up.
- Builds Public Trust and Confidence: In an era of social and mass media scrutiny, opaque proceedings can fuel public suspicion and damage the judiciary’s credibility. Making inquiry reports public can reaffirm accountability and institutional integrity.
- Reduces Speculation and Misinformation: Lack of official communication can lead to rumours or leaks, which may distort facts and undermine due process. Eg: Experts have suggested appointing dedicated communications personnel in the judiciary to clarify facts and handle sensitive disclosures responsibly.
Who informally influences judicial appointments, and how does it impact the collegium?
- Executive’s Role in Informal Consultations: Even before formal recommendations, the executive is consulted informally, allowing it to influence selections. Eg: The Union Government often shares IB (Intelligence Bureau) inputs that can sway or stall decisions by the collegium.
- De Facto Executive Veto: The government can withhold or delay approval of names without giving reasons, effectively creating a veto power. Eg: Several appointments have been indefinitely delayed by the executive sitting on the collegium’s recommendations.
- Impact on Transparency and Candidate Morale: This opaque and selective process discourages deserving candidates from participating in judicial selection. Eg: Many lawyers and judges avoid the process due to its lack of transparency and potential for humiliation.
How can peer review within the judiciary be strengthened to prevent judicial misconduct?
- Institutionalising Informal FeedbackRegularise the informal feedback already exchanged within legal circles into a formal review system. Eg: Concerns shared among judges and lawyers about a colleague’s integrity can be compiled and assessed systematically.
- Involving Bar Associations: Inputs from bar associations can serve as early warnings of problematic judicial behaviour. Eg: If advocates repeatedly report bias or misconduct by a judge, it could trigger a formal internal review.
- Mandatory Periodic Evaluations: Judges could undergo peer-reviewed performance evaluations at regular intervals. Eg: Evaluation of case disposal rates, conduct in court, and legal soundness of judgments by a panel of peers.
- Disclosure of Conflicts of Interest: Enforce mandatory disclosures of family members practicing in the same court or other potential conflicts. Eg: If a judge’s relative practices in the same court, either the judge is transferred or the relative is barred from appearing.
- Protection of Whistleblowers Within Judiciary: Create a safe mechanism for judges or staff to report unethical conduct without fear of retaliation. Eg: A junior judge or clerk reporting bribe attempts or unusual case assignments should be protected and heard confidentially.
When can contempt laws allow public scrutiny without undermining judicial dignity?
- When Criticism is in Good Faith and Based on Facts: Legitimate concerns or constructive criticism aimed at reform, not defamation, should be allowed. Eg: A lawyer or journalist pointing out procedural delays or lack of transparency in judicial appointments based on verified data.
- When the Speech is Not Intended to Scandalise the Court: Public discourse that respects the institution but critiques specific actions or decisions helps improve accountability. Eg: Civil society groups questioning a controversial verdict or delay in inquiry, without using derogatory language.
- When It Promotes Institutional Integrity: Scrutiny that leads to reform and helps maintain the credibility of the judiciary should not be penalised. Eg: Media coverage exposing corruption in the judiciary, like the Justice Yashwant Varma case, can lead to necessary reforms if done responsibly.
Way forward:
- Establish an Independent Judicial Oversight Body: A permanent and independent authority comprising retired judges, legal scholars, and public representatives can investigate complaints, oversee peer reviews, and recommend disciplinary action.
- Codify Transparent Guidelines and Communication Protocols: Formulate clear, time-bound procedures for judicial appointments, disclosures, and inquiry mechanisms with mandatory public reporting (where appropriate). Eg: Publish annual integrity audits, conflict-of-interest registers, and inquiry outcomes (with due protection for sensitive data) to uphold public trust.
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Why in the News?
The recently held Budget session of Parliament became historic, as both the Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha continued working all night and ended only around sunrise.
What made the recently concluded Budget session of Parliament historically significant?
- All-night Sitting: Both Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha continued debates through the night until early morning, which is extremely rare. For example, the Rajya Sabha was still debating at 8:30 p.m., with 22 speakers left, and the Waqf Bill was passed only around 2:30 a.m.
- Record High Productivity: The session saw exceptionally high legislative productivity — 118% in Lok Sabha and 119% in Rajya Sabha. Eg: This indicates that the Houses worked more hours than scheduled, completing more business than expected.
- Rich Parliamentary Debate and Public Engagement: Despite the late hours, MPs spoke passionately, aiming for impactful speeches that could go viral or make headlines. Eg: A woman MP quoted Victor Hugo (mistakenly calling him British), showing both the depth and drama of the debate.
Who played a critical role in capturing the nuances of the all-night parliamentary session for the public?
- Parliamentary Reporters: They stayed overnight in the House, observing debates and documenting proceedings for the media. Eg: The author of the editorial, a parliamentary reporter, described the urgency and drama of speeches during the night.
- News Desks and Editors: They coordinated under pressure to ensure reports met tight print deadlines while maintaining accuracy. Eg: The reporter received frantic messages from the desk urging for a timely copy to meet the morning paper’s schedule.
- Media as a Democratic Bridge: Reporters help the public understand what’s happening inside Parliament, especially during rare sittings. Eg: Despite physical restrictions in the new Parliament building, reporters continue to attend sessions to provide detailed coverage.
Where are reporters restricted from going within the new Indian Parliament building, despite having official access?
- Glass Enclosure for Media Personnel: Reporters, especially from electronic media, are confined to a glass enclosure within the Parliament premises. This limits their ability to move freely and interact with Members of Parliament (MPs). Eg: On July 29, 2024, journalists were restricted to this enclosure and prevented from accessing areas like the ‘Makar Dwar’, where they traditionally gathered sound bites from MPs.
- Restricted Access to ‘Makar Dwar’: The ‘Makar Dwar’, a main entrance used by MPs, has been cordoned off, preventing journalists from approaching MPs for interviews. Eg: Journalists were removed from this area, which was previously a common spot for media interactions with MPs.
- Limited Entry to Press Galleries: Access to the press galleries has been significantly reduced, with only a limited number of journalists allowed entry, often through a non-transparent selection process. Eg: The Editors’ Guild of India noted that only a fraction of the approximately 1,000 accredited journalists are granted access, without a clear procedure.
- Separate Entry Points and Increased Security Checks: Journalists now have designated entry points separate from MPs and officials, coupled with multiple security checks, making access more cumbersome. Eg: Reporters are frisked multiple times and must navigate a windowless corridor with security cameras to reach the press gallery.
- Restrictions Around Key Offices: Areas surrounding the Prime Minister’s Office, the Speaker’s office, and the Rajya Sabha Chairman’s office are off-limits to journalists, limiting their coverage scope. Eg: These zones have been cordoned off, preventing media personnel from accessing them.
Why do reporters persist in covering parliamentary debates despite challenges?
- Democratic Responsibility: Reporters feel a duty to keep the public informed about how their representatives function, especially during important debates. Eg: Even during the late-night Budget session, reporters stayed to capture each speaker’s arguments, helping citizens understand crucial legislative developments.
- Fear of Missing Crucial Details: Journalists worry they might miss significant moments or policy announcements if they leave early or tune out. Eg: During a midnight speech on the Waqf Bill, a Member of Parliament misattributed Victor Hugo as British — a detail that adds color and context to the reporting.
- Drama and Insight: Parliamentary sessions offer intense debates, humor, emotional appeals, and unfiltered views — making them compelling for storytelling. Eg: The sight of an actor-turned-politician struggling through an angry speech added drama and human interest to the reporter’s coverage.
Way forward:
- Ensure Transparent and Inclusive Media Access: Parliament should adopt a fair, transparent system for press gallery access and allow broader journalist participation, ensuring diverse media voices are represented. Eg: Revoking arbitrary restrictions and restoring access to areas like ‘Makar Dwar’ can enhance real-time, on-ground reporting.
- Leverage Technology for Better Public Engagement: Install live-streaming infrastructure, media briefing zones, and provide official transcripts quickly to support timely, accurate reporting. Eg: Designated digital zones can help journalists report swiftly without compromising security or disrupting proceedings.
Mains PYQ:
[UPSC 2019] Individual Parliamentarian’s role as the national law maker is on a decline, which in turn, has adversely impacted the quality of debates and their outcome. Discuss.
Linkage: Role of Parliamentary discussion and debate for the public. This also examines the role and effectiveness of individual Members of Parliament during parliamentary sessions.
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Why in the News?
Over 16 years after the 26/11 Mumbai terror attacks, Tahawwur Rana, a key planner, was finally brought back to India from the US to face trial.
Who is Tahawwur Rana?
Tahawwur Hussain Rana is a Pakistani-Canadian terrorist, businessman and former military doctor, who is known for his involvement in terrorism-related activities. |
What role did he play in the 26/11 Mumbai terror attacks?
- Cover Identity: Tahawwur Rana provided a false business cover to David Headley, enabling him to enter India multiple times without raising suspicion. Eg: Rana’s immigration company, First World Immigration Services, was used to justify Headley’s visits to India as “business trips” while he was actually surveying 26/11 attack targets like the Taj Mahal Hotel and Chabad House.
- Operational Support: Rana helped facilitate key documentation and communication links between Headley and terrorist organizations. Eg: He assisted Headley in obtaining a new passport with a false identity and supported contacts with Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) operatives, maintaining secrecy for the attack planning.
- Logistical and Financial Assistance: Rana’s actions indirectly enabled the planning and execution of the attacks through financial backing and logistical coordination. Eg: He supported Headley’s multiple reconnaissance trips to Mumbai and funded arrangements that helped terrorists carry out the coordinated assault which killed 166 people and injured over 238.
| Note: David Headley is a Pakistani-American terrorist who conducted reconnaissance for the 26/11 Mumbai attacks on behalf of Lashkar-e-Taiba. |
What is the extradition treaty between India and the USA?
- Bilateral Legal Framework: It is a formal agreement signed in 1997 that allows both countries to request and surrender individuals accused or convicted of serious crimes. Eg: India requested the extradition of Tahawwur Rana under this treaty for his role in the 26/11 Mumbai terror attacks.
- Dual Criminality Principle: A person can be extradited only if the offense is a crime in both India and the United States. Eg: Conspiracy to commit terrorism is punishable in both countries, fulfilling the condition for Rana’s extradition.
- Judicial and Diplomatic Process: The extradition process involves legal scrutiny by courts and coordination between diplomatic and law enforcement agencies of both nations. Eg: US courts reviewed Rana’s case and, after rejecting multiple appeals, extradited him with cooperation from the US Department of Justice.
What legal processes did Tahawwur Rana undergo in the US before being extradited to India?
- Extradition Hearing: A US District Court evaluated India’s request to determine if the charges met the treaty’s conditions and legal standards. Eg: In May 2023, the District Court for the Central District of California approved Rana’s extradition after reviewing evidence and charges.
- Appeals and Legal Challenges: Rana filed multiple appeals to delay extradition, including petitions in higher courts and emergency applications. Eg: He moved the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals and later the US Supreme Court with habeas corpus petitions, all of which were denied.
- Final Clearance and Custody Transfer: After exhausting all legal options, US authorities coordinated with Indian officials to hand over Rana formally. Eg: The US Department of Justice and US Sky Marshal teams worked with Indian NIA and MEA for his secure transfer to Delhi.
What is the role of the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA)?
- Legal Designation of Terrorist Organizations: UAPA provides the legal framework to declare organizations as terrorist outfits and take action against their members and supporters. Eg: Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) and Harkat-ul-Jihadi Islami (HUJI), associated with Rana and Headley, are banned under UAPA.
- Prosecution of Conspirators and Supporters: UAPA enables prosecution not only of terrorists but also of individuals who aid, abet, or conspire in terrorist acts. Eg: Tahawwur Rana is being charged under UAPA for facilitating logistics and shelter to Headley, who conducted reconnaissance for the 26/11 attacks.
- Empowering NIA to Investigate: UAPA empowers the National Investigation Agency (NIA) to investigate and prosecute terrorism cases across India. Eg: The NIA formally arrested Rana under UAPA after his extradition, and is now interrogating him to expose the full conspiracy.
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Way forward:
- Strengthen International Counter-Terror Cooperation: Enhance collaboration on intelligence sharing, joint operations, and faster legal coordination under extradition treaties. Eg: Streamlined communication between NIA and FBI can prevent delays in apprehending fugitives and tracking transnational terror networks.
- Fast-Track Trial and Victim Justice: Ensure expedited judicial proceedings to bring long-pending terrorism cases like 26/11 to closure and deliver justice to victims. Eg: A special fast-track court under the NIA Act can help conclude Rana’s trial swiftly, reinforcing public trust and legal deterrence.
Mains PYQ:
[UPSC 2021] Analyse the complexity and intensity of terrorism, its causes, linkages and obnoxious nexus. Also, suggest measures required to be taken to eradicate the menace of terrorism.
Linkage: The issue of terrorism, its multifaceted nature, and the measures needed to combat it, which aligns with the context of the 26/11 attacks.
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Why in the News?
On April 8, 2025, Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla delivered the keynote address at the 150th Assembly of the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) in Tashkent, Uzbekistan.
About the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU):
- The IPU is the global organization that connects national parliaments, promoting democracy and cooperation among countries.
- Moto: “For democracy. For everyone.”
- It is based in Geneva, Switzerland.
- Establishment:
- It was established in 1889 as the first multilateral political organization aimed at fostering international cooperation and dialogue.
- It was founded by Englishman William Randal Cremer and Frenchman Frederic Passy, two visionaries who believed in resolving international disputes through peaceful arbitration.
- Both went on to win the Nobel Peace Prize in 1901.
- Structure and Mandate:
- It comprises 181 national Member Parliaments and 15 Associate Members (mostly regional parliamentary bodies).
- It is funded by its members out of public funds.
- The Governing Council is made up of 3 MPs from each Member Parliament.
- Core Functions:
- It advocates for stronger, more inclusive, and diverse parliaments.
- It defends the human rights of parliamentarians and organizes biennial assemblies to bring together parliamentary delegates and partners from around the world.
- It works on issues like global governance, the United Nations, and the implementation of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.
Key Milestones Achieved:
- The first IPU conference was held in 1889 in Paris, with participation from MPs across Europe and beyond.
- The IPU played a key role in establishing the Permanent Court of Arbitration in 1899.
- It laid the groundwork for the creation of the League of Nations in 1919 and the United Nations in 1945.
India’s Participation in the IPU:
- India’s membership in the IPU is facilitated through the Indian Parliamentary Group, which serves as the National Group of the IPU.
- The IPG was established in 1949 following a motion adopted by the Constituent Assembly of India.
- The Speaker of the Lok Sabha serves as the ex-officio President of the IPG, while the Deputy Speaker of the Lok Sabha and the Deputy Chairman of the Rajya Sabha serve as Vice Presidents.
| [UPSC 2005] Consider the following statements:
1. The Charter of the United Nations Organization was adopted at Geneva, Switzerland in June 1945; 2. India was admitted to the United Nations Organization in the year 1945; 3. The Trusteeship Council of the United Nations Organization was established to manage the affairs of territories detached from Japan and Italy after WWII.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) 1 and 2 (b) 2 and 3 (c) 1 and 3 (d) 1, 2 and 3 |
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Why in the News?
India is set to operationalise INS Varsha, a highly strategic naval base designed specifically to house nuclear-powered submarines, on the eastern coast near Rambilli in Andhra Pradesh by 2026.
About INS Varsha
- INS Varsha is being developed as a specialized base to house India’s growing fleet of nuclear-powered submarines, including both Nuclear-Powered Ballistic Missile Submarines (SSBNs) and Nuclear-Powered Attack Submarine (SSNs).
- It will be situated near the coastal village of Rambilli, about 50 km south of Visakhapatnam, home to the Eastern Naval Command.
- The naval bases lies on the confluence of Sarada and Varaha rivers.
- The facility will have underground pens and tunnels to ensure stealthy operations for nuclear submarines.
- This design will allow submarines to enter and exit the base undetected, maintaining their stealth, particularly important for SSBNs which carry nuclear missiles during long patrols.
- The base will cover an area of 20 square kilometers and is designed to accommodate at least 10 nuclear submarines.
- Like China’s nuclear submarine base at Hainan Island (in the South China Sea), INS Varsha will be situated in waters that allow submarines to operate without detection from satellite surveillance.
Project Varsha
- INS Varsha is part of Project Varsha, a top-secret initiative aimed at bolstering India’s maritime deterrence capabilities by building a dedicated facility for its nuclear-powered submarines.
- This project is crucial to countering the growing naval presence and strategic expansion of China in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR).
- It will support the fleet of Arihant-class submarines, which are crucial for India’s sea-based nuclear deterrent
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| [UPSC 2016] Which one of the following is the best description of ‘INS Astradharini’, that was in the news recently?
(a) Amphibious warfare ship
(b) Nuclear-powered submarine
(c) Torpedo launch and recovery vessel
(d) Nuclear-powered aircraft carrier |
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Why in the News?
The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) has recently updated its classification of industries, introducing a new category known as the ‘Blue Category.’
Classification of Industries by CPCB:
- The CPCB classifies industries based on their environmental impact, focusing on air pollution, water pollution, and hazardous waste generation.
- Industries are classified using the Pollution Index (PI), which is calculated by considering air, water, and waste pollution, with equal weight given to each factor.
- PI Categories:
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- White: PI < 25 (least polluting industries)
- Green: 25 ≤ PI < 55
- Orange: 55 ≤ PI < 80
- Red: PI > 80 (most polluting industries)
- This system helps determine industry locations, inspection norms, and pollution-related health impacts.
- It is regulated by the Ministry of Environment, Forests, and Climate Change (MoEFCC) to improve environmental standards.
- Presently 419 industrial sectors are categorized into Red, Orange, Green, White, and Blue.
About the ‘Blue’ Category (Newly Introduced):
- The Blue Category was introduced for industries providing Essential Environmental Services (EES) like pollution management and waste control.
- It recognizes industries involved in critical environmental management, such as waste-to-energy plants, sewage treatment plants, and landfill management.
- Industries in the Blue category receive a 2-year extension on their consent to operate as an incentive for their role in managing pollution.
- Scope: Includes industries that manage waste from both domestic and industrial sources, such as:
- Waste-to-Energy (WTE) Plants: Now in the Blue category despite their high PI, due to their role in waste energy recovery.
- Compressed Biogas (CBG) Plants: Classified as Blue for their low environmental impact when processing municipal waste and agro residue.
- Sewage Treatment Plants & Landfills: These facilities manage environmental hazards through controlled waste disposal.
- Blue category industries must comply with all environmental norms, and their Pollution Index is still calculated as per the standard formula.
- Industries showing successful management may receive extended operating permits and other incentives.
| [UPSC 2021] With reference to furnace oil, consider the following statements:
1.It is a product of oil refineries. 2.Some industries use it to generate power. 3.Its use causes sulfur emissions into the environment.
(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?
China has unveiled the Three Gorges Antarctic Eye telescope in Antarctica.
About the Three Gorges Antarctic Eye Telescope
- The Three Gorges Antarctic Eye is a 3.2m wide radio/millimetre-wave telescope located at China’s Zhongshan Station in Antarctica.
- It was developed by China Three Gorges University (CTGU) and Shanghai Normal University (SHNU).
- This telescope can detect radio waves and millimeter waves, types of invisible light, allowing scientists to study phenomena like neutral hydrogen and ammonia molecules, essential for understanding star formation and gas movement in space.
- Unlike most telescopes, it works with both radio and millimeter waves, providing a more comprehensive view of space.
- It is built in one of the harshest environments on Earth, with operating temperatures below -60°C and strong winds, making construction particularly challenging.
| [UPSC 2015] The term ‘IndARC’, sometimes seen in the news, is the name of:
(a) an indigenously developed radar system inducted into Indian Defence
(b) India’s satellite to provide services to the countries of Indian Ocean Rim
(c) a scientific establishment set up by India in Antarctic region
(d) India’s underwater observatory to scientifically study the Arctic region |
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PYQ Relevance:
Question: “If the last few decades were of Asia’s growth story, the next few are expected to be of Africa’s.” In the light of this statement, examine India’s influence in Africa in recent years. [UPSC 2021]
Linkage: The broader context of competition for influence in the continent. |
Mentor’s Comment: The aviation sector is vital for India’s economic growth, connectivity, and global integration. The Protection of Interests in Aircraft Objects Bill, 2025 strengthens legal protections for lessors, encouraging foreign investment and lowering leasing costs. This directly supports fleet expansion, enhances regional connectivity, and boosts India’s ambition to become a global aviation hub, especially through GIFT City.
Today’s editorial talks about the aviation sector, which is a key part of India’s infrastructure. This topic is useful for GS Paper 3 (Infrastructure) and GS Paper 2 (Policy and Governance) in the UPSC exam.
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Let’s learn!
Why in the News?
Last week, Parliament passed the Protection of Interests in Aircraft Objects Bill, 2025. This new law sets up a legal system to handle disputes between airlines and aircraft lessors over valuable aviation assets like planes, helicopters, and engines.
What is the main objective of the Protection of Interests in Aircraft Objects Bill, 2025?
- To Protect Aircraft Lessors’ Rights: The Bill allows aircraft lessors to repossess aircraft and engines swiftly in case of default by airlines. Eg: During GoFirst’s insolvency (2023), lessors couldn’t recover their planes due to legal delays—this Bill now provides legal backing for quicker repossession.
- To Implement the Cape Town Convention and Protocol: Aligns Indian aviation law with global standards to enhance legal predictability and reduce risk for international investors. Eg: Many countries that have implemented the Convention see lower leasing costs and more confidence from global leasing firms.
- To Boost Investment and Reduce Costs in Aviation: Encourages leasing activity in India (especially at GIFT City) by reducing legal and financial uncertainties, lowering aircraft leasing costs by up to 8–10%. Eg: IndiGo and Air India’s fleet expansion could benefit from cheaper leases, ultimately leading to lower operational costs.
What was the Cape Town Convention in 2008?
The Cape Town Convention is an international treaty designed to standardize and protect the rights of creditors (like aircraft lessors) in transactions involving high-value mobile assets, especially in aviation, rail, and space sectors. |
Why was the Bill needed despite India signing the Cape Town Convention in 2008?
- Lack of Implementing Legislation in India: Though India signed the Convention in 2008, it did not pass a domestic law to give it legal force. Eg: Courts couldn’t apply the Convention directly, leading to confusion during airline insolvency cases like GoFirst.
- Conflict with Existing Indian Laws: Domestic laws such as the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code (IBC) often clashed with the Convention’s provisions. Eg: In GoFirst’s 2023 case, NCLT imposed a moratorium that barred lessors from repossessing aircraft, conflicting with the Convention’s rights.
- Low Compliance Score on Global Index: India scored low on the Cape Town Compliance Index (score of 50 out of 100), reducing global confidence. Eg: Lessors viewed India as high-risk, making leasing more expensive and legally uncertain.
- Previous Airline Failures Exposed Legal Gaps: Airline shutdowns like Kingfisher, SpiceJet, and GoFirst highlighted legal ambiguities in asset repossession. Eg: Lessors struggled for months to retrieve aircraft and were also burdened with costs like parking fees.
- To Encourage Investment and Reduce Risk Perception: The absence of a robust legal mechanism discouraged foreign leasing firms from doing business in India. Eg: The new Bill aims to improve investor sentiment and facilitate cheaper leases for growing airlines like IndiGo and Air India.
How did legal conflicts affect aircraft repossession during GoFirst’s insolvency?
- Moratorium under IBC Prevented Repossession: The NCLT imposed a moratorium that barred lessors from reclaiming their aircraft, despite defaults by GoFirst. Eg: Lessors were legally restricted from de-registering and removing aircraft even though the Cape Town Convention allows it.
- Delay in Aircraft Maintenance and Access: Legal restrictions also denied lessors access to their aircraft for routine maintenance, risking airworthiness. Eg: Aircraft parked at airports couldn’t be inspected or serviced, causing additional losses to lessors.
- Lessors Incurred Extra Operational Costs: Lessors had to pay dues on behalf of GoFirst, including airport handling, parking, and office space charges. Eg: These unexpected expenses made the leasing business financially unviable under Indian legal conditions.
What concerns do lessors have about India’s tax regime and GIFT City push?
- Stringent Tax Scrutiny under GAAR: India’s General Anti-Avoidance Rule (GAAR), implemented in 2017, allows tax authorities to deny tax benefits if a leasing company is deemed to exist solely for tax-saving purposes without substantial commercial activity. Eg: Lessors cannot merely establish a shell entity in GIFT City to avail tax perks; they must demonstrate genuine business operations, unlike the more lenient frameworks in countries like Ireland.
- Challenges in Financing Support: Unlike other global leasing hubs, Indian banks are cautious about lending to airlines due to past airline failures, leading lessors to rely on overseas funding, which increases costs. Eg: European banks support leasing businesses in Ireland, but in India, the absence of similar backing means lessors face higher financing costs.
- Uncertainty in Tax Incentives Implementation: While GIFT City offers tax incentives, ambiguity in their application and interpretation by tax officials can lead to procedural delays and increased compliance burdens. Eg: Lessors may face delays due to unclear tax exemption procedures, affecting their operational efficiency.
- Requirement to Establish Physical Presence: The push for lessors to set up operations in GIFT City necessitates a physical presence, involving additional costs and administrative efforts. Eg: Lessors must establish offices and staff in GIFT City to comply with regulatory requirements, unlike jurisdictions that allow more flexible arrangements.
- Regulatory and Operational Challenges: Despite incentives, lessors face regulatory hurdles and operational challenges, such as the absence of an airport in GIFT City, complicating logistics for leased aircraft. Eg: Newly leased aircraft need proper parking facilities, and the lack of an airport in GIFT City poses logistical issues.
Way forward:
- Enact and Operationalize the Bill Swiftly: The government should ensure the Protection of Interests in Aircraft Objects Bill, 2025 is not only passed but implemented effectively, with clarity on how it interacts with the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code (IBC) and other domestic laws.
- Enhance Infrastructure and Regulatory Clarity at GIFT City: India should build supportive infrastructure (like an airport) in or near GIFT City and offer clear, predictable tax and regulatory policies to attract top-tier leasing companies.
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Why in the News?
Last month, in March, it was five years since the COVID-19 pandemic began around the world.
What did COVID-19 reveal about trust in healthcare and public health interventions?
- Fragility of Public Trust: Public trust in healthcare systems is delicate and can quickly deteriorate during a crisis. Eg: In countries like the U.S. and Brazil, misinformation and politicization of health measures led to public skepticism about mask mandates and vaccines.
- Trust Influences Compliance: Low trust in healthcare institutions led to reduced compliance with health measures like vaccination, social distancing, and testing. Eg: In India, varying levels of trust in different states resulted in underreporting of COVID-19 deaths, as later highlighted in Science.
- Communication is Crucial: Clear and consistent communication from governments and health agencies helped in building public trust. Eg: New Zealand’s early success was due in part to science-based communication from the Prime Minister and health officials.
- Trust Shapes Health Behavior: People’s willingness to seek medical help or follow guidelines depended on their trust in healthcare providers. Eg: In Nigeria, fear and mistrust led many to avoid hospitals, fearing infection or poor treatment.
- Erosion of Trust Undermines Future Preparedness: Damaged trust affects the public’s response to future health threats and reduces the uptake of new interventions.Eg: The inconsistent global response to monkeypox was partly due to lingering distrust from the COVID-19 experience.
How did technology both aid and challenge digital health and education during the pandemic?
- Enabled Remote Health Services (Telemedicine): Technology allowed continuation of healthcare through teleconsultations when in-person visits were restricted. Eg: In India, platforms like eSanjeevani facilitated over 100 million teleconsultations, especially in rural areas.
- Accelerated Use of AI in Pharma and Diagnostics: Artificial Intelligence helped speed up drug discovery, vaccine research, and diagnostic tools. Eg: Tools developed by DeepMind (UK) predicted protein structures, aiding faster vaccine development and earning its creators the Nobel Prize.
- Exposed the Digital Divide: Access to digital tools remained unequal, affecting remote education and healthcare access for underprivileged groups. Eg: In India, many rural students lacked smartphones or internet, disrupting schooling during lockdowns.
- Boosted Digital Learning Platforms: Educational apps and platforms saw a massive surge, enabling continuity in learning. Eg: Platforms like Byju’s and Google Classroom were widely adopted in India and globally for virtual classes.
- Data Privacy and Cybersecurity Concerns: Increased reliance on tech led to concerns over data breaches, surveillance, and lack of digital ethics. Eg: Contact-tracing apps like Aarogya Setu raised privacy concerns due to unclear data protection protocols.
Why were vulnerable groups, especially women and the poor, hit hardest by the pandemic?
- Loss of Livelihood and Informal Jobs: The poor, especially those in informal sectors, lost income due to lockdowns and lack of social protection. Eg: In India, millions of migrant workers lost jobs overnight and walked back to their villages without government support.
- Increased Burden on Women: Women faced a double burden of unpaid care work (childcare, household chores) and job losses in female-dominated sectors. Eg: During school closures, women in urban slums often had to quit jobs to care for children, worsening gender inequality.
- Limited Access to Health Services: Vulnerable groups faced disruptions in essential health services, including maternal care and mental health support. Eg: In many low-income countries, access to reproductive health services declined, increasing risks for pregnant women.
When and why did universal health coverage and hybrid solutions gain urgency?
- Exposure of Weak Health Infrastructure:The pandemic exposed gaps in health systems, especially in developing countries, creating urgency for universal health coverage to ensure no one is left behind. Eg: In India, shortages of hospital beds and oxygen highlighted the need for strong public health systems accessible to all.
- Need for Remote Healthcare: Lockdowns limited physical access to hospitals, leading to a surge in telemedicine and hybrid care models that combine digital tools with on-ground services. Eg: Teleconsultations increased in both urban and rural areas to provide care without physical contact during peak COVID-19 waves.
- Cost-Effective and Scalable Solutions: Governments began to focus on sustainable and scalable healthcare strategies that balance cost, access, and efficiency through hybrid models. Eg: Countries like Brazil and Bangladesh started integrating AI-powered diagnostics with community healthcare workers to reach underserved populations.
Which IP-related debates during COVID-19 exposed tensions between innovation and access?
- TRIPS Waiver Proposal: The proposal to waive certain intellectual property rights under the TRIPS Agreement sparked global debate. It aimed to let countries produce COVID-19 vaccines, tests, and treatments without legal barriers. Eg: India and South Africa led the push at the WTO in 2020; many developed nations opposed it, fearing harm to innovation.
- Opposition from Pharmaceutical Companies: Pharmaceutical companies resisted IP waivers, arguing it would discourage future research investments. They emphasized the role of patents in incentivizing innovation and funding advanced research. Eg: Pfizer and Moderna opposed sharing mRNA technology, despite global demand.
- Vaccine Nationalism and Access Inequality: IP protections contributed to unequal global vaccine distribution, especially in low-income countries. Wealthier nations secured large vaccine stocks early, while poorer countries struggled due to production limits. Eg: Africa faced major delays in vaccine access due to limited manufacturing and patent restrictions.
Way forward:
- Promote Flexible IP Frameworks During Health Crises: Encourage temporary waivers or compulsory licensing for life-saving technologies to ensure global equity in access.
- Strengthen Global South Collaboration: Build regional manufacturing and research partnerships to reduce dependency on patent-holding nations and improve pandemic preparedness.
Mains PYQ:
[UPSC 2020] “COVID-19 pandemic accelerated class inequalities and poverty in India. Comment.
Linkage: The COVID-19 pandemic exposed weaknesses in India’s health sector and taught important lessons on how to better prepare for and manage similar health crises in the future. This impacted the vulnerable groups, especially women and the poor, hit hardest by the pandemic.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Mains level: India-China relation;
Why in the News?
Today’s China is clearly very different from the time of Deng Xiaoping. Since Xi Jinping took power in 2013, China has changed even more, and there’s little sign that it plans to go back to its earlier approach.
Why is China’s reference to its past and civilisational wrongs worrying for neighbours like India?
- Revival of Imperial Borders: China increasingly invokes the idea of restoring historical boundaries, particularly from the Qing Dynasty era, as part of its national rejuvenation narrative. This fuels aggressive territorial claims along its borders, including the Himalayas. Eg: Galwan Valley clash (2020) and Doklam standoff (2017) stemmed from China’s assertion of areas it considers historically part of its territory.
- Narrative of Victimhood and Justification for Aggression: By portraying itself as a wronged civilisation that suffered during the “Century of Humiliation,” China seeks to justify its assertive and sometimes aggressive policies. This historical grievance can be weaponised to rationalise border incursions or political pressure. Eg: China’s repeated provocations in Ladakh are often accompanied by narratives about safeguarding sovereignty and correcting past “injustices”.
- Undermining Trust and Stability in the Region: Civilisational rhetoric makes China appear unpredictable and ideologically rigid, reducing the room for compromise or pragmatic dialogue. Diplomatic efforts may be overshadowed by a deep-seated belief in historical entitlement, affecting long-term peace and confidence-building. Eg: Despite de-escalation talks, China maintains over a lakh soldiers with heavy weaponry in Ladakh, showing the mismatch between words and actions.
What do incidents reveal about China’s border ambitions?
- Assertion of Historical Claims: China seeks to enforce its version of historical borders, often disregarding settled agreements or established boundaries. Eg: In Doklam (2017), China attempted to build a road near the India-Bhutan-China tri-junction, claiming it as part of “historical Chinese territory”.
- Testing India’s Military and Diplomatic Response: Provocations are used to gauge India’s preparedness, resolve, and red lines in high-altitude and remote border regions. Eg: The Galwan clash (2020) tested India’s military presence in Eastern Ladakh, where both sides suffered casualties.
- Salami Slicing Strategy: China advances its territorial ambitions incrementally—occupying small patches of disputed land to gradually shift the Line of Actual Control (LAC). Eg: Reports of Chinese infrastructure buildup in Depsang Plains and Demchok indicate creeping occupation tactics.
How does China’s military and tech build-up affect India’s defence readiness?
- Late 2024 – Signs of De-escalation: A thaw began in late 2024, marked by steps to ease tensions at border friction points. Eg: De-escalation started just before the BRICS Summit in Kazan, Russia (October 2024).
- Border Patrolling Agreement Announced: An India-China Border Patrolling Agreement was informally referenced as a framework to manage patrolling in the Himalayas. Eg: Though details remained sketchy, the agreement was viewed as a tentative breakthrough in restoring order along the LAC.
- Chinese Defence Ministry’s Statement (November 2024): China officially acknowledged progress in implementing the disengagement and patrolling settlement. Eg: A Chinese Defence Ministry spokesperson stated the hope for a “harmonious dance between the Chinese Dragon and the Indian Elephant.”
- India’s PM Statement in the U.S. (February 2025): Indian PM, during a visit to the U.S., declared that normalcy had returned to the border. Eg: He emphasized cooperation with China as essential for global peace and prosperity.
Which regional moves call for a foreign policy rethink by India?
- China’s Outreach to Bangladesh: After the political transition in Bangladesh, China deepened ties with the new leadership. Eg: Visit of Bangladesh’s Chief Adviser Mohammed Yunus to China in March 2025, after Sheikh Hasina’s eclipse.
- China’s Inroads in India’s Neighbourhood: China actively seeks new alliances in South Asia, undermining India’s traditional influence. Eg: Countries like Nepal, Sri Lanka, and now Bangladesh are being courted by China with investments and diplomatic engagement.
- Neglect of West Asia and North Africa: India’s recent foreign focus has tilted towards the U.S., while West Asia and North Africa have seen less engagement. Example: China’s growing presence in energy partnerships and infrastructure in the Middle East and Africa poses strategic challenges.
- China’s Advance in African Nuclear Sector: China is gaining access to nuclear energy resources in Africa, positioning itself as a key energy partner.Eg: China’s strategic energy investments in Africa give it leverage over future global energy security, where India lags behind.
- Great Power Competition and China’s Strategic Penetration: China’s rapid expansion through initiatives like the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) creates a web of influence around India. Eg: Strategic infrastructure in Myanmar, Maldives, and the Indian Ocean region reshapes regional geopolitics in China’s favour.
What are the steps taken by the Indian government?
- Act East Policy Revamp: Strengthening ties with Southeast Asian nations like Vietnam, Philippines, and Indonesia. Eg: India’s maritime cooperation and defence agreements with ASEAN countries.
- Neighbourhood First Policy: Renewed focus on diplomatic and developmental engagement with South Asian neighbours.Eg: Infrastructure and energy projects in Nepal, Bhutan, and Sri Lanka, including India-funded railways and power grids.
- Deepening Quad and Indo-Pacific Strategy: Enhanced coordination with USA, Japan, and Australia under the Quad framework. Eg: Joint naval exercises like Malabar, and focus on free and open Indo-Pacific.
- Strategic Infrastructure Development: Accelerated development of border infrastructure in sensitive regions to counter Chinese encroachments. Eg: Fast-tracking roads, tunnels, and airstrips in Arunachal Pradesh, Ladakh, and Sikkim.
- Enhanced Defence Diplomacy: Upgrading military-to-military engagements and arms exports to friendly nations. Eg: Supplying Tejas fighter jets to Argentina and BrahMos missiles to the Philippines.
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Way forward:
- Build a Multi-Domain Deterrence Framework: India must develop coordinated military, cyber, space, and maritime capabilities to counter China’s growing influence across all strategic domains. Eg: Strengthening the Defence Cyber Agency, expanding India’s space surveillance, and enhancing undersea monitoring in the Indian Ocean to deter any surprise escalation.
- Expand Strategic Partnerships Beyond the Quad: India should diversify its strategic alignments by engaging European powers (like France and Germany), Middle East partners (like UAE, Israel), and Africa through trade, defence, and technological cooperation. Eg: India-France Indo-Pacific cooperation and India-UAE-France trilateral initiatives can counterbalance China’s BRI-led influence.
Mains PYQ:
[UPSC 2020] What is the significance of Indo-US defence deals over Indo-Russian defence deals? Discuss with reference to stability in the Indo-Pacific region.
Linkage: India’s strategic partnerships play an important role in maintaining peace in the region, especially as China grows stronger militarily, acts aggressively like in Galwan, and expands its influence in the Indo-Pacific.
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Why in the News?
The Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) has notified the Electronics Components Manufacturing Scheme to expand the manufacturing capabilities of passive electronic components in India.
About Electronics Components Manufacturing Scheme:
- The scheme is designed to promote the manufacturing of select electronic components in India, such as resistors, capacitors, relays, switches, sensors, and connectors.
- It focuses particularly on passive electronic components, while active components like semiconductors fall under the India Semiconductor Mission (ISM).
- The scheme has a tenure of 6 years, with a 1-year gestation period.
- The scheme offers 3 types of incentives:
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- Turnover-linked incentive: Based on revenue.
- Capex-linked incentive: For investments in plants and machinery.
- Hybrid incentive model: A combination of both turnover and capex incentives.
Achievements and Growth in the Electronics Sector:
- Domestic Production Growth: India’s electronics production has grown from ₹1.90 lakh crore in FY 2014-15 to ₹9.52 lakh crore in FY 2023-24, at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of over 17%.
- Export Growth: Electronics exports have increased from ₹0.38 lakh crore in FY 2014-15 to ₹2.41 lakh crore in FY 2023-24, reflecting a CAGR of over 20%. India is now the second-largest mobile phone producer globally.
- Future Projections: By 2026, India’s electronics production is projected to reach USD 300 billion.
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Government Initiatives for Electronics Growth:
- Make in India (2014): Aimed at boosting India’s manufacturing sector and transforming it into a global hub for design and manufacturing.
- Phased Manufacturing Programme (2017): Focused on increasing domestic value addition in mobile phones and their parts.
- Production Linked Incentive (PLI) Scheme (2020): Aimed at boosting domestic manufacturing in mobile phones, electronic components, and semiconductor packaging, offering 3-6% incentives on incremental sales.
- Semicon India Program (2021): With a financial outlay of ₹76,000 crore, this scheme promotes the domestic semiconductor industry.
- Scheme for Promotion of Manufacturing of Electronic Components and Semiconductors (SPECS) (2021): Provides a 25% financial incentive for capital expenditure in electronic goods manufacturing.
- Increased Budget for 2025-26: The allocation for electronics manufacturing has been raised from ₹5,747 crore in FY 2024-25 to ₹8,885 crore in FY 2025-26.
| [UPSC 2016] Recently, India’s first ‘National Investment and Manufacturing Zone’ was proposed to be set up in:
(a) Andhra Pradesh (b) Gujarat (c) Maharashtra (d) Uttar Pradesh |
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Why in the News?
The preliminary findings of Genome India Project, based on the whole genome sequencing of 10,074 healthy and unrelated Indians from 85 populations across the country, were published recently.
About Genome India Project
- The Genome India Project was launched in January 2020 to map the genetic diversity of India’s population.
- It is a collaborative project supported and funded by the Department of Biotechnology, GoI, involving multiple institutions across the country.
- Objectives:
- Decode the genetic diversity of India’s population through large-scale genome sequencing.
- Create an exhaustive catalog of genetic variations, including common, low-frequency, rare, single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs), and structural variations.
- Develop a reference haplotype structure for Indians, which can be used to impute missing genetic variation in future studies.
- Design genome-wide arrays for research and diagnostics at an affordable cost.
- Establish a biobank for DNA and plasma collected for future research use.
- The Genome India Database, which houses the genetic data, is now available to researchers worldwide and is stored at the Indian Biological Data Centre (IBDC) in Faridabad, Haryana.
Preliminary findings of the Study
- The project genotyped 10,074 individuals from 85 populations, including 32 tribal and 53 non-tribal groups across India.
- Blood samples were collected from around 20,000 individuals, with DNA samples from 10,074 individuals subjected to whole genome sequencing.
- A total of 180 million genetic variants were identified, of which 130 million are in non-sex chromosomes (22 autosomes) and 50 million are in sex chromosomes X and Y.
- Variant Significance:
- Variants associated with diseases.
- Rare variants.
- Variants unique to India or specific communities.
| [UPSC 2016] In the context of the developments in Bioinformatics, the term ‘transcriptome’, sometimes seen in the news, refers to
(a) a range of enzymes used in genome editing
(b) the full range of mRNA molecules expressed by an organism
(c) the description of the mechanism of gene expression
(d) a mechanism of genetic mutations taking place in cell |
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Why in the News?
The latest Annual Report of the Periodic Labour Force Survey (PLFS) for the year 2024, covering the period from January to December, was released on April 8, 2025.
About the Periodic Labour Force Survey (PLFS):
- Launched by the National Statistics Office (NSO) in April 2017, the PLFS provides frequent data on labour force indicators to track employment trends.
- It estimates employment and unemployment indicators in rural and urban areas quarterly and annually, using Current Weekly Status (CWS) and Usual Status (ps+ss).
- The PLFS Annual Reports offer national estimates on employment and unemployment, broken down by rural and urban areas.
- The survey tracks indicators like Labour Force Participation Rate (LFPR), Worker Population Ratio (WPR), and Unemployment Rate (UR), helping policymakers understand employment dynamics.
Key Terminologies Used:
- Labour Force Participation Rate (LFPR): LFPR is the percentage of the population that is either working or actively seeking work. It measures the active engagement of the population in the labour market.
- Worker Population Ratio (WPR): WPR is the percentage of the population that is employed. It indicates the proportion of the population that is engaged in productive work.
- Unemployment Rate (UR): UR is the percentage of individuals in the labour force who are unemployed. It provides insights into the efficiency of the labour market and the availability of employment opportunities.
- Usual Status (ps+ss): This approach calculates a person’s employment status based on the activities they pursued over the past 365 days. It includes both their principal and subsidiary economic activities.
- Principal Status (ps): The main activity a person engaged in during the reference period.
- Subsidiary Status (ss): Any additional economic activities undertaken by a person for at least 30 days during the reference period.
- Current Weekly Status (CWS): CWS measures a person’s employment status based on the activities they pursued in the past 7 days. It focuses on short-term employment fluctuations.
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Key Highlights of the Recent Report (2024):
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Details
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| Sample Size and Survey Coverage |
Surveyed 12,749 Field Survey Units (FSUs) across 6,982 villages and 5,767 urban blocks with 1,01,957 households and 4,15,549 individuals. |
Labour Force Indicators (CWS)
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| LFPR (Urban) |
- Urban male LFPR increased from 74.3% to 75.6%, and female LFPR from 25.5% to 25.8%, resulting in an overall increase from 50.3% to 51.0%.
- Shows gradual improvement in workforce participation, especially among males.
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| WPR (Urban) |
- Urban WPR increased from 47.0% to 47.6%, while national WPR remained stable at 53.4% to 53.5%.
- Indicates a slight improvement in the share of employed people in urban areas.
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| Unemployment Rate (UR) |
- Rural unemployment decreased from 4.3% to 4.2%, and urban female unemployment decreased from 8.9% to 8.2%.
- Indicates small improvements in employment opportunities, especially in rural and female urban sectors.
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| Decline in Unpaid Helpers |
- Reduced number of unpaid helpers in rural households led to a decline in WPR and LFPR for rural females.
- Fewer women are engaged in unpaid family work, which may indicate an increase in formal employment.
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Labour Force Indicators (PS+SS)
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| LFPR (National) |
- National LFPR slightly decreased from 59.8% in 2023 to 59.6% in 2024.
- Shows a slight decrease in overall workforce participation at the national level.
|
| WPR (National) |
- National WPR slightly decreased from 58.0% to 57.7%, indicating a small drop in employment despite stable participation rates.
- Reflects a slight decline in the proportion of the population employed.
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| Unemployment Rate (UR) |
- National UR slightly increased from 3.1% to 3.2%, reflecting a small rise in unemployment.
- A minor increase in unemployment, suggests potential challenges in creating enough jobs for the growing population.
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| [UPSC 2013] Disguised unemployment generally means:
(a) large number of people remain unemployed (b) alternative employment is not available (c) marginal productivity of labour is zero (d) productivity of workers is low |
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Navkar Mahamantra Divas
Why in the News?
Prime Minister has inaugurated and participated in Navkar Mahamantra Divas at Vigyan Bhawan, New Delhi.
What is Vishwa Navkar Mahamantra Divas?
- The event is observed annually on April 9 to promote peace, non-violence, and spiritual harmony globally by chanting the Navkar Mantra collectively.
- The mantra venerates the 5 supreme beings:
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- Arihants: Represent those who have attained “Keval Gyan” (perfect knowledge) and guide “Bhavya Jeevas” (souls destined for liberation). They possess twelve divine qualities.
- Siddhas: Those who have eradicated all karmas and attained Moksha. They are endowed with eight pure qualities.
- Acharyas: The leaders who follow Mahavrat and guide others on the spiritual path. They embody 36 virtues.
- Upadhyayas: Scholars who impart knowledge related to the path to Moksha, with 25 virtues.
- Sadhus: Renunciants who refine themselves through penance, with 27 significant qualities.
Key Jain Principles Associated:
- Ahimsa (Non-Violence): The Navkar Mantra embodies the principle of Ahimsa, advocating for peace and harmony by acknowledging the interconnectedness of all life forms, thus promoting Maitri (friendliness) towards all beings.
- Anekantavada (Non-Absolutism) and Syadvada: This principle promotes appreciating diverse perspectives and truths, which was emphasized as a solution to global challenges like terrorism and environmental degradation, reflecting the Jain concept of Syadvada (conditional truth).
- Tapas (Self-Discipline) and Vairagya (Detachment): The mantra is seen as a spiritual tool for self-realization, mental stability, and fostering inner peace, encouraging Tapas and Vairagya as means to achieve spiritual growth.
- Samyak Darshana (Right Faith) and Samyak Jnana (Right Knowledge): The teachings of the Navkar Mantra were connected to building a developed India rooted in heritage while embracing progress without losing cultural values, emphasizing the importance of Samyak Darshana and Samyak Jnana.
- Svadhyaya (Self-Study) and Sadhana (Spiritual Practice): The mantra encourages self-discipline and truth as guiding principles for personal growth and societal harmony, promoting Svadhyaya and Sadhana as essential practices.
| [UPSC 2011] The Jain philosophy holds that the world is created and maintained by:
(a) Universal Law (b) Universal Truth (c) Universal Faith (d) Universal Soul |
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Why in the News?
Colossal Biosciences, a biotech firm based in US, has successfully bred the extinct Dire Wolf pups using gene-editing technologies.
About Dire Wolf (Aenocyon dirus)
- The dire wolf lived during the Pleistocene Epoch, approximately 6 million to 11,700 years ago, and went extinct around 13,000 years ago.
- Physical Characteristics and Behaviour:
- It was larger than the modern gray wolf, standing about 5 feet tall at the shoulder and weighing up to 150 pounds, significantly heavier than the average gray wolf.
- It had a stockier body, a robust skull, and powerful jaws, adapted for hunting and consuming large prey. It likely had light or white fur, unlike the gray, black, or white coats of modern wolves.
- As an apex predator, the dire wolf primarily preyed on large mammals like bison and horses.
- While it did not hunt in packs as effectively due to its size, it was capable of cooperative hunting when needed.
- Extinction:
- The species went extinct likely due to a combination of prey depletion, climate change, and the impact of human activities.
- Fossils have been found across a wide geographical range, from the La Brea Tar Pits in California to the Mississippi River Valley.
- Genomic Comparison:
- The gene-edited pups share 5% DNA of gray wolves but differ in the remaining 0.5%, which accounts for the dire wolf traits.
- These pups are not exact clones of the dire wolf but are considered “dire wolves” based on their physical resemblance.
Technologies Used for Resurrection:
- Ancient DNA Extraction & Analysis: DNA from 13,000 to 72,000-year-old fossils was sequenced to identify key genetic traits.
- Gene Editing (CRISPR): Scientists used CRISPR to edit gray wolf DNA, introducing features like size, fur color, and muscular traits to resemble the dire wolf.
- Somatic Cell Nuclear Transfer (SCNT): Edited somatic cells from gray wolves were used to create embryos implanted in dog surrogates. Genetically modified pups were born after 62 days.
- Embryo Implantation: The gene-edited embryos developed into the first de-extinct dire wolf pups.
| [UPSC 2018] The term “”sixth mass extinction/sixth extinction”” is often mentioned in the news in the context of the discussion of:
(a) Widespread monoculture practices in agriculture and large-scale commercial farming with indiscriminate use of chemicals in many parts of the world that may result in the loss of good native ecosystems.
(b) Fears of a possible collision of a meteorite with the Earth in the near future in the manner it happened 65 million years ago that caused the mass extinction of many species including those of dinosaurs.
(c) Large scale cultivation of genetically modified crops in many parts of the world and promoting their cultivation in other parts of the world which may cause the disappearance of good native crop plants and the loss of food biodiversity.
(d) Mankind’s over-exploitation/misuse of natural resources, fragmentation/loss of natural habitats, destruction of ecosystems, pollution and global climate change. |
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PYQ Relevance:
[UPSC 2024] Why do large cities tend to attract more migrants than smaller towns? Discuss in the light of conditions in developing countries.
Linkage: Increasing urbanisation and the consequent challenges in large cities, such as traffic congestion and strain on infrastructure, which active mobility can help alleviate by providing alternative modes of transport. |
Mentor’s Comment: Active mobility is getting more attention in India because of growing traffic jams, pollution, health problems, and more deaths of people walking on the roads. The government is now focusing more on sustainable transport through policies like the National Transit Oriented Development (NTOD) policy and the Smart Cities Mission. At the same time, global efforts like the Paris Agreement are pushing countries to cut carbon emissions and support environment-friendly ways of travel.
Today’s editorial highlights why active mobility is important for India. This topic is useful for UPSC Mains preparation, especially for GS Paper 2 (governance, health, and urban planning) and GS Paper 3 (environment, infrastructure, and sustainable development).
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Let’s learn!
Why in the News?
Accidental deaths and injuries of pedestrians, cyclists, street vendors, and others are increasing in metro cities of India.
What is Active Mobility?
Active mobility refers to human-powered transportation modes like walking, cycling, and skateboarding used for commuting, promoting sustainability, public health, and reduced pollution, without relying on motorised vehicles or fuel.
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Why are accidental deaths and injuries of pedestrians, cyclists increasing in metro cities of India?
- Encroachment of Dedicated Lanes: Even when cities build footpaths or cycling tracks, they are often occupied by motor vehicles, street vendors, or parked cars, making them unsafe. Eg: In Delhi and Bengaluru, two-wheelers and cars frequently use cycle lanes during traffic jams, forcing cyclists onto busy roads.
- Lack of Proper Infrastructure and Road Design: Many urban roads lack continuous, well-marked, and safe pedestrian crossings or protected bike lanes, leading to risky road usage. Example: Mumbai’s arterial roads have few safe pedestrian crossings, leading to frequent jaywalking and accidents.
- Poor Enforcement of Traffic Rules: Drivers often ignore speed limits, red lights, and pedestrian right-of-way due to weak law enforcement, increasing accident risks for non-motorised users. Example: In Chennai, despite designated zebra crossings, vehicles rarely stop for pedestrians, leading to unsafe road conditions.
Why is active mobility gaining attention in urban planning and national policies?
- Rising Traffic Congestion and Air Pollution: Active mobility offers a sustainable solution to reduce vehicle load and emissions in crowded cities. Eg: Delhi’s EV Policy promotes cycling and walking infrastructure to curb air pollution and decongest roads.
- Public Health and Lifestyle Benefits: Walking and cycling improve physical and mental health, reducing the burden on healthcare systems. Eg: WHO supports active transport to combat lifestyle diseases like obesity, diabetes, and heart ailments.
- High Rates of Pedestrian and Cyclist Fatalities: Inadequate infrastructure has made Indian roads unsafe for non-motorised users, triggering urgent reforms. Eg: Karnataka Active Mobility Bill, 2022 was drafted after the state reported the highest pedestrian deaths in 2020 (13%).
- Climate Change Commitments and Sustainable Goals: Active mobility helps reduce carbon emissions and supports international commitments like the Paris Agreement. Eg: The National Transit Oriented Development (NTOD) Policy integrates eco-friendly transport in urban planning.
- Inclusion in Smart Cities and Urban Missions: Government schemes now prioritise walkable, cyclist-friendly cities for better liveability and accessibility. Eg: Pune developed over 300 km of dedicated cycle lanes under its Comprehensive Bicycle Plan.
What has WHO said about Active mobility?
- Health Benefits: Active mobility helps combat physical inactivity, which leads to nearly 1 million deaths annually in the WHO European Region. Regular walking and cycling lower the chances of developing noncommunicable diseases such as cancer, type-2 diabetes, obesity, and heart disease. Eg: Just 20 minutes of cycling or 30 minutes of walking a day can reduce the risk of death by over 10%.
- Environmental Impact: Opting for active transport instead of motorised vehicles helps curb greenhouse gas emissions, cuts down air pollution—which is responsible for over 500,000 deaths in Europe each year—and reduces energy use and noise. Eg: Cities prioritising cycling and pedestrian zones experience cleaner air and quieter surroundings.
- Economic and Social Benefits: Active mobility drives green job creation and lowers the economic burden of healthcare related to lifestyle diseases. It also improves inclusivity by offering affordable, accessible mobility options to people across income groups. Eg: Investment in pedestrian zones often boosts local economies and enhances community interaction.
- Global Initiatives: WHO leads programs like the Global Action Plan on Physical Activity and regional collaborations such as THE PEP (Transport, Health and Environment Pan-European Programme). These aim to reduce global physical inactivity by 15% by 2030 through integrated, measurable efforts.
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Where have Indian cities taken steps to improve infrastructure for active mobility?
- Chennai’s Non-Motorized Transport (NMT) Policy: Chennai was the first Indian city to adopt a dedicated NMT policy in 2014, allocating 60% of its transport budget to pedestrian and cycling infrastructure. The city has transformed over 100 km of streets with better footpaths, improved access to bus stops, and inaugurated the Pondy Bazaar Pedestrian Plaza, a model public space. with underground utilities and seating areas.
- Coimbatore’s NMT Network Plan: Coimbatore developed a comprehensive NMT network plan focusing on creating 290 km of safe roads for walking and cycling. This initiative aims to improve safety, increase the share of non-motorized transport, and benefit approximately 1 million residents by 2035.
- India Cycles4Change and Streets4People Challenges: Launched under the Smart Cities Mission, these initiatives have inspired 33 cities to implement over 570 km of walking and cycling projects, with an additional 1,400 km under development. These programs have encouraged cities to prioritize active mobility as part of their urban planning.
- Surat and Pimpri-Chinchwad’s Active Mobility Efforts: Surat and Pimpri-Chinchwad have created dedicated public transport funds that support walking and cycling infrastructure. These cities are integrating active mobility into their broader urban development plans to make streets more people-centric.
How do other countries like the Netherlands and Germany promote active mobility successfully?
| Key Factor |
Description |
Example |
| Extensive Dedicated Infrastructure |
Safe, continuous networks of cycling and walking paths. |
Netherlands – Over 35,000 km of cycling lanes for daily and commuter use. |
| Pro-Pedestrian and Cycling Laws |
Legal systems prioritize non-motorised users with right of way and protection. |
Germany – Berlin Mobility Act gives cyclists and pedestrians legal priority. |
| Speed Regulations & Traffic Calming |
Low-speed zones in urban areas to reduce accidents and promote walking/cycling. |
Germany – Urban areas enforce 30 km/h speed limits. |
| Integration with Public Transport |
Active mobility combined with public transport through parking, rentals, and policies. |
Netherlands – Railway stations offer bicycle parking and rental services. |
| Cultural Normalisation & Education |
Awareness campaigns and education embed active mobility in daily life. |
Netherlands – Children are taught cycling and road safety from an early age. |
Way forward:
- Institutional Integration and Funding: Mandate dedicated NMT (Non-Motorised Transport) cells and budget allocations in all urban local bodies to ensure planning, execution, and maintenance of active mobility infrastructure.
- Behavioural Change and Awareness: Launch nationwide campaigns and school-based programs to promote cycling and walking as safe, healthy, and aspirational choices for daily commute.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Mains level: Issues related to the Governor;
Why in the News?
The Supreme Court criticised Tamil Nadu Governor R.N. Ravi, calling his actions “unconstitutional.” The court said he did nothing for months about 10 important Bills, and then suddenly sent them to the President only after the State Assembly passed them again and the matter reached the court.
What did the SC rule on the TN Governor’s reservation of Bills for the President in Nov 2024?
- Action declared illegal: The Court ruled that the Governor’s act of reserving 10 Bills for the President after they were already reconsidered and passed again by the Tamil Nadu Assembly was unconstitutional. Eg: If a state legislature passes a Bill, and the Governor returns it, but the legislature passes it again, the Governor must either give assent or withhold it—he cannot send it to the President at that stage.
- Violation of Article 200: According to Article 200, a Bill can be reserved for the President only when it is first presented to the Governor—not after it is passed again following reconsideration. Eg: The Governor had no authority to reserve the 10 Bills in November 2024 because they had already been returned, reconsidered, and passed again.
- Presidential action also invalid: The Court held that since the Governor’s action was unconstitutional, any decision taken by the President based on that action is also invalid. Eg: Even if the President had accepted or rejected those Bills, it would not be valid because the referral itself was flawed.
Why did the SC invoke Article 142 to grant assent to the 10 Bills?
- Undue delay by the Governor: The Bills were kept pending for an excessively long time without any decision by the Governor, causing a constitutional deadlock. Eg: Some Bills were pending since January 2020, which hindered the functioning of the state legislature and governance.
- Violation of constitutional spirit and conventions: The Governor showed disregard for established constitutional conventions and the Supreme Court’s earlier rulings by not acting in a timely or respectful manner. Eg: The Court said the Governor displayed “scant respect” for constitutional procedures by withholding assent without valid reason.
- To ensure justice and restore balance: The Court used Article 142 (which allows it to do complete justice in any matter) to directly grant assent to the 10 Bills to break the impasse and uphold democratic functioning. Eg: Since the Governor failed in his duty, the Court stepped in to protect the will of the people as expressed through their elected legislature.
| Note: Article 142 of the Indian Constitution grants the Supreme Court the power to pass any decree or order necessary to do “complete justice” in any case or matter pending before it, allowing it to transcend the limitations of existing laws and statutes. |
When can a Governor constitutionally reserve a Bill for the President’s consideration?
- Only at the first instance of presentation (Article 200): Under Article 200 of the Constitution, the Governor may reserve a Bill for the President only when it is presented to him for the first time. Eg: If a state Assembly passes a Bill and the Governor receives it for the first time, he can reserve it for the President instead of giving or withholding assent.
- Not after Assembly reconsideration (Article 200 – First Proviso): If the Governor returns a Bill to the Assembly and it is re-passed (with or without changes), the Governor must act—either grant or withhold assent—and cannot reserve it again unless it is substantially changed. Eg: In the Tamil Nadu case, the Governor reserved the Bills after they were reconsidered by the Assembly, which the Supreme Court ruled was unconstitutional.
- Exception – If the Bill is materially different (Article 200 – Judicial Interpretation): If the Bill, after being reconsidered by the legislature, is substantially or materially different from the original, reservation may be allowed. Eg: If new provisions are added that affect national interest or conflict with Union laws, reservation might be justified, even after reconsideration.
How did the SC define the Governor’s expected role and conduct under the Constitution?
- Respect for Parliamentary Democracy and the Will of the Legislature: The Governor must act in accordance with the democratic spirit and not undermine the decisions of the elected legislature. Eg: Shamsher Singh v. State of Punjab (1974) — The SC ruled that the Governor is a constitutional head and must act on the aid and advice of the Council of Ministers, except in specific situations.
- Facilitator, Not an Obstructionist: The Governor should enable smooth functioning of governance and not stall legislative processes. Eg: Samsher Singh case (1974) and reaffirmed in the 2024 SC ruling on Tamil Nadu Bills — The Court held that the Governor’s prolonged inaction amounted to a constitutional failure and disruption of state functioning.
- Bound by Constitutional Oath and Values:The Governor is duty-bound to uphold the Constitution and work for the welfare of the people. Eg: Nabam Rebia v. Deputy Speaker (2016) — The SC observed that the Governor must act within the “four corners” of the Constitution and not misuse discretionary powers.
Way forward:
- Time-bound Action Framework for Governors: A clear timeline should be laid down—either by Parliament or through judicial interpretation—for the Governor to act on Bills (assent, withhold, or reserve). Eg: A fixed period (like 4–6 weeks) can ensure that legislative processes are not indefinitely delayed, maintaining the balance between constitutional roles and democratic governance.
- Institutional Clarity and Accountability: The role and powers of the Governor should be revisited to reduce ambiguity and misuse of discretion. Regular communication protocols between the Governor’s office and the elected government can also be institutionalized. Eg: Like in the case of money Bills where the Governor has limited scope, similar clarity must be applied to regular Bills to avoid conflict or misuse.
Mains PYQ:
[UPSC 2018] Whether the Supreme Court Judgement (July 2018) can settle the political tussle between the Lt. Governor and elected government of Delhi? Examine.
Linkage: The broader theme of the relationship between an unelected head of state (or administrator) and an elected government in a democratic setup.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Mains level: BIMSTEC; Regional Issues;
Why in the news?
The sixth BIMSTEC summit was held last week in Bangkok, where leaders from seven neighbouring countries came together. At a time when the world is facing many challenges, the summit gave a chance to restart and strengthen the BIMSTEC group, which had been inactive for a long time.
What is the BIMSTEC?
- BIMSTEC was established in the year 1997. It is a group of 7 countries around the Bay of Bengal that work together to boost regional cooperation in areas like trade, transport, energy, security, and disaster management.
- It connects South Asia (like India, Bangladesh, Nepal) with Southeast Asia (like Myanmar, Thailand), helping in regional development and integration, especially where SAARC has been inactive.
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What was the significance of the sixth BIMSTEC summit held in Bangkok amidst global turbulence?
- Revitalisation of BIMSTEC Platform: The summit marked a renewed push to activate BIMSTEC after years of stagnation. Eg: Despite challenges like the Myanmar-Thailand earthquake, the summit was successfully held.
- Advancement in Connectivity Projects: It accelerated infrastructure and connectivity plans across the region. Eg: The India-Myanmar-Thailand Trilateral Highway was highlighted as a key BIMSTEC initiative.
- Strengthening Economic Cooperation: Economic integration was prioritised through trade and commerce mechanisms. Eg: A BIMSTEC Chamber of Commerce and plans for a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) were discussed.
- Focus on Disaster Management: The region’s vulnerability to natural disasters was acknowledged with steps toward collective preparedness. Eg: The summit called for a joint disaster management mechanism for BIMSTEC countries.
- Platform for Crucial Bilateral Engagements: It provided leaders a forum to address bilateral tensions diplomatically. Eg: PM of India met Bangladesh and Nepal leaders to discuss border issues and political concerns.
Why has BIMSTEC gained importance over SAARC and other regional groupings in recent years?
- Exclusion of Pakistan: BIMSTEC avoids the India-Pakistan rivalry that has long paralyzed SAARC. Eg: The 19th SAARC summit (2016) was cancelled after India pulled out due to the Uri attack; BIMSTEC continues to function without such deadlocks.
- Regional Connectivity: BIMSTEC focuses on tangible infrastructure and economic integration projects across member states. Eg: The India-Myanmar-Thailand Trilateral Highway enhances trade and links India’s Northeast with Southeast Asia.
- Act East Policy Alignment: BIMSTEC aligns with India’s strategic aim of connecting South Asia with Southeast Asia. Eg: Inclusion of Thailand and Myanmar allows India to implement its Act East Policy, which SAARC cannot facilitate.
- Multi-sectoral Functional Cooperation: BIMSTEC has a broader and more practical agenda covering trade, security, energy, and disaster management. Eg: The 2024 BIMSTEC summit advanced plans for a joint disaster management mechanism and free trade agreements.
- India’s Strategic Diplomatic Shift: India has redirected its focus from SAARC to BIMSTEC as a preferred platform for regional cooperation. Eg: India hosted the BIMSTEC outreach summit during BRICS 2016, signaling its priority shift away from SAARC.
What is the importance of the India-Myanmar-Thailand Trilateral Highway?
- Enhances Regional Connectivity: The highway links India’s North-East with Southeast Asia, boosting physical and economic integration. Eg: It connects Moreh (India) to Mae Sot (Thailand) via Myanmar.
- Promotes Trade and Commerce: It facilitates smoother movement of goods and services, reducing transport costs and time. Eg: Indian exporters can access new markets in Thailand and beyond with greater ease.
- Boosts Tourism and Cultural Exchange: Improved road connectivity encourages people-to-people contact and tourism flows. Eg: Tourists from India can travel by road to explore Myanmar and Thailand’s heritage sites.
- Strategic and Geopolitical Value: Strengthens India’s Act East Policy and counters the influence of China in the region. Eg: The highway gives India a direct land route to ASEAN, reducing dependence on maritime routes.
- Development of India’s North-East: Integrates the North-Eastern states into regional value chains and boosts local economies. Eg: States like Manipur and Assam benefit from increased trade and infrastructure development.
What was outlined in the ‘Vision 2030’ document?
- Negotiation of a Free Trade Agreement (FTA): Plans to push forward a comprehensive BIMSTEC Free Trade Agreement to enhance regional economic integration and trade cooperation.
- Customs Cooperation: Emphasis on Customs agreements to facilitate smoother and faster movement of goods across borders within the region.
- Disaster Management Mechanism: Given the region’s vulnerability to natural disasters, the document stresses the importance of building a joint disaster management system.
- Connectivity Infrastructure: Support for ongoing projects like the India-Myanmar-Thailand Trilateral Highway, aimed at improving physical connectivity, particularly with India’s North-East as a BIMSTEC “hub”.
- Institutional Strengthening: Proposals to establish a BIMSTEC Chamber of Commerce to enhance business-to-business ties and private sector collaboration across the member states.
What are the challenges of all regional groups with India?
- Political Tensions: Regional groupings often get stalled due to bilateral political disputes involving India. Eg: SAARC remains non-functional due to India-Pakistan tensions, especially post-Uri attack (2016).
- Asymmetry in Size and Power: India’s economic and geopolitical dominance leads to perceptions of hegemony by smaller neighbours. Eg: In BBIN, Bhutan’s Parliament rejected the Motor Vehicles Agreement over concerns of being overwhelmed by Indian traffic and influence.
- Slow Implementation of Projects: Despite grand plans, execution of connectivity and trade projects is slow due to bureaucratic delays and lack of coordination. Eg: The India-Myanmar-Thailand Trilateral Highway has faced repeated delays due to funding and infrastructure gaps.
- Security and Border Issues: Unresolved border disputes and cross-border issues hinder trust-building and cooperation. Eg: India-Nepal tensions over the Kalapani-Limpiyadhura border issue affected ties and stalled broader regional engagement.
- Divergent National Interests: Different domestic priorities and political transitions often reduce commitment to collective goals. Eg: In BIMSTEC, Myanmar’s internal conflict and military rule have made coordination on democratic and humanitarian issues more complex.
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Way forward:
- Institutional Strengthening and Timely Implementation: Regional groupings must develop stronger institutional frameworks to ensure accountability, faster execution of projects, and reduced dependence on political goodwill. Eg: Establishing a BIMSTEC Secretariat with enhanced powers and resources can streamline coordination, monitor progress, and push for timely completion of initiatives like the Trilateral Highway and FTA.
- Mutual Trust and Inclusive Diplomacy: India should promote inclusive dialogue, address concerns of smaller neighbours, and adopt a consultative rather than prescriptive approach to regional leadership Eg: Reviving BBIN talks with Bhutan through confidence-building measures or sustained bilateral dialogues with Nepal and Bangladesh can reduce friction and enhance collaboration.
Mains PYQ:
[UPSC 2022] Do you think that BIMSTEC is a parallel organisation like the SAARC? What are the similarities and dissimilarities between the two? How are Indian foreign policy objectives realized by forming this new organisation?
Linkage: BIMSTEC and its relationship with SAARC, which is central to the context of article about BIMSTEC being conceived as a bridge and gaining importance due to SAARC’s inactivity.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Iron Inside the Sun
Why in the News?
Recent findings have revealed that iron’s opacity inside the Sun may be much higher than previously predicted, challenging current solar models.
Iron Inside the Sun:
- Iron makes up approximately 0.14% of the Sun’s mass, which is significantly less than hydrogen (~74%) and helium (~24%).
- Despite its small percentage, iron plays a crucial role in the Sun’s opacity. In the Sun, opacity influences how energy moves from the core to the surface.
- The higher the opacity, the more energy is trapped, impacting the Sun’s temperature, density, and fusion rates.
Highlights of the New Study:
- A 2025 study published in Physical Review Letters revealed that iron’s opacity in the Sun’s interior is 30-400% higher than previously predicted by models.
- Researchers exposed a thin iron sample to X-rays and used spectrometers to measure the shadow cast by the sample.
- By analyzing how strongly the iron absorbed the radiation, they were able to infer the element’s opacity.
- Significance:
- This discovery has important implications for how solar models are constructed.
- By correcting the opacity of iron, models of the Sun’s temperature profile, fusion rates, and energy distribution may need to be revised.
- This will lead to a more accurate understanding of stellar behaviour and energy transfer.
Back2Basics: Composition of the Sun
- The Sun primarily comprises hydrogen and helium, but other elements such as oxygen, carbon, neon, and iron also play significant roles.
|
Element
|
Composition by Mass (%)
|
Key Role
|
| Hydrogen (H) |
74% |
The primary fuel for nuclear fusion in the Sun’s core. It undergoes fusion to form helium, releasing energy that powers the Sun. |
| Helium (He) |
24% |
A byproduct of hydrogen fusion, helium helps maintain the Sun’s stability and supports continued fusion processes. |
| Oxygen (O) |
~0.8% |
Oxygen contributes to the Sun’s opacity, assisting in the transport of energy within the star. It also plays a role in nucleosynthesis, where heavier elements are formed in the Sun’s core. |
| Carbon (C) |
~0.3% |
Carbon is involved in nucleosynthesis and plays a significant role in determining the Sun’s opacity and energy transport mechanisms. |
| Neon (Ne) |
~0.2% |
Neon is found in the Sun’s atmosphere and is involved in the absorption of radiation, affecting the Sun’s energy output and behavior. |
| Iron (Fe) |
~0.14% |
Although small in mass, iron significantly impacts the Sun’s opacity, scattering and absorbing radiation, which influences energy transfer. Iron’s opacity affects the Sun’s temperature, density, and fusion rates. |
| [UPSC 2002] Which one of the following statements is correct with reference to our solar system?
(a) The Earth is the densest of all the planets in our solar system
(b) The predominant element in the composition of Earth is silicon
(c) The Sun contains 75 per cent of the mass of the solar system
(d) The diameter of the Sun is 190 times that of the Earth |
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