Why in the News?
Despite growing global pressure, the International Seabed Authority (ISA) has yet to finalize regulations for deep sea mining.
Deadlock Over Deep Sea Mining Rules:
- ISA’s 36-member executive council concluded a line-by-line reading of the draft “mining code” containing 107 regulations.
- These regulations govern mining for cobalt, nickel, and manganese in international waters.
- Key concerns remain unresolved, especially around environmental protection mechanisms.
- Chile and 36 other countries demand a moratorium until scientific assessments confirm minimal harm to marine ecosystems.
- Also, the US is not a member of the ISA or party to UNCLOS.
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About International Seabed Authority (ISA):
- Establishment: Formed under the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (1982) and the 1994 Agreement relating to Part XI of the Convention.
- Headquarters: Located in Kingston, Jamaica.
- Membership: Comprises 168 member states including India and the European Union.
- Jurisdiction: Governs “The Area” — the seabed and ocean floor beyond national boundaries, covering around 54% of global oceans.
- Guiding Principle: Operates on the principle that deep-sea resources are the common heritage of humankind.
Key Functions:
- Regulation of Mineral Activities
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- Licensing: Grants licenses for exploration of seabed mineral resources.
- Transition Oversight: Manages the shift from exploration to commercial exploitation.
- Mining Code Development: Maintains the Mining Code—rules for environmental impact, royalties, benefit sharing, and technology transfer.
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- Standards: Sets and enforces environmental norms for seabed activities.
- Risk Management: Applies precautionary principles to minimize ecological harm.
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- Monitoring: Oversees contractors and states for legal and environmental adherence.
- Enforcement: Investigates violations and recommends corrective action.
India’s Engagement with the International Seabed Authority:
- Active Participation: India contributes to rule-making and sustainable seabed governance.
- Existing Contracts:
- Polymetallic nodules in the Central Indian Ocean Basin.
- Polymetallic sulphides in the Central Indian Ridge.
- New Applications (2024):
- Polymetallic sulphides in the Carlsberg Ridge.
- Cobalt-rich crusts in the Afanasy-Nikitin Seamount.
- Mining Code Engagement: Participates in drafting and negotiating legal standards.
- Equity and Protection: Supports fair benefit-sharing and strong environmental safeguards.
[UPSC 2021] Consider the following statements:
1. The Global Ocean Commission grants licences for seabed exploration and mining in international waters.
2. India has received licences for seabed mineral exploration in international waters
3. ‘Rare earth minerals’ are present on the seafloor in international waters.
Which of the statements given above are correct?
(a) 1 and 2 only (b) 2 and 3 only* (c) 1 and 3 only (d) 1, 2 and 3 |
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Why in the News?
The Indian Air Force’s longest-serving combat aircraft, the Russian-origin MiG (Mikoyan and Gurevich)-21, is set to be phased out by September 2025.
About MiG-21:
- Type: Single-engine, single-seater, multi-role fighter and ground attack aircraft.
- Origin: Originally inducted as an interceptor; later upgraded for multi-role capabilities.
- Key Indian Variants: Type-77, Type-96, MiG-21 BIS and MiG-21 Bison (most advanced variant with upgraded radar, avionics, and missile systems).
- Safety Concerns:
- High accident rate, especially in recent decades.
- Earned the nickname “flying coffin” due to frequent crashes and pilot fatalities.
- Combat Features:
- Performance: Known for high speed, agility, and rapid climb capability.
- Armament: Capable of deploying both air-to-air and air-to-ground missiles.
- War Record: Played key roles in- 1965 War with Pakistan; 1971 Bangladesh Liberation War; 1999 Kargil Conflict.
- Notable Operation: In 2019, a MiG-21 Bison piloted by Group Captain Abhinandan Varthaman shot down a Pakistani F-16 during aerial combat.
Induction and Retirement:
-
- Timeline: Inducted into the Indian Air Force in 1963 during tensions with China and Pakistan.
- Assembly: First units assembled in India at Chandigarh with Soviet assistance.
- Scale: Over 700 MiG-21s were procured, forming the backbone of the Indian Air Force for decades.
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- Current Status: As of now, three MiG-21 Bison squadrons remain, each with 16–18 aircraft.
- Replacement: To be replaced by the indigenously developed Tejas Mark-1A aircraft.
Back2Basics: LCA Tejas
- Type: Indian single-engine, fourth-generation, multirole light fighter aircraft.
- R&D: Designed by the Aeronautical Development Agency in collaboration with the Aircraft Research and Design Centre of Hindustan Aeronautics Limited.
- Origins: Developed under the Light Combat Aircraft programme launched in the 1980s to replace India’s ageing MiG-21 fleet.
- Indigenous Content:
- By Value: 59.7% of the aircraft’s components are sourced indigenously.
- By Units: 75.5% of the line replaceable units are domestically produced.
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| [UPSC 2024] Consider the following aircraft:
1. Rafael 2. MiG-29 3. Tejas MK-1
How many of the above are considered fifth generation fighter aircraft?
Options: (a) Only one (b) Only two (c) All three (d) None* |
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Why in the news?
The recent polyandrous marriage in Himachal Pradesh has brought the spotlight back on the customary practices of the Hatti tribe.
About Hatti Tribe:
- Location: Indigenous to the Trans-Giri region (Himachal Pradesh) and Jaunsar Bawar region (Uttarakhand).
- Rivers: Settled around the Giri and Tons rivers, tributaries of the Yamuna.
- Etymology: “Hatti” derives from “haat” (traditional village markets).
- Population: Around 2.5 lakh in 2011; now estimated at 3 lakh.
- Traditional Governance: Khumbli (tribal council) handles disputes and key decisions.
- Social Structure: Divided into upper castes (Bhat, Khash) and lower castes (Badhois).
- Livelihood: Depend mainly on agriculture; eco-tourism also provides seasonal income.
- Backwardness: Social and educational deprivation due to geographical isolation.
- Scheduled Tribe Status:
- Jaunsar Bawar (Uttarakhand) recognized in 1967.
- Trans-Giri region (Himachal Pradesh) granted status in 2023–24.
Legal Status of Polygamy and Polyandry:
- Prohibition: Banned under Hindu Marriage Act (1955), Special Marriage Act, and Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita.
- Exemption for Scheduled Tribes: These laws do not automatically apply to Scheduled Tribes unless notified by the Central Government.
- Constitutional Provision: Article 342 gives Scheduled Tribes distinct legal recognition.
- Legal Exemption Clause: Section 2(2) of the Hindu Marriage Act exempts Scheduled Tribes unless otherwise notified.
- Definition of Custom: Recognised if the practice is long-standing, reasonable, and not against public policy.
- Judicial Requirement: Courts need clear evidence to validate customary laws.
- Uniform Civil Code (Uttarakhand, 2024): Explicitly excludes Scheduled Tribes.
- UCC Rules (2025): Confirms UCC does not apply to groups protected under Part XXI of the Constitution.
Related Judicial Pronouncements:
- Customs vs Fundamental Rights: The Supreme Court strikes down customs that violate equality, dignity, or liberty.
- Triple Talaq Case: Declared unconstitutional as it violated Articles 14 and 21.
- Ram Charan v. Sukhram (2024): Tribal women cannot be denied inheritance based on customary male preference.
- Judicial Outlook: Customs must adapt and cannot override fundamental rights.
| [UPSC 2019] Which Article of the Constitution of India safeguards one’s right to marry the person of one’s choice?
Options: (a) Article 19 (b) Article 21* (c) Article 25 (d) Article 29 |
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| PYQ Relevance:
[UPSC 2020] Discuss the geophysical characteristics of Circum-Pacific Zone.
Linakge: This question is about a region known for earthquakes and volcanoes. The article mainly talks about quakes caused by human activity but also mentions that these usually happen in places already on fault lines or where tectonic plates are shifting—areas like the Circum-Pacific. So, it’s important to understand these natural zones when looking at how human actions might trigger earthquakes. |
Mentor’s Comment: Human-induced earthquakes are increasingly drawing scientific and public attention, as research shows that human activities like groundwater extraction, dam construction, and fracking can trigger or accelerate seismic activity, particularly in tectonically sensitive regions such as Delhi-NCR, the Western Ghats, and parts of Maharashtra and Kerala.
Today’s editorial analyses the Issues related to Human-induced earthquakes in India. This topic is important for GS Paper I (Geography), GS Paper II (Governance) and GS Paper III (Disaster Management) in the UPSC mains exam.
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Let’s learn!
Why in the News?
Recent studies in India have highlighted a correlation between excessive groundwater depletion and increased seismic events, especially in Delhi.
What are human-induced earthquakes?
- These are earthquakes triggered by human activities rather than natural tectonic movements. Activities like mining, groundwater extraction, building dams, and fracking disturb the earth’s crust, causing seismic activity. Over 700 human-induced quakes have been recorded globally in the last 150 years.
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How do activities like groundwater extraction and dams trigger quakes in India?
- Groundwater Depletion Weakens Crustal Stability: Excessive extraction of groundwater reduces pore pressure, leading to a shift in stress within the earth’s crust. Eg: In Delhi-NCR, increased seismic activity between 2003–2012 has been linked to excessive groundwater loss.
- Reservoir-Induced Seismicity (RIS): The weight of large reservoirs exerts additional pressure on underlying faults, triggering quakes. Eg: The 1967 Koynanagar earthquake (magnitude 6.3) was linked to the Koyna Dam in Maharashtra.
- Water Infiltration into Fault Zones: Water from reservoirs or excessive irrigation can seep deep into fault lines, lubricating them, and making them more likely to slip. Eg: Seismic tremors near Mullaperiyar Dam in Kerala are suspected to be induced due to water infiltration in a seismically sensitive region.
- Load Variation Due to Filling and Emptying of Dams: Rapid filling or draining of reservoirs changes the stress distribution, causing small or moderate tremors. Eg: In the Himalayan region, such stress changes are a concern for dams like Tehri Dam.
- Ground Subsidence from Overuse of Aquifers: Excessive groundwater extraction leads to land subsidence, altering the natural equilibrium of stress in the crust. Eg: Regions in North Gujarat have experienced subsidence, making them more vulnerable to fault reactivation and quakes.
Why is Delhi-NCR prone to quakes from groundwater loss?
- Rapid Groundwater Depletion Alters Stress Fields: Excessive groundwater extraction reduces the hydrostatic pressure underground, disturbing the natural stress balance in fault zones. This stress redistribution can reactivate dormant faults, triggering seismic activity. Eg: Studies from 2003–2012 show increased microseismic activity in parts of Gurgaon and Faridabad, correlated with falling water tables.
- Aquifer-Related Land Subsidence: Continuous overuse of aquifers causes the land to sink (subsidence), which can strain the Earth’s crust and disturb nearby fault lines. In Delhi-NCR, land sinking has been recorded in Dwarka, Kapashera, and parts of Noida, increasing quake risk. Eg: A 2021 study by IIT-Kanpur showed that excessive aquifer use led to ground subsidence and elevated seismic hazard.
- Built-Up Pressure on Seismically Active Faults: Delhi-NCR sits near the Mahendragarh-Dehradun fault and Delhi-Haridwar ridge, making it naturally earthquake-prone. When groundwater is extracted, it weakens the structural resistance of rocks, making nearby active faults more vulnerable. Eg: Minor tremors in Rohini and West Delhi (2020-21) were suspected to be linked to combined stress from tectonics and human activity.
How does climate change contribute to seismic risks?
- Melting Glaciers Increase Uplift Pressure: Rapid glacial melt in the Himalayas (due to rising temperatures) reduces surface weight. This triggers isostatic rebound — the crust rises and shifts, which can activate faults beneath. Eg: In Uttarkashi (Uttarakhand), increased seismic activity has been observed near retreating Gangotri Glacier, linked to glacial thinning and uplift.
- Changing Rainfall Patterns Cause Landslides and Crustal Stress: Intense rainfall and flash floods (exacerbated by climate change) cause rapid groundwater recharge and erosion, disturbing fault stability. Eg: In Kodagu (Karnataka), unusually heavy rains in 2018 triggered landslides and minor tremors due to destabilized slopes and crustal shifts.
- Sea-Level Rise and Coastal Seismic Pressure: Rising sea levels increase water load on coastal plates, especially in delta regions. This can suppress or activate tectonic stresses near coastlines. Eg: In Sundarbans (West Bengal), changes in sediment load and sea-level rise have raised concerns of future seismic risks in this low-lying, tectonically sensitive zone.
What are the steps taken by the Indian Government?
- Seismic Zoning and Monitoring: India is divided into four seismic zones (II to V) to prioritize risk-based planning. The National Centre for Seismology (NCS) monitors seismic activity across the country in real-time.
- Implementation of Earthquake-Resistant Building Codes: The Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) has issued IS codes for earthquake-resistant construction.
- Capacity Building and Public Awareness: NDMA and NDRF conduct training, mock drills, and awareness programs in vulnerable areas.
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Way forward:
- Integrated Land and Water Management: Promote sustainable groundwater use, recharge practices, and land-use planning to reduce land subsidence and seismic vulnerability.
- Expand Monitoring and Preparedness: Enhance seismic monitoring networks and public awareness programs to improve early warning systems and disaster resilience.
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Why in the News?
The ongoing tensions in West Asia, particularly between Iran, Israel, and the U.S., have reignited concerns about a potential U.S.-Israel-Iran conflict, which could have serious geopolitical and economic consequences.
How could a U.S.-Israel-Iran war impact India?
- Energy Security Risk: A war could disrupt oil exports from Iran and the Strait of Hormuz, through which 60% of India’s crude imports pass. Eg: During the 2019 U.S.-Iran tensions, India faced uncertainty in oil supply and had to cut Iranian imports.
- Geopolitical Imbalance: Collapse of Iran may increase U.S. dominance in West Asia, weakening India’s strategic depth and bargaining power. Eg: India’s balancing diplomacy between Gulf countries, Israel, and Iran would face strain, as seen when Chabahar Port talks slowed under U.S. pressure.
- Diaspora and Economic Fallout: War could threaten the safety of 8 million Indians in the Gulf and affect remittances and trade. Eg: During the 1990 Gulf War, India had to evacuate over 1.7 lakh citizens and faced economic shocks.
What is the difference between great power and super power?
The terms “great power” and “superpower” both refer to influential countries, but they differ in scale, reach, and dominance.
- Great Power: A great power is a country with significant regional or global influence, strong economy, capable military, and active diplomacy. Eg: India, France, Germany
- Superpower: A superpower is a country with unmatched global dominance across military, economic, political, and cultural spheres. Eg: United States (Cold War era: USA and USSR were two superpowers).
How does the Iran-Israel conflict impact India’s great power status?
- Challenges to Strategic Autonomy: The conflict pressures India to balance relations with both Iran and Israel, testing its strategic autonomy — a key trait of great powers. India called for restraint without directly criticising either side.
- Limited Global Influence in Conflict Resolution: India’s geopolitical clout is still evolving, and its absence in conflict mediation highlights the gap between global aspirations and actual influence. Eg: India was not part of backchannel diplomacy, unlike the U.S. or China.
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How does multipolarity guide India’s foreign policy?
- Strategic Autonomy: India avoids aligning permanently with any one power bloc, maintaining independent decision-making. Eg: India is a member of both the QUAD and BRICS, balancing ties with the U.S. and China.
- Diversified Partnerships: Multipolarity enables India to build issue-based coalitions with different countries for mutual benefit. Eg: India partners with France on defence, Russia on energy, and U.S. on technology.
- Global Rule-Shaping Role: India promotes a rules-based order and voices the concerns of the Global South in global forums. Eg: India’s presidency of the G20 in 2023 emphasized inclusive development and reform of global institutions.
Why is Iran vital to India’s energy and strategy?
- Energy Security: Iran has vast reserves of crude oil and natural gas, essential for India’s growing energy needs. Eg: Before U.S. sanctions, Iran was among India’s top three crude oil suppliers.
- Strategic Connectivity: Iran hosts the Chabahar Port, offering India access to Afghanistan, Central Asia, and bypassing Pakistan. Eg: The International North-South Transport Corridor (INSTC) runs through Iran, linking India to Europe.
- Regional Balance: Ties with Iran help India maintain a geopolitical balance in West Asia amid U.S., Israel, and Gulf influences. Eg: India engages Iran to counter China’s influence in the region, including at Gwadar Port in Pakistan.
How does India balance ties between major powers?
- Strategic Autonomy: India maintains independent foreign policy decisions without aligning fully with any bloc, ensuring flexibility in global affairs.
- Multi-alignment Approach: India engages simultaneously with the U.S., Russia, China, EU, and others, based on issue-specific interests.
- Issue-based Partnerships: India chooses partners depending on the context — cooperating with the U.S. on defense, Russia on energy, and China on trade, while managing conflicts diplomatically.
How can India promote peace in West Asia? (Way forward)
- Diplomatic Balancing: India can maintain neutral engagement with rival states like Iran, Israel, and the Gulf countries, promoting dialogue over conflict. Eg: India has strong ties with both Iran and Saudi Arabia, enabling it to act as a bridge-builder.
- Economic Cooperation: Promoting trade, energy ties, and infrastructure projects can foster interdependence and reduce regional tensions. Eg: India’s investment in Chabahar Port connects the region economically and supports stability in Afghanistan.
- Cultural and Diaspora Links: Leveraging its diaspora presence and civilizational ties, India can promote people-to-people engagement and soft power diplomacy. Eg: The 8-million-strong Indian diaspora in the Gulf enhances goodwill and mutual trust in the region.
Mains PYQ:
[UPSC 2014] Though 100 percent FDI is already allowed in non news media like a trade publication and general entertainment channel, the Government is mulling over the proposal for in creased FDI in news media for quite some time. What difference would an increase in FDI make? Critically evaluate the pros and cons.
Linkage: Evaluating the “pros and cons” necessitates an understanding of the challenges and opportunities associated with foreign investment inflows, reflecting a part of India’s FDI challenge in attracting and managing capital effectively. This question directly related to the implications of increasing FDI in a specific sector.
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Why in the News?
India and the United Kingdom are nearing the finalisation of a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) that is expected to significantly reshape their bilateral economic relationship. A key area of focus is the expansion of Global Capability Centres (GCCs) in India.
What are GCCs (Global Capability Centres)?
GCCs are offshore units set up by multinational companies (MNCs) in countries like India to handle critical business functions. |
How can GCCs boost the India-U.K. FTA?
- Enhance Digital Collaboration: GCCs in India offer services like AI, cybersecurity, and R&D that align with the UK’s digital economy goals. Eg: British companies like Barclays use India’s GCCs for advanced analytics and digital banking solutions.
- Support Professional Mobility: GCC operations require movement of skilled professionals between India and the UK, pushing for smoother visa and work policies. Eg: Infosys and TCS facilitate cross-border staff exchanges for UK-based projects.
- Strengthen Global Supply Chains: GCCs act as strategic hubs for managing global operations and reducing dependency on single markets. Eg: Unilever runs global compliance and finance functions from its India GCC, supporting resilience and efficiency.
Why is India a preferred hub for GCCs?
- Cost Advantage: Operating a GCC in India is more cost-effective compared to Western countries, enabling firms to maintain quality while optimizing costs. Eg: Target Corporation runs its Indian GCC in Bengaluru to handle IT services and supply chain support at reduced costs.
- Robust Digital Infrastructure: India’s expanding digital ecosystem and government support through policies like Digital India attract companies to establish innovation hubs here. Eg: Bosch established a smart manufacturing and AI innovation centre in Bengaluru as part of its India-based GCC.
What policy steps support GCC growth in India?
- Digital India Mission: Promotes digital infrastructure and connectivity, enabling a strong foundation for tech-driven operations. Eg: A U.S. retail firm’s GCC in Hyderabad leverages India’s broadband push to manage global e-commerce platforms.
- Startup India & Innovation Support: Encourages collaboration between GCCs and Indian startups for agile solutions and R&D. Eg: A financial GCC in Pune co-develops regtech tools with local fintech startups.
- Special Economic Zones (SEZs) & IT Parks: Offer tax incentives, simplified compliance, and ready infrastructure for foreign firms. Eg: GCCs in Bengaluru’s SEZs benefit from lower operational costs and faster approvals.
- Ease of Doing Business Reforms: Simplified registration, relaxed FDI norms, and labor reforms attract foreign investors. Eg: A healthcare MNC establishes a GCC in Chennai due to smoother FDI entry and single-window clearances.
- Skill Development Schemes: Programs like PMKVY and FutureSkills Prime build a skilled digital workforce for GCCs. Eg: GCCs in Noida hire AI and cybersecurity professionals trained through FutureSkills.
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What are the challenges?
- Talent saturation in Tier-1 cities: Intense competition for skilled tech professionals increases costs. Eg: In Bangalore, GCCs like Walmart Global Tech and Goldman Sachs compete for the same AI/ML talent pool, pushing up salary levels and attrition.
- Infrastructure gaps in Tier-2 cities: Poor connectivity, weak urban infrastructure, and limited office space deter expansion. Eg: Despite interest in Nagpur for cost-effective operations, Deloitte limited its operations due to lack of reliable internet and skilled ecosystem.
- High attrition rates: Rapid job-switching among mid-career professionals disrupts continuity. Eg: JPMorgan Chase’s GCC in Hyderabad faced over 22% attrition in 2023, especially among cybersecurity analysts.
- Regulatory & compliance hurdles: Navigating data protection and labor laws adds to legal burden. Eg: Meta’s GCC in Gurugram had to rework its data storage policies post the DPDP Act, 2023, causing operational delays.
- Limited R&D ownership: Indian GCCs often do not drive core product innovation. Eg: While Apple’s Bengaluru GCC handles app testing, core iOS design decisions remain with teams in California.
Way forward:
- Promote Tier-2 city readiness: Improve digital infrastructure, urban planning, and talent development in emerging tech hubs like Coimbatore, Indore, and Kochi through targeted government-industry partnerships.
- Encourage innovation and R&D ownership: Provide tax incentives, faster IP approvals, and create collaborative platforms with academia to help GCCs move beyond support roles to core product development.
Mains PYQ:
[UPSC 2024] The West is fostering India as an alternative to reduce dependence on China’s supply chain and as a strategic ally to counter China’s political and economic dominance.’ Explain this statement with examples.
Linkage: The UK wants better access to India’s fast-growing digital economy and aims to strengthen its global services presence. India is becoming more important in global supply chains, especially in digital services and transformation, where Global Capability Centres (GCCs) play a key role.
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Why in the News?
The ongoing Supreme Court hearings on the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls in Bihar have reignited discussions on the legal status of the ‘right to vote’ in India.
About Right to Vote in India:
- Overview: It is also known as suffrage, allows citizens to elect their representatives in democratic institutions.
- Constitutional Basis: Guaranteed under Article 326 of the Constitution of India, which provides for universal adult franchise.
- Eligibility: Every citizen of India aged 18 and above is entitled to vote, unless disqualified by law.
- Supervision: Organised and overseen by the Election Commission of India.
- Supporting Laws:
- Representation of the People Act, 1950: Defines voter eligibility and grounds for disqualification.
- Representation of the People Act, 1951: Governs the procedures for conducting elections.
Judicial Interpretation:
- N.P. Ponnuswami v. Returning Officer (1952): Declared the Right to Vote as a statutory right.
- Jyoti Basu v. Debi Ghosal (1982): Reiterated that the Right to Vote is neither a fundamental right nor a common law right.
- People’s Union for Civil Liberties v. Union of India (2003): Recognised the Right to Vote as at least a constitutional right.
- Kuldip Nayar v. Union of India (2006): Held that the Right to Vote continues to be a statutory right.
- Raj Bala v. State of Haryana (2015): Recognised the Right to Vote as a constitutional right.
- Anoop Baranwal v. Union of India (2023):
- Majority View: Right to Vote is a statutory right.
- Dissenting Opinion by Justice Ajay Rastogi:
- Linked the Right to Vote with the freedom of speech and expression under Article 19(1)(a).
- Considered it essential to free and fair elections and thus part of the basic structure of the Constitution.
Current Legal Status:
- Nature: It is legally a statutory right.
- Constitutional Context: It is shaped by constitutional provisions but does not hold the status of a fundamental right.
Back2Basics: Other Types of Rights in India
|
Description |
Enforceability |
| Natural Rights |
Inherent and inalienable rights (e.g., life, liberty); not directly enforceable unless linked to fundamental rights. |
Indirectly through Fundamental Rights |
| Fundamental Rights |
Guaranteed under Part III of the Constitution (e.g., right to equality, speech, life). |
Enforceable in Supreme Court under Article 32 |
| Constitutional Rights |
Rights given in the Constitution but outside Part III (e.g., property, trade). |
Enforceable under Article 226 via High Courts |
| Statutory Rights |
Granted by ordinary laws (e.g., MGNREGA, Forest Rights Act, Food Security Act). |
Enforceable as per respective legislations |
| [UPSC 2017] Right to vote and to be elected in India is a:
Options: (a) Fundamental Right (b) Natural Right (c) Constitutional Right* (d) Legal Right |
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Why in the News?
The Vice-President of India, Jagdeep Dhankhar resigned citing health reasons, creating a rare mid-term vacancy in India’s second-highest constitutional office.
What happens if VP resigns?
- The Deputy Chairman of Rajya Sabha presides in his absence. No provision exists for an “acting” Vice-President.
- Unlike the President, whose vacancy must be filled within six months, the VP election must be held “as soon as possible.”
- The Election Commission will notify the schedule.
- Election governed by the Presidential and Vice-Presidential Elections Act, 1952.
- The elected candidate will serve a full 5-year term, not the remainder of Dhankhar’s term.
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About Vice-President (VP) of India
- Position: Second-highest constitutional post; deputy to the President.
- Parliamentary Role: Serves as ex-officio Chairman of the Rajya Sabha.
- Succession: Ranks second in order of precedence and first in line to become President.
- Membership: Is a member of Parliament, not directly elected by the people.
- Qualifications:
- Citizenship: Must be a citizen of India.
- Age: Minimum 35 years.
- Office of Profit: Should not hold any.
- Parliamentary Eligibility: Must qualify for election to Rajya Sabha (unlike President, who must qualify for Lok Sabha) due to the VP’s role in the Upper House.
- Roles and Responsibilities:
- Rajya Sabha Chairmanship: Presides over sessions and ensures order.
- Bill Classification: Refers money bills to the Lok Sabha Speaker.
- No Independent Powers: Has no executive or legislative powers unless acting as President.
Election Procedure:
- Constitutional Basis: Governed by Article 66.
- Electoral College: Comprises 543 Lok Sabha MPs, 233 elected Rajya Sabha MPs, and 12 nominated Rajya Sabha members.
- Voting Method: Proportional representation by single transferable vote and secret ballot.
- No Whip Allowed: Parties cannot issue voting whips.
- Conduct: Managed by the Election Commission; Returning Officer is the Secretary-General of either House (on rotation).
- Winning Quota: Requires 50% of valid votes + 1; votes are transferred in rounds if no candidate secures majority in the first round.
Resignation and Removal:
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- Article 67(a): VP submits his/her resignation to the President. Parliamentary approval is NOT needed, and the resignation takes effect immediately upon receipt.
- No Acting VP: Constitution doesn’t provide for an acting Vice-President.
- Presiding in Absence: Deputy Chairman of Rajya Sabha presides in VP’s absence (currently Harivansh Narayan Singh).
- Example: Dhankhar, who took office in 2022, is only the third VP in Indian history to resign before completing his term, after V.V. Giri and R. Venkataraman.
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- Article 67(b): Removal process begins in Rajya Sabha with 14 days’ notice.
- Voting Requirement: Needs effective majority in Rajya Sabha and simple majority in Lok Sabha.
- No Grounds Specified: Constitution doesn’t list specific removal grounds.
- Judicial Immunity: Article 122 bars courts from questioning parliamentary proceedings related to removal.
- No Precedent: No VP has been removed so far.
| [UPSC 2013] With reference to Parliament, consider the following statements:
1.The Chairman and the Deputy Chairman of the Rajya Sabha are not the members of that House.
2.While the nominated members of the two Houses of the Parliament have no voting right in the presidential election, they have the right to vote in the election of the Vice President.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
Options: (a) 1 only (b) 2 only (c) Both 1 and 2* (d) Neither 1 nor 2 |
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Why in the News?
Five strong offshore earthquakes hit Russia’s Kamchatka Peninsula, the strongest measuring 7.4 in magnitude.
About Kamchatka Peninsula:
- Location: Situated in Far Eastern Russia, bordered by the Sea of Okhotsk (west) and the Pacific Ocean and Bering Sea (east).
- Size and Shape: Stretches about 1,200 km north to south and 480 km at its widest point.
- Area: Covers approximately 370,000 square kilometers—comparable in size to New Zealand.
- Ethnic Composition: Majority are ethnic Russians; around 13,000 belong to the indigenous Koryak community.
- Climate: Harsh with long, snowy winters and wet, cool summers.
- Topography: Highest peak is Klyuchevskaya Sopka, an active volcano in the Eastern Mountain Range.
- Global Recognition: Hosts the “Volcanoes of Kamchatka,” a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Tectonic Significance:
- Geological Setting: Lies on the Pacific Ring of Fire, making it a global hotspot for seismic and volcanic activity.
- Volcanic Density: Contains over 150 volcanoes, 29 of which are currently active.
- Kuril–Kamchatka Trench: Located just offshore, reaches depths of about 10,500 meters and drives regional seismicity.
- Tectonic Cause: Caused by subduction of the Pacific Plate beneath the Eurasian Plate.
| [UPSC 2004] Consider the following geological phenomena:
1. Development of a fault 2. Movement along a fault
3. Impact produced by a volcanic eruption 4. Folding of rocks
Which of the above cause earthquakes?
Options: (a) 1, 2 and 3 (b) 2 and 4 (c) 1, 3 and 4 (d) 1, 2, 3 and 4* |
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Why in the News?
The Prime Minister will attend a function in Tamil Nadu marking 1000 years since King Rajendra Chola I’s conquest of the Gangetic plains.
About Rajendra Chola I:
- Reign & Dynasty: Ruled from 1014 to 1044 CE, succeeding his father Rajaraja Chola I.
- Titles:
- Gangaikonda Cholan (“Bringer of the Ganges”) – adopted after his victorious northern campaign.
- Kadaram Kondan (“Conqueror of Kedah (Malaysia)”) – earned following his Southeast Asian naval expeditions.
- Capital Foundation: Established Gangaikonda Cholapuram, shifting the capital from Thanjavur to the Kollidam River area.
- Temple Building: Built the Gangaikondacholeshwaram (Shiva) Temple to commemorate his conquests.
- Succession: Succeeded by his son, Rajadhiraja I.
- Religious Policy:
- Devout Shaivite, but practiced religious pluralism—patronised Buddhism, including building stupas in South India and Southeast Asia.
- Diplomacy & Trade: Strengthened international ties with Song Dynasty China and Arab merchants.
- Administration: Pioneered local self-governance, showcasing notable administrative sophistication.
His Legend:
- Northern Conquest: Rajendra led a military campaign to the Gangetic plains, defeating the Pala ruler Mahipala of Bengal and Bihar, and commemorated this victory by bringing Ganga water to his capital.
- Overseas Expeditions: He commanded what is considered the largest blue-water navy in Indian history. Successfully conducted naval expeditions to:
- Srivijaya Empire (covering parts of modern-day Sumatra, Java, and Malaysia)
- Burma, Andaman & Nicobar Islands, Lakshadweep, Maldives, and Pegu Islands
- Extracted tribute from Thailand and the Khmer kingdom of Cambodia.
- First Indian king to undertake large-scale overseas military campaigns.
- Trade and Diplomacy: Established trade and diplomatic links with Song China and Arab merchants.
- Administration: Promoted local self-governance, showcasing the Cholas’ administrative efficiency.
- Wealth and Power: Under his reign, the Chola Empire became one of the wealthiest and most powerful empires of the time.
| [UPSC 2025] Who among the following led a successful military campaign against the kingdom of Srivijaya, the powerful maritime state, which ruled the Malay Peninsula, Sumatra, Java and the neighbouring islands?
Options: (a) Amoghvarsha (Rashtrakuta) (b) Prataprudra (Kakatiya) (c) Rajendra I (Chola) * (d) Vishnuvardhana (Hoysala) |
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Why in the News?
The Comptroller and Auditor General of India’s (CAG) audit has flagged ₹573 Crore irregularities in Indian Railways.
About Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) of India:
- Foundation: Established under Article 148 of the Constitution of India.
- Independence: A constitutional authority, not subject to executive control.
- Appointment: Appointed by the President of India.
- Tenure: Holds office for 6 years or until the age of 65 years, whichever is earlier.
- Removal: Can be removed by the President in the same manner and on the same grounds as a judge of the Supreme Court of India.
- Post-Retirement Bar: Ineligible for further office under the Government of India or any State after demitting office.
- Funding: Administrative expenses are charged upon the Consolidated Fund of India, ensuring financial autonomy.
- Parliamentary Independence: No minister can represent the CAG in Parliament.
- Role: Known as the guardian of the public purse and a key pillar of Indian democracy.
Powers and Functions:
-
- Fund Audits: Audits expenditures from the Consolidated Fund of India, State Consolidated Funds, and Union Territory funds.
- Other Fund Audits: Audits Contingency Fund and Public Account at both Central and State levels.
- Departmental Audits: Reviews profit and loss accounts, balance sheets, and subsidiary accounts of government departments.
- Authority Audits: Audits bodies and authorities substantially financed by the government.
- Company Audits: Examines accounts of government-owned companies and corporations.
- Special Audits: Audits other authorities when requested by the President or Governor.
- Parliamentary Role: Acts as a guide, friend, and philosopher to the Public Accounts Committee of Parliament.
- Public Accountability: Exposed major scams such as the 2G spectrum and coal block allocation cases.
- Sectoral Reviews: Highlighted inefficiencies in defence, railways, and other public enterprises.
Limitations of the office of CAG:
- Lack of Real-Time Control: Cannot stop or approve withdrawals from the Consolidated Fund; cheques can be issued without CAG’s prior clearance.
- Opaque Appointment: No prescribed qualifications or transparent procedure for selection; appointment is entirely executive-controlled.
- Limited Audit Scope:
- Excludes certain public entities like Life Insurance Corporation and public sector banks.
- Cannot audit public-private partnerships and funds like Prime Minister’s Citizen Assistance and Relief in Emergency Situations Fund and Prime Minister’s National Relief Fund.
- Off-budget borrowings (e.g., through National Investment and Infrastructure Fund) remain outside audit scope.
- Post-Facto Nature: Audits occur after expenditure, limiting preventive or real-time oversight.
| [UPSC 2012] In India, other than ensuring that public funds are used efficiently and for intended purpose, what is the importance of the office of the Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG)?
1. CAG exercises exchequer control on behalf of the Parliament when the President of India declares national emergency/financial emergency.
2. CAG reports on the execution of projects or programmes by the ministries are discussed by the Public Accounts Committee.
3. Information from CAG reports can be used by investigating agencies to press charges against those who have violated the law while managing public finances.
4. While dealing with the audit and accounting of government companies, CAG has certain judicial powers for prosecuting those who violate the law.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
Options: (a) 1, 3 and 4 only (b) 2 only (c) 2 and 3 only* (d) 1, 2, 3 and 4 |
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Why in the News?
The Prime Minister paid tribute to the great freedom fighter Mangal Pandey on his birth anniversary.
Who was Mangal Pandey?
- Birth: Born on 19 July 1827 in Nagwa village, Ballia district, Uttar Pradesh.
- Military Service: Joined the British East India Company’s army in 1849 as a sepoy in the 34th Bengal Native Infantry at Barrackpore.
- Trigger of Revolt: Opposed the use of Enfield rifle cartridges greased with cow and pig fat, offensive to religious beliefs.
- Rebellion: On 29 March 1857, attacked British officers and encouraged sepoys to rise in revolt.
- Punishment: Arrested, tried, and executed by hanging on 8 April 1857.
- Legacy: Regarded as the “Hero of the First War of Indian Independence” and a symbol of resistance.
Back2Basics: 1857 War of Independence
- Overview: The First War of Indian Independence or the Great Rebellion of 1857.
- Sepoy Composition: Indians made up over 87% of the British Indian Army but faced severe discrimination.
- Root Causes:
- Military Discontent: Unequal pay, poor promotion prospects, denial of allowances.
- Religious Insensitivity: Use of animal fat-greased cartridges insulted Hindu and Muslim beliefs.
- Economic Hardship: Heavy land taxes, decline in traditional crafts, and rising unemployment.
- Political Grievances: Annexation of Indian states and enforcement of oppressive laws.
- Outbreak:
- Barrackpore: Mangal Pandey’s defiance on 29 March 1857 marked the beginning.
- Meerut: On 10 May 1857, sepoys rebelled after refusing cartridges and were imprisoned.
- Delhi: Rebels marched to Delhi and declared Bahadur Shah II as Emperor.
- Spread of Revolt: Uprising expanded to Kanpur, Lucknow, Jhansi, Bihar, Bareilly, Faizabad, and beyond.
- Mass Participation: Involved sepoys, peasants, landlords, and regional rulers.
Suppression and Its Aftermath:
- Brutal Suppression: Rebellion was crushed by 1859; Delhi was recaptured in September 1857.
- Administrative Shift: British East India Company was dissolved; India came under direct British Crown rule, initiating the British Raj.
- Military Reorganization: Indian representation in the army was reduced and reorganized to prevent future revolts.
- Increased Repression: Racial discrimination and harsh policies intensified post-revolt.
|
| [UPSC 2006] Who was the Governor-general of India during the Sepoy Mutiny?
Options: (a) Lord Canning* (b) Lord Dalhousie (c) Lord Hardinge (d) Lord Lytton |
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PYQ Relevance:
[UPSC 2024] Despite comprehensive policies for equity and social justice, underprivileged sections are not yet getting the full benefits of affirmative action envisaged by the Constitution. Comment.
Linkage: The article explicitly states that “any argument against government control of temple affairs would be striking at the root of social justice”. This question directly addresses “social justice” and the upliftment of “underprivileged sections,” which is the core argument of the article “social justice model” enabled by the regulation of temple funds. |
Mentor’s Comment: A political controversy in Tamil Nadu emerged over using temple funds to build colleges. The debate highlights a unique social justice model rooted in colonial-era laws, notably the Tamil Nadu Hindu Religious and Charitable Endowments Act, 1959, which legally permits such use of surplus funds. The issue reflects ongoing tensions between secular governance, social reform, and religious traditions.
Today’s editorial analyses the Issues related to temple funds like to build colleges. This topic is important for GS Paper I (Indian Society) and GS Paper II (Social Justice) in the UPSC mains exam.
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Let’s learn!
Why in the News?
A political controversy recently erupted in Tamil Nadu over the use of temple funds for building colleges.
What is the origin and evolution of state control over temples in Tamil Nadu?
- Colonial Intervention and Legal Frameworks: The British colonial government began regulating temples through laws such as the Madras Regulation VII of 1817 and the Religious Endowments Act, 1863. These aimed at curbing mismanagement and ensuring proper use of temple revenues, though actual control was minimal.
- Madras Hindu Religious and Charitable Endowments (HRCE) Act, 1927 & 1951: Post-independence, the Madras HRCE Act, 1951 granted the state direct control over temple administration. It replaced hereditary trustees with government-appointed officers, shifting from oversight to active state involvement in managing temple affairs.
- Dravidian Politics and Reformist Push: The Self-Respect Movement and the rise of Dravidian parties (e.g., DMK) advocated for rationalism and secular administration of temples. This reinforced the idea of temples as public institutions, furthering state oversight in their functioning.
Why is using temple funds for education legally and socially justified?
- Legal Provision under State Law: The Tamil Nadu Hindu Religious and Charitable Endowments (HR&CE) Act, 1959 allows the use of temple surplus funds for public purposes like education, healthcare, and social welfare, provided the core religious functions are not affected. Eg: The government used temple funds to construct colleges in Tiruvannamalai and Krishnagiri, serving backward districts.
- Social Justice and Inclusive Development: Tamil Nadu follows a Dravidian model that sees temples as public institutions capable of promoting equality, education, and empowerment, especially for marginalized communities. Eg: Building a college with temple funds in a remote area helps first-generation learners, aligning with constitutional goals of equity and social upliftment.
- Historical and Cultural Precedent: In the pre-colonial and colonial era, temples often served as centres of learning and charity. Using their resources for education today revives that tradition in a modern, secular context. Eg: In the 19th century, temple lands supported gurukuls and feeding centres, a legacy extended now through modern institutions.
How did the Self-Respect Movement shape temple governance?
- Challenged Brahminical Control: The movement, led by Periyar E.V. Ramasamy, questioned hereditary priesthood and the dominance of Brahmins in temple administration, pushing for non-Brahmin inclusion in both ritual and managerial roles.
- State Intervention in Temple Administration: It laid the ideological foundation for government regulation of temples through legislations like the HR&CE Act, bringing temples under state control to ensure transparency, social equity, and public accountability.
- Promotion of Secular and Social Justice Values: The movement emphasized that temple wealth should serve the public good, such as education, healthcare, and social welfare, especially for the oppressed castes, transforming temples into instruments of social reform.
What are the constitutional and legal bases for state intervention in religious institutions in India?
- Article 25(2)(a) – Social Welfare and Reform: The Constitution permits the state to regulate or restrict any economic, financial, political, or secular activity associated with religion to promote social welfare and reform.
- Article 26 – Regulates While Protecting Rights: While religious denominations have rights to manage their own affairs, the state can impose reasonable restrictions in the interest of public order, morality, and health.
- Judicial Precedents and Statutory Laws: Courts have upheld state control over temples (e.g., in Shirur Mutt case) distinguishing between religious practices and secular administration. Laws like the Hindu Religious and Charitable Endowments (HR&CE) Act legally enable such oversight.
|
Should religious institutions be allowed to function autonomously without state control?
-
- Protection of Religious Freedom: Article 26 of the Indian Constitution grants religious denominations the right to manage their own affairs. Autonomy respects the pluralistic ethos of India and avoids state overreach in spiritual matters.
-
- Cultural and Traditional Integrity: Many religious institutions have centuries-old customs and management systems. Autonom y helps preserve these indigenous practices without interference from changing political or administrative interests.
-
- Accountability and Transparency: Without state oversight, there is a higher risk of financial mismanagement, corruption, or exploitation of devotees. State regulation ensures proper audit and governance of temple funds and assets.
- Public Interest and Welfare: Religious institutions often hold significant wealth and influence. State control can direct surplus resources towards social welfare, education, and infrastructure, promoting inclusive development beyond the religious community.
Way forward:
- Balanced Autonomy with Regulation: Implement a co-governance model where religious institutions retain spiritual autonomy, while the state ensures financial transparency, protection of heritage, and equitable use of public funds.
- Strengthen Legal Frameworks: Update existing laws to clearly define the limits of state intervention, ensure community representation in temple boards, and establish robust grievance redressal mechanisms.
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Why in the News?
India is in the spotlight as recent UNCTAD data reveals a significant decline in net FDI inflows, falling to a 15-year low in FY24, even though gross inflows remain strong.
What are the key reasons behind the global decline in FDI flows, particularly to EMDEs?
- Geopolitical Instability: Rising geopolitical tensions such as the Russia-Ukraine war, Middle East conflicts, and US-China rivalries have weakened investor confidence, especially in Emerging Markets and Developing Economies (EMDEs) due to increased risk perception. Eg: After the Ukraine war, many European investors pulled out from Eastern European nations due to security concerns.
- Protectionist Policies: Countries have adopted more protectionist measures, including tighter FDI regulations, screening laws, and withdrawal from bilateral investment treaties (BITs), limiting foreign investor access. Eg: India terminated several Bilateral Investment Treaties post-2016, including with the Netherlands and Germany, leading to investor uncertainty.
- Supply Chain Realignment: Due to disruptions from the COVID-19 pandemic and rising geopolitical tensions, companies are shifting towards nearshoring and friend-shoring, bypassing many EMDEs. Eg: Several U.S. firms moved manufacturing from China to Mexico or Vietnam rather than to India or African countries.
Why has India experienced a sharp fall in net FDI despite rising gross inflows?
- High Repatriation of Earnings: While gross FDI inflows have increased, foreign investors are repatriating more profits, dividends, and disinvestments, leading to a decline in net FDI. Eg: In FY24, gross inflows were around $71 billion, but outflows (disinvestment/repatriation) rose sharply, reducing net FDI to $10.6 billion.
- Increased Disinvestment by Foreign Investors: Foreign companies have sold off stakes or exited Indian ventures due to regulatory uncertainties or global consolidation strategies. Eg: Vodafone’s reduction in stake in Vodafone Idea and exits by foreign private equity firms.
- Shift in Investment Strategy: There is a growing trend toward private equity and venture capital, which often involves short-term investments and quicker exits compared to traditional FDI. Eg: Start-up funding peaked in 2021–22 but many investors exited via IPOs or mergers within 2–3 years.
How can trade agreements and FTAs boost India’s FDI inflows and global integration?
- Market Access and Investor Confidence: Trade agreements and FTAs offer preferential market access, reduce tariff and non-tariff barriers, and provide a stable regulatory environment, encouraging foreign investors. Eg: The India-UAE CEPA (2022) led to a 34% rise in bilateral trade and boosted UAE investments in sectors like logistics and infrastructure.
- Integration into Global Value Chains (GVCs): FTAs help India plug into regional and global supply chains, making it a more attractive hub for FDI in manufacturing and exports. Eg: The India-ASEAN FTA improved electronics and automobile component exports, drawing FDI from Japan and South Korea into India.
- Legal and Dispute Resolution Frameworks: Comprehensive FTAs often include investment protection clauses and dispute resolution mechanisms, which reduce investor risk and boost inflows. Eg: India’s negotiation of Investment Protection Agreements (IPAs) with the EU has raised interest among European investors in clean energy and pharma.
Why is state-level reform crucial in India’s strategy to enhance FDI inflows?
- Ease of Doing Business at Ground Level: State-level reforms simplify land acquisition, labour regulations, and approval processes, making local environments more investor-friendly. Eg: Andhra Pradesh ranked top in the Business Reforms Action Plan (BRAP) 2020 for streamlining industrial approvals and digitizing services.
- Sector-Specific Policy Innovation: States can tailor sectoral incentives, infrastructure, and skill policies to attract targeted FDI in areas like textiles, electronics, or renewable energy. Eg: Tamil Nadu’s Electric Vehicle Policy attracted investments from Ola Electric and Hyundai in the EV sector.
- Healthy Inter-State Competition: Reform-oriented states create competitive pressure, encouraging others to improve investment climates, creating a national uplift in FDI appeal. Eg: Gujarat’s proactive approach in renewable energy prompted states like Rajasthan to fast-track their solar park approvals.
Way forward:
- Institutionalize Competitive Federalism: Strengthen the ranking framework for states based on FDI-related reforms (like BRAP), and link a portion of central incentives or grants to reform performance.
- Build State-Capacity for Investor Facilitation: Enhance training for state-level bureaucrats, establish single-window clearance systems, and promote public-private dialogue platforms to address investor concerns proactively.
Mains PYQ:
[UPSC 2014] Though 100 percent FDI is already allowed in non news media like a trade publication and general entertainment channel, the Government is mulling over the proposal for in creased FDI in news media for quite some time. What difference would an increase in FDI make? Critically evaluate the pros and cons.
Linkage: Evaluating the “pros and cons” necessitates an understanding of the challenges and opportunities associated with foreign investment inflows, reflecting a part of India’s FDI challenge in attracting and managing capital effectively. This question directly related to the implications of increasing FDI in a specific sector.
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Why in the News?
The U.S. has designated The Resistance Front (TRF), which claimed responsibility for the Pahalgam terror attack (April 2025), as a Foreign Terrorist Organization (FTO) and Specially Designated Global Terrorist.
What is the impact of the U.S. designating TRF as an FTO on global counterterrorism?
- Legitimizes India’s concerns: The U.S. acknowledgment of TRF’s role in the Pahalgam terror attackstrengthens the global consensus on cross-border terror threats.
- Links to Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT): The U.S. designation of TRF as a front/proxy of LeT exposes the continued existence of banned groups under new names.
- Strengthens international action: The move could help India push for sanctions against TRF at the UN’s 1267 Sanctions Committee, boosting transnational legal cooperation.
Why is Pakistan’s claim about LeT being defunct questionable?
- TRF’s Linkage with LeT: The U.S. designation of The Resistance Front (TRF) as a “front and proxy” for Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) proves that LeT continues to operate under new aliases, despite Pakistan’s claims of dismantling the group. Eg: TRF claimed responsibility for the 2025 Pahalgam attack, showing LeT’s continued operational role.
- Continued Terror Activities: Despite LeT’s inclusion in the U.S. Foreign Terrorist Organization (FTO) list since 2001, it has repeatedly executed attacks in India, reflecting its persistent capabilities. Eg: The 2008 Mumbai attacks and later cross-border infiltrations have been linked to LeT-trained cadres.
- International Endorsement Missing: Pakistan’s claim lacks credible global validation. Instead, it has been seen shielding TRF at the UN Security Council (UNSC), undermining its own narrative. Eg: TRF’s name was excluded from the UNSC resolution on the Pahalgam attack, reportedly due to Pakistani lobbying.
How does the U.S. response post-Pahalgam reveal contradictions in its policy?
- Mixed messaging: While designating TRF is a positive step, claims by the Trump administration about mediating a ceasefire and nuclear de-escalation dilute India’s counter-terror narrative.
- Diplomatic inconsistency: Praise for Pakistan’s military chief shortly after India clarified its stance reflects a lack of consistent pressure on Pakistan to curb terrorism.
- Missed opportunity at UNSC: The U.S. initially allowed TRF to be left out of the UNSC resolution, showing conflicting priorities between diplomacy and counterterrorism.
What blocks India’s effort to sanction the TRF at the UNSC?
- Veto Power Politics: The UN Security Council’s 1267 Committee requires unanimous consent among P-5 members for sanctions. Some permanent members, especially China and the U.S., have previously withheld support or yielded to Pakistan’s pressure, blocking India’s proposals. Eg: TRF’s name was omitted from the UNSC resolution on the 2025 Pahalgam attack.
- Pakistan’s Diplomatic Shielding: Pakistan continues to lobby against designations of terror outfits like TRF, masking them as defunct or rebranded groups, and frames them as indigenous resistance, making it harder for India to gain international consensus.
How should India strengthen its anti-terror diplomacy? (Way forward)
- Build Strategic Alliances and International Pressure: India should deepen counter-terrorism cooperation with key countries like the U.S., France, and the UK, while mobilizing regional blocs (e.g., QUAD, BRICS) to collectively push for sanctioning terror groups at global forums like the UNSC 1267 Committee.
- Pursue Legal and Diplomatic Action Proactively: India must file strong dossiers with evidence linking terror fronts like TRF to banned outfits like LeT and pursue timely extraditions of wanted terrorists through bilateral treaties and Interpol. Eg: The extradition request for Tahawwur Hussain Rana reflects India’s resolve to hold perpetrators accountable.
Mains PYQ:
[UPSC 2024] Terrorism has become a significant threat to global peace and security’. Evaluate the effectiveness of the United Nations Security Council’s Counter-Terrorism Committee (CTC) and its associated bodies in addressing and mitigating this threat at the international level.
Linkage: The article explicitly mentions India’s hope that the U.S. designation of TRF will facilitate its designation at the UNSC under the 1267 Committee for sanctions, directly aligning with the question’s focus on international counter-terrorism mechanisms. This question directly pertains to the global challenge of terrorism and the role of international bodies like the UN Security Council.
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Why in the News?
Gujarat has launched India’s first Tribal Genome Sequencing Project to map tribal genetic data, contributing to the national Genome India Project (GIP).
About the Gujarat Tribal Genome Project:
- Launch & Duration: Announced in Gujarat’s 2025–26 budget; spans 5 years under Gujarat Biotechnology Research Centre (GBRC).
- Target Population: Focuses on genome sequencing of tribal communities forming ~15% of Gujarat’s population (~1 crore).
- Objective: Addresses under-representation in Genome India Project (GIP), which had only ~100 tribal samples from Gujarat.
- Sample Size: Involves 4,158 individuals, including 378 trio families, to create a 2,000-sample reference genome panel.
- Data Collection: Includes blood, stool, genealogical, physiological, and lifestyle information.
Key Features:
- Precision Medicine Applications
-
- Early Detection: Enables screening for sickle cell anaemia, G6PD deficiency, BRCA-linked cancers.
- Gene-Trait Mapping: Explores genetic links to traits like agility and archery.
- Genomic Sampling Protocol
-
- Filtering: Uses SNP genotyping to remove closely related samples.
- Sequencing: Conducts Whole Genome Sequencing (WGS) on 2,000 diverse samples via Illumina NovaSeq 6000.
- Data Security: Employs double encryption for privacy and anonymity.
About the Genome India Project (GIP):
- Launch: Initiated in January 2020 by the Department of Biotechnology (DBT).
- Structure: Multi-institutional consortium involving top Indian research bodies.
- Objectives
- Diversity Mapping: Decode genetic variation across Indian population.
- Reference Panel: Build Single Nucleotide Polymorphism (SNP) -based haplotype database for Indian genomes.
- Biobank Creation: Establish DNA reserves for research and therapy development.
- Key Achievements
- Sequencing Scale: 10,074 genomes sequenced from 99 ethnic groups.
- Data Storage: Securely stored at Indian Biological Data Centre (IBDC), Faridabad.
- Insights: Revealed rare traits aiding affordable diagnostics and predictive tools.
- Significance
- Global Impact: Offers India-specific insights to global genomics research.
- Healthcare Value: Enables evidence-based, genetically informed policy and diagnosis.
| [UPSC 2017] With reference to agriculture in India, how can the technique of ‘genome sequencing’, often seen in the news, be used in the immediate future?
1. Genome sequencing can be used to identify genetic markers for disease resistance and drought tolerance in various crop plants
2. This technique helps in reducing the time required to develop new varieties of crop plants
3. It can be used to decipher the host-pathogen relationships in crops
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
Options: (a) 1 only (b) 2 and 3 only (c) 1 and 3 only (d) 1, 2 and 3 |
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Why in the News?
In a breakthrough, scientists have developed BioEmu—an AI tool that predicts the full range of protein shapes, offering faster and scalable insights into protein dynamics.
What is BioEmu?
- Overview: It is a deep learning tool that predicts the equilibrium ensemble of a protein — meaning all the different shapes a protein can naturally take.
- It works like diffusion models, starting with random/noisy inputs and learning to rebuild protein shapes.
- Training: It was trained on-
- AlphaFold structures (millions of predicted proteins)
- Molecular dynamics (MD) simulation data (200 ms)
- 500,000 mutant sequences from lab experiments
- Speed: Once trained, BioEmu can quickly create thousands of 3D protein structures on a single GPU in just minutes to hours.
Key Features of BioEmu:
- Flexibility Capture: Shows how proteins change shape, fold/unfold, or form hidden binding pockets.
- Accuracy:
- Detects 83% of large and 70–81% of small shape changes.
- Predicts open/closed forms of enzymes like adenylate kinase.
- Mutation Analysis: Helps see how mutations affect protein structure and stability.
- Fast & Scalable: Much faster than traditional MD simulations; works on thousands of proteins using less computing power.
- Snapshots Only: Gives static 3D shapes, not full motion timelines.
- Limitations: Can’t handle membrane proteins, drug molecules, or multi-chain complexes.
Why is BioEmu Important?
- Improves Protein Modelling: Adds to what AlphaFold does by showing how proteins move, not just what they look like.
- Helps Drug Discovery: Finds hidden drug binding sites — speeding up the search for new medicines.
- More Accessible: Works on basic hardware, making advanced protein modelling available to more researchers.
- Combines with Other Tools: Can be used with molecular dynamics for deeper study.
- Future of Research: Encourages students and scientists to learn a mix of AI, biology, and physics.
| [UPSC 2020] Which of the following statements are correct regarding the general difference between plant and animal cells?
1. Plant cells have cellulose cell walls whilst animal cells do not.
2. Plant cells do not have plasma membrane unlike animal cells which do.
3. Mature plant cell has one large vacuole vacuoles.
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
Options: (a) 1 and 2 only, (b) 2 and 3 only, (c) 1 and 3 only * (d) 1, 2 and 3 |
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Why in the News?
India recently participated in the 88th Codex Executive Committee (CCEXEC88) in Rome (14–18 July 2025), earning praise for leading global millet standards.
About the Codex Alimentarius Commission (CAC):
- Established: In 1963 by the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) and the World Health Organization (WHO).
- Headquarters: Located in Rome, Italy.
- Membership:
- 189 members: 188 countries + the European Union.
- Open to all FAO and WHO members state and associate members.
- Objectives:
- Protect consumer health by ensuring food safety.
- Promote fair practices in international food trade.
- Harmonize food standards to reduce trade disputes.
- Key Functions:
- Develops global standards on:
- Food safety and hygiene
- Food additives, contaminants
- Residues of veterinary drugs and pesticides
- Labelling and import/export rules
- Sets Maximum Residue Limits (MRLs) and general/horizontal standards.
- Supports developing countries in enhancing food safety systems.
- Structure:
- Executive Committee: Streamlines the Commission’s work.
- Subsidiary Bodies:
- General Subject Committees: Address additives, contaminants, hygiene, etc.
- Commodity Committees: Develop product-specific standards.
- Regional Coordinating Committees: Harmonize regional standards.
- Task Forces: Address short-term, emerging issues.
- Codex Alimentarius (Food Code):
- A collection of international food standards, guidelines, and codes of practice.
- Though voluntary, they are widely adopted, especially in international trade.
- Relevance to WTO:
- Codex standards are reference points under the WTO SPS Agreement for resolving trade-related food safety disputes.
India and Codex Alimentarius Commission:
- Member Since: 1964.
- Active Participation:
- India is an elected member of the Executive Committee (CCEXEC).
- Participates in standard-setting across various food sectors.
- Recent Contributions:
- Chaired the development of whole millet grain standards, co-chaired with Mali, Nigeria, and Senegal.
- Led new work on fresh dates (approved for CAC48).
- Will co-chair future standards for fresh turmeric and broccoli.
- Strategic Role at CCEXEC88 (Rome, July 2025):
- Proposed SMART Key Performance Indicators for the Codex Strategic Plan 2026–2031.
- Shared its capacity-building programs for neighbouring countries (Bhutan, Nepal, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Timor Leste), praised by FAO.
- Capacity Building & Mentorship:
- Promoted use of the Codex Trust Fund (CTF) by less active member countries.
- Shared success stories of mentorship programmes with Bhutan and Nepal.
- Special Role:
- Chairs the Codex Committee on Spices and Culinary Herbs (CCSCH) since 2014.
- Aligns domestic FSSAI standards with Codex to support export competitiveness.
Millets and India’s Leadership in Millets Promotion:
- Millets = Shree Anna: Renamed in the Union Budget 2023-24, emphasizing their nutritional, economic, and environmental value.
- Types of Millets:
- Major: Jowar (Sorghum), Bajra (Pearl Millet), Ragi (Finger Millet)
- Minor: Foxtail, Little, Kodo, Barnyard, Proso millets
- Key Traits:
- Drought-resistant, short duration crops
- Nutrient-rich: High in fiber, iron, calcium, gluten-free
- Climate-smart and low-input, suitable for dryland farming
- India’s Global Push:
- Government Initiatives:
- National Millet Mission (2007) to boost production and processing.
- Shree Anna Abhiyan: Focus on millet-based product innovation and marketing.
- Integration into Public Distribution System (PDS), midday meals, and armed forces’ diets.
| [UPSC 2010] As regards the use of international food safety standards as reference point for the dispute settlements, which one of the following does WTO collaborate with?
Options: (a) Codex Alimentarius Commission * (b) International Federation of Standards Users (c) International Organization for Standardization (d) World Standards Cooperation |
https://www.pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=2146080
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Why in the News?
Observed every year on July 20, the International Moon Day marks the historic first human landing on the Moon by the Apollo 11 mission in 1969.
About International Moon Day:
- Date & Purpose: Observed annually on July 20 to mark the Apollo 11 Moon landing in 1969.
- UN Recognition: Declared by the UN General Assembly in 2021 on the recommendation of COPUOS.
- First Observance: Officially celebrated for the first time on July 20, 2022.
- Activities: Includes sky-gazing, science outreach, and student competitions to promote space awareness.
- Date Controversy: While the lunar module landed on July 20, Neil Armstrong stepped onto the Moon at 2:56 UTC on July 21—yet July 20 remains the official date.
Significance:
- Historic Milestone: Celebrates Apollo 11 and humanity’s first step on the Moon by Neil Armstrong and Buzz Aldrin.
- Peaceful Space Use: Promotes the Moon as a shared heritage and fosters international cooperation in outer space.
- Sustainability Focus: Encourages responsible and eco-friendly exploration of lunar resources.
- Global Unity: Reflects the UN’s vision of peaceful space collaboration under themes like “One Moon, One Vision, One Future”.
| [UPSC 2009] India has recently landed its Moon Impact Probe on the Moon. Among the following countries, which one landed such probe on the Moon earlier?
Options: (a) Australia (b) Canada (c) China* (d) Japan |
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Why in the News?
Indian scientists from INST Mohali, IIT-Dharwad, and IIT-Kharagpur have developed a low-cost, reusable water filter that removes toxic industrial dyes using a process called piezo-photocatalysis.
About the Light-Induced Water Filter:
- Material Used: Built using 3D-printed polylactic acid (PLA) sheets (a biodegradable plastic); Sheets coated with bismuth ferrite (BFO) nanoparticles.
- Working: It works in two ways. Together, this is called piezo-photocatalysis.
- Photocatalysis: Uses sunlight to break dye molecules.
- Piezoelectric effect: Uses vibrations (ultrasound) to work even in the dark.
- Reusable: Can be used 5 times with only 3% loss in performance.
- Lab tests showed:
- 99% Congo Red removal
- 74% Methylene Blue removal (in 90 minutes)
Significance:
- Eco-Friendly Solution: Removes harmful dyes without harmful chemicals or electricity.
- Cost-Effective: Cheaper and safer than ozone or chemical-intensive treatments.
- Green Energy Use: Operates using sunlight and mechanical vibrations—no external power needed.
- Policy Alignment: Supports Namami Gange, Jal Nigam, and Aatmanirbhar Bharat missions.
- Scalability: Ideal for deployment near textile treatment plants as a sustainable technology.
| [UPSC 2023] With reference to the role of biofilters in the Recirculating Aquaculture System, consider the following statements:
1. Biofilters provide waste treatment by removing uneaten fish feed
2.Biofilters convert ammonia present in fish waste to nitrate
3.Biofilters increase phosphorus as nutrient for fish in water
How many of the statements given above are correct?
Options: (a) Only one (b) Only two* (c) All three (d) None |
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