💥UPSC 2027,2028 Mentorship (April Batch) + Access XFactor Notes & Microthemes PDF
Talk to mentor

Civilsdaily

Login

Archives: News

  • Labour, Jobs and Employment – Harmonization of labour laws, gender gap, unemployment, etc.

    Centre notifies four new Labour Codes

    Bills/Act/Laws | Governance | Mains Paper 2: Government Scheme/Policies

    Why In The News?

    The Centre notified all four Labour Codes, introducing major reforms and replacing 29 outdated labour laws dating back to the 1930s.

    1)Introduction to the Labour Codes Notification:

    • Major Reform Announcement: The Centre notified all four Labour Codes, introducing wide-ranging changes in India’s labour framework.
    • Key Focus Areas: The reforms expand social security to gig workers, ensure gender pay parity, enhance women’s workplace rights, and introduce fixed-term employment.
    • Replacement of Old Laws: The Codes replace 29 fragmented labour laws dating back to the 1930s–1950s.

    2)Government’s Stance:

    • Prime Minister’s View: PM Modi described the reforms as one of the most comprehensive labour transformations since Independence.
    • Worker Empowerment: The government highlights that the Codes aim to ensure universal social security, timely wage payments, and safer workplaces.
    • Simplified Compliance: The reforms are expected to promote ease of doing business through simplified compliance mechanisms.
    • Minister’s Statement: Labour Minister Mansukh Mandaviya said the Codes will formalise employment and make the labour ecosystem globally aligned.
    • State-Level Readiness: Most States have already issued draft rules; the Centre is supporting those still finalising rules.

    3)Key Provisions:

    • Women’s Safety and Rights: Expanded rights, including permission for night shifts and enhanced workplace safety.
    • Health and Social Security: Free annual health check-ups for workers above 40 and nationwide ESIC coverage, including hazardous units.
    • Simplified Procedures: A single registration, licensing, and return system for employers.
    • Wage and Safety Standards: Introduction of a national floor wage and creation of a National OSH Board for uniform safety standards.
    • Fixed-Term Employment: Allows fixed-term workers to receive all benefits equivalent to permanent workers.
    • New Work Categories: Gig workers, platform workers, and aggregators are legally defined for the first time.
    • Universal Account Number: Aadhaar-linked UAN ensures portability and easy access to welfare benefits.
    • Inclusion of Plantation Workers: Plantation workers brought under OSHWC and Social Security Codes.

    4)Responses from Stakeholders:

    Trade Union Concerns:

    • Opposition to Codes: Several central trade unions reject the Labour Codes, labelling them anti-worker and pro-employer.
    • Issues with Timing: CTUs argue implementing the Codes amid rising unemployment and inflation will worsen workers’ hardships.
    • Protest Plans: Unions have announced nationwide protests on November 26 and cite earlier strikes against the Codes.
    • Fear of Exploitation: Trade unions warn the reforms could revive a “master-servant” relationship, reducing worker protections.

    BMS Standpoint: The Bharatiya Mazdoor Sangh supports implementation but seeks amendments to remove perceived anti-worker provisions in OSH and Industrial Relations Codes.

    Industry View: CII praises the reforms as a transformative step towards a modern and simplified labour ecosystem.

    [UPSC 2021] With reference to casual workers employed in India, consider the following statements: 1.All casual workers are entitled to Employees Provident Fund coverage.

    2.All casual workers are entitled to regular working hours and overtime payment.

    3.The government can, by notification, specify that an establishment or industry shall pay wages only through its bank account. Which of the above statements are correct? Options: (a) 1 and 2 only (b) 2 and 3 only* (c) 1 and 3 only (d) 1, 2, and 3

     

    Get an IAS/IPS ranker as your 1: 1 personal mentor

  • Agricultural Sector and Marketing Reforms – eNAM, Model APMC Act, Eco Survey Reco, etc.

    Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana: Rajasthan farmers’ protests on insurance claims

    Bills/Act/Laws | Agriculture | Mains Paper 3: Agriculture and related issues

    Why In The News?

    Farmers in Rajasthan’s Churu district held a ‘Kisan Ekta Tractor March’ demanding pending crop insurance claims, fertiliser availability, transparency in the insurance portal, and inclusion of certain crops in PM Dhan Dhanya Yojana. The protest was postponed after government assurances during late-night negotiations.

    About Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana (PMFBY):

    • Launch & Purpose:
      • Launched on 18 February 2016 by the Ministry of Agriculture to provide affordable crop insurance and financial protection against losses from natural calamities, pests, and diseases.
      • Implemented through insurance companies and banks.
    • Objectives:
      • Provide financial assistance for crop loss due to unforeseen events.
      • Stabilise farmer income and ensure continuity in farming.
      • Promote modern agricultural practices.
      • Encourage crop diversification, enhance creditworthiness, and improve agriculture sector competitiveness.
    • Eligibility:
      • All farmers including sharecroppers and tenant farmers growing notified crops in notified areas.
      • Compulsory: Loanee farmers with Seasonal Agricultural Operations (SAO) loans.
      • Voluntary: Non-loanee farmers.
      • Must have insurable interest and valid land ownership/tenure documents.
      • Must not receive duplicate compensation from other sources.
      • Special focus on SC/ST/Women farmers with proportional budget allocation.
    • Benefits:
      • Affordable Premiums:
        • Farmers pay 2% for Kharif, 1.5% for Rabi, and 5% for commercial/horticultural crops.
        • Government provides premium subsidy; pays full premium in NE states, J&K, and Himachal Pradesh.
      • Comprehensive Coverage:
        • Covers natural disasters, pests, diseases, and post-harvest losses (hailstorm, landslide).
        • Excludes losses due to war, nuclear risks, malicious damage, or preventable risks.
      • Timely Compensation:
        • Claims processed within two months of harvest.
      • Technology-Driven Implementation:
        • Uses satellite imaging, drones, and mobile apps for precise loss estimation.
        • NCIP for digital processing; YES-TECH for remote-sensing yield estimation; CROPIC for geotagged crop verification.
    [UPSC 2020] In India, which of the following can be considered as public investment in agriculture?
    1. Fixing Minimum Support Price for agricultural produce of all crops
    2. Computerization of Primary Agricultural Credit Societies
    3. Social Capital development
    4. Free electricity supply to farmers
    5. Waiver of agricultural loans by the banking system
    6. Setting up of cold storage facilities by the governments
    Select the correct answer using the code given below: Options: (a) 1, 2 and 5 only (b) 1, 3, 4 and 5 only (c) 2, 3 and 6 only* (d) 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 and 6

     

    Get an IAS/IPS ranker as your 1: 1 personal mentor

  • Government plans unification of port security regulations- sovereign entity to oversee private ports while CISF will regulate 80 ports

    DOMR | Security Issues | Mains Paper 3: Border Area Security Challenges

    Why In The News?

    The government has designated CISF as the security regulator for 250+ seaports to strengthen coastal security.

    1) New Security Framework:

    • Sovereign Entity at Seaports: Government to deploy CISF as a sovereign security force at private cargo-handling ports for a uniform security system.
    • Initial Coverage: CISF to regulate 80 major export-import seaports for access control, cargo screening, and seafront patrolling.
    • Phase-wise Expansion: Remaining 170 seaports will be brought under CISF in stages.
    • ISPS Code Role: CISF designated as the Recognised Security Organisation under the International Ship and Port Facility Security Code.

    2)Framework for Seaport Security in India:

    • International Ship and Port Facility Security (ISPS) Code:
      India’s port security system aligns with the mandatory global ISPS Code, introduced after 9/11 to protect ships and port facilities from terrorism and other maritime threats.
    • Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) as Security Regulator:
      The Government of India has recently designated the CISF as the Recognised Security Organisation (RSO) for ports, marking a major reform to strengthen and standardise port security across the country.

    3)Challenges to Port Security:

    • Non-Standardised Security Framework:
      • Security at many non-major ports historically lacked uniformity and expert oversight.
      • Heavy dependence on private security agencies or local police resulted in inconsistent standards.
    • Transnational & Non-Traditional Threats:
      • Maritime terrorism remains a persistent risk.
      • Smuggling and drug trafficking, with ports often used for large narcotics consignments.
      • Cyberattacks targeting port IT systems and critical infrastructure.
    • Infrastructure & Manpower Gaps:
      • Difficulty in ensuring uniform, high-quality security infrastructure across 250+ ports.
      • Significant manpower shortages: CISF requires 800-1,000 personnel per major seaport and has requested 10,000 additional personnel for initial deployment.
    • Coastal Vulnerabilities:
      • Large stretches of coastline remain open, poorly monitored, or unguarded.
      • Absence of a sovereign security force at private ports has created long-standing security gaps.
    • Identified Gaps in Official Reviews:
      • Coastal security flagged as a priority for discussion at the Director Generals of Police (DGP) Conference, attended by the Prime Minister.
      • The 2023 MHA guidelines highlighted major deficiencies and recommended comprehensive improvements.

    4) Committee Recommendations:

    • Committee Findings: A 2024 Joint Committee (CISF + Director General Shipping) conducted gap analysis and proposed corrective measures.
    • Hybrid Security Model: Core security functions to be handled by CISF, while State Police/private agencies manage non-core duties.

    5)About CISF:

    • Overview: CISF is a Central Armed Police Force under the Ministry of Home Affairs, headquartered in New Delhi; motto: “Protection and Security.”
    • Establishment:
      • Formed in 1969 through the CISF Act, 1968 with three battalions.
      • Declared an Armed Force of the Union after the 1983 amendment.
      • Expanded into a multi-skilled force with 188,000+ personnel.
      • Provides security to 359 establishments nationwide.
    • Organisation Structure:
      • Headed by a Director-General (IPS), assisted by an Additional DG.
      • Divided into seven sectors: Airport, North, North-East, East, West, South, Training.
      • Has a dedicated Fire Service Wing.
    • Functions:
      • Secures critical infrastructure: nuclear and space facilities, airports, seaports, power plants.
      • Protects Delhi Metro, Parliament Complex, heritage monuments, and major government buildings.
      • Responsible for airport security since 2000 (post IC-814 hijacking).
      • Provides VIP security to designated protectees.
      • Trained in disaster management (floods, earthquakes, cyclones).
      • Operates India’s largest Fire Protection Service among CAPFs.
      • Post-2008 Mumbai attacks, expanded to private sector security.
      • Functions as a compensatory cost force, billing clients for services.
    [UPSC 2023] With reference to Home Guards, consider the following statements:

    1. Home Guards are raised under the Home Guards Act and Rules of the Central Government.

    2. The role of the Home Guards is to serve as an auxiliary force to the police in maintenance of internal security.

    3. To prevent infiltration on the international border/coastal areas, the Border Wing Home Guards Battalions have been raised in some States.

    How many of the above statements are correct?

    Options: (a) Only one (b) Only two* (c) All three (d) None

     

    Get an IAS/IPS ranker as your 1: 1 personal mentor

  • Defence Sector – DPP, Missions, Schemes, Security Forces, etc.

    IAF’s Tejas jet crashes during demo flight at Dubai Air Show, pilot killed

    Prelims Only | Security Issues | Mains Paper 3: Indigenization Of Technology

    Why In The News?

    An Indian Air Force Tejas fighter jet crashed during the Dubai Air Show, killing Wing Commander Namansh Syal, after spiralling out of control and igniting on impact at Al Maktoum International Airport.

    1)Tejas Mk1A: 

    • About: The Tejas Mk1A is an upgraded variant of India’s Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Tejas, developed by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL).
    • Purpose: This version is aimed to enhance operational and combat capabilities, survivability and maintainability over the baseline Mk1.
    • Capabilities:
      • Active Electronically Scanned Array (AESA) radar integration.
      • Electronic Warfare Suite (EWS) – radar‑warning and self‑protection jamming.
      • Upgraded Flight Control Computer (DFCC Mk1A) for better maneuverability and stability.
      • Missile compatibility- Beyond Visual Range (BVR) missiles, Air-to-Air and Air-to-Ground missiles and Advanced Short Range Air-to-Air Missiles (ASRAAM).
      • Planned integration of Combined Interrogator and Transponder (CIT), Software Defined Radio (SDR) and Operating Data Link (ODL) with existing onboard avionics.

    2) LCA Tejas:

    • About: The LCA Tejas programme, initiated by the Government of India in 1984, aimed to replace the ageing MiG-21 fighter jets. The programme is managed by the Aeronautical Development Agency (ADA).
    • Features:
      • Lightest, smallest, and tailless multi-role supersonic fighter in its class.
      • Capable of carrying a variety of air-to-air, air-to-surface, and precision-guided weapons.
      • Maximum payload capacity of 4000 kg.
      • Maximum speed: Mach 1.8.
      • Range: 3,000 km.
    • Variants of Tejas:
      • Tejas Trainer: 2-seater operational conversion trainer for training air force pilots.
      • LCA Navy: Twin- and single-seat carrier-capable for the Indian Navy.
      • LCA Tejas Navy MK2: This is phase 2 of the LCA Navy variant.
      • LCA Tejas Mk-1A: This is an improvement over the LCA Tejas Mk1 with a higher thrust engine.

    3)Fifth Generation Fighter Jets:

    • About:
      • Combat Role: Designed for highly contested combat zones with advanced air and ground threats.
      • Stealth & Speed: Feature stealth technology and supercruise capability.
      • Key Advantages:
        • Multi-spectral low-observable design
        • Enhanced self-protection
        • Radar jamming capabilities
        • Fully integrated avionics systems
      • Global Operators:
        • Russia: Sukhoi Su-57
        • China: Chengdu J-20
        • United States: F-35 series
    • Need for India:
      • Squadron Strength: IAF has ~30 squadrons, below the sanctioned 42.
      • Ageing Fleet:
        • MiG-21
        • MiG-29
        • Jaguar
        • Mirage 2000
        • All to be phased out by mid-next decade.
      • Airpower Gap:
        • China: 3,304 aircraft
        • India: 2,296 aircraft
        • Pakistan: 1,434 aircraft
      • Strategic Need: Strengthen air defences against China and Pakistan and increase defence self-reliance.
      • Indigenous Development:
        • Developing AMCA
        • Five prototypes planned
        • Joint effort by ADA, HAL, and private industry
      • Strategic Positioning: 5G fighters would place India alongside the US, Russia, and China.
    [UPSC 2024] Question: 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*

     

    Get an IAS/IPS ranker as your 1: 1 personal mentor

  • Festivals, Dances, Theatre, Literature, Art in News

    Protesters clash with police for a second day as Sangai Festival kicks off in Manipur

    Prelims Only | Art and Culture | Mains Paper 1: Arts & Culture

    Why In The News?

    The Sangai Festival in Manipur opened amid protests by IDPs and NGOs, lowering attendance. Critics say the government should prioritise resolving the Kuki-Zo–Meitei ethnic conflict and resettling displaced people before holding tourism events after the May 2023 violence.

    1) About Sangai Festival:

    • Celebration Period: Manipur Sangai Festival is held every year from 21-30 November.
    • Objective: The festival aims to showcase Manipur as a world-class tourism destination.
    • Name Origin: It is named after the State animal – the Sangai, the brow-antlered deer found only in Manipur.
    • Beginning: The festival started in 2010.
    • Theme: The theme for this year is “Festival of Oneness.”
    • Focus Areas: It highlights Manipur’s tourism potential in Arts & Culture, Handloom, Handicrafts, Indigenous Sports, Cuisine, and Music.

    2) About Sangai Deer:

    General Information:

    • Scientific Name: Rucervus eldii
    • Common Names: Sangai, Brow-antlered Deer, Dancing Deer
    • Population: About 260 (Forest Department census, 2016).
    • Habitat: Exclusively in Keibul Lamjao National Park, located on phumdi in Loktak Lake, Bishnupur district.

    Characteristics:

    • Medium-sized deer with distinctive long brow antlers forming the main beam.
    • Antlers appear to grow from the eyebrow, giving the name brow-antlered deer.
    • Possesses a dark reddish-brown winter coat that becomes paler in summer.
    • Walks with mincing hops on floating phumdi, hence called the Dancing Deer.

    Status:

    • State Animal of Manipur.
    • Listed in Schedule-I of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972.
    • Classified as Endangered on the IUCN Red List.

    Conservation Issues:

    • Threatened by degenerating phumdi habitat due to continuous inundation from the artificial reservoir.
    • Invasion of non-native plants like Paragrass.
    • Risks from diseases, inbreeding depression, and poaching.

    3) Manipur Crisis:

    About the Violence:

    • Violence occurred between Kuki tribe and Meitei community across multiple regions of Manipur.
    • The Imphal Valley (10% of land) is dominated by Meiteis (64% of population) and elects 40 of 60 MLAs.
    • The hills (90% of land) are inhabited by 35%+ recognised tribes, electing 20 MLAs.
    • Unrest began in February 2023 after an eviction drive seen as targeting a tribal group.

    Meitei Demand for ST Status:

    • Supported by the Scheduled Tribes Demand Committee of Manipur (STDCM) since 2012.
    • Claim that Meiteis were recognised as a tribe before the 1949 merger with India.
    • Demand ST status to preserve land, culture, language, and ancestral identity.
    • Argue they face marginalisation and cite population decline from 59% (1951) to 44% (2011).

    Why Tribal Groups Oppose ST Status for Meiteis:

    • Tribals argue Meiteis already hold demographic, political, and economic advantages.
    • Fear ST status will allow Meiteis to acquire land in the hills, reducing tribal land rights.
    • Meitei dominance includes:
      • Manipuri language in the Eighth Schedule
      • Sections already under SC/OBC categories
    • Tribes believe Meitei claims of cultural vulnerability are self-defeating.
    [UPSC 2017] Consider the following pairs : Traditions Communities

    1. Chaliha Sahib Festival — Sindhis

    2. Nanda Raj Jaat Yatra — Gonds

    3. Wari-Warkari — Santhals Which of the pairs given above is/are correctly matched?

    Options: (a) 1 only* (b) 2 and 3 only (c)1 and 3 only (d) None of the above

     

    Get an IAS/IPS ranker as your 1: 1 personal mentor

  • Foreign Policy Watch: India-ASEAN

    [22nd November 2025] The Hindu Op-ED: The new direction for India should be toward Asia

    op-ed snap | International Relations | Mains Paper 2: Bilateral, Regional and Global Groupings and agreements involving India

    PYQ Relevance

    [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: This question is relevant as the article highlights India’s discomfort with Western strategic pressure and the U.S. attempt to position India as a counter-weight to China. It directly links to the theme that India must prioritise Asian partnerships based on autonomy rather than being shaped by Western geopolitical expectations.

    Mentor’s Comment

    India’s foreign policy stands at its most decisive turning point in decades. Recent global summits have marked a visible discomfort in Western partnerships and a stronger inclination toward Asian platforms such as SCO, BRICS, and ASEAN. If sustained, this pivot could influence not only India’s security and economy but also the balance of power across the 21st century.

    Introduction

    India is emerging as a global economic heavyweight. At a time when geopolitical polarization between the West and China is intensifying, India is being pushed to define where its long-term interests lie. The article argues that India’s most strategic future lies within the Asian ecosystem, economically, technologically and militarily, rather than within Western-led institutional frameworks.

    Why in the News

    Diplomatic signals at recent top summits have shown a clear turning point: India expressed discomfort with the U.S. stance on Russia-China while showing greater comfort engaging Asian multilateral platforms. This reverses decades of Western strategic centrality and marks the first open debate about whether India should integrate with a U.S.-dominated global order or anchor its future with Asia’s rapidly rising power architecture.

    Is India undergoing a decisive Asian pivot?

    1. Growing tilt toward Asian blocs: India’s policy space is increasingly shaped by negotiations with China and Russia rather than the U.S. and Europe.
    2. Limits of multialignment exposed: External pressure from the U.S. forces India to re-evaluate whether neutrality remains viable.

    Why is Western strategic centrality fading for India?

    1. Summit unease and leadership signalling: Interactions at the G-7 and Busan Summit highlighted visible discomfort between Indian and U.S. leadership.
    2. U.S. pressure on trade and Russia policy: Washington expects India to align its tariff playbook and Russian relations to Western priorities.
    3. Security divergence: U.S.-driven defence expectations conflict with India’s commitment to independent threat assessment.

    Why does Asia offer a stronger pathway for India’s growth?

    1. Demographic and economic centre of gravity: Two-thirds of global population and global wealth lie in Asia, creating large consumer and innovation markets.
    2. Rise of continental and maritime platforms: BRICS, SCO and ASEAN integrate security with economic restructuring outside WTO constraints.
    3. Technological and industrial complementarities: Asian RCEP supply chains, semiconductor hubs, manufacturing and defence technologies align with India’s development goals.

    What hard decisions are demanded from India now?

    1. Strategic autonomy based on Indian capacity: Policy alignment must reflect national strengths rather than expectations of great powers.
    2. Growth-labour dynamic within Asia: Asia offers the highest growth rate and workforce depth but demands competitiveness and industrial performance from India.
    3. Reducing dependency on imported defence systems: Innovation in AI, cyber capability, missiles and marine strength becomes essential.

    How does the global AI and military innovation race shape India’s choices?

    1. Shift from land-based warfare to technology-centric warfare: Cyber, naval and AI superiority determine 21st-century power projection.
    2. Asian innovation ecosystem more open than Western models: Western blocs impose regulatory constraints while Asia prioritises co-development and technology transfer.
    3. Defence industrialisation as a growth multiplier: AI-driven defence manufacturing advances both national security and economic output.

    Conclusion

    India is not compelled to choose between the West and Asia, but strategic realities suggest that Asia provides the most fertile ground for technological development, economic partnerships and military advancement. A calibrated pivot anchored in strategic autonomy and innovation may be the key to India becoming a rule-shaping, rather than rule-following, global power by mid-century.

    Get an IAS/IPS ranker as your 1: 1 personal mentor

  • Overcoming resistance: On the National Action Plan on Antimicrobial Resistance (2025–29)

    Explained | Science Tech | Mains Paper 3: Awareness in various sc and tech fields

    Introduction

    The Government has introduced the second iteration of the National Action Plan on Antimicrobial Resistance (NAP-AMR) in response to escalating resistance to antibiotics across sectors. While version 1 generated marginal gains and placed AMR on India’s health agenda, its sluggish implementation led to persistent misuse of antibiotics, weak state collaboration, and rising resistance. New evidence, including the 2023 WHO Global Antibiotic Resistance Surveillance report, confirms the urgency for renewed stewardship and a strengthened One Health strategy.

    Why in the News?

     India has launched Version 2 of the National Action Plan on AMR amid alarming data that in 2023, one in three bacterial infections in India showed resistance to commonly used antibiotics, against one in six globally. The spike comes despite NAP-AMR (2017–21), revealing that implementation, not intent, is the major roadblock. The new plan is a crucial attempt to arrest a humongous health, veterinary and environmental crisis before last-line antibiotics become fully ineffective.

    Why did Version 1 of NAP-AMR fall short?

    1. Sluggish implementation: Raised the profile of AMR nationally but failed to translate into coordinated ground-level action.
    2. Weak state participation: Only a few states formulated policies; Kerala alone implemented effectively, registering a slight drop in AMR levels.
    3. Narrow ecosystem focus: Neglect of veterinary, environment, agriculture and aquaculture vectors.
    4. Enforcement gaps: Despite a ban on Colistin as a growth promoter in the husbandry sector, misuse continued in varying degrees.

    How serious is AMR in India today?

    1. High disease burden: High infectious disease load increases antibiotic exposure and accelerates resistance.
    2. Overuse and misuse: Indiscriminate use in healthcare and self-medication remain widespread.
    3. Critical pathogens advancing: E. coli and Klebsiella pneumoniae show high resistance to critical antibiotics, rendering last-line drugs ineffective.

    Why has AMR become a multi-sectoral challenge?

    1. Agriculture & husbandry: Growth promoters and preventive antibiotic usage fuel microbial resistance.
    2. Veterinary medicine: Improper prescription and uncontrolled access to antibiotics.
    3. Soil & water contamination: Antibiotic residues affect ecosystems and re-enter human food chains.
    4. Aquaculture & food processing: Residues facilitate community-level resistance.

    Why is One Health no longer optional?

    1. Integrates human, animal and environmental health to handle widespread resistance emerging across the food chain and biosphere.
    2. Breaks inter-sectoral silos to ensure synchronised surveillance and regulation.
    3. Guides community-level resistance mitigation, not just tertiary hospitals.

    What must Version 2 achieve to succeed?

    1. Strong antibiotics stewardship programmes across community and hospital settings.
    2. Reliable nationwide surveillance network beyond pandemic-led laboratory expansion.
    3. State partnership and compliance mechanisms rather than voluntary policy uptake.
    4. Accountability measures for misuse in human healthcare, veterinary practice and agriculture.

    Conclusion

    India stands at a critical point where policy intent must translate into enforceable implementation. The success of NAP-AMR (Version 2) depends on strong stewardship, inter-state coordination, and an uncompromising One Health approach. Without systemic commitment, antibiotic resistance risks becoming the defining public health disaster of the decade.

    Value Addition

    What is AMR? 

    • Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) refers to a biological phenomenon in which microorganisms such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites evolve to resist the action of antimicrobial drugs. As a result, standard treatments become ineffective, infections persist, and the risk of spread, severe illness, and mortality increases.

    India AMR data cue:

    • WHO Global Antibiotic Resistance Surveillance Report (2023): 1 in 3 bacterial infections in India resistant to commonly used antibiotics, compared to 1 in 6 globally.

    Kerala as a Model State 

    • Kerala is often cited as the only state that implemented its state-level action plan on AMR effectively enough to show measurable impact.
    • Key success factors:
      • Strong state-led antibiotic stewardship programme
      • Mandatory prescription audits and regulation of over-the-counter sales
      • Hospital-level AMR surveillance linked to community-level action
      • Training of medical and veterinary practitioners
      • Public awareness + behavioural campaigns

    PYQ Relevance

    [UPSC 2014] Can overuse and free availability of antibiotics without Doctor’s prescription, be contributors to the emergence of drug-resistant diseases in India? What are the available mechanisms for monitoring and control? Critically discuss the various issues involved.

    Linkage: This question is directly relevant as India faces one of the world’s highest AMR burdens driven by misuse and over-the-counter sale of antibiotics. It links to National Action Plan on AMR (Version 2), antibiotic stewardship, surveillance gaps, and public health governance.

    Get an IAS/IPS ranker as your 1: 1 personal mentor

  • Agricultural Sector and Marketing Reforms – eNAM, Model APMC Act, Eco Survey Reco, etc.

    How India’s agri exports posted impressive growth

    Explained | Agriculture | Mains Paper 3: Agriculture and related issues

    Introduction

    Agriculture continues to be a critical pillar of India’s external trade. Despite restrictions on cereals in recent years, India is witnessing robust export performance driven by meat, rice, spices, fruits-vegetables, tobacco, and marine products. Import trends indicate rising edible oil dependence and inflation moderation.

    Why in the News?

    India’s agricultural exports have surged faster than overall merchandise exports, reaching $25.9 billion in April-September 2024, a 25.8% jump over the previous year, compared to a marginal 0.1% rise in total exports. This turnaround comes after a period of contraction due to export curbs (2022-23) on key items like wheat and non-basmati rice. The renewed momentum signals policy success, global demand recovery, and diversification beyond the US market.

    What is driving the recent surge in agri exports?

    1. Policy relaxation: Lifting of post-Ukraine export curbs on wheat, rice, sugar, etc., improved outbound shipments.
    2. Market diversification: Growth in demand from Latin America, Africa, Middle-East reduced dependency on the US.
    3. Production rebound: Normal monsoon boosted availability of sugar, spices, seafood, fruit-veg.
    4. High-value product focus: Marine goods ($4.8 bn), non-basmati rice ($2.85 bn), and cotton ($1.6 bn) led performance.

    Which products are leading the export spike?

    1. Marine products: Largest export category at $4.8 bn Apr-Sep 2024.
    2. Rice (Non-basmati): Strong recovery despite earlier restrictions ( $2.85 bn ).
    3. Buffalo meat & poultry: $2.25 bn & $0.414 bn exports supported by West Asia.
    4. Fresh fruits & vegetables: Jump to $1.49 bn due to tomato, onion shipments.
    5. Sugar & tobacco: Robust global prices drove exports above $0.9 bn and $0.82 bn respectively.

    How have imports behaved during the same period?

    1. Edible oils dominate: $7.3 bn, showing structural import dependence.
    2. Cashew, pulses, fresh fruits: Rising imports due to domestic shortfalls.
    3. Wheat trade flip: Exports rose post-2022 restrictions but imports revived due to domestic price pressures.
    4. India remains a net agri-exporter, but oil imports remain a vulnerability.

    What are the key factors shaping fluctuations in exports?

    1. Geopolitics & tariffs:
      1. US-China trade tensions: Opened new windows for India.
      2. Trump-era duties impacted Indian produce.
      3. Russia war disrupted sunflower oil & grain flows.
    2. Commodity price volatility: FAO Index declined and this led to lower export values for wheat, sugar.
    3. Logistics: Container shortages & high freight (2022-23) stabilised by 2024.

    What are the major challenges ahead?

    1. Export restrictions continue on items like wheat, some rice variants.
    2. Quality & traceability issues: Growing scrutiny by EU/Australia.
    3. Climate shocks impacting horticulture and cash crops.
    4. Overdependence on 2-3 markets for meat, marine products.

    Conclusion

    India’s recent agricultural export growth reflects policy easing, supply recovery, and expanding market access. However, sustaining competitiveness demands edible oil self-reliance, quality upgrades, logistics reforms, and stable export policies. Balanced agri-trade will support farmer income and strengthen India’s role in global food value chains.

    PYQ Relevance

    [UPSC 2022] What are the main bottlenecks in the upstream and downstream process of marketing of agricultural products in India?

    Get an IAS/IPS ranker as your 1: 1 personal mentor

  • Festivals, Dances, Theatre, Literature, Art in News

    The story behind Himachal Pradesh’s traditional Raulane Festival

    States | Art and Culture | Mains Paper 1: Arts & Culture

    Why In The News?

    Bright, colourful, and captivating photos of the Raulane festival from Himachal Pradesh have recently gone viral on social media, sparking widespread discussion about the festival’s unique rituals and the rich cultural heritage of this centuries-old tradition.

    About Raulane Festival:

    • Location & Timing: The Raulane festival is celebrated in Kalpa, located in the Kinnaur district of Himachal Pradesh, during winter or early spring.
    • Ancient Origins: The festival is believed to be around 5,000 years old, making it one of the region’s oldest surviving traditions.
    • Celestial Beings (Saunis): This ancient festival honours celestial fairies called Saunis, described as radiant and gentle beings.
    • Belief & Protection: Locals believe that the Saunis protect villagers during harsh winters by offering warmth, guidance, and spiritual support.
    • Symbolic Marriage Ritual: During the festival, two men symbolically “marry” and act as vessels for the Saunis, representing the divine couple – the Raula (groom) and the Raulane (bride).
    • Traditional Attire: The chosen men are dressed in heavy woollen robes, adorned with ornaments and distinctive face masks.
    • Ritual Dance: They perform a slow, meditative dance at the Nagin Narayan Temple, where the entire community participates and celebrates.
    • Cultural Significance: The Raulane festival helps preserve ancient Himalayan culture and traditions, bringing villagers together to honour their divine protectors.
    [UPSC 2018] Consider the following pairs:

    Tradition State
    1. Chapchar Kut festival — Mizoram
    2. Khongjom Parba ballad — Manipur
    3. Thong-To dance — Sikkim

    Which of the pairs given above is/are correct?

    Options:

    (a) 1 only (b) 1 and 2* (c) 3 only (d) 2 and 3

     

    Get an IAS/IPS ranker as your 1: 1 personal mentor

  • Water Management – Institutional Reforms, Conservation Efforts, etc.

    CPCB to monitor Yamuna with Delhi and Haryana

    DOMR | Enviro & Biodiversity | Mains Paper 3: Conservation, Environmental Pollution & Degradation, Eia

    Why In The News?

    Drain water overflow is contaminating the Yamuna, prompting the National Mission for Clean Ganga (NMCG) to inform the National Green Tribunal (NGT) that the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), Delhi Pollution Control Committee (DPCC), and Haryana State Pollution Control Board (HSPCB) will jointly conduct quarterly monitoring to track pollution and coordinate corrective action.

    1) About National Mission for Clean Ganga (NMCG):

    • Legal Status: The NMCG is a registered society under the Ministry of Jal Shakti to prevent, control, and abate pollution in the Ganga River and ensure adequate ecological flow.
    • Origin: It functioned as the implementation arm of the National Ganga River Basin Authority (NGRBA) under the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986 until the NGRBA was replaced by the National Ganga Council in 2016.
    • Objectives:
      • Ensure pollution abatement and rejuvenation of the Ganga through a river basin approach.
      • Maintain minimum ecological flows for water quality and sustainable development.
    • Structure:
      • Has a two-tier structure: a Governing Council and an Executive Committee, both headed by the Director General (DG).
      • The Executive Committee can approve projects up to ₹1000 crores.
      • State Programme Management Groups (SPMGs) act as implementing arms at the state level.
      • The DG is an Additional Secretary in the Government of India.

    2) About National Green Tribunal (NGT):

    • Purpose: The NGT ensures efficient and expert resolution of environmental disputes and aims to resolve cases within six months.
    • Independence: Operates based on principles of natural justice, not the Civil Procedure Code, 1908, enabling faster decisions.
    • Jurisdiction: Began functioning in 2011 with its principal bench in New Delhi and regional benches in Bhopal, Pune, Kolkata, and Chennai. It follows a circuit procedure for accessibility.
    • Composition:
      • Chairperson: Retired Supreme Court Judge or Chief Justice of a High Court, appointed by the Central Government.
      • Judicial Members: 10-20 judges from the Supreme Court or High Courts.
      • Expert Members: 10-20 experts with advanced degrees in Science/Engineering/Technology and environmental experience.
    • Powers & Jurisdiction:
      • Handles civil cases under major environmental laws such as the Water Act 1974, Air Act 1981, Environment Protection Act 1986, Forest Conservation Act 1980, Biological Diversity Act 2002, and Public Liability Insurance Act 1991.
      • Can impose penalties, act as a Civil Court, and follow the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) for certain procedures.
      • Has suo motu powers to take up environmental issues on its own.
      • Can award compensation, order remediation, and ensure time-bound disposal of cases.

    3) About Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB):

    • Establishment: The CPCB is a statutory organisation created under the Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1974, and later empowered under the Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1981.
    • Role: Acts as a technical arm of the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC) for enforcing the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986.
    • Functions:
      • Promote cleanliness of streams and wells and control water pollution.
      • Improve air quality and abate air pollution nationwide.
      • Advise the Central Government on pollution control and coordinate with State Pollution Control Boards (SPCBs).
      • Offer guidance, technical support, and help resolve conflicts among SPCBs.
    • Delegated Powers: CPCB delegates its authority under the Water Act, Water Cess Act (1977), and Air Act to regional administrations in Union Territories.
    • Standards & Guidelines:
      • Develops standards for ambient air quality, water quality, and industrial emissions.
      • Prepares manuals, codes, and guidelines for sewage treatment, effluent disposal, and pollution-control devices.
      • Issues Minimal National Standards (MINAS) for various industries regarding effluents, emissions, noise, and waste.
    [UPSC 2016] Which of the following are the key features of ‘National Ganga River Basin Authority (NGRBA)?,

    1. River basin is the unit of planning and management.,

    2. It spearheads the river conservation efforts at the national level.,

    3. One of the Chief Ministers of the States through which the Ganga flows becomes the Chairman of NGRBA on rotation basis.,

    Options: (a) 1 and 2 only* (b) 2 and 3 only, (c) 1 and 3 only, (d) 1, 2 and 3

    Get an IAS/IPS ranker as your 1: 1 personal mentor

Join the Community

Join us across Social Media platforms.