The Supreme Court Collegium has recommended the transfer of 4 Chief Justices from the High Courts of Madras, Rajasthan, Tripura, and Jharkhand.
About the Collegium System:
Definition: It is used in India for the appointment and transfer of judges to the Supreme Court and High Courts.
Non-Constitutional Origin: It is not mentioned in the Constitution or any law passed by Parliament. It developed through Supreme Court judgments to protect judicial independence.
Judicial Primacy: The system ensures that senior judges, not the government, have the main say in judicial appointments.
Evolution: It arose in response to executive interference during the 1970s, when the government tried to influence and supersede senior judges:
First Judges Case (1981) – S.P. Gupta v. Union of India:
Held that the Chief Justice’s opinion was only consultative.
Gave the executive primary control over appointments and transfers.
Second Judges Case (1993) – Advocates-on-Record Association v. Union of India:
Overruled the First Judges Case.
Declared that “consultation” with the CJI means “concurrence”, making the CJI’s view binding.
Introduced the Collegium system, involving the CJI and two senior-most judges.
Affirmed that judicial independence requires judicial primacy in appointments.
Third Judges Case (1998) – Re: Presidential Reference:
Expanded the Collegium to include the CJI and four senior-most Supreme Court judges.
Emphasised institutional decision-making, not personal preferences of individual judges.
How does the Collegium System works?
For Supreme Court Judges:
The Collegium includes the CJI and four senior-most SC judges.
It recommends names for appointments to the SC and appointments/transfers of High Court judges and Chief Justices.
The Law Ministry processes these names and sends them to the Prime Minister, who advises the President for final approval.
For Appointing the Chief Justice of India:
The sitting CJI recommends the senior-most SC judge.
This practice has been followed since the 1970s supersession controversy.
For High Court Judges:
Recommendations start from the Chief Justice of the High Court, who consults two senior colleagues.
The proposal goes to the state government, then to the Supreme Court Collegium (CJI and two senior-most SC judges), and finally to the President.
For Transfers of Judges:
Article 222 of the Constitution allows transfer of High Court judges.
The Collegium recommends transfers, often for administrative needs or public interest.
Consent is not needed, but the CJI must consult the Chief Justice of the concerned High Court and other senior judges.
No High Court can have an Acting Chief Justice for more than a month, so transfers and new appointments are usually done together.
[UPSC 2012] What is the provision to safeguard the autonomy of the Supreme Court of India?
1. While appointing the Supreme Court Judges, the President of India has to consult the Chief Justice of India. 2. The Supreme Court Judges can be removed by the Chief Justice of India only. 3. The salaries of the Judges are charged on the Consolidated Fund of India to which the legislature does not have to vote. 4. All appointments of officers and staff of the Supreme Court of India are made by the Government only after consulting the Chief Justice of India. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
Options: (a) 1 and 3 only * (b) 3 and 4 only (c) 4 only (d) 1, 2, 3 and 4
[UPSC 2019] The time has come for India and Japan to build a strong contemporary relationship, one involving global and strategic partnership that will have a great significance for Asia and the world as a whole.’ Comment.
Linkage: The term “strategic partnership” in the context of India’s relationship with another major country (Japan). It is directly analogous to the India-Germany strategic partnership and prompts discussion on its global and regional significance, mirroring the description in article.
Mentor’s Comment: India and Germany have built a strong bilateral relationship based on shared democratic values, economic complementarity, and a common vision for global peace and sustainable development. Germany launched its dedicated ‘Focus on India’ strategy and committed €10 billion under the Indo-German Green and Sustainable Development Partnership (GSDP). Over 2,000 German companies now operate in India, generating 750,000 jobs. With 50,000 Indian students studying in Germany and expanding business integration, both countries have transformed their partnership from a transactional engagement into a strategic, transformational alliance.
Today’s editorial will discuss the relationship between India and Germany. This content would help in GS Paper II ( International Relations).
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Let’s learn!
Why in the News?
his month marks 25 years of the Indo-German Strategic Partnership, celebrating a key milestone in their growing ties, shared goals, and long-standing cooperation across defence, economy, and sustainability.
What are the Key Pillars of the India-Germany partnership?
Peace: Both countries share a vision of a peaceful, stable, and rules-based world. Eg: Regular Intergovernmental Government Consultations that strengthen political ties and cooperation.
Prosperity: Focuses on economic growth, job creation, and improving quality of life. Eg: Around 2,000 German companies operate in India, creating more than 750,000 jobs.
People-to-People Ties: Cultural and educational exchanges deepen bilateral relations. Eg: Over 50,000 Indian students study in Germany, the largest foreign student group there.
Future of the Planet (Green Development): Cooperation on climate change, renewable energy, and sustainability projects. Eg: Germany’s €10 billion Indo-German Green and Sustainable Development Partnership supporting solar and wind projects in Gujarat.
Technology and Innovation Collaboration: Joint scientific research and integration in high-tech industries. Eg: Indian researchers in top German institutions and operation of Delhi-Meerut Rapid Rail by Deutsche Bahn.
How has defence cooperation progressed recently?
First Joint Exercise: In August 2024, Germany’s Air Force participated in Exercise Tarang Shakti at Sulur, marking the first-ever India-Germany joint military exercise on Indian soil. Eg: The exercise included advanced jets like Germany’s Eurofighter Typhoon, France’s Rafale, and India’s LCA Tejas.
High-Level Interoperability: Senior military leaders from India, Germany, France, and Spain took part, showcasing enhanced coordination and joint operations. Eg: A joint sortie involved Air Chief Marshal V. R. Chaudhari (India), Lieutenant General Ingo Gerhartz (Germany), General Stéphane Mille (France), and Air General Francisco Braco Carbo (Spain).
Strategic Defence Ties: The exercise paves the way for deeper defence collaboration and future joint initiativesbetween India and Germany. Eg: Germany’s participation aligns with its strategic interest in the Indo-Pacific region amid shifting global power dynamics.
Why is the Green and Sustainable Development Partnership important?
Climate Action and Energy Transition: The partnership is vital for accelerating India’s shift towards clean energy and meeting its climate commitments. Eg: Germany pledged €10 billion to support India’s goal of achieving 500 GW of non-fossil fuel capacity by 2030, through initiatives in solar, wind, and green hydrogen sectors.
Sustainable Urban Development and Mobility: It promotes eco-friendly infrastructure and efficient public transport systems in growing urban centres. Eg: German-backed metro projects and Smart Cities initiatives in Nagpur and Pune have helped advance green mobility and urban resilience.
Biodiversity Conservation and Climate Resilience: The partnership helps protect ecological zones while enhancing local livelihoods and climate adaptability. Eg: Joint projects in the Western Ghats and Himalayas focus on afforestation, biodiversity conservation, and water resource management.
Where are major Indo-German projects being implemented in India?
Gujarat – Renewable Energy Projects: Gujarat hosts large-scale solar and wind energy initiatives under the Green and Sustainable Development Partnership (GSDP). Eg:German companies are contributing to the production of wind turbine blades and setting up solar parks in the state.
Delhi-Meerut – Rapid Rail Project: India’s first Regional Rapid Transit System (RRTS) between Delhi and Meerut is operated in partnership with Deutsche Bahn, Germany’s national railway operator. Eg: The project showcases Indo-German cooperation in high-speed rail and urban mobility.
Maharashtra – Smart Cities and Urban Infrastructure: German collaboration supports urban planning, sustainable transport, and waste management under the Smart Cities Mission. Eg:Pune and Nagpur are key cities benefiting from German-backed smart infrastructure initiatives.
Himachal Pradesh & Uttarakhand – Biodiversity and Climate Projects: Joint efforts are underway to protect forests, watersheds, and biodiversity in India’s ecologically sensitive hill states. Eg: Indo-German projects focus on climate-resilient agriculture, forestation, and ecosystem preservation.
Tamil Nadu – Defence Collaboration and Skill Development: The Tarang Shakti 2024 exercise at Sulur Air Force Station marked a high point in joint military training. Eg: It highlights growing defence cooperation and also supports local capacity-building in the aerospace sector.
Way forward:
Deepen Strategic and Technological Collaboration: Expand cooperation in defence manufacturing, AI, green hydrogen, and critical technologies to strengthen strategic autonomy and shared innovation goals.
Enhance Sustainable Development and People-Centric Ties: Accelerate green partnerships, vocational training, and student exchanges to promote inclusive growth, climate resilience, and stronger people-to-people engagement.
The recent deliberations around applying the POSH Act to political parties highlight an evolving and essential intersection of law, gender justice, and institutional accountability. Often, aspirants overlook nuanced challenges like the lack of specific mechanisms in political setups to handle harassment. While candidates might know the general scope of the POSH Act, the intricacies of its implementation—or the lack thereof—in political domains are often missed, which this article explains with depth and clarity. Our Back2Basics section decodes complex aspects of the POSH Act and simplifies core principles. This accessible format ensures readers not only grasp essential details but are also equipped to incorporate them into answers with precision and relevance.
PYQ ANCHORING & MICROTHEMES:
GS 2: The Indian party system is passing through a phase of transition which looks to be full of contradictions and paradoxes.” Discuss. [2016]
GS 2: While the national political parties in India favour centralisation, the regional parties are in favour of State autonomy. Comment. [2022]
Microtheme: Political Parties
Recently, a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) has been heard by the Supreme Court regarding applicability of Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace (Prevention, Prohibition and Redressal) Act, 2013 (POSH Act) in political parties. This issue has remained an area of ambiguity, especially considering the peculiar structure of political organisations in India.
Current Structure
Political parties handle discipline through internal committees, such as the Congress’ hierarchical committees and the BJP’s “Disciplinary Action Committees.” While these bodies address broad breaches of discipline like “moral turpitude” or actions lowering the party’s prestige, they lack specific provisions for handling sexual harassment. They also do not require women or external members, as mandated for ICCs under the POSH Act.
Need to Bring Political Parties under the POSH Act
Issue
Description
Examples/Data
Harassment of Women Parliamentarians
Women parliamentarians face significant psychological and sexual violence globally.
2016 IPU survey: 82% of women parliamentarians face psychological violence; in Africa, 40% face sexual harassment.
Safe Work Environment
Systemic barriers hinder women’s participation and leadership in politics, despite growing participation.
Women hold 14.4% of Lok Sabha seats; less than 10% in state legislatures.
Legal and Constitutional Mandates
Constitutional and legal provisions ensure equality and protect women’s rights in workplaces, including politics.
Articles 14 and 15 ensure equality and non-discrimination; POSH Act applies to political party workers and volunteers.
Lack of Internal Mechanisms
Political parties often lack proper systems for addressing harassment complaints.
Grievance committees in political parties don’t follow POSH Act standards, leading to underreporting of cases.
Electoral and Institutional Reforms
Applying the POSH Act to political parties can improve transparency and gender justice.
Aligns with the Election Commission’s goals for transparency and accountability in political party operations.
Global Best Practices
Institutionalizing gender-sensitive practices in politics can serve as a model for India.
UK Parliament’s 2017 ICGP policy tackles bullying and harassment; Sweden and Norway have gender-sensitive systems.
Challenges in Application of POSH Act in Political Parties
Challenges
Details
Examples/Data
Lack of Traditional Structure
Political parties often hire temporary workers with no formal workplace or direct relationship with top officials, making it difficult to identify the responsible workplace for ICCs.
Lack of a defined workplace in party campaigns or for volunteers can complicate the establishment of Internal Complaints Committees (ICCs).
Absence of Explicit Guidelines
Political parties handle internal issues like sexual harassment through their own committees but without clear guidelines for applying POSH Act specifically in party organizations.
The lack of clear POSH Act directives in relation to party functions can create legal gray areas for political organizations, leading to underreporting and mismanagement.
Role of the Election Commission of India (ECI)
ECI’s mandate is limited to RPA Act under Article 324, but its role in enforcing the POSH Act is unclear.
The Kerala High Court ruling highlights the gap in ECI’s authority to enforce workplace safety laws like POSH Act in political parties.
Legal Precedents
Courts like Kerala High Court ruled that political parties aren’t legally required to establish ICCs due to the lack of employer-employee relationship.
In 2022, the Kerala High Court ruled that political parties are not obligated to create ICCs, adding complexity to the application of workplace laws.
Way Forward
To ensure a safe and inclusive environment for women in political parties, the following changes need to be made:
Amendment of the POSH Act: The POSH Act should explicitly include political parties, clarifying what constitutes a “workplace” and who is considered the “employer” in this context. Clear guidelines from the Election Commission of India (ECI) or the Supreme Court can help enforce this.
Institution of Internal Complaints Committees (ICCs): Political parties should be mandated to set up ICCs to address complaints of harassment, ensuring the POSH Act is followed and providing an effective grievance redressal system.
Training and Awareness: Regular sensitization programs within political parties should be conducted to educate members about sexual harassment and the functioning of ICCs.
Dedicated Tribunal for Women: As per the Verma Committee, a dedicated tribunal could address harassment complaints within political parties. This would promote accountability, quick resolution, and a safer political environment.
Strengthening ECI Oversight: The Election Commission of India should be empowered to ensure compliance with workplace safety norms and ensure political parties follow the required guidelines.
The Supreme Court’s consideration of the POSH Act’s application to political parties underscores the need for stronger legal frameworks. Political parties must set an example by protecting women from harassment, setting a precedent that influences workplace safety across sectors in India.
#BACK2BASICS : POSH ACT
What is the POSH Act?
The POSH Act (Prevention of Sexual Harassment at Workplace Act) ensures women are protected from sexual harassment in workplaces, providing them a safe and inclusive working environment.
Background
Originated from the 1997 Supreme Court ruling in Vishakha v. State of Rajasthan, which laid out the Vishakha Guidelines for workplace safety.
Based on principles from Article 15 (prohibits gender-based discrimination) and international conventions like CEDAW (ratified by India in 1993).
Sexual Harassment?
Includes:
Unwelcome physical contact.
Sexual advances or requests for favors.
Sexually colored remarks or showing explicit content.
Other inappropriate conduct (verbal, physical, or non-verbal).
Workplace ?
Covers:
Government and private offices.
Workplaces visited for employment purposes.
Public or private sector organizations.
Key Provisions
Component
Details
1. Prevention and Awareness
Employers must actively prevent sexual harassment through awareness programs and display notices in the workplace.
2. Internal Complaints Committee (ICC)
– Required in organizations with 10 or more employees.- Can gather evidence and escalate appeals to the labor court.- For smaller organizations or special cases, a Local Committee (LC) is formed at the district level.
3. Duties of Employers
– Ensure a safe work environment.- Educate employees on their rights under the POSH Act.
4. Complaint Process
– Establish a clear procedure for filing complaints.- Ensure fair hearings for all involved parties.
5. Penalties
– Non-compliance can lead to fines.- In extreme cases, business licenses can be canceled.
Recommendations by Justice Verma Committee
Domestic Workers: Include domestic workers under the POSH Act for their protection.
Compensation: Employers should pay compensation to victims of workplace harassment.
Employment Tribunal: Establish tribunals to handle sexual harassment complaints, moving beyond reliance on ICCs for better impartiality.
Under President Trump, the U.S. withdrew from key global commitments like WHO and the Paris Agreement. Meanwhile, China is expanding influence by offering financial aid and increasing global investments.
Why has the U.S. withdrawn from key international bodies like the WHO and the Paris Agreement?
Perceived Bias and Mismanagement: The U.S. accused the World Health Organization (WHO) of being biased towards China and mismanaging the COVID-19 pandemic response. Eg: President Trump alleged that the WHO failed to hold China accountable during the early stages of the outbreak.
Disproportionate Financial Burden: The U.S. claimed it was contributing significantly more than other countries, creating an unfair financial burden. Eg: The U.S. contributed around 20% of the WHO’s assessed funding, while China contributed much less until recently.
Rejection of Global Climate Commitments: The Trump administration viewed international climate agreements like the Paris Agreement as detrimental to American economic interests. Eg: The U.S. withdrew from the Paris Agreement and announced it would cease all financial commitments under the UNFCCC.
What steps has China taken to increase its global influence in response to the U.S.’s retreat?
Increased Financial Contributions to Global Institutions: China has significantly raised its funding to international bodies like the WHO to fill the vacuum left by the U.S. Eg: After the U.S. announced its withdrawal from the WHO, China pledged an additional $500 million over five years and increased its assessed contribution from 6.5% (2015–16) to 15% (2024–25).
Expansion of Bilateral Lending and Debt Diplomacy: China has extended massive loans to developing countries, becoming a dominant bilateral creditor globally. Eg: China’s share in global bilateral sovereign debt rose from around 1% in 2003 to 26% in 2023, making it the largest lender worldwide.
Strategic Soft Power and Infrastructure Investments: China has expanded its Belt and Road Initiative and other overseas investments to enhance influence and dependency. Eg: China’s investments across Asia, Africa, and Latin America have increased, with more than 60% of respondents in a 2024 Pew survey acknowledging China’s economic influence in their countries.
How has China’s financial contribution to the WHO changed after the pandemic?
Increased Assessed Contributions: China’s assessed contribution to the WHO rose from 6.5% in 2015–16 to 15% in 2024–25. This increase reflects China’s growing economic stature and its commitment to global health initiatives.
Significant Financial Pledges: In response to the U.S. withdrawal from the WHO, China pledged an additional $500 million over five years to support the organization’s activities. This move positions China as a leading state donor and underscores its intent to enhance its influence in global health governance.
Where does China stand in terms of global bilateral debt holdings compared to the U.S.?
China as the Leading Bilateral Creditor: As of 2023, China holds approximately 26% of the external bilateral debt of developing countries, making it the largest bilateral creditor globally. Eg: China is the primary bilateral creditor for 53 countries and ranks among the top five creditors in three-quarters of all developing nations.
Decline in U.S. Bilateral Lending: The U.S.’s share in global bilateral debts has significantly decreased over the decades. Eg: In 1973, the U.S. held 36% of global bilateral debt, but by 2023, this share had dropped to just 4%.
China’s Influence on Debt Repayments: China’s substantial lending has led to a significant portion of debt repayments from developing countries being directed to it. Eg: In 2025, developing countries are projected to allocate over 30% of their bilateral debt service payments to China, surpassing payments to multilateral lenders and private creditors.
What is the status of India in soft power?
Strong Cultural Influence Globally: India’s rich culture, including yoga, Bollywood, and its large diaspora, enhances its global soft power. Eg: The International Day of Yoga is celebrated worldwide, promoting Indian culture and wellness.
Growing Economic and Diplomatic Presence: India is increasing its influence through diplomacy, international aid, and participation in global forums. Eg: India’s development projects and humanitarian aid in Africa and neighboring countries strengthen its soft power.
Challenges Affecting Soft Power Projection: Internal challenges like social issues and governance impact India’s image abroad. Eg: India’s ranking slipped to 29th in the 2024 Global Soft Power Index, indicating room for improvement.
Way forward:
Strengthen Multilateral Engagements and Global Leadership: India should actively enhance its financial and diplomatic contributions to key international bodies like WHO and climate forums to build credibility and influence, positioning itself as a responsible global leader.
Leverage Cultural Diplomacy While Addressing Domestic Challenges: Amplify India’s soft power by promoting cultural exports and diaspora ties, while simultaneously improving governance and addressing social issues to boost its global image and rankings.
Mains PYQ:
[UPSC 2024] The USA is facing an existential threat in the form of a China, that is much more challenging than the erstwhile Soviet Union.’ Explain
Linkage: The depiction of China advancing its position while the U.S. is perceived as pulling back, creating a dynamic of increased competition and challenge between the two powers. This question presents the U.S. perspective on China as a major challenge.
Despite rising power deficits amid urbanisation and climate pressures, India’s UJALA scheme showcases energy efficiency’s impact—saving $10B and 9,500 MW—highlighting efficiency over mere capacity expansion.
What challenges does India face in meeting its peak power demand?
Rising Peak Demand due to Urbanisation and Climate Change: Rapid urbanisation and increasing use of cooling appliances during hotter summers have significantly increased electricity demand. Eg: In 2023–24, India’s peak power demand reached 250 GW, making it the third-largest power consumer globally.
Slow Expansion of Power Generation Capacity: Building new power plants, especially coal-based, is capital- and time-intensive, which cannot keep pace with rising demand. Eg: Despite efforts, power deficit widened from 0.69% in FY20 to about 5% in FY24, reflecting supply constraints.
Integration Challenges with Renewable Energy: While renewables are growing, their intermittent nature and grid integration issues limit their effectiveness in meeting peak demand. Eg: Solar and wind power face supply variability, making it difficult to meet peak-hour requirements consistently.
What is UJALA Scheme?
The UJALA scheme (Unnat Jyoti by Affordable LEDs for All) is a flagship energy efficiency program launched by the Government of India in 2015. It aims to promote energy-saving lighting solutions by distributing LED bulbs, tube lights, and energy-efficient fans at affordable prices
How has the UJALA scheme contributed to energy efficiency and savings?
Massive Reduction in Power Consumption: The scheme distributed over 37 crore LED bulbs and enabled the sale of 407 crore more, replacing energy-inefficient lighting. Eg: LED bulbs consume half the power of CFLs and 1/9th the power of incandescent bulbs, leading to major power savings in households.
Reduction in Peak Demand and Generation Needs: By improving lighting efficiency nationwide, UJALA helped reduce peak power demand by over 1,500 MW. Eg: It avoided the need to build 9,500 MW of new power capacity—equivalent to 19 new 500 MW coal-fired plants.
Lower Costs and Emissions: UJALA reduced the cost of LED bulbs from ₹500 to ₹70, making them accessible and cutting emissions. Eg: The scheme has helped India save over $10 billion and significantly reduced CO₂ emissions.
Why is enhancing energy efficiency crucial for India’s energy future?
Bridges the Gap Between Demand and Supply: India faces a widening peak power deficit (from 0.69% in FY20 to ~5% in FY24) despite increased generation. Eg: Energy efficiency helps reduce demand quickly—schemes like UJALA lowered peak demand by 1,500 MW, easing pressure on the grid.
Delays the Need for New (Often Fossil-Based) Power Plants: Building new fossil-fuel-based power plants is time-consuming and costly. Eg: Efficiency measures like LED lighting under UJALA avoided building 19 new coal plants (9,500 MW)—cutting cost, time, and pollution.
Supports Climate Goals and Reduces Emissions: India’s energy mix still depends 70% on coal, worsening climate and pollution. Eg: Energy efficiency improvements between 2000–2018 helped avoid 300 Mt of CO₂ emissions, according to the International Energy Agency.
Where can further energy efficiency mandates be applied in India?
Buildings and Construction Sector: Residential and commercial buildings consume significant energy, especially for cooling and lighting. Eg: Mandating energy-efficient designs and green building codes (like ECBC) in urban housing projects can reduce long-term electricity use.
Home Appliances: Many households still use inefficient devices that consume more electricity. Eg: Expanding BEE’s star-rating program to cover more appliances like fans, refrigerators, and ACs can push consumers toward efficient options.
Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs): MSMEs often use outdated machinery that wastes energy. Eg: Energy audits and subsidized upgrades in sectors like textiles or ceramics can reduce energy costs and improve competitiveness.
Way forward:
Invest in Grid Flexibility and Energy Storage: Promote battery storage, pumped hydro, and smart grid systems to manage peak loads and integrate renewable energy reliably.
Strengthen Energy Efficiency Mandates: Enforce stricter efficiency norms for buildings, appliances, and MSMEs, backed by incentives, audits, and awareness campaigns.
Mains PYQ:
[UPSC 2016] “Give an account of the current status and the targets to be achieved pertaining to renewable energy sources in the country. Discuss in brief the importance of National Programme on Light Emitting diodes (LEDs).”
Linkage: Despite growth in electricity generation, including recent additions of renewable energy, India has faced peak power demand deficits. While adding new power production capacity takes time, especially for fossil fuels, focusing on energy efficiency is presented as the quickest and least expensive way to address rising power demand and climate change. This question is highly relevant as it specifically asks about renewable energy targets and the importance of the National Programme on LEDs.
Mumbai got heavy monsoon rains two weeks early because of a strong Madden-Julian Oscillation (MJO) — a weather pattern that boosts rainfall in the region.
About the Madden-Julian Oscillation (MJO):
Definition: The MJO is a moving weather system of clouds, wind, rain, and pressure that travels eastward around the tropics.
Cycle Time: It takes 30 to 60 days to complete a full loop around the globe.
Discovery: It was discovered in the 1970s by Roland Madden and Paul Julian.
Two Phases:
The enhanced convective phase brings heavy rain, storms, and clouds.
The suppressed convective phase brings dry, clear weather.
Global Pattern: These phases move together — when one area gets rain, another gets dry weather.
MJO vs ENSO: Unlike El Niño, which lasts for months, the MJO changes every few weeks and affects short-term weather patterns.
Wider Impact: It influences monsoons, cyclones, jet streams, and weather in both tropical and non-tropical regions.
Phases: Scientists divide its movement into 8 phases, each showing where rain or dry weather will occur.
MJO and the Early Monsoon of 2025:
Early Monsoon Trigger: The early arrival of the monsoon in May 2025 was largely due to a very active MJO.
IMD Observation: The India Meteorological Department noted that the MJO was in Phase 4 with high amplitude, which strongly affects Indian rainfall.
Rapid Monsoon Progress: It helped push extra moisture and clouds from the Indian Ocean, making the monsoon move from Kerala to Maharashtra in just two days.
Other Contributing Factors:
A strong cross-equatorial flow brought warm, moist air from the south.
A low-pressure system in the Arabian Sea brought pre-monsoon rains to Mumbai.
Record Rainfall: This resulted in Mumbai’s wettest May in over 100 years.
Why It Matters: The event showed how a tropical system like the MJO can suddenly change monsoon timing and rainfall patterns in India.
[UPSC 2017] With reference to ‘Indian Ocean Dipole (IOD)’ sometimes mentioned in the news while forecasting Indian monsoon, which of the following statements is/are correct?
1. IOD phenomenon is characterized by a difference in sea surface temperature between tropical Western Indian Ocean and tropical Eastern Pacific Ocean.
2. An IOD phenomenon can influence an El Nino’s impact on the monsoon.
Options: (a) 1 only (b) 2 only* (c) Both 1 and 2 (d) Neither 1 nor 2
To boost India’s export strength, the government has restored Remission of Duties and Taxes on Exported Products (RoDTEP) Scheme benefits for eligible exports starting June 1, 2025.
Details of the Latest Update:
RoDTEP benefits have now been restored for Advance Authorization (AA) holders, Export-Oriented Units (EOUs), and Special Economic Zones (SEZs).
These categories were previously excluded from February 5, 2025, but are now eligible again from June 1, 2025.
The move ensures a level playing field for all exporters and encourages broad-based export growth.
About the RoDTEP Scheme:
Launch: It started on January 1, 2021, as part of the Foreign Trade Policy 2015–20.
Objective: It helps exporters get refunds for hidden taxes and duties that are not refunded under other schemes.
Examples of Hidden Taxes: These include taxes like electricity duty, mandi tax, and fuel charges during transport.
Global Compliance: The scheme is WTO-compliant, following the rule that exported goods should not carry domestic taxes.
Administered by: It is managed by the Department of Revenue under the Ministry of Finance.
Eligibility under RoDTEP:
Who can apply: All Indian exporters — whether manufacturers or merchant exporters — are eligible.
Eligible exports: Exports from SEZs, EOUs, and e-commerce platforms are also covered.
Not Eligible: Re-exported goods are not eligible for benefits.
Sector Focus: The scheme gives priority to labour-intensive sectors that earlier benefitted from MEIS.
How the refund works:
Rebate Calculation: The refund is given as a percentage of the export value (Free on Board value).
Mode of Refund: The benefit comes in the form of e-scrips, which are stored in a digital ledger by the Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC).
Usage of E-Scrips: These e-scrips can be used to pay basic customs duty or be transferred to other importers.
[UPSC 2020] With reference to the international trade of India at present, which of the following statements is/are correct?
1. India’s merchandise exports are less than its merchandise imports.
2. India’s imports of iron and steel, chemicals, fertilizers and machinery have decreased in recent years.
3. India’s exports of services are more than its imports of services.
4. India suffers from an overall trade/current account deficit.
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
Options: (a) 1 and 2 only (b) 2 and 4 only (c) 3 only (d) 1, 3 and 4 only*
The Kumbakonam Vetrilai (betel leaf or paan leaf) has received the Geographical Indication (GI) tag from the Government of India.
About Kumbakonam Vetrilai
Cultivation: It is grown in the Thanjavur region, especially in Kumbakonam, Thiruvaiyaru, Papanasam, Thiruvidaimarudur, and Rajagiri.
Characteristics: The leaf is heart-shaped, dark to light green, with a strong aroma and pungent taste, thanks to the fertile Cauvery basin soil.
Cultural Importance: It is a main ingredient in paan, a popular post-meal chew in South Asia.
Harvest: The first-year yield, called maaruvethalai, produces the largest and longest-lasting leaves (6–7 days shelf life); Farmers hand-pick leaves, working from early morning until late night due to the labour-heavy process.
Back2Basics: Geographical Indication (GI) Tag
A GI is a sign used on products that have a specific geographical origin and possess qualities or a reputation that are due to that origin.
Nodal Agency: Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT), Ministry of Commerce and Industry
India, as a member of the World Trade Organization (WTO), enacted the Geographical Indications of Goods (Registration and Protection) Act, 1999 w.e.f. September 2003.
GIs have been defined underArticle 22 (1) of the WTO Agreement on Trade-Related Aspects of Intellectual Property Rights (TRIPS) Agreement.
The tag stands valid for 10 years and can be renewed.
[UPSC 2015] Which of the following has/have been accorded ‘Geographical Indication’ status?
